Color Matching for Injection Molded Parts

Color Matching

Color matching is one of the most challenging aspects of injection molding, especially when sourcing from China. Differences in raw material batches, processing conditions, and cultural perception of color can lead to rejections. This guide provides a systematic approach to color management with Chinese suppliers.

Color Specification Methods

The most reliable method is providing a physical color chip (color swatch) alongside a spectrophotometer reading in CIE Lab values. Pantone numbers are widely used but have limitations: (1) Pantone is a printing standard, not a plastic standard, (2) Same Pantone number on different materials (PC vs PP) produces different visual results, (3) Gloss level affects perceived color. For critical applications, provide a master color chip from the approved material.

Color Tolerance Standards

Chinese color matching norms: general consumer goods: Delta E < 2.0. Automotive interior: Delta E < 1.0. Premium cosmetics: Delta E < 0.5. Request the factory's spectrophotometer brand and verify calibration - many Chinese factories use low-cost spectrophotometers with +/- 0.3 dE error. Acceptable: X-Rite, Konica Minolta, BYK-Gardner. Questionable: lower-cost Chinese brands.