The MA98 is designed for color measurement of metallic, pearlescent and other complex special effect finishes. Source: X-Rite
Color measurement is a crucial part of quality in many different industries, from aerospace to automotive. Though they may not consider the behind-the-scenes measurements, customers expect perfect color matching, and color errors do not go unnoticed. For example, it would reflect poor quality if the mirrors of a new car did not match the doors. Ensuring the proper color the first time improves quality and saves money.
Though the human eye is able to distinguish between colors, the right instrument can improve color matching and provide repeatable and accurate results. While new instruments may have an array of features, it also is important to establish a repeatable and reliable measurement technique.
What follows are a list of color measurement products now available.
The MA98 portable multi-angle spectrophotometer fromX-Rite(www.xrite.com) is designed for color measurement of metallic, pearlescent and other complex special effect finishes. The unit provides 10 measurement angles and two illumination angles to create a unique master profile of each color that serves as a benchmark for optimizing color communication from initial design through formulation, processing and quality assurance.
The MA98 has a compact, ergonomically efficient design that ensures proper aperture location and measurements that are unaffected by ambient light. Accurate, repeatable sample positioning is obtainable with pressure feedback control and LED indicators. Measurements are achieved within two seconds and communication is available through USB or wireless.
The product has increased lamp life with replaceable lamp modules, reduced battery consumption and a lithium ion battery. It also has enhanced color resolution with a 31-point dynamic rotation sampling color engine. Its four-button navigation and icon-driven color LCD allows for universal functionality in all work conditions. It also meets DIN and ASTM standards.
This handheld XRF spectrophotometer has been specifically developed for on-site analysis. Source: Qualitest
Pocket III assures laboratory quality analysis of high and low alloy steel, minerals, precious metals, RoHS elements and soil. The powerful algorithms also allow for analysis of light elements such as aluminum and magnesium through analysis of heavier elements. The combination of the Si-PIN, 40 kV X-ray means that the Pocket III can analyze and identify metal alloys in seconds. Restricted elements, lead in toys, contaminants in soil and small concentrations in ores can be accurately measured at high speeds. Trace element results, down to parts per million level, can be achieved in seconds.
The ColorTest has an external probe that allows for color measurement flexibility. Source: ElektroPhysik
Featuring a 45-degree/0-degree measuring geometry according to DIN 5033, the external probe illuminates the test sample with a defined light source to spectrally measure the light remitted.
Ideal for quality control on the production floor, the ColorTest resident memory and recording capabilities conform to QN-systems according to DIN EN ISO 9000 standards.
The microprocessor-controlled CS24D can be taught to recognize up to 15 colors. Source: Delta Computer Systems
Color sensors are widely used in the automotive industry to support just-in-time programs where verification is required to ensure that the proper color components are being processed. Targeted for on-line applications like these, the CS24D distinguishes among up to 15 different colors and communicates the results via four discrete outputs. And, unlike the human eye, the CS24D color sensor quickly and accurately determines the best color match regardless of surrounding colors, most ambient light variations, and whether it is the beginning, middle or end of the worker’s shift.
All of Delta’s color sensors and sorters are based on the company’s pulsed LED technology and offer long-life, solid-state lighting with a wide range of colors from blue to near-infrared. The CS24D reads colors of textured and other difficult materials more accurately than typical color sensors by using a large sensing area and consistent, diffuse lighting from its 24 ultra-bright LEDs. Sorting can be done using color only, both color and intensity, or can be optimized to the Teach data. The ColorSense software includes setup wizards and teach modes that deliver fast configuration, teaching and optimization of sensors operating either stand-alone or connected to programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
The CS24D color sensor with ColorSense software is available in several models with a variety of sensing areas and standoff distances.
The MM-4e meets the requirements of ASTM D1729-96 for the visual appraisal of colors and color differences. Source: Graphic Technology Inc.
The CM-700d/600d spectrophotometer allows easy and accurate color measurement in various sites and occasions. Source: Konica Minolta Sensing Americas
The CM-700d and CM-600d are equipped with color TFT LCDs that enable color patches to be shown for each measurement to allow immediate operation. The measurement tips of the spectrophotometers are narrow, so there are fewer limitations on what can be measured, including flat areas, protruding areas and sunken areas. Various optional accessories also are available, such as a target mask with glass over the measurement aperture, a granular materials attachment and a dust cover to enable measurements of a wide variety of subjects including pastes, powders and wet surfaces.
