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The scales used by textile testing labs are carefully designed and checked for consistency, but they can change with time, exposure, and handling. Follow the guidelines below to ensure repeatable evaluations using ��ɫֱ��scales. Most scales should be replaced annually, but some can last longer, especially with regular verification.

Gray Scales

��ɫֱ��EP1 Gray Scale for Color Change and ��ɫֱ��EP2, Gray Scale for Staining include a table specifying the color difference for each chip pair and an Appendix describing how to verify the difference.

Color difference for each pair of chips may be measured quarterly on a spectrophotometer with sphere geometry. Use a small area view (approximately 10-mm diameter) and specular component included. Be careful to position the scale so that only the desired chip is in the viewing area for each measurement. If ΔE_CIELAB is within the stated tolerance for all pairs, the gray scale is still suitable for use.

If you do not have access to a spectrophotometer or choose not to measure your scales every three months, replace each gray scale within one year of its initial use. For your convenience, there is a line on the scale to record the date of initial use. Of course, if there is visible damage to any of the chips or the mask, the scale should be replaced immediately.

Other recommendations for use and care are also listed on the scales and in the evaluation procedures.

• Store scale in sleeve when not in use.
• Do not place mask inside folded scale.
• Inspect frequently for fingerprints and any other marks.
• Replace annually or measure quarterly and replace as needed.

Replace Your Gray Scales Now (Annually)
��ɫֱ��Gray Scale for Color Change: Item /news2022-10b/28359B
��ɫֱ��Gray Scale for Staining:

��ɫֱ��9-Step Chromatic Transference Scale

Guidelines for the Chromatic Transference Scale are similar to those for the Gray Scales. ��ɫֱ��EP8 states, “The cleanliness and physical condition of the Scale is extremely important in obtaining consistent results.”

• Inspect frequently for fingerprints and any other marks.
• Inspect for physical damage to the chips (e.g., chipped edges, loose or buckled chips).
• Replace or measure at least annually on a spectrophotometer.

Spectrophotometer measurements can be particularly challenging on the chromatic scale because of the small chip size. The measurement area should not include any open area or adjacent chip. The viewing port diameter must be smaller than 10 mm. Annual measurements are compared to those measured upon receipt. With the large number of chips and very small measurement area, it is generally more practical to simply replace the scale at least once per year.

Replace Your Chromatic Scale Now (Annually)
��ɫֱ��9-step Chromatic Transference Scale:

Stain Release Scales

Stain scales for ��ɫֱ��TM175, Stain Resistance: Pile Floor Coverings and ��ɫֱ��TM130, Soil Release: Oily Stain Release Method should be replaced annually—more often if they are visibly soiled or damaged. To avoid premature color change, it is best to store both scales in a dark place between uses.

• Inspect frequently for fingerprints and any other marks.
• Store away from light.
• Replace annually.

Replace Your Stain Scales Now (Annually)
��ɫֱ��Red 40 Stain Scale (for carpet): Item /news2022-10b/19129A
Stain Release Scale: Item /news2022-10b/68379A

3D Appearance Replicas

The scales for appearance (wrinkle recovery, fabric smoothness, crease) evaluation are made up of three-dimension plastic replicas cast from fabric. While these are more durable than the printed scales, they still require careful handling and regular replacement.

• Wipe with a damp cloth and allow to dry
• Inspect frequently for marks, cracks, or other damage
• Store replicas carefully in box slots.
• Replace every three years.

Replace Your Appearance Scales Now (Every 3 Years)
��ɫֱ��3D Smoothness Appearance Replicas: Item /news2022-10b/68353A
��ɫֱ��3D Crease Replicas: Item /news2022-10b/68720A
��ɫֱ��3D Wrinkle Recovery Replicas: Item /news2022-10b/68390A

Photographic Scales

Several ��ɫֱ��test methods use photographic scales for evaluation. Some of these scales are mounted on rigid cards, while others are simply a sheet of paper.

• Inspect frequently for marks, tears, scratches, or other damage
• Replace every three years.

Replace Your Photographic Scales Now (Every 3 Years)
��ɫֱ��Photographic Spray Test Evaluation Scale: Item /news2022-10b/78387A
��ɫֱ��Photographic Seam Smoothness Scales: Item /news2022-10b/68373A
��ɫֱ��Photographic Flock Scale: Item /news2022-10b/68356A
��ɫֱ��Photographic Filter Residue Scale: Item /news2022-10b/58335A
��ɫֱ��Photographic Dye Dusting Scale: Item /news2022-10b/58725A

��ɫֱ�� the Author

Diana Wyman is Executive Vice President of AATCC. She is passionate about textile testing and standards. Feel free to reach out with your own enthusiasm or frustrations around standards.

Versions of this article were published in November 2018 and October 2021 editions of ��ɫֱ��News. To subscribe to this free, emailed newsletter, visit .