Achieving a flawless paint match in collision repair requires a blend of color theory, technology, and skill. Colours, a Platinum PPG Distributor, has the experience, state of the art resources, and insight to create a seamless paint finish.
How Manufacturers Formulate Paint Colors
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) develop specific paint codes for each vehicle model, which are found on the vehicle identification plate or inside the door jamb. However, even within the same paint code, there can be variations due to factors like:
- Batch differences – Slight differences in pigment batches can lead to subtle variations in color.
- Environmental exposure – Sunlight, weather, and pollution can cause paint to fade or change over time.
- Application techniques – Variations in spraying pressure, nozzle size, and drying conditions can impact the final shade.
Because of these variables, relying solely on OEM paint codes isn’t enough for a perfect match—this is where advanced paint matching techniques come into play.
Advanced Paint Matching Techniques
When a body shop is in need of a specific paint color, they will locate the OEM paint code – usually found on the VIN plate or door jamb – on the vehicle to determine the manufacturer’s original formula.If the paint has faded or changed over time, the shop may scan the vehicle’s surface using a spectrophotometer to generate a more accurate color formula.
Paint distributors, like Colours, use digital systems to blend pigments with high accuracy, ensuring consistency in color matching.
Color Theory and Paint Matching
Color matching relies on three elements:
Hue – The basic color
Value – Lightness or darkness
Chroma – Intensity or saturation
Automotive paints combine pigments and effects like metallics, making precise matching challenging. Variations arise due to batch differences, environmental exposure, and application techniques.
Colours, Inc. is a single line paint distributor, focusing solely on PPG paint lines, and offering the highest level of product knowledge and service.
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