Paint manufacturer Spies Hecker has issued a series of useful tips on the most effective use of its ColorDialog spectrophotometer tool.

Daniel Hartland, Spies Hecker UK and Ireland Brand Marketing Coordinator, says with over 45,000 OEM colours in existence worldwide and about 600 new colours added each year, colour matching is a mammoth task but can be greatly assisted by using ColorDialog. 

ColorDialog helps refinishers to achieve accurate colour matches quickly and easily. Hartland says, “Refinishers get the most precise colour formula when ColorDialog is used in conjunction with our CRPlus software and digital scales. Training is also vital, which is why we offer a dedicated ColorDialog course at the Refinish Academy in Stevenage.”

Spies Hecker say to make the best use of ColorDialog users follow these tips:

• 1. Make sure the surface being measured is clean and dirt free. Use Permanent Silicone Remover and then polish the area carefully before measurement.
• 2. The surface on which the colour is measured must be level to eliminate the possibility of light penetrating from the sides.
• 3. Calibrate the instrument when indicated to ensure accuracy and make sure the calibration kit is cleaned in accordance with recommendations.
• 4. Calibrate the device in the same temperature and humidity environments as it will be used. Note some pigments are thermochromatic and change colour according to the temperature. Do not therefore measure surfaces that have been exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period.
• 5. Each colour measurement requires three separate readings of the surface. Each reading must be carried out within the area of the damage.
• 6. External light conditions can be disregarded during colour measurement as the ColorDialog has its own integrated lighting. Any faulty measurements are indicated on the display.
• 7. When searching for the matching colour, it is possible to narrow down the searching criteria by entering the manufacturer, colour code or paint type.
• 8. It is advised to spray a sample panel before refinishing and to compare it with the colour on the vehicle. This way, refinishers can be sure of an exact colour match.
• 9. The instrument’s housing should be protected from direct contact with solvents. When the instrument is not in use, keep the cover on the optical measuring head to protect it.
• 10. Switch on the instrument by pressing the Operate button. The ColorDialog has a stand-by mode and switches itself off automatically following the completion of the measurement and the data being sent to the PC. Only use AA or LR 6 round cell alkaline batteries.

To find out more about the Spies Hecker digital colour management system or to sign up for ColorDialog training courses, please visit www.spieshecker.co.uk.