How to apply colorimeter in textile testing?

Colorimeter for Textile Color Measurement: Principles, Usage, and Product Recommendation

A colorimeter is an essential tool for textile quality control, enabling precise measurement of color differences to ensure product consistency. This guide explains its operating principles and measurement procedures, followed by a product recommendation.

Working Principle
Colorimeters emulate human color perception, which is defined by three dimensions: hue, lightness, and saturation. Equipped with three sensors, these instruments measure reflected light from samples and calculate color values based on these dimensions. Results are compared against reference standards to quantify color differences and guide corrective actions.

Color Variation Factors in Textiles
Textile color discrepancies stem from various sources:

• Lighting conditions (natural/artificial light)
• Fiber composition variations
• Dyeing process inconsistencies

Proper measurement requires selecting appropriate settings based on sample characteristics.

Measurement Procedure

1. Sample Preparation
   • Cut samples to uniform size with flat surfaces
   • Secure samples on the instrument's measurement port
   • Maintain consistent instrument positioning
2. Parameter Setup
   • Configure illumination (light source type, angle)
   • Set observation geometry (typically 2° or 10° field of view)
   • Save configurations as reusable programs
3. Measurement Execution
   • Initiate automated measurement sequences
   • Collect spectral data and colorimetric values
   • Evaluate results via on-screen displays
4. Discrepancy Analysis
   • Identify root causes of color deviations
   • Develop corrective actions for process improvement

Product Recommendation: CHNSpec DS-700D Spectrophotometer
This cost-effective instrument offers advanced features for textile color management:

Key Features

1. Certified Accuracy
   • Compliant with metrological standards
   • Verified through official calibration certificates
2. Dual-Beam Optical System
   • Simultaneous sample measurement and light source monitoring
   • Enhanced stability through dual-array sensors
   • 10nm spectral resolution for precise color analysis
3. Intelligent Calibration
   • Automatic calibration using ZrO₂ reference (R% > 90%)
   • Self-correcting base plate eliminates manual intervention
4. Light Source System
   • Full-spectrum LEDs with UV capability
   • 37 illumination sources including A, D65, F12, and LED variants
5. Versatile Measurement Options
   • 3 interchangeable apertures (Φ11mm/Φ6mm/1×3mm)
   • 30+ measurement parameters (CIE Lab, spectral reflectance, etc.)
6. Connectivity & Usability
   • Multi-platform support (Android/iOS/Windows)
   • Camera-assisted targeting system
   • 3.5" IPS touchscreen display

Technical Specifications

Applications

• Color consistency control in textile production
• Dye formulation verification
• Quality assurance for automotive/apparel textiles
• Research in material science and color chemistry

The CHNSpec DS-700D combines precision, flexibility, and ease-of-use, making it an ideal solution for textile manufacturers seeking to improve color accuracy while reducing quality control costs. Its advanced optical design and smart calibration system ensure reliable performance across various production environments.