Understanding Colors - An Overview of the Most Important Color Systems

The different color systems:

To ensure that a specific color is reproducible, the sorting and naming of the countless color shades is of great importance. Various globally standardized systems, such as the well-known Pantone color system or the RAL color system, are used to define colors unambiguously.

Pantone colors are an international color system primarily used in the graphic arts and printing industries. They are also used in metal coating.

RAL colors refer to a standardized color system. Since each color is assigned a unique color number, the color for aluminum coatings can be precisely communicated without the need for a physical color sample. RAL colors are available in glossy, semi-gloss, matte, fine-textured matte, and with special effects such as metallic finishes.

NCS (Natural Color System) originates from Scandinavian architecture and offers approximately 2000 color shades. Converting any color shade to NCS is possible, and in some cases, formulas for specific color shades already exist.

Use of color swatches

A color fan deck contains a comprehensive selection of colors, making it easier for you to choose the desired color for your projects. The color swatches allow you to view the colors in a real-world context and check the color accuracy on the final product.

Wet paints are often applied using a three-coat system, which can lead to slight variations in color. Therefore, we recommend using color swatches when selecting your paint color.