ASTM D2244

Introducing ASTM D2244 – Industrial Physics

ASTM D2244 is an international ASTM standard for calculating color tolerances and color differences from instrumentally measured color coordinates. 

The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) is one of the most influential standard bodies in existence. Established in 1898, ASTM international exists to develop standardized test methods, specifications, practices, guides, classification, and terminology across a range of subject areas. 

The ASTM D2244 color testing standard covers the calculation of color tolerances and small color differences between opaque specimens such as painted panels, plastic plaques, or textile swatches.  

Color testing using the original CIE color scale  

The original CIE color scales based on tristimulus values X, Y, Z and chromaticity coordinates x, y are not uniform visually. Each subsequent color scale based on CIE values has had weighting factors applied. This is to allow some degree of uniformity, so that color differences in various regions of color space will be more nearly comparable.  

On the other hand, color differences obtained for the same specimens – evaluated in different color-scale systems – are not likely to be identical. To avoid confusion, color differences among specimens, or the associated tolerances, should only be compared when they’re obtained for the same color-scale system. There’s no simple factor that can be used to accurately convert color differences, or color tolerances, from one system to another. 

While color difference equations and color tolerance equations are routinely applied to a wide range of illuminants, they have been derived or optimized for use under daylight illumination. Good correlation with visual judgments may not be obtained when the calculations are made with other illuminants. Use of a tolerance equation other than daylight conditions will require visual confirmation of the level of metamerism in accordance with ASTM D4086. 

Our ASTM D2244 color testing devices  

So, how can Industrial Physics improve your ASTM D2244 color testing? 

TQC Sheen Test Charts 

We make a wide range of test charts for color testing and measuring the physical properties of coatings, lacquers and inks. They’re suitable for determining hiding power, opacity and spreading rate and come in a variety of dimensions from DIN A6 up to and including DIN A4. 

All of our color test charts are film laminated for an excellent solvent and chemical resistance and an even film spread. On each color chart there’s a section for filling out the date, time and test number. 

Be sure to check out some of the other color testing devices we make across the Industrial Physics’ portfolio. 

Supporting a full spectrum of color testing needs

We like to share our knowledge and we’re here to help you to answer your questions about color testing. Across the knowledgebase section of our website we publish lots of blogs on related subjects.  

You could start with this blog which looks at lab production tolerances for colored papers. Then you could check out this piece on testing the physical and optical properties of paper. 

If you have any questions about the ASTM D2244 color testing, just get in touch today!

Contact us – Industrial Physics 

Your global test and measurement partner for ASTM D2244