Coatings Cafe
Poor Color Match
Defect Description
With poor color match, the final color does not match the color standard.
The color of the paint is influenced by the underlying color of the substrate due to light reflection -see defect “hiding power”. The color of the paint is also influenced by the orientation of the effect pigment flakes-see mottling.
The type of light used for color observation can also be a factor and this is called metamerism. Metamerism is the effect where a color that appears the same shade to a second color under certain conditions, may look totally different under different conditions. The most common existence of this problem is where two colors match in daylight, but appear different under artificial light (especially sodium street lighting).
Also known as: off-color, lack of or poor color harmony, metamerism
Possible Causes of Defect
1. Low film thickness
2. Film thickness is not uniform across the area –“thin spots”
3. Color coat not mixed properly-pigment sedimentation
4. Substrate color is not correct for application of topcoat
5. The type of light and viewing angle used to observe the color
Tips to Avoid Defect
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1. Apply the proper film thickness per the technical data sheet
2. Ensure the paint thickness is uniform across the area
3. Mix the paint well before using
4. Use the proper primer color for the color coat
5. Note the light source requirement and viewing angle for the color
How to Repair the Defect?
- Consult your specific paint shop procedures.
- Finesse Deck: Sand plus 2-step Polish
- Spot Repair: Sand plus Repaint