What is the Purpose of a Colorimeter?

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2012-02-12

What is the Purpose of a Colorimeter?

  What is a colorimeter used for? 

  Firstly, a colorimeter is an instrument used to measure the color differences of objects. 

Simply put, it refers to measuring the differences between the colors of objects, which are commonly used in professions related to color, such as spraying, painting, coating, ink, printing, etc.

  So what is the ultimate purpose of a colorimeter? 

  There are mainly two aspects:

  Firstly, measurement in terms of color matching

When a user receives a sample, they need to reproduce the same color as the sample. 

At this time, they need to repeat the sample. Previously, the difference between the small sample and the standard sample was made by comparing them with the human eye. 

When it is within the allowable planning range, the technology is handed over to the workshop for production. 

Due to the one-sided nature of the human eye, this difference is difficult to determine. 

In this case, a colorimeter can be used to measure the difference between the small sample and the standard sample, 

and determine whether the color difference of the sample meets the plan based on the difference. This can reduce the uncertainty of human eye observation.

  For example, suppose the color coordinates of a standard sample are

L *=32.75, a *=32.58, b *=23.83 (i.e. (L) brightness value is 32.75, (A) red is 32.58, (B) yellow is 23.83)

Set the measurement value of the standard sample as the standard, and then measure the sample to obtain the function of the sample:

L *=32.88, a *=30.32, b *=20.85;

Δ L *=0.13, Δ A *=-2.26, Δ B *=-2.98 (bright 0.13, green 2.26, blue 2.98)

  As you can see, the next time you grade the sample formula, you need to add red (or subtract green) and yellow (or subtract blue). 

The specific degree of addition can be determined based on the experimental effect. Repeat several times until the color difference is within the allowable plan. 

Experienced color mixers can instinctively determine the proportion of the formula between 2-3 times based on the value of the color difference meter.

  Secondly, the role of colorimeters in quality control

  When products are put into production, due to changes in many factors during production, color errors may occur in batches of products. 

Therefore, it is necessary to often use a color difference meter to measure color errors during production, in order to adjust production technology and achieve product color consistency.

  For example, when receiving a phone case (as shown in the picture below), it is necessary to use a colorimeter to check if the color is qualified.

  For example, plastic parts must not have deformation or distortion (exceeding 10mm is not acceptable);

  The consistency of the color of the plastic parts themselves, without impurities, color differences, etc;

What is the purpose of a colorimeter?

  Phone case: Many factors often occur during production, which can lead to color errors in the product. 

Therefore, a colorimeter should also be used to continuously check and adjust during the production process; 

Before leaving the factory, finished products and samples or color cards should be selected for inspection to ensure the qualification of the produced products.