The Dakota CX8-DL is the top of the range in the CX series, with colour display, B-Scan, data logger and Echo-Echo ThruPaint mode for measuring through paint without removing it. Built-in extended data logger.
- Colour display: 2.4″ TFT with six display modes
- B-Scan : Real-time thickness profile
- Echo-Echo ThruPaint : Measurement through paint
- Extended data logger: Up to 100,000 readings in 1,000 batches
- 0.01 mm resolution : Precision on metallic materials
- Measuring range: From 0.63 to 500 mm in Pulse-Echo
- P/N Z-313-0001 : Official Dakota part number
The Dakota CX8-DL is the top of the range in the CX series, an advanced ultrasonic thickness gauge with colour display and B-Scan. It combines professional traceability with diagnostic capabilities typical of more expensive instruments, while keeping the ease of use of the CX series. The reference instrument for inspections that require advanced visualisation and traceability.
On this page
- Positioning within the Dakota range
- When to choose the Dakota CX8-DL
- Main features
- Full technical specifications
- Typical applications
- Comparing the CX8-DL with other models
- Scope of supply
- Order codes: instrument, probes and accessories
- Documentation download
- Standards and certifications
- Frequently asked questions
Its strengths include the Echo-Echo ThruPaint mode for measuring through paint and coatings, the data logger with extended memory, the 0.01 mm resolution, the range from 0.63 to 500 mm and two-point calibration. Compatible with the Dakota probe range of dual element probes from 2 to 10 MHz. Standard Pulse-Echo mode included.
Dakota CX8 – Serie professionale
Suitable for advanced inspections in Oil & Gas, petrochemical, marine, refineries and chemical plants where the presence of coatings calls for measurement without stripping. Available from RODER SRL, official Dakota NDT distributor, with calibration, repair and dedicated technical support. P/N Z-313-0001, suitable for NDT inspectors who need to produce detailed, repeatable reports.
The Dakota CX8-DL is the top of the Dakota NDT CX series: it keeps the ease of use typical of the CX family while adding the features that distinguish an instrument for professional inspection from a basic thickness gauge. It offers a data logger for 100,000 readings, B-Scan for cross-sectional display, high-speed scan mode up to 16 Hz and all the measurement modes useful in API 570, API 653, quality inspection and asset integrity management. It is the ideal choice for those who want metrological professionalism with a modest learning curve.
Need help choosing the right product?
Positioning within the Dakota range
The CX8-DL is the top instrument in the CX series, at the end of the progression from CX2 (basic) and CX4 (ThruPaint™). Compared with the CX6-DL it adds:
- B-Scan for cross-sectional display of the thickness profile
- 16 Hz scan mode for rapid scanning of large surfaces
- Improved accuracy: ±0.05 mm in the range up to 9.99 mm
- Complete data logger: 100,000 readings in 1,000 batches
- Advanced batch management with fixed batch size and linking
Those who need the A-Scan waveform (attenuating materials, flaw inspection, PECT mode) should move up to the CMX series. For micron precision in aerospace and racing, to the PMX series.
When to choose the Dakota CX8-DL
- API 570 / API 653 corrosion monitoring campaigns of medium to large scale
- Freelance NDT inspectors and service companies needing a versatile, dependable instrument
- Industrial maintenance teams with a fleet of assets to manage and continuous reporting
- High-volume quality control with automatic reporting for the quality system
- Thickness mapping on tank shells using 16 Hz scan mode
- Inspection of complex structures requiring B-Scan for cross-sectional display
- Those seeking maximum CX versatility without the complexity of A-Scan
Main features
Measuring mode
- Pulse-Echo (PE): range 0,63 – 500 mm (0,025 – 19,999″)
- Echo-Echo ThruPaint™ (EE): ignores coatings up to 2 mm, range 2.54 – 20.00 mm
- Velocity Mode (VM): velocity characterisation 1,250 – 10,000 m/s
- Measurement rate: 4, 8, 16 Hz selectable
- 16 Hz scan mode: optimal for large surfaces, displays the scanned minimum
B-Scan cross-sectional
The CX8-DL B-Scan displays the thickness profile along a scan line as a 2D cross-section of coloured blocks. It makes it possible to:
- Quickly locate corroded areas by showing the differences in thickness
- Identify uneven wear profiles along a pipe or a plate
- Document graphically the condition of an asset, in addition to the numerical values
- Assess distributed pitting without systematic point-by-point mapping
Data logger and batch management
- Storage capacity: 100,000 readings in 1,000 batches
- Sequential batching and grid batching
- Fixed batch size mode with linking between successive batches
- Obstruct entry: “obst” marker for points that cannot be measured
- Batch review graph: graphical display of the contents
- Alphanumeric batch names, customisable
- Timestamp automatico
- Review, clear, delete of batches and readings
- USB → PC output, DakMaster™ software included
Display modes
- Reading: main numerical value
- Selected Statistics: mean, standard deviation, min, max
- Scan thickness bar graph
- Run Chart: time chart of the readings
- Readings and Differential: value + deviation from target
- B-Scan cross sectional display: thickness profile in blocks
Hardware and ruggedness
- 2.4″ colour TFT display with backlight and ambient light sensor
- Display resistant to scratches and solvents
- Large keys with positive tactile feedback, usable with gloves
- IP64 rating: resistant to impact, water and dust
- Weight 210 g with batteries, without transducer
- Compact dimensions: 145 × 73 × 37 mm
- USB power from a PC for extended use
Full technical specifications
| Measuring mode | PE, Echo-Echo ThruPaint™ (EE), Velocity Mode (VM) |
| PE range | 0.63 – 500 mm (0.025 – 19.999″) |
| EE range | 2.54 – 20.00 mm (0.100 – 0.787″) |
| VM range | 1,250 – 10,000 m/s (0.0492 – 0.3937 in/μs) |
| PE accuracy | ±0.05 mm (0.63-9.99 mm); ±0.5% (10-500 mm); ±0.004″ (0.025-0.393″); ±0.5% (0.394-20″) |
| EE accuracy | ±0.05 mm (2.54-9.99 mm); ±0.5% (10-20 mm) |
| Measurement rate | 4, 8, 16 Hz selectable |
| Resolution | 0.1 mm / 0.01 mm selectable (Lo/Hi) |
| Unit | mm or inches |
| Display | 2.4″ (6 cm) backlit colour TFT |
| Display modes | Reading, Statistics, Bar Graph, Run Chart, Differential, B-Scan |
| Calibration | Zero, 1-Point, 2-Point, Velocity, Material (39 presets) |
| Data Logger | 100,000 readings / 1,000 batches |
| Tipologia batching | Sequential, Grid, Fixed Batch Size with linking |
| Data output | USB → PC / DakMaster™ |
| Protection | IP64 |
| Operating temperature | -10 to 50 °C (14 to 122 °F) |
| Power supply | 2 AA batteries (or USB from PC) |
| Battery life | 15 hours (alkaline) / 28 hours (lithium) |
| Weight | 210 g with batteries |
| Dimensions | 145 × 73 × 37 mm |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Standards | ASTM E797, EN 14127, EN 15317 |
| Calibration | Traceable to NIST and MIL-STD-45662A |
| Part Number | Z-313-0001 (CX8-DL) |
Typical applications
API 570 inspections on pipelines
The CX8-DL is one of the reference instruments for corrosion inspection on process piping. The combination of ThruPaint™, 16 Hz scan mode and a 100,000-reading data logger covers the needs of medium to large API 570 programmes perfectly. For operating guidance: Pipeline corrosion inspection: API 570 and Dakota NDT instruments.
Mapping of tank shells
For the inspection of atmospheric storage tanks to API 653, the CX8-DL allows rapid mapping of large surfaces thanks to scan mode. See Thickness inspection on storage tanks to API 653.
Monitoring of uniform corrosion
The CX8-DL batch structure is optimised for repeated monitoring campaigns on CMLs. For the complete strategy: Monitoring uniform corrosion: methods, instruments and standards.
Industrial quality control
For certified companies with traceability obligations in incoming or in-process inspection, the CX8-DL is a versatile instrument: see Thickness measurement in incoming goods quality control.
Marine and offshore inspection
For hull inspection (above the waterline) and above-water offshore structures, the CX8-DL with ThruPaint™ allows checks without removing the antifouling paint. Underwater measurement instead requires a specific configuration: tell us the depth and the intended use and we will assess feasibility case by case.
Comparing the CX8-DL with other models
| Feature | CX8-DL | MX1-DL | CMX3-DL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pulse-Echo, Echo-Echo, VM | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| A-Scan | — | — | ✓ |
| B-Scan | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| PETP / CT / PECT modes | — | — | ✓ |
| Scan mode | 16 Hz | 250 readings/sec | 250 readings/sec |
| Data logger | 100,000 readings | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| A-Scan storage | — | — | ✓ |
For informed choices:
Scope of supply
- Dakota CX8-DL gauge
- 5 MHz ⅜” HD right angle dual element transducer (TXC5M00CP-10)
- Ultrasonic couplant gel
- Plastic carrying case
- 3 screen protectors
- Wrist harness
- 2 AA batteries
- User manual
- Calibration certificate
- Card for downloading the DakMaster™ software
- USB cable
Order codes: instrument, probes and accessories
Below you will find everything you can order for the CX8-DL: the instrument, compatible probes, couplants, calibration blocks and accessories. Please quote the order code in your request: it is the code shown on the quotation and on the order confirmation.
The probe is not included with the instrument: it must be chosen and ordered separately from those listed on this page. All probes in the table are compatible with the CX8-DL.
Instrument
Supplied with: Dakota CX8-DL thickness gauge, ultrasonic couplant, plastic carrying case, 3 screen protectors, wrist strap, 2 AA batteries, operating instructions, calibration certificate, DakMaster™ software download card, USB cable. Probe not included.
| Image | Order code | SKU | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | CX8-DL | 10-16-78 | CX8-DL ultrasonic thickness gauge – PE/EE, sequential and grid data logger Probe to be ordered separately |
Compatible probes
Choose the frequency according to thickness and material: low frequencies for thick walls or attenuating materials, 5 MHz for general use, high frequencies for thin sections and small surfaces. A smaller diameter makes coupling on curved surfaces easier.
| Image | Order code | SKU | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | TXC5M00CP-4 | 10-15-93 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Standard (riconoscimento automatico), 5 MHz, Ø 1/4″, ODU connector, side exit |
 | TXC1M00EP-2 | 10-15-91 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Standard (riconoscimento automatico), 1 MHz, Ø 1/2″, ODU connector, side exit |
 | TXC5M00CP-10 | 10-15-92 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Hi-Damped (Echo-Echo), 5 MHz, Ø 1/4″, connector ODU, side exit |
 | TXC5M00EP-10 | 10-15-94 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Hi-Damped (Echo-Echo), 5 MHz, Ø 1/2″, connector ODU, side exit |
 | TXC7M50BP-3 | 10-15-95 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Hi-Damped (Echo-Echo), 7.5 MHz, Ø 3/16″, ODU connector, side exit |
 | TXC7M50CP-4 | 10-15-96 | Dual-element probe ‘Intelligent’ Extra Resolution, 7.5 MHz, Ø 1/4″, ODU connector, side exit |
Couplants
A couplant is included in the supply; for refills and for high temperatures, choose from the following.
| Image | Order code | SKU | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | GEL-ACC-STD | 12-13-50 | Yellow anti-rust couplant gel, RCCM compliant. Standard temperature range 0 / 80 °C. 500 ml pack |
 | GEL-ACC-EXT | 12-13-51 | Blue anti-corrosion couplant gel, RCCM compliant. Extended temperature range -20 / 120 °C. 500 ml pack |
 | PST-ACC-MHT | 12-13-52 | Special medium-temperature ultrasonic coupling paste -30 / +300 °C. Non-flammable and smoke-free. RCCM compliant. 170 g pack |
 | PST-ACC-UHT | 12-13-53 | Special very-high-temperature ultrasonic coupling paste +100 / 520 °C. Non-flammable and smoke-free. RCCM compliant. 200 g pack |
Calibration blocks
For periodic verification of the instrument: choose the step block covering the thickness range you measure.
| Image | Order code | SKU | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | X-000-0001 | 10-15-48 | 5-step calibration block 0.1″–0.5″, steel 4340 |
 | X-000-0002 | 10-15-49 | 4-step calibration block 0.25″–1.0″, steel 4340 |
 | X-000-0021 | 10-15-51 | 4-step calibration block 6.25–25 mm, steel 1018 |
 | X-000-0005 | 10-15-52 | Case for calibration block |
Accessories and spare parts
Cases, cables and accessories specific to this instrument.
| Image | Order code | SKU | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | F-000-7001 | 10-15-53 | Spring-loaded bell probe holder (V-Block) – dual-element probes, pipe inspection |
For more on choosing the probe: probes for corrosion thickness gauges and the guide How to choose the right ultrasonic transducer. For a quotation, please state the order code and quantity.
Documentation download
Official Dakota NDT technical documentation. Files open in a new tab.
 | CX series datasheet (CX2 / CX4 / CX6-DL / CX8-DL) | Datasheet |
| Multilingual user guide CX6-DL and CX8-DL (8 languages) | Guide |
| UKCA declaration of conformity | UKCA conformity |
| EC declaration of conformity | CE conformity |
Standards and certifications
- ASTM E797
- EN 14127
- EN 15317
- Calibration traceable to NIST and MIL-STD-45662A
- CE / UKCA Declaration of Conformity
For the applicable regulatory framework: NDT standards for thickness measurement: EN 14127, ASTM E797 and EN 15317.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The CX8-DL offers ThruPaint™ for inspection without removing the coating, 16 Hz scan mode to cover large surfaces, a structured data logger for archiving readings at each CML and DakMaster™ reporting compatible with API 570 traceability requirements.
No. The CX8-DL stores numerical values, batch information and the B-Scan. For archiving A-Scans (the complete waveform) an instrument from the CMX series or the MX2-DL is required.
No. The CX8-DL B-Scan is a simplified display, in coloured blocks, of the thickness profile along the scan, useful for rapid interpretation. For a B-Scan of professional flaw detector quality see the FX70-DL series.
The CX8-DL supports all Dakota dual element probes with auto-recognition: 1, 2, 5, 7.5, 10 MHz, HD, high temperature, small diameter. Changing probe requires no manual setup.
For on-site demonstrations, quotations and technical support in choosing the optimum configuration, contact our technical office.
Further information and contacts
Systems division and sensor integration partner : www.roder.it
More information about RODER SRL : about us
Contact for general information : info@roder.it
Contact for information about these products : info@roder.it
The information contained on this web page is provided for information purposes only. Although it has been compiled with the utmost care, it does not constitute a contractual offer or a binding commitment to supply. It may contain transcription, translation or typographical errors. For precise and up-to-date information, please contact our company directly.
Some images on this website have been intentionally generated using Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is because, for many applications and projects, it is not possible to disclose photographs of the installation or of the actual system due to confidentiality agreements, confidentiality clauses and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).