Tramex Skipper 5 – SMM5 Marine Moisture Meter
The Tramex Skipper 5 is an instant, precise, dual-depth, analogue, non-destructive marine moisture meter which detects excess moisture hidden in GRP boat hulls, decks and coach roofs, including sandwich or cored structures. The unique three-electrode array provides both shallow (10 mm) and deep (30 mm) perceptivity to help establish the depth of any moisture within GRP composites. In addition to the moving-coil display, readings may be sent to the free Tramex Meters app on paired Android and iOS devices.
Features
- Three ranges of non-destructive sensitivity: hardwood, shallow depth, GRP
- Dual-depth measurement – shallow to 10 mm, deep to 30 mm
- Bluetooth connection to the iOS and Android app, allowing geo-tagged, image-based documentary evidence of readings
- Hold function freezes the reading where the meter face is not visible
- High moisture audio warning tone, which can be enabled or disabled
- Large, clear analogue display
- Rugged, ergonomically designed enclosure
How it works
GRP composites and hardwoods are non-conducting materials, but their electrical properties change with increasing moisture content. The Skipper 5 determines moisture content by applying a high-audio frequency signal between a pair of soft rubber electrodes on the instrument base. A third electrode provides genuine shallow range measurements on a smaller footprint. Capacitive coupling between the electrodes and the sample allows impedance to be determined, which is interpreted as a moisture value and shown on the moving coil meter.
Marine surveying applications
Trapped moisture in GRP is associated with osmosis and blistering, and the Skipper 5 locates the moisture associated with these solutes so treatment can be targeted rather than guessed. Marine timbers also suffer from excessive moisture, causing blistering and loss of paints and varnishes, and trapped moisture encourages fungal growth and black staining. The Skipper 5 surveys large areas quickly, reads through paints, varnishes and sheathing such as Cascover without causing damage, and can be used to find and trace leaks above and below decks.
Technical specifications
| Size | 160 mm x 85 mm x 38 mm |
| Weight | 270 g |
| Construction | ABS body |
| Power | 2 x AA LR6 alkaline (included) |
| Display | Analogue |
| Depth of penetration | Shallow signal up to 10 mm, deep signal up to 30 mm |
| Wood moisture content | 5 to 30% |
| Reference scale for building materials | 0 to 100 |
Documents
Frequently asked questions
Why a marine-specific meter rather than a building meter?
The scales are calibrated for GRP composites and marine timbers, and the three-electrode array is designed to separate surface moisture in gelcoat from moisture deeper in a cored or sandwich laminate. A building meter reading a hull gives you a number with no defensible basis.
Does a high reading mean osmosis?
No. It means elevated moisture at that location and depth. Osmosis is a diagnosis made from the whole picture – blistering, history, hull construction and moisture distribution. The meter tells you where the moisture is, which is the evidence, not the conclusion.
Will it read through antifoul, paint or sheathing?
Yes. It reads through paints, varnishes and sheathing such as Cascover without damage. Readings through heavy coatings should be treated as comparative between areas of the same hull rather than as absolute values.
Does it need a calibration check?
A calibration box for the SMM5 is available for verifying the meter reads correctly – worth doing before any survey that goes into a written report.
What warranty applies?
All Tramex products carry a full satisfaction guarantee including a one year warranty against defects in parts and workmanship. Proof of purchase is necessary.
Contact Carpet Cleaners Warehouse if you need advice on using the Skipper 5 for a particular hull construction.
