Color variation in plastic parts and coated surfaces can lead to rejected batches, rework, and customer complaints. A consistent measurementprocess helps quality teams compare incoming materials, production samples, and finished products using objective data—not visualjudgment alone.
1. Choose the measurement method for the material
• Portable colorimeter: useful for routine color checks and comparisons against a reference sample when its measurement conditions suitthe material.
• Spectrophotometer: consider it when you need more detailed spectral data, tighter color matching, or consistent color communicationacross teams and suppliers.
• Multi-angle measurement: for metallic or special-effect coatings, confirm whether multiple-angle readings are required. A conventionalsingle-angle reading may not fully describe the visual effect.
2. Set up a repeatable QC procedure
- Define the reference standard and acceptable color-difference tolerance.
- Keep sample preparation, surface condition, measurementlocation, and instrument settings consistent.
- Take repeat readings at representative points.
- Record results, instrument identification,date, and batch information.
- Check the instrument according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your quality procedure.
3. What should buyers confirm?
• Material and finish: plastic pellets, molded parts, paint, powder coating, or textured surfaces.
• Required color data and tolerance,including whether L*a*b* values and ΔE are needed.
• Measurement area, geometry, repeatability, portability, and data exportrequirements.
• Whether special-effect or multi-angle measurement is needed.
Note: ΔE depends on the selected formula, measurement conditions, and agreed tolerance. Confirm the method with your customer orquality standard before comparing results.
Need help selecting a color measurement instrument?
Share your material, surface finish, target tolerance, sample size, and QC workflow. Gerteise can help identify a suitable instrument categoryand confirm relevant specifications before quotation