AMPP CIP Level 2 study guide
AMPP CIP Level 2 · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The AMPP Coating Inspector Program (CIP) Level 2 is an intermediate-level credential within AMPP's coating inspection certification ladder, aimed at inspectors who already understand the fundamentals of protective coatings and now need to work with less supervision, interpret specifications, and resolve field questions. It suits coating inspectors, QA/QC personnel, coating applicators moving into inspection, and owner or engineering staff who witness and sign off on coating work. The AMPP CIP Level 2 study guide has 7 sections and about 2,517 words.
01Advanced Coating Inspection and the Role of the Inspector
The advanced inspector confirms that work matches the specification, the approved procedures, and the referenced standards. The inspector does not design the coating system, direct the contractor's workforce, or unilaterally accept a deviation.
333 words, about 2 min02Coating Types, Formulation, and Selection
Know the generic families and how they fail. Epoxies (amine- or polyamide-cured, two-component) give excellent chemical and barrier performance but chalk under UV, so they are usually topcoated.
354 words, about 2 min03Surface Preparation Methods and Standards
Joint NACE/SSPC abrasive blast standards map directly onto ISO 8501-1 visual grades. SSPC-SP 5 / NACE No.
392 words, about 2 min04Coating Application and Application Equipment
An airless pump pressurizes fluid (commonly 1,500–3,500 psi) through a small orifice, atomizing it without air. Tip notation is reverse-digit: 517 means a 0.017 in orifice and a 10 in fan at 12 in distance (the two fan digits × 2 = fan width at 12 in).
381 words, about 2 min05Inspection Instruments and Test Methods
Measure air temperature, surface temperature, dew point, and RH with calibrated instruments. Contact thermometers and infrared thermometers are both used; remember that IR devices read surface temperature and are affected by emissivity and nearby hot or cold sources.
378 words, about 2 min06Documentation, Reporting, and Inspection Records
In a dispute, the record is the evidence. "If it isn't written, it didn't happen" is not cynicism - it is the operating rule.
336 words, about 2 min07Safety, Environment, and Jobsite Practices
Abrasive blasting generates respirable crystalline silica; the controls are containment, dust extraction, and appropriate respiratory protection under the applicable occupational exposure rules. Blasting or removing old coatings may release lead, chromates, or other toxics, triggering air monitoring, hygiene facilities, and regulated waste handling.
343 words, about 2 min