In this digital age, are physical reference samples still necessary? Given the reality of lengthy development processes and complex value chains, the answer is clear: yes, absolutely. Physical master samples remain indispensable! On the one hand, as a feasibility analysis for implementing the OEM color request in polymer, and on the other hand, as a defined color concept and reference for the color and gloss level of various plastic parts at the supplier. They enable a precise and consistent assessment of components across all stages of the production chain, regardless of screen displays, lighting conditions, or subjective impressions. OEMs and ODMs in particular, who value high color precision, use these haptic reference samples, which are made available to the parts manufacturer. This is done in order to adjust the colors of various plastic components and match them in color matching – primarily in the mobility sector, such as automotive engineering, aviation, rail, and shipbuilding. But there are also OEM structures in medical technology and in the electrical and household appliance sectors that need to ensure design consistency. This is not only a matter for the suppliers or parts manufacturers themselves, but also for the companies that have a decisive influence on color design and material selection, are responsible for them, and guarantee them across all instances. The GRAFE Group, based in Blankenhain, has been an established partner for OEMs and their design departments for two decades. The masterbatch and compound specialist supports customers from the initial color idea to the finished reference sample. What began as a service for the automotive sector has now grown into a comprehensive range of individual services that, in addition to the actual production of master samples, covers in-depth consulting on all aspects of color development—whether it be the choice of gloss level, grain, or the selection of suitable carrier materials and packaging.

The GRAFE GROUP, Blankenhain, has been a specialist in the black colouring of standard plastics for many years and has a broad portfolio of corresponding masterbatches. Based on these competencies, solutions are also being developed for more and more technical plastics and their corresponding applications, with the help of which brilliant black tones can be realized. „In the PE/PP area, we offer a deep black for injection moulding, also known as piano black, which produces a depth of colour that can otherwise only be produced by soluble dyes in amorphous polymer structures. On customer request, the masterbatches can be combined in such a way that flowability and cycle time improve“, reports Danny Ludwig, Head of Product Management, Color & Functional Masterbatches and especially refers to applications in the automotive sector. For applications in 3D printing, GRAFE also provides a black batch for PLA that is characterised by very good dispersion and homogenisation. „It is very well suited for filament extrusion and impresses with its excellent processability without agglomerates“, reports the head of product management. A masterbatch for PC processing, which is used in injection moulding, also has a very good colour depth and good dispersion quality. For the production of staple fibres and in film extrusion, GRAFE offers a masterbatch that is suitable for black colouring of PET. „It has the usual market carbon black content of 30 per cent with very good dispersion“, so Ludwig. This is necessary in order to be able to colour fibres reliably. Very good carbon black and fibre quality are further special features of the product. For PA processing, GRAFE has a wide range of carbon blacks or nigrosine available for black colouring. „The target group here is normal injection moulding applications, especially for automotive, but also technically very demanding components in the construction sector.

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Risse & Co. GmbH offers mechanical processing and assembly services for plastic products, ensuring precise compliance with technical and visual requirements. Targeted post-processing enables cost-effective production of variants without high tooling costs. Mechanical Processing Processing is carried out with high precision (tolerances of 0.02–0.03 mm), even for demanding plastics. Customers benefit from custom-made fixtures for specific requirements. Services: CNC Turning & Milling for complex contours Tempering & Conditioning to optimize material properties Heat Embedding & Coating for specific characteristics Manual Processing for flexible adjustments Assembly & Joining Techniques In addition to mechanical processing, Risse & Co. GmbH provides assembly of complete components, including procurement and management of purchased parts. A 100% visual inspection ensures the highest quality standards. Joining Techniques: Screwing, Gluing, Welding (Ultrasonic, Plastic-Plastic, Brass-Plastic) Heat Embedding, Riveting, Soldering With extensive expertise, the company guarantees precise, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for various industries