Auto Technical Reference Library Auto Refinishing: Aftermarket Refinish System Equipment

Topic Index

Measuring/Mixing Colors

Electronic scales are used by manufacturers, suppliers and painters to mix ingredients in paint and other materials. When mixing, each toner is accurately weighed, which makes the paint the desired color. Most electronic scales work in conjunction with computers. The same steps are usually followed when using an electronic scale:

• Enter vehicle manufacturer and paint code
• If there are variances, they are shown immediately
• Check the variance chips to the vehicle and choose the best match
• Input which variant is to be used
• Enter the amount to mixed
• Mix paint based on the formula given which is listed in grams
• After mixing, the can is sealed and agitated for a thorough mix of the toners (special mixing requirements are required when utilizing waterborne technology to prevent frothing.  Allows follow the manufacturer’s guidelines).

Computer controlled electronic scales save time, keep down paint costs and reduce chemical waste. These scales can:

• Retrieve color formulas from a database in seconds
• Calculates quantities for any paint volume required (from a touch-up bottle to a gallon)
• Recalculate a formula if the technician mixing makes an error by over pouring a toner

Digital scale for mixing paint formulas