KraussMaffei Leverages X-Rite Color Measurement Technology in Its Innovative ColorAdjust Solution Showcased at K 2022

On display at K 2022, the ColorAdjust solution from KraussMaffei combines a machine control system with the X-Rite ERX130 inline spectrophotometer to ensure precise, reproducible, and sustainable color during compounding. 

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., October 10, 2022 – X-Rite Incorporated and Pantone LLC, global leaders in color science and technology, announced that KraussMaffei, a leading supplier of machinery and systems for producing and processing plastics, is utilizing the X-Rite ERX130 inline spectrophotometer as part of its ColorAdjust solution. By combining inline spectral measurement with machine control systems, the ColorAdjust solution provides compounders with accurate and repeatable color production during compounding for a more efficient and sustainable production process. The solution will be on display at K 2022, October 19-26, in Düsseldorf in the KraussMaffei booth C 24 to D 24 in Hall 15.

 The KraussMaffei ColorAdjust system is designed for contactless monitoring of color variations and can directly adjust the precise color setpoint to compensate for minor deviations in production. This gives compound processors high reproducibility, even when processing input materials of varying color spectrum. In addition, the system helps get to precise color quickly when restarting the compounding process after a stop or in the event of a color change. This reduces the amount of start-up scrap and rejected materials when restarting the compounding process, creating a more sustainable workflow that saves raw materials.

 The ColorAdjust system uses the X-Rite ERX130 non-contact inline reflectance spectrophotometer to capture the spectral data of the cooled, reclaimed pellets in the vibration chute and transmits the results directly to the machine control system. The color data is used to automatically control the color metering units which are equipped with four or six colors to cover the entire color spectrum. The system can then adjust the precise color setpoint automatically without operator intervention.

 “The spectral measurement from X-Rite performs our task with the utmost precision, taking non-contact measurements from the cooled regranulates on the vibrating chute and sending the results to the machine control system,” explains Lars Darnedde, Process Engineering Development, KraussMaffei. “This in turn controls the second unit, the color metering unit, which is equipped with at least four colors and four metering units.”

 “We are excited to be working with KraussMaffei, who is designing manufacturing solutions with sustainability in mind,” said Michael Saeger, General Manager, Inline Measurement Solutions, X-Rite. “Monitoring color inline throughout the production process makes it easier for companies to use recycled or bio-sourced raw material and maintain color consistency. The system can identify color drift and make changes before the batch is ruined, avoiding costly line errors and rework.”

For more information about the X-Rite ERX130 visit, https://www.xrite.com/erx130

 About X-Rite

Founded in 1958, X-Rite Incorporated is a global leader in the science and technology of color and appearance. With Pantone, X-Rite employs more than 800 people in 11 countries. The company’s corporate headquarters are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, with regional headquarters in Europe and Asia and service centers across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. X-Rite offers a full range of solutions used by manufacturers, retailers, printers, and graphic design houses to achieve precise management and communication of color and appearance throughout their processes. X-Rite products and services are recognized standards in the printing, packaging, photography, graphic design, video, automotive, paints, plastics, textiles and medical industries. For further information, please visit www.xrite.com. For the latest news, information, connect with X-Rite on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

 About Pantone

Pantone provides the universal language of color that enables color-critical decisions through every stage of the workflow for brands and manufacturers. More than 10 million designers and producers around the world rely on Pantone products and services to help define, communicate and control color from inspiration to realization – leveraging advanced X-Rite technology to achieve color consistency across various materials and finishes for graphics, fashion and product design. Pantone Standards feature digital and physical color specification and workflow tools. The Pantone Color Institute™ provides customized color standards, brand identity and product color consulting as well as trend forecasting inclusive of Pantone Color of the Year, Fashion Runway Color Trend Reports, color psychology and more. Pantone B2B Licensing incorporates the Pantone Color System into different products and services, enabling licensees to communicate and reproduce certified Pantone values and improve efficiencies for their users. Pantone Lifestyle brings color and design together across apparel, home, and accessories. Learn more at www.pantone.com.

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