Master color samples are standard in design – GRAFE expands its proven service for OEMs and design partners outside the automotive industry
In today’s digital age, are physical reference samples still necessary?
This question arises time and again in an era of digital color models, simulations, and 3D renderings. But in the reality of long development processes and complex value chains, the answer is clear: Yes, absolutely. Physical master samples remain indispensable! On the one hand, they serve as a feasibility analysis for implementing the OEM’s color requirements in polymer, and on the other hand, they provide a defined color concept and reference for the color and gloss level of various plastic parts at the supplier. They enable precise and consistent evaluation of components across all stages of the production chain, regardless of screen displays, lighting conditions, or subjective impressions.
OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and ODMs (original design manufacturers) in particular, who value high color precision, use these haptic reference samples, which are made available to the parts manufacturer. To adjust the colors of different plastic components and match them in color matching – primarily in the mobility sector, such as automotive engineering, aviation, rail, and shipbuilding. But there are also OEM structures in medical technology and in the electrical and household appliance sectors that need to ensure design consistency. This is not just a matter for the suppliers or parts manufacturers themselves, but also for the companies that have a decisive influence on color design and material selection, are responsible for these decisions, and guarantee them across all instances.
GRAFE – an experienced partner for master sample sheets for over 20 years
The GRAFE Group, based in Blankenhain, has been an established partner for OEMs and their design departments for two decades. The masterbatch and compound specialist supports customers from the initial color idea to the finished reference sample. What began as a service primarily for the automotive sector is now a comprehensive range of individual services that, in addition to the actual production of master samples, covers expert advice on all aspects of color development – whether it’s choosing the degree of gloss, the grain, or selecting suitable carrier materials and packaging.
“Our master samples are not only used in the automotive sector. We are increasingly receiving inquiries from other industries that depend on maximum color accuracy and reproducibility,“ explains Lars Schulze, Head of Color Development and Material Sciences, adding: ”GRAFE typically produces between 300 and 600 master sample plates per color development – with high consistency, the tightest tolerances, and long-term color stability. This is real added value for brands with long-term product and manufacturing cycles.”
Comprehensive master sample service – smooth and precise
GRAFE’s master sample service is based on a structured, tried-and-tested process that requires close cooperation with OEMs and ODMs, thereby enabling successful color development.
The first step is careful project planning so that the desired grain and surface structure can be selected in the next step, which serves as the basis for tool design. Based on digital color values or physical color templates, such as paint samples, fabric or leather samples, and even metal elements, GRAFE’s colorists then develop a precise color formula for the substrate material used.
The desired color tone is then provided to the OEM as a sample plate for further iteration loops in order to fine-tune the color until approval is granted. The final production of the master sample plates takes place under the highest quality standards.
Depending on customer requirements, visual and metrological checks are carried out on a random basis or for each individual sample. Colorimetric measurement and documentation complete the quality assurance process. The labeled and packaged master sample plates are then sent to the OEM/ODM or – as GRAFE services – directly to Tier 1 or Tier 2 suppliers, as desired. In addition to the main service of solid-colored master sample plates, special solutions such as paintable samples with a structured surface are also available.
Indispensable reference – with added value from a single source
Despite times of accelerated product development with high design demands, haptic samples are not losing their importance as a binding reference. They enable reliable assessment under real conditions and accompany projects over many years. GRAFE not only supplies the reference sample, but can also offer the right material for subsequent series production – a perfect symbiosis. The masterbatch and compound specialist GRAFE stands for competence, precision, and passion from the initial idea to the perfect reference.