Look for dirty or fingerprinted glass along the optical path, recalibrate with standards, and check the set-up for outside light so that it is controlled. If the problems still exist, please reach out to the helpdesk or book a service with your professional service.

Consistency in calibration is important to account for imbalances arising from wear and tear of the probe, probe pressure, variation from the environment, and fluctuations in daily usage. This is also necessary to maintain the best quality to various international standards.

A coating thickness gauge measures film layers by identifying shifts in magnetic flux, eddy currents, or ultrasonic echoes as they penetrate the coating. The gauge calculates thickness based on the magnitude of these signals. This universally accepted approach results in quick, reliable, and non-invasive measurements. 

The most common standard measuring gloss is ASTM D523, which covers the procedures of using a gloss meter at 20°, 60°, and 85° angles. The other international standard that is widely used in industrial and laboratory applications is the ISO 2813.

The Colour Assessment Cabinet (CAC) is a controlled environment used for the visual evaluation of color wherein the light sources are consistent.

A colorimeter is sufficient for basic, routine color checks, while a spectrophotometer is needed for precise, comprehensive color analysis—here’s the clear breakdown:

When a Colorimeter is Sufficient

1. Simple color matching needs: Ideal for checking if a sample matches a predefined standard (e.g., basic paint batches, plastic parts with solid colors).

2. Consistent lighting conditions: Works well when measurements are done under fixed, standard light sources (no need to account for varied light effects).

3. Cost-sensitive, high-volume tasks: Perfect for production lines requiring fast, low-cost color checks without advanced data analysis.

When to Use a Spectrophotometer

1. Precise color quantification: Necessary for measuring Lab values (lightness, red-green, yellow-blue axes) or detecting subtle color deviations (critical for automotive coatings, high-end textiles).

2. Complex color analysis: Required for metallic/pearlescent finishes, transparent materials, or samples with gloss/texture variations.

3. Compliance and documentation: Essential when precise color data (spectral curves) is needed for quality audits, regulatory compliance, or brand color standardization.

Pantone light boxes are mainly used for standardized color viewing and color consistency verification across multiple industries to ensure accurate color evaluation under uniform light conditions. Core Application Industries like Textile & Garment Industry, Printing & Packaging Industry, Paint, Ink & Coating Industry, Plastic & Electronic Product Industry, Cosmetics & Food Industry

The gloss of the paint is defined by the measurement of light reflection at the surface of the paint with the help of a gloss meter. The angle and quantity of light reflected determine the level of gloss, with smoother and reflective surfaces having a higher level of gloss.

Once ignited, the gauge will select the correct substrate mode. The probe should be placed flat on the coated surface. The thickness of the coating will show on the screen. Measurements should be taken on different areas of the surface to ensure accuracy.

For a proper color evaluation, ensure cleanliness, use standardized observation conditions, eliminate stray light, and periodically change the lamps.