Introduction to Color Measurement Standards

In various industries, accurate color measurement is essential for ensuring product quality and meeting customer expectations. Two well-established standards in the realm of color measurement are ASTM E308 and ISO 13655. Each standard serves different industries and applications, offering guidelines for color evaluation. Understanding the differences between these standards helps professionals select the appropriate method for their specific needs.

Overview of ASTM E308

ASTM E308 is a standard practice developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that offers guidelines for computing the colors of objects under different lighting conditions. It is primarily used in industries where precise color measurement is critical, such as textiles, paints, and plastics. The standard outlines procedures to calculate color coordinates from spectral data using standardized illuminants and observer functions.

One of the key components of ASTM E308 is its reliance on the CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage) system of colorimetry. By using standardized illuminants and the 2° or 10° standard observer, ASTM E308 helps ensure consistency and repeatability in color assessments across different industries. This ensures that colors are perceived uniformly, irrespective of the lighting conditions during the evaluation process.

ISO 13655: A Closer Look

ISO 13655 is an international standard specifically designed for the graphic arts industry, focusing on color measurement and management in printing processes. It provides guidelines for measuring the color of reflective and transmissive materials, such as prints, proofs, and transparencies. ISO 13655 takes into account the complexities of the printing process, including the substrate, inks, and finishing techniques, which can all impact the perceived color.

A defining feature of ISO 13655 is its consideration of measurement conditions that mimic typical viewing environments in the graphic arts industry. The standard specifies different measurement conditions, such as M0, M1, M2, and M3, to account for the presence of optical brightening agents (OBAs) in substrates and to allow for accurate color reproduction under various lighting scenarios. This approach enables professionals to achieve consistent color communication and reproduction throughout the printing workflow.

Applications Across Industries

While ASTM E308 and ISO 13655 share a common goal of accurate color measurement, their applications vary significantly. ASTM E308 is widely used in industries where the end products are manufactured materials like textiles, plastics, and coatings. These industries often require precise color matching during production to ensure that the final product aligns with customers' expectations. ASTM E308's focus on standardized color coordinates and illuminants makes it an ideal choice for these sectors.

In contrast, ISO 13655 is tailored to the graphic arts and printing industries, where color fidelity and consistency across different media are paramount. The standard's detailed measurement conditions and its emphasis on the impact of OBAs make it suitable for managing color in complex printing processes. This ensures that the final printed materials closely match the intended design, regardless of the materials or techniques used.

Choosing the Right Standard

Selecting between ASTM E308 and ISO 13655 depends largely on the industry and specific application requirements. For manufacturers in industries like textiles and plastics, ASTM E308 provides a robust framework for achieving consistent color evaluation. Its reliance on the CIE system ensures uniformity in color measurements across different contexts.

On the other hand, professionals in the graphic arts and printing industries will find ISO 13655 more aligned with their needs. Its comprehensive approach to measurement conditions and its focus on the complexities of the printing process make it an indispensable tool for ensuring accurate color reproduction in printed materials.

Conclusion

In summary, ASTM E308 and ISO 13655 are two pivotal standards in the field of color measurement, each serving distinct industries with specific needs. Understanding the differences and applications of these standards allows professionals to make informed decisions when it comes to color evaluation. By selecting the appropriate standard, industries can achieve better quality control, meet customer expectations, and maintain consistency across their products or printed materials.