Multi-angle spectrophotometer – SAGT570

The multi-angle spectrophotometer is an instrument for colour analysis on metallic, pearlescent and colour-shifting surfaces, as well as coatings with special effects. It is suitable when colour cannot be assessed correctly from a single observation point, because the surface changes its colour response according to the angle from which it is illuminated and viewed.

In automotive coatings, metallic finishes, pearlescent coatings and effect materials, colour perception can change noticeably as the viewing position changes. In these cases, a conventional spectrophotometer may not fully describe sample behaviour, whereas multi-angle measurement allows colour variations to be analysed more representatively.

The instrument measures with 45° illumination and multi-angle reception at 15°, 25°, 45°, 75° and 110°. This configuration makes it possible to assess surface colour from different directions, detecting differences that may appear only at specific observation angles.

The spectral measurement range from 400 to 700 nm, with a 10 nm interval, allows the sample response to be analysed in the visible range. Displaying colour data, colour differences and curves makes it possible to compare samples and standards with a higher level of detail than visual assessment alone.

The multi-angle spectrophotometer is particularly useful for checking metallic or pearlescent coatings produced in different batches, painted surfaces with special effects, automotive components, decorative parts and industrial finishes where angular colour variation is a critical parameter.

The positioning camera helps the operator identify the measurement point on the sample, making it easier to check defined areas of the surface. This function is useful for samples with particular colour areas, non-uniform surfaces or measurement points that need to be repeated more consistently.

The instrument can work with several colour spaces, including CIE Lab, XYZ, Yxy, LCh, βxy and DIN Lab99, together with colour-difference formulas such as ΔEab, ΔE94, ΔEcmc, ΔE00, DIN ΔE99 and DIN ΔE6175. This makes it possible to set comparisons between standards and samples using criteria suitable for colour quality control.

Several illuminants are available, including D65, A, C, D50, D55, D75 and fluorescent illuminants, together with the option to select the 2° or 10° observer. This allows colour to be assessed under different conditions according to the required control.

The internal memory can manage standards and samples, while the PASS/FAIL function verifies whether the sample falls within the set limits against the reference standard. This is useful in production checks, when the colour conformity of a sample must be assessed quickly against a defined tolerance.

The included software allows colour data to be managed on a PC. The data output enables connection to software for collecting measurements, improving traceability and reducing transcription errors in quality-control processes.

Calibration report available on request, useful when the instrument must be included in documented quality procedures or when an initial metrological verification is required.

Compared with 45°/0° or D/8 spectrophotometers, the multi-angle model should be selected when the surface shows colour effects that vary with the observation angle. Other spectrophotometers in the range may be sufficient for more general colour checks, while a colorimeter can be more suitable for rapid operational comparisons between sample and standard.

Applications

• Colour control on metallic, pearlescent and effect finishes
• Multi-angle colour analysis on automotive surfaces and painted components
• Assessment of colour variations according to the observation angle
• Comparison between standard and sample on special coatings and colour-shifting materials
• Quality control on production batches with complex finishes
• Spectral measurement in the visible range from 400 to 700 nm
• Management of colour differences using ΔE formulas
• PASS/FAIL verification against set tolerances
• Spot measurements supported by the positioning camera
• Data management through included software

FAQ – Multi-angle spectrophotometer

What is a multi-angle spectrophotometer used for?
It is used to measure and analyse the colour of surfaces that change appearance according to the observation angle, such as metallic, pearlescent, colour-shifting or effect finishes.

When should a multi-angle spectrophotometer be selected?
It is suitable when a single measurement geometry is not sufficient to describe colour behaviour. This often occurs with metallic paints, pearlescent coatings, automotive surfaces and special finishes.

What is the difference compared with a conventional spectrophotometer?
A conventional spectrophotometer analyses colour using a specific geometry. A multi-angle spectrophotometer instead measures the surface at several angles, making it possible to assess colour variations that appear when the observation point changes.

Which measurement angles does the instrument use?
The instrument uses 45° illumination and reception at 15°, 25°, 45°, 75° and 110°. This configuration allows colour to be analysed from several directions.

Is it suitable for automotive applications?
Yes. It is particularly suitable for automotive applications, especially when metallic paints, pearlescent finishes or surfaces with variable colour effects need to be checked.

What is the positioning camera used for?
The positioning camera helps check the point where the measurement is taken. It is useful when the sample has specific areas to be verified or when the measurement must be repeated on a defined area.

Does the instrument measure the spectral curve?
Yes. It operates in the visible range from 400 to 700 nm and allows the spectral behaviour of the sample to be analysed, together with colour values and colour differences.

What is the difference compared with a colorimeter?
A colorimeter is more suitable for rapid checks and operational colour comparisons. A multi-angle spectrophotometer is instead appropriate when more in-depth analysis is required on effect surfaces and colour variations depending on the angle.

Is the software included?
Yes. The PC software is included and allows colour data to be managed, measurements to be analysed and traceability to be supported in quality-control processes.

Is a calibration report available?
Yes. A calibration report is available on request and is useful when the instrument must be managed within documented quality procedures.

If you want to understand when and why to use a multi-angle spectrophotometer, read our complete guide to spectrophotometers.
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