Overview
EN ISO 18314-1:2018, Analytical colorimetry - Part 1: Practical colour measurement establishes standardized methods for determining the colour coordinates of paint films. Published by CEN, this standard aligns with ISO 18314-1:2015 and provides a recognized framework for practical colour measurement in the coatings industry. The method defined is suitable for monochromatic (uniformly coloured) paint films, including opaque systems where the paint covers the substrate completely or nearly completely. However, it specifically excludes luminescent, transparent, translucent, retroreflective, and metallic paint films.
Consistent colour measurement is critical for quality control, product development, and regulatory compliance in paint and coatings applications. EN ISO 18314-1:2018 guarantees repeatable and accurate results by providing clear instructions for sample preparation, measurement conditions, instrument calibration, and the selection of appropriate measurement geometries.
Key Topics
- Scope of Application
- Focuses on opaque and monochromatic paint films
- Not applicable to films with special optical effects (luminescent, metallic, etc.)
- Sample Preparation
- Follows strict procedures for obtaining representative samples
- Ensures surfaces are clean and undamaged
- Adheres to referenced standards for specimen preparation and film thickness
- Instrument Calibration
- Emphasizes proper white and black calibration routines
- Recommends periodic control measurements
- Stresses care in handling, cleaning, and storing calibration standards
- Measuring Conditions
- Specifies use of standardized illuminants (D65) and observer angles (10°)
- Recommends CIELAB or DIN 99 colour spaces for calculation and CIEDE2000 formula for colour differences
- Measurement Geometry
- Explains use of geometries such as di:8°, 45°:0°, and de:8°
- Advises on selecting geometry based on surface type and intended application
- Equipment
- Prioritizes spectrophotometers with sufficient spectral range (400-700 nm)
- Allows for tristimulus colorimeters when metamerism control is not required
Applications
EN ISO 18314-1:2018 is widely used for:
- Quality Control and Assurance
- Standardizing colour evaluation in production environments
- Reducing subjectivity and visual inconsistencies
- Product Development
- Supporting formulation and adjustment of paint colours
- Regulatory Compliance
- Meeting national and international standards for coatings testing
- Purchasing and Specification
- Harmonizing requirements and expectations across the paint supply chain
- Academic and Industrial Research
- Providing a unified approach for colour measurement in coatings research
Industries that benefit most include automotive coatings, architectural paints, industrial coatings, and any sector where precise and consistent colour measurement of opaque paint films is essential.
Related Standards
- ISO 1513: Paints and varnishes - Examination and preparation of test samples
- ISO 1514: Paints and varnishes - Standard panels for testing
- ISO 2808: Paints and varnishes - Determination of film thickness
- ISO 15528: Sampling of paints and raw materials
- ISO 11664 series: Colorimetry (illuminants, observers, colour spaces, colour difference formulae)
- DIN 6176: Colour difference evaluation using DIN99
- ISO 18314-2: Analytical colorimetry - Advanced correction and evaluation methods
- ISO 18314-3: Analytical colorimetry - Special indices
EN ISO 18314-1:2018 plays a key role in modern colour quality management, offering a reliable measurement foundation for the international paints and coatings industry. For organizations requiring accurate and reproducible colour results, adherence to this standard is a critical best practice.
