ASTM D3134-97(2008)e1

Standard Practice for Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Color specifications are centered around exact positions in color space. Correspondingly, gloss specifications are centered around an exact position on the gloss scale. Because it is difficult to achieve these exact positions repeatedly, it is necessary to specify tolerances that are acceptable to both the buyer and the seller. This practice details the procedure for accomplishing this goal.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a procedure for establishing tolerances and evaluating the color and gloss of specimens with respect to specified standards. This practice is appropriate for nonfluorescent opaque specimens.
1.2 This practice does not indicate the extent of tolerances, but gives guidance on how they can be set. For product specification, the tolerances between specimens and the specified standard should be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

General Information

• Status: Historical
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2008
• ICS: 87.040 - Paints and varnishes
• Technical Committee: E12 - Color and Appearance
• Drafting Committee: E12.11 - Visual Methods

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D3134-97(2003) - Standard Practice for Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Replaced By: ASTM D3134-15 - Standard Practice for Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2015
• Referred By: ASTM D6577-15(2019) - Standard Guide for Testing Industrial Protective Coatings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM E1345-98(2019) - Standard Practice for Reducing the Effect of Variability of Color Measurement by Use of Multiple Measurements
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D3451-06(2017) - Standard Guide for Testing Coating Powders and Powder Coatings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D5531-17(2023) - Standard Guide for Preparation, Maintenance, and Distribution of Physical Product Standards for Color and Geometric Appearance of Coatings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D5382-02(2017) - Standard Guide to Evaluation of Optical Properties of Powder Coatings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM E1808-96(2021) - Standard Guide for Designing and Conducting Visual Experiments
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM E1499-16(2023) - Standard Guide for Selection, Evaluation, and Training of Observers
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D3794-22 - Standard Guide for Testing Coil Coatings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM C647-19 - Standard Guide to Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D7195-21 - Standard Guide for Setting Object Color Specifications
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Referred By: ASTM D1535-14(2023) - Standard Practice for Specifying Color by the Munsell System
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008

Standards Content (Sample)

NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
´1
Designation: D3134 − 97(Reapproved 2008)
Standard Practice for
Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3134; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Corrections were made editorially in Footnote 4, 7.2.1, and Section 12 in December 2008.
INTRODUCTION
Permissible color and gloss deviations from a standard are generally dependent upon the color
discrimination of the observer, on the lighting and surround in which the material is viewed, and on
special considerations related to the design, manufacture, and practical usage of the colored material
or object. The tolerances, therefore, may be influenced by economic, technical, psychological, and
practical requirements. In many circumstances, acceptability of color and gloss deviations from a
standard may differ appreciably from the perceptibility of deviations such as on-tone fading
preferences, large tolerances for luminance variation, nongreen bias, or nonyellow bias. With proper
allowances, perceptibility data can be used as an aid to develop permissible tolerances. Finally, the
sum of all these considerations should result in a specification acceptable to both buyer and seller.
1. Scope D1729 Practice for Visual Appraisal of Colors and Color
Differences of Diffusely-Illuminated Opaque Materials
1.1 This practice describes a procedure for establishing
D2244 Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and
tolerancesandevaluatingthecolorandglossofspecimenswith
Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color
respect to specified standards. This practice is appropriate for
Coordinates
nonfluorescent opaque specimens.
D3964 Practice for Selection of Coating Specimens for
1.2 This practice does not indicate the extent of tolerances,
Appearance Measurements
but gives guidance on how they can be set. For product
D4449 Test Method for Visual Evaluation of Gloss Differ-
specification, the tolerances between specimens and the speci-
ences Between Surfaces of Similar Appearance
fiedstandardshouldbeagreeduponbetweenthepurchaserand
D5531 GuideforPreparation,Maintenance,andDistribution
the seller.
of Physical Product Standards for Color and Geometric
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Appearance of Coatings
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
E284 Terminology of Appearance
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
E308 PracticeforComputingtheColorsofObjectsbyUsing
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
the CIE System
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
E312 Practice for Description and Selection of Conditions
2. Referenced Documents
for Photographing Specimens Using Analog (Film) Cam-
eras and Digital Still Cameras (DSC)
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E805 Practice for Identification of Instrumental Methods of
D523 Test Method for Specular Gloss
D1535 Practice for Specifying Color by the Munsell System Color or Color-Difference Measurement of Materials
E1164 PracticeforObtainingSpectrometricDataforObject-
Color Evaluation
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E12 on Color and
Appearance and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E12.11 on Visual E1331 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by
Methods.
Spectrophotometry Using Hemispherical Geometry
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2008. Published December 2008. Originally
E1345 Practice for Reducing the Effect of Variability of
approved in 1972. Last previous edition approved in 2003 as D3134 – 97 (2003).
DOI: 10.1520/D3134-97R08E01. Color Measurement by Use of Multiple Measurements
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
E1349 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional (45°:0° or 0°:45°)
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. Geometry
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D3134 − 97 (2008)
E1360 Practice for Specifying Color by Using the Optical accomplished by use of the same colorant composition, incor-
Society of America Uniform Color Scales System porated in the same manner into the same material. The
E1499 Guide for Selection, Evaluation, and Training of standard should have the same texture as the manufactured
Observers product.
E1541 Practice for Specifying and Matching Color Using
7.1.1.1 In order to obtain a permanent record, use Practice
the Colorcurve System (Withdrawn 2007)
E805 and either Test Method E1331 or Test Method E1349 to
E1708 Practice for Electronic Interchange of Color and
correctly identify the instrumental measurement method. Mea-
Appearance Data
sure the color in accordance with Practices E1164 and E805.
2.2 CIE Publication:
Report the color as described in Practice E308. Do this even if
No. CIE S 014-4/E2007 Colorimetry 2nd ed.
the standard is textured. (If the standard is textured, note the
texture orientation during measurement.) The variability of the
3. Terminology
measurements due to texture may be reduced by following the
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms related to this
recommendations outlined in Practice E1345.
practice see Terminology E284.
7.1.1.2 Visual Color Assessment—Use Guide E1499 to se-
lect an observer for the assessment. Assess and specify the
4. Summary of Practice
color in terms of a color system described in Practices D1535,
4.1 This practice consists of recommendations for the se-
E1360,or E1541.
lection of a standard, the necessary physical measurements to
7.1.1.3 Measure the gloss in accordance with Test Method
assess the permanence of the standard to reproduce it when
D523, or evaluate it in accordance with Test Method D4449.
needed, and to establish tolerances.
7.1.1.4 Employ photography for permanently recording the
4.2 Recommendationsaregivenforthedeterminationofthe
appearance of the surface texture (see Practice E312). While
conformance of a specimen to preestablished color and gloss
Practice D3134 does not deal with texture tolerances or
tolerances by instrumental or visual means.
specifications, it should be recognized that significant differ-
ences in surface texture between standard and test specimens
5. Significance and Use
significantly affect both color and gloss, whether examined
5.1 Color specifications are centered around exact positions
visually or instrumentally. In the case of visual evaluation of
in color space. Correspondingly, gloss specifications are cen-
the effect of color and gloss, differences can be minimized by
tered around an exact position on the gloss scale. Because it is
strict adherence to recommended illuminating and viewing
difficult to achieve these exact positions repeatedly, it is
geometry (see Practice D1729).
necessary to specify tolerances that are acceptable to both the
7.2 Selection and Specification of Color Tolerances:
buyer and the seller. This practice details the procedure for
7.2.1 The purchaser and the seller shall agree on color
accomplishing this goal.
toleranceswithrespecttoapreviouslyselectedstandardandon
6. Specimens
the color scales in which they are expressed. Selection of the
magnitude and direction of color tolerances shall be based on
6.1 The exact method of preparation of the specimen shall
careful consideration of all applicable factors. For example,
be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller. However,
tolerances may be selected on the basis of perceptibility of the
for the highest precision in instrumental measurements the
magnitude of color difference, rejection of or closer limits on
specimens should be opaque, uniform in color, plane, and
certain directions of color difference, and costs of controlling
uniform in texture. The specimens should be relatively
the magnitude and direction of color difference. Recommen-
permanent, and capable of being cleaned. Preferred sizes of
dations on color scales appear in CIE Publication No. CIE S
specimens for visual evaluation are given in Practice D1729,
014-4/E2007 and Practice E308.
the specific size being governed by the use of the specimens.
7.2.1.1 Express color differences between the specimen and
7. Procedure the standard in terms of a set of three independent parameters.
TheCIE1976L*a*b*(CIELAB)approximatelyuniformcolor
7.1 Selection and Specification of Color and Gloss Stan-
space and color difference equations have been recommended
dard:
forusebytheInternationalCommissiononIllumination(CIE).
7.1.1 Select a standard in accordance with Practice D3964
See Practice D2244 and Practice E308.While this color metric
that is preferably the same type of material as the specimens to
(CIELAB) is convenient for expressing color differences, it
be evaluated for color or gloss, or both. Prepare, in sufficient
must be understood that a given calculated color difference in
quantity,secondarystandardsinaccordancewithGuideD5531
one region of color space may not represent the same visual
that are representative of the desired color and gloss, in the
difference in other regions of color space.
permanent material. Standards should have the same spectral
7.2.2 Glossdifferencescanaffectinstrumentalmeasurement
characteristics as the manufactured product. This is usually
of color differences. Large gloss differences between visually
identical colors can cause their color measurements to exhibit
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
largercolordifferencesthaninfactexist.Whenusinghistorical
www.astm.org.
data to establish color tolerances, exercise care to limit the
Available from CIE (International Commission on Illumination), http://
www.techstreet.com. specimens to those that have quite similar gloss values. When
´1
D3134 − 97 (2008)
establishing gloss tolerances, be aware that changes in gloss axis of the ellipse, if the data plot indicates the ellipse should
values may have an effect upon color measurements. be symmetrical around the standard color. These lines assist in
7.2.3 Whencolordifferenceformulaeareusedinpractice,it drawing the tolerance ellipse, Fig. 2(a).
is often desirable to identify the components of color 7.2.5.3 To determine lightness tolerances it is necessary to
difference, in terms of correlates of lightness, hue, and per-
plot the data for the same colors on a graph showing L* along
ceived chroma (saturation). It is also desirable to express color with either a* and b*, and draw a tolerance ellipse as in Fig.
specificationsintermsofsuchcorrelates.TheCIEterminology
3(b). The choice between a* and b* is dictated by which of
appropriate to this usage is CIE 1976 lightness, CIE 1976 these attributes cover the greater range.
hue-angle, h , and CIE 1976 chroma, C* . Refer to Practice
7.2.5.4 The scales on Fig. 2(a) and Fig. 3(b) are changed
ab ab
D2244 and Practice E308 for equations and definitions. The
from absolute values (L*, a*, b*) into color difference values
CIELAB 1976 hue-angle and chroma are illustrated in Fig. 1.
(∆L*, ∆a*, ∆b*) as shown.
7.2.4 TheCIELABopponent-colorred-greencoordinate a*,
7.2.6 When tolerances for each color attribute (hue,
and the yellow-blue coordinate b* are defined in Practice
lightness,andsaturationorchroma)aresymmetricalintheplus
D2244 and Practice E308.
and minus directions, the graphical representation is a regular
7.2.5 Graphical Interpretation of Historical Data:
geometric figure that can be represented mathematically, as by
7.2.5.1 Color tolerances can be determined from a graphical
the equation for an ellipse or an ellipsoid. It is also common to
interpretation of historical data (batches accepted, rejected, or
represent color tolerances by a set of six points: light and dark
considered borderline). Fig. 2 (a) and Fig. 3(b) show plots of
limits, low and high saturation limits, and two adjacent hue
specimensratedbymultipleobserverswithrespecttohowwell
limits. Such representation may involve some sacrifice in
they match a standard, along with figures defining the toler-
accuracy of the tolerance specification and should be used with
ances. To illustrate the principle recommended: (1) rate a
care.
number of specimens for acceptability, (2) plot them, and (3)
7.2.7 In general, color tolerances will not be symmetrically
prepare to draw the tolerance figure dictated by the data.
located in all directions about the standard color in any color
7.2.5.2 In such cases it is customary to plot the hue angle of
space. (see Fig. 2(a) and Fig. 3(b)). However, in some
the standard by drawing a line from the origin (0, 0) through
instances the asymmetry may be small enough that the color
the standard color on the a*b* plot. This line of constant hue
tolerances may be represented by a single, overall color
becomes the major axis. Similarly, a line perpendicular to the
difference (∆E) that represents the radius of a sphere about the
constant-hue line and passing through the standard color is a
standard in color space.
line of constant chroma (or saturation) and becomes the minor
7.2.8 Finally, there are many deviations from the regular
geometric figures described in 7.2.6 and depicted in Fig. 2(a)
and Fig. 3(b). The nongreen and nonyellow biases mentioned
in the introduction are but two of these. For example, the
tolerance figure may not be regular; perhaps it will be an ovoid
instead of an ellipse; its major axis may deviate from the
direction of constant hue; and the standard color may be far
from its center. Frequently when it is necessary to set color
tolerances, the amount of historical accept-reject data will be
toomodestforthispurpose.Itisthereforenecessarytomonitor
tolerances, once set, to ensure that they appropriately address
the color quality control requirement.
7.2.9 When tolerance standards are prepared to illustrate the
color in the hue, lightness, and saturation or chroma attributes
of color space and to allow visual interpretation of the
conformity of color, inspection should be under specified light
sources following the recommendations in Practice D1729.
Gonioapparent coatings or materials require special method-
ologies for viewing and measurement.
7.3 Selection and Specification of Gloss Tolerances:
7.3.1 The gloss tolerances around the gloss of the standard
NOTE 1—Hue angle is measured in degrees starting with h =0 in
ab
may be expressed in gloss units (See Test Method D523)oras
the + a* (r
...

This document is not anASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of anASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
´1
Designation:D3134–97(Reapproved2003) Designation:D3134–97(Reapproved2008)
Standard Practice for
Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 3134; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
´ NOTE—Corrections were made editorially in Footnote 4, 7.2.1, and Section 12 in December 2008.
INTRODUCTION
Permissible color and gloss deviations from a standard are generally dependent upon the color
discrimination of the observer, on the lighting and surround in which the material is viewed, and on
special considerations related to the design, manufacture, and practical usage of the colored material
or object. The tolerances, therefore, may be influenced by economic, technical, psychological, and
practical requirements. In many circumstances, acceptability of color and gloss deviations from a
standard may differ appreciably from the perceptibility of deviations such as on-tone fading
preferences, large tolerances for luminance variation, nongreen bias, or nonyellow bias. With proper
allowances, perceptibility data can be used as an aid to develop permissible tolerances. Finally, the
sum of all these considerations should result in a specification acceptable to both buyer and seller.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes a procedure for establishing tolerances and evaluating the color and gloss of specimens with respect
to specified standards. This practice is appropriate for nonfluorescent opaque specimens.
1.2 Thispracticedoesnotindicatetheextentoftolerances,butgivesguidanceonhowtheycanbeset.Forproductspecification,
the tolerances between specimens and the specified standard should be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 523 Test Method for Specular Gloss
D 1535 Practice for Specifying Color by the Munsell System
D 1729 Practice for Visual Appraisal of Colors and Color Differences of Diffusely-Illuminated Opaque Materials
D 2244 Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color Coordinates
D 3964 Practice for Selection of Coating Specimens for Appearance Measurements
D 4449 Test Method for Visual Evaluation of Gloss Differences Between Surfaces of Similar Appearance
D 5531 Guide for Preparation, Maintenance, and Distribution of Physical Product Standards for Color and Geometric
Appearance of Coatings
E 284 Terminology of Appearance
E 308 Practice for Computing the Colors of Objects by Using the CIE System
E 312 PracticeforDescriptionandSelectionofConditionsforPhotographingSpecimensPracticeforDescriptionandSelection
of Conditions for Photographing Specimens Using Analog (Film) Cameras and Digital Still Cameras (DSC)
E 805 Practice for Identification of Instrumental Methods of Color or Color-Difference Measurement of Materials
E 1164 Practice for Obtaining SpectrophotometricSpectrometric Data for Object-Color Evaluation
E 1331 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Hemispherical Geometry
E 1345 Practice for Reducing the Effect of Variability of Color Measurement by Use of Multiple Measurements
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E12 on Color and Appearance and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E12.11 on Visual Methods.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2003.2008. Published December 2003.2008. Originally approved in 1972. Last previous edition approved in 19972003 as
D 3134 – 97 (2003).
For referencedASTM standards, visit theASTM website, www.astm.org, or contactASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
´1
D3134–97 (2008)
E 1349 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional Geometry Test Method for
Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional (45:0 or 0:45) Geometry
E 1360 Practice for Specifying Color by Using the Optical Society of America Uniform Color Scales System
E 1499 Guide to thefor Selection, Evaluation, and Training of Observers
E 1541 Practice for Specifying and Matching Color Using the Colorcurve System
E 1708 Practice for Electronic Interchange of Color and Appearance Data
2.2 CIE Publication:
No. 15.2 No. CIE S 014-4/E2007 Colorimetry 2nd ed.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms related to this practice see Terminology E 284.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice consists of recommendations for the selection of a standard, the necessary physical measurements to assess
the permanence of the standard to reproduce it when needed, and to establish tolerances.
4.2 Recommendations are given for the determination of the conformance of a specimen to preestablished color and gloss
tolerances by instrumental or visual means.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Color specifications are centered around exact positions in color space. Correspondingly, gloss specifications are centered
around an exact position on the gloss scale. Because it is difficult to achieve these exact positions repeatedly, it is necessary to
specify tolerances that are acceptable to both the buyer and the seller. This practice details the procedure for accomplishing this
goal.
6. Specimens
6.1 The exact method of preparation of the specimen shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller. However, for
the highest precision in instrumental measurements the specimens should be opaque, uniform in color, plane, and uniform in
texture. The specimens should be relatively permanent, and capable of being cleaned. Preferred sizes of specimens for visual
evaluation are given in Practice D 1729, the specific size being governed by the use of the specimens.
7. Procedure
7.1 Selection and Specification of Color and Gloss Standard:
7.1.1 Select a standard in accordance with Practice D 3964 that is preferably the same type of material as the specimens to be
evaluated for color or gloss, or both. Prepare, in sufficient quantity, secondary standards in accordance with Guide D 5531 that are
representative of the desired color and gloss, in the permanent material. Standards should have the same spectral characteristics
as the manufactured product. This is usually accomplished by use of the same colorant composition, incorporated in the same
manner into the same material. The standard should have the same texture as the manufactured product.
7.1.1.1 In order to obtain a permanent record, use Practice E 805 and either Test Method E 1331 or Test Method E 1349 to
correctlyidentifytheinstrumentalmeasurementmethod.MeasurethecolorinaccordancewithPracticesE 1164andE 805.Report
the color as described in Practice E 308. Do this even if the standard is textured. (If the standard is textured, note the texture
orientation during measurement.) The variability of the measurements due to texture may be reduced by following the
recommendations outlined in Practice E 1345.
7.1.1.2 Visual Color Assessment—Use Guide E 1499 to select an observer for the assessment. Assess and specify the color in
terms of a color system described in Practices D1535, E1360, or E1541D 1535, E 1360, or E 1541.
7.1.1.3 Measure the gloss in accordance with Test Method D 523, or evaluate it in accordance with Test Method D 4449.
7.1.1.4 Employ photography for permanently recording the appearance of the surface texture (see Practice E 312). While
Practice D 3134 does not deal with texture tolerances or specifications, it should be recognized that significant differences in
surface texture between standard and test specimens significantly affect both color and gloss, whether examined visually or
instrumentally. In the case of visual evaluation of the effect of color and gloss, differences can be minimized by strict adherence
to recommended illuminating and viewing geometry (see Practice D 1729).
7.2 Selection and Specification of Color Tolerances:
7.2.1 The purchaser and the seller shall agree on color tolerances with respect to a previously selected standard and on the color
scales in which they are expressed. Selection of the magnitude and direction of color tolerances shall be based on careful
Available from The U.S. National Committee of the CIE (International Commission on Illumination), C/o Thomas M. Lemons, TLA-Lighting Consultants, Inc., 7 Pond
St., Salem, MA 01970.
Available from CIE (International Commission on Illumination)
webshop, http://www.techstreet.com/cgi-bin/browsePublisher?publisher_id=60&
subgroup_id=16861.
´1
D3134–97 (2008)
consideration of all applicable factors. For example, tolerances may be selected on the basis of perceptibility of the magnitude of
color difference, rejection of or closer limits on certain directions of color difference, and costs of controlling the magnitude and
directionofcolordifference.RecommendationsoncolorscalesappearinCIEPublicationNo.15.2CIES014-4/E2007andPractice
E 308.
7.2.1.1 Express color differences between the specimen and the standard in terms of a set of three independent parameters. The
CIE 1976 L*a*b* (CIELAB) approximately uniform color space and color difference equations have been recommended for use
by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). See Practice D 2244 and Practice E 308. While this color metric
(CIELAB) is convenient for expressing color differences, it must be understood that a given calculated color difference in one
region of color space may not represent the same visual difference in other regions of color space.
7.2.2 Gloss differences can affect instrumental measurement of color differences. Large gloss differences between visually
identical colors can cause their color measurements to exhibit larger color differences than in fact exist.When using historical data
to establish color tolerances, exercise care to limit the specimens to those that have quite similar gloss values. When establishing
gloss tolerances, be aware that changes in gloss values may have an effect upon color measurements.
7.2.3 When color difference formulae are used in practice, it is often desirable to identify the components of color difference,
in terms of correlates of lightness, hue, and perceived chroma (saturation). It is also desirable to express color specifications in
terms of such correlates. The CIE terminology appropriate to this usage is CIE 1976 lightness, CIE 1976 hue-angle, h , and CIE
ab
1976 chroma, C* . Refer to Practice D 2244 and Practice E 308 for equations and definitions. The CIELAB 1976 hue-angle and
ab
chroma are illustrated in Fig. 1.
7.2.4 The CIELAB opponent-color red-green coordinate a*, and the yellow-blue coordinate b* are defined in Practice D 2244
and Practice E 308.
7.2.5 Graphical Interpretation of Historical Data:
7.2.5.1 Color tolerances can be determined from a graphical interpretation of historical data (batches accepted, rejected, or
considered borderline). Fig. 2 (a) and Fig. 3(b) show plots of specimens rated by multiple observers with respect to how well they
match a standard, along with figures defining the tolerances. To illustrate the principle recommended: (1) rate a number of
specimens for acceptability, (2) plot them, and (3) prepare to draw the tolerance figure dictated by the data.
7.2.5.2 In such cases it is customary to plot the hue angle of the standard by drawing a line from the origin (0, 0) through the
standard color on the a*b* plot. This line of constant hue becomes the major axis. Similarly, a line perpendicular to the
constant-hue line and passing through the standard color is a line of constant chroma (or saturation) and becomes the minor axis
of the ellipse, if the data plot indicates the ellipse should be symmetrical around the standard color. These lines assist in drawing
the tolerance ellipse, Fig. 2(a).
NOTE 1—Hue angle is measured in degrees starting with h =0 in
ab
the + a* (red) direction and increasing counterclockwise. Chroma is
measured as the length of the line from the neutral point (a*= b*=0)to
thesamplepoint.SamplePoint2hasalargervalueof h thanPoint1and
ab
therefore is yellower in hue. Point 2 also has a smaller value of C * than
ab
Point 1 and is therefore lower in chroma or duller.
NOTE 2—Original source is Billmeyer, F. W., Jr., and Saltzman, M.,
Principles of Color Technology, 2nd ed., JohnWiley and Sons, NewYork,
NY, 1981. (Reprinted by permission of John Wiley & Sons, the copyright
owner.)
FIG. 1 CIE 1976 L*a*b*(CIELAB) Hue Angle and Chroma
´1
D3134–97 (2008)
(a) Chromaticity Tolerances
NOTE 1—The standard color is at the 0,0 point and the tolerance ellipses define permissible differences from it. Fig. 2(a) shows chromaticity tolerances
in a* and b*; Fig. 3(b) shows lightness tolerances in L*, with a* data also shown.
FIG. 2 Plots of Instrumental Results on Color Specimens Along With Their Visual Acceptability Ratings
7.2.5.3 To determine lightness tolerances it is necessary to plot the data for the same colors on a graph showing L* along with
either a* and b*, and draw a tolerance ellipse as in Fig. 3(b).The choice between a* and b* is dictated by which of these attributes
cover the greater range.
7.2.5.4 The scales on Fig. 2(a) and Fig. 3(b) are changed from absolute values (L*, a*, b*) into color difference values (DL*,
Da*, Db*) as shown.
7.2.6 When tolerances for each color attribute (hue, lightness, and saturation or chroma) are symmetrical in the plus and minus
directions, the graphical representation is a regular geometric figure that can be represented mathematically, as by the equation for
an ellipse or an ellipsoid. It is also common to represent color tolerances by a set of six points: light and dark limits, low and high
saturation limits, and two adjacent hue limits. Such repre
...

This document is not anASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of anASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
´1
Designation:D3134–97 Designation:D3134–97(Reapproved2008)
Standard Practice for
Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 3134; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
´ NOTE—Corrections were made editorially in Footnote 4, 7.2.1, and Section 12 in December 2008.
INTRODUCTION
Permissible color and gloss deviations from a standard are generally dependent upon the color
discrimination of the observer, on the lighting and surround in which the material is viewed, and on
special considerations related to the design, manufacture, and practical usage of the colored material
or object. The tolerances, therefore, may be influenced by economic, technical, psychological, and
practical requirements. In many circumstances, acceptability of color and gloss deviations from a
standard may differ appreciably from the perceptibility of deviations such as on-tone fading
preferences, large tolerances for luminance variation, nongreen bias, or nonyellow bias. With proper
allowances, perceptibility data can be used as an aid to develop permissible tolerances. Finally, the
sum of all these considerations should result in a specification acceptable to both buyer and seller.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes a procedure for establishing tolerances and evaluating the color and gloss of specimens with respect
to specified standards. This practice is appropriate for nonfluorescent opaque specimens.
1.2 Thispracticedoesnotindicatetheextentoftolerances,butgivesguidanceonhowtheycanbeset.Forproductspecification,
the tolerances between specimens and the specified standard should be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 523 Test Method for Specular Gloss
D 1535 Practice for Specifying Color by the Munsell System
D 1729 Practice for Visual EvaluationAppraisal of Colors and Color Differences of Diffusely-Illuminated Opaque Materials
D 2244 Test Method Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color
Coordinates
D 3964 Practice for the Selection of Coating Specimens for Appearance Measurements
D 4449 Test Method for Visual Evaluation of Gloss Differences Between Surfaces of Similar Appearance
D 5531 Guide for the Preparation, Maintenance, and Distribution of Physical Product Standards for Color and Geometric
Appearance of Coatings
E 284 Terminology of Appearance
E 308 Practice for Computing the Colors of Objects by Using the CIE System
E 312 Practice for Description and Selection of Conditions for Photographing Specimens Practice for Description and
Selection of Conditions for Photographing Specimens Using Analog (Film) Cameras and Digital Still Cameras (DSC)
E 805 Practice for Identification of Instrumental Methods of Color andor Color-Difference Measurement of Materials
E 1164 Practice for Obtaining SpectrophotometricSpectrometric Data for Object-Color Evaluation
This practice is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee E12.11 onVisual Methods and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E-12 onAppearance of Materials.
Current edition approved Feb. 10, 1997. Published September 1997. Originally published as D3134–72 T. Last previous edition D3134–89.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E12 on Color and Appearance and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E12.11 on Visual Methods.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2008. Published December 2008. Originally approved in 1972. Last previous edition approved in 2003 as D 3134 – 97 (2003).
For referencedASTM standards, visit theASTM website, www.astm.org, or contactASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
, Vol 06.01.volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
´1
D3134–97 (2008)
E 1331 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Hemispherical Geometry
E 1345 Practice for Reducing the Effect of Variability of Color Measurements by the Use of Multiple Measurements
E 1349 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional Geometry Test Method for
Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional (45:0 or 0:45) Geometry
E 1360 Practice for Specifying Color by Using the Optical Society of America Uniform Color Scales System
E 1499 Guide to the for Selection, Evaluation, and Training of Observers
E 1541 Practice for Specifying and Matching Color Using the Colorcurve System
E 1708 Practice for Electronic Interchange of Color and Appearance Data
2.2 CIE Publication:
No. 15.2No. CIE S 014-4/E2007 Colorimetry 2nd ed.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms related to this practice see Terminology E 284.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice consists of recommendations for the selection of a standard, the necessary physical measurements to assess
the permanence of the standard to reproduce it when needed, and to establish tolerances.
4.2 Recommendations are given for the determination of the conformance of a specimen to preestablished color and gloss
tolerances by instrumental or visual means.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Color specifications are centered around exact positions in color space. Correspondingly, gloss specifications are centered
around an exact position on the gloss scale. Because it is difficult to achieve these exact positions repeatedly, it is necessary to
specify tolerances that are acceptable to both the buyer and the seller. This practice details the procedure for accomplishing this
goal.
6. Specimens
6.1 The exact method of preparation of the specimen shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller. However, for
the highest precision in instrumental measurements the specimens should be opaque, uniform in color, plane, and uniform in
texture. The specimens should be relatively permanent, and capable of being cleaned. Preferred sizes of specimens for visual
evaluation are given in Practice D 1729, the specific size being governed by the use of the specimens.
7. Procedure
7.1 Selection and Specification of Color and Gloss Standard:
7.1.1 Select a standard in accordance with Practice D 3964 that is preferably the same type of material as the specimens to be
evaluated for color or gloss, or both. Prepare, in sufficient quantity, secondary standards in accordance with Guide D 5531that are
representative of the desired color and gloss, in the permanent material. Standards should have the same spectral characteristics
as the manufactured product. This is usually accomplished by use of the same colorant composition, incorporated in the same
manner into the same material. The standard should have the same texture as the manufactured product.
7.1.1.1 In order to obtain a permanent record, use Practice E 805 and either Test Method E 1331 or Test Method E 1349 to
correctlyidentifytheinstrumentalmeasurementmethod.MeasurethecolorinaccordancewithPracticesE 1164andE 805.Report
the color as described in Practice E 308. Do this even if the standard is textured. (If the standard is textured, note the texture
orientation during measurement.) The variability of the measurements due to texture may be reduced by following the
recommendations outlined in Practice E 1345.
7.1.1.2 Visual Color Assessment—Use Guide E 1499 to select an observer for the assessment. Assess and specify the color in
terms of a color system described in Practices D1535, E1360, or E1541D 1535, E 1360, or E 1541.
7.1.1.3 Measure the gloss in accordance with Test Method D 523, or evaluate it in accordance with Test Method D 4449.
7.1.1.4 Employ photography for permanently recording the appearance of the surface texture (see Practice E 312). While
Practice D 3134 does not deal with texture tolerances or specifications, it should be recognized that significant differences in
surface texture between standard and test specimens significantly affect both color and gloss, whether examined visually or
instrumentally. In the case of visual evaluation of the effect of color and gloss, differences can be minimized by strict adherence
to recommended illuminating and viewing geometry (see Practice D 1729).
7.2 Selection and Specification of Color Tolerances:
Available from the USNC-CIE Publications Office, % Mr. Thomas Lemons, TLA Lighting Consultants, 7 Pond St., Salem, MA 01970–4819.
Available from CIE (International Commission on Illumination)
webshop, http://www.techstreet.com/cgi-bin/browsePublisher?publisher_id=60&
subgroup_id=16861.
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D3134–97 (2008)
7.2.1 The purchaser and the seller shall agree on color tolerances with respect to a previously selected standard and on the color
scales in which they are expressed. Selection of the magnitude and direction of color tolerances shall be based on careful
consideration of all applicable factors. For example, tolerances may be selected on the basis of perceptibility of the magnitude of
color difference, rejection of or closer limits on certain directions of color difference, and costs of controlling the magnitude and
directionofcolordifference.RecommendationsoncolorscalesappearinCIEPublicationNo.15.2CIES014-4/E2007andPractice
E 308.
7.2.1.1 Express color differences between the specimen and the standard in terms of a set of three independent parameters. The
CIE 1976 L*a*b* (CIELAB) approximately uniform color space and color difference equations have been recommended for use
by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). See Test Method Practice D 2244 and MethodPractice E 308. While this
colormetric(CIELAB)isconvenientforexpressingcolordifferences,itmustbeunderstoodthatagivencalculatedcolordifference
in one region of color space may not represent the same visual difference in other regions of color space.
7.2.2 Gloss differences can affect instrumental measurement of color differences. Large gloss differences between visually
identical colors can cause their color measurements to exhibit larger color differences than in fact exist.When using historical data
to establish color tolerances, exercise care to limit the specimens to those that have quite similar gloss values. When establishing
gloss tolerances, be aware that changes in gloss values may have an effect upon color measurements.
7.2.3 When color difference formulae are used in practice, it is often desirable to identify the components of color difference,
in terms of correlates of lightness, hue, and perceived chroma (saturation). It is also desirable to express color specifications in
terms of such correlates. The CIE terminology appropriate to this usage is CIE 1976 lightness, CIE 1976 hue-angle, h , and CIE
ab
1976 chroma, C* . Refer to Test Methods Practice D 2244 and Practice E 308for equations and definitions. The CIELAB 1976
ab
hue-angle and chroma are illustrated in Fig. 1.
7.2.4 The CIELAB opponent-color red-green coordinate a*, and the yellow-blue coordinate b* are defined in Test Method
Practice D 2244 and Practice E 308.
7.2.5 Graphical Interpretation of Historical Data:
7.2.5.1 Color tolerances can be determined from a graphical interpretation of historical data (batches accepted, rejected, or
considered borderline). Fig. 2 (a) and Fig. 3(b) show plots of specimens rated by multiple observers with respect to how well they
match a standard, along with figures defining the tolerances. To illustrate the principle recommended: (1) rate a number of
specimens for acceptability, (2) plot them, and (3) prepare to draw the tolerance figure dictated by the data.
7.2.5.2 In such cases it is customary to plot the hue angle of the standard by drawing a line from the origin (0, 0) through the
standard color on the a*b* plot. This line of constant hue becomes the major axis. Similarly, a line perpendicular to the
NOTE 1—Hue angle is measured in degrees starting with h =0 in
ab
the + a* (red) direction and increasing counterclockwise. Chroma is
measured as the length of the line from the neutral point (a*= b*=0)to
thesamplepoint.SamplePoint2hasalargervalueof h thanPoint1and
ab
therefore is yellower in hue. Point 2 also has a smaller value of C * than
ab
Point 1 and is therefore lower in chroma or duller.
NOTE 2—Original source is Billmeyer, F. W., Jr., and Saltzman, M.,
Principles of Color Technology, 2nd ed., JohnWiley and Sons, NewYork,
NY, 1981. (Reprinted by permission of John Wiley & Sons, the copyright
owner.)
FIG. 1 CIE 1976 L*a*b*(CIELAB) Hue Angle and Chroma
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D3134–97 (2008)
(a) Chromaticity Tolerances
NOTE 1—The standard color is at the 0,0 point and the tolerance ellipses define permissible differences from it. Fig. 2(a) shows chromaticity tolerances
in a* and b*; Fig. 3(b) shows lightness tolerances in L*, with a* data also shown.
FIG. 2 Plots of Instrumental Results on Color Specimens Along With Their Visual Acceptability Ratings
constant-hue line and passing through the standard color is a line of constant chroma (or saturation) and becomes the minor axis
of the ellipse, if the data plot indicates the ellipse should be symmetrical around the standard color. These lines assist in drawing
the tolerance ellipse, Fig. 2(a).
7.2.5.3 To determine lightness tolerances it is necessary to plot the data for the same colors on a graph showing L* along with
either a* and b*, and draw a tolerance ellipse as in Fig. 3(b).The choice between a* and b* is dictated by which of these attributes
cover the greater range.
7.2.5.4 The scales on Fig. 2(a) and Fig. 3(b) are changed from absolute values (L*, a*, b*) into color difference values (DL*,
Da*, Db*) as shown.
7.2.6 When tolerances for each color attribute (hue, lightness, and saturation or chroma) are symmetrical in the plus and minus
directions, the gra
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