Glossmeters

Calibration of a glossmeter is the process of verifying the results of the device using gloss standards. 3Color uses only gloss standards with a calibration certificate issued by an accredited laboratory in accordance with ISO 17025.

Calibration or adjustment of a glossmeter is the process of setting the instrument according to current environmental conditions. A distinction is made between user calibration (adjustment) and service calibration (adjustment). Both operations involve fine-tuning the device before starting work.

The price of a glossmeter depends on many factors. The main determinant, however, is its measurement reliability, and this is the main focus of 3Color. Our glossmeters are carefully adjusted before being delivered to the user. Therefore, it can be said that the price of a good glossmeter is not only its quality but also the quality of its calibration.

A glossmeter is a device used to measure the degree of gloss. The design and operation of the device are based on many standards related to gloss measurement such as ASTM D 523, D2457, DIN 67530, ISO 2813, ISO 7668, ISO 11664. Glossmeters can measure gloss at one or multiple angles.

"Gloss reflectometer" is an alternative name for a glossmeter. In reality, both terms mean the same device. Although the term “glossmeter” is more popular, the word "gloss reflectometer" is also used in some industries and by some manufacturers. Both devices work on the same principle, measuring the degree of surface gloss. The most popular are glossmeters with angles of 20°, 60°, and 85°.

A glossmeter works by analyzing the amount of light emitted toward the surface and the amount of light that reaches the detector through specular reflection. It is assumed that the value of 100 GU corresponds to the value of polished black glass. Usually, the result is expressed in units such as GU (Gloss Units) or through reflectance values (REF).

There are various types of glossmeters available on the market, differing in application and measurement accuracy. The most popular are portable glossmeters. However, stationary units and non-contact glossmeters used on production lines are also applied. Some models of spectrophotometers for color measurement have the ability to measure gloss or include a built-in glossmeter.

The price of glossmeters can vary significantly depending on their type and functions. Simpler handheld models start at around 100–200 EUR, while more advanced devices with digital displays, which offer a higher level of accuracy and more features, can cost between 250 and 1500 EUR, or even more. Often the price also depends on the manufacturer and the warranty offered. Unfortunately, the accuracy of measurements relative to international gloss standards usually increases with price. 3Color glossmeters have very high linear consistency with gloss standards from accredited laboratories. Typically, the measurement differences of accredited standards do not exceed 1.0 GU.

Using a glossmeter is extremely simple and does not require specialized training.
The most important tasks for the user are:

1. Surface preparation – the surface should be clean and flat

2. Device calibration – the device should be calibrated before use

3. Performing the measurement – the measurement consists of pressing the measurement button and reading the result from the display

4. Interpreting the result – results in the scale (e.g., GU) should be compared with reference values and the tolerance for the given material

Choosing the right glossmeter should include several aspects:
• Measurement range – make sure the device covers the scale range suitable for your material, e.g., 0–100 GU or 0–1000 GU.
• Precision – this is the most important aspect. If your product has high gloss requirements, look for a model with the highest accuracy.
• Measurement angle – cheaper devices are single-angle, e.g., 60°, but if you need a wider range of angles, choose a multi-angle device – 20°, 60°, and 85°.
• Service and calibration – choose a company with a proven reputation and local service availability.

The best one is the one that meets your requirements. Most often, you need to pay attention to:
• Measurement range – be sure to check the measurement ranges for your material
• Accuracy – the higher the accuracy of the device, the better, especially in industries where precise gloss measurement is crucial
• Measurement angle – check which angle of measurement is dedicated to your industry
• Price – pay attention to the price-to-quality ratio. The most expensive model is not always the best choice.

The choice of glossmeter depends on several factors:
• Application – if you use it in a laboratory, choose a more precise model. For everyday use, a device with basic functions will suffice.
• Surface type – if you deal with different materials, choose a model that can handle various types of surfaces.
• Budget – determine how much you can spend on a glossmeter and choose a model that meets your requirements within the available budget.

Calibration is most often carried out on request. Calibration involves reading the reference values of gloss standards – usually issued by an accredited laboratory in accordance with ISO 17025 – and then reading the values provided by the device being calibrated. Therefore, not every glossmeter will be subject to calibration. The result of calibration is the issuance of a document called a Calibration Certificate. If you need a device with a calibration certificate, contact the seller.

Glossmeter calibration can be performed by any unit that wants to obtain measurement results relative to reference standards. Most often, calibration is carried out by the manufacturer or an accredited laboratory specializing in glossmeter calibration.

A gloss measurement device is an alternative name for a glossmeter. It is exactly the same device but under a different name. Gloss meters are all devices prepared for measuring the degree of gloss.

Gloss measurement of lacquer is a key element in the visual assessment of a coated surface. The degree of matting or gloss determines the visual perception of color. Therefore, glossmeters are used to assess color alongside color measurements.

Gloss measurement of paints is carried out using the same methods as gloss measurement of lacquers. However, in the case of paints, the decisive factor may be the degree of gloss. More often, paints are characterized by low gloss – so-called semi-gloss or matte gloss. Therefore, a multi-angle glossmeter can be applied.