C84-III-B Opacity Meter
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | C84-III-B |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
| Measurement Range | 0–100 % |
| Resolution | 0.1 % |
| Accuracy | ±1 % |
| Repeatability | ±0.3 % |
| Operating Temperature | 20 °C ± 5 °C |
| Relative Humidity | < 85 % RH |
| Power Supply | 220 V ± 10 %, 50 Hz |
| Compliance | GB/T 13452.3–1992, GB 9270–1988, GB 5211.17–1988, ISO 3906:1980(E) |
Overview
The C84-III-B Opacity Meter is a microprocessor-controlled optical instrument engineered for the quantitative determination of opacity and reflectance in liquid coatings—primarily white and light-colored paints, pigmented coatings, and clear finishes. It operates on the principle of diffuse reflectance measurement using standardized black-and-white tile substrates, in accordance with the Kubelka–Munk theory of light scattering and absorption in heterogeneous media. The device calculates opacity as the ratio of reflectance over black substrate to reflectance over white substrate, expressed as a percentage. Designed for routine quality control in paint formulation labs, R&D centers, and production QC environments, it delivers traceable, repeatable results aligned with internationally recognized test methodologies for hiding power assessment.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-based control system with intuitive Chinese-language menu interface for streamlined operation and minimal training requirements
- Dual-substrate reflectance measurement capability—automated switching between standardized black and white calibration tiles (compliant with ISO 3906 and GB/T 13452.3)
- High-resolution digital display (0.1 % resolution) with real-time numerical output and on-screen status indicators
- Integrated data management functions: measurement logging, internal storage of up to 100 test records, arithmetic averaging, and recall of historical datasets
- Stable optical path design with temperature-compensated photodetector and calibrated tungsten-halogen light source ensuring long-term photometric consistency
- Robust mechanical housing with anti-glare finish and ergonomic sample stage for reproducible film application under controlled ambient conditions
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The C84-III-B is optimized for use with ASTM D2805–22 and ISO 3906–1980(E) compliant drawdown films applied at specified wet film thicknesses (e.g., 100 µm or 150 µm) onto standard Leneta or equivalent black-and-white contrast charts. It supports both single-coat and multi-coat opacity evaluation, including contrast ratio determination at fixed spreading rates (e.g., 10 m²/L). Instrument validation adheres to national standards GB/T 13452.3–1992 (equivalent to ISO 6504), GB 9270–1988 (for white pigment hiding power), and GB 5211.17–1988 (for titanium dioxide opacity testing). All optical components meet ISO/IEC 17025 traceability requirements when used with certified reference tiles and routine calibration verification protocols.
Software & Data Management
While the C84-III-B operates as a standalone benchtop unit without PC connectivity, its embedded firmware implements GLP-compliant data handling: each stored record includes timestamp, operator ID (manually entered), substrate type flag (black/white), raw reflectance values, calculated opacity, and pass/fail status against user-defined specification limits. Data export is supported via optional RS-232 serial interface (available upon configuration request), enabling integration into LIMS or QA documentation systems. Audit trail functionality ensures full traceability per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 guidelines when paired with validated external software and electronic signature modules.
Applications
- Opacity qualification of titanium dioxide and other white pigment dispersions in architectural and industrial coatings
- Batch-to-batch consistency verification during paint manufacturing and supplier qualification
- Formulation optimization studies evaluating pigment volume concentration (PVC) vs. hiding power trade-offs
- Regulatory submission support for coating products requiring opacity data per EN 71-3 (toy safety) or REACH Annex XVII compliance frameworks
- Technical service laboratories performing third-party opacity certification for ISO 9001-certified manufacturers
FAQ
What standards does the C84-III-B comply with?
It conforms to GB/T 13452.3–1992, GB 9270–1988, GB 5211.17–1988, and ISO 3906:1980(E) for opacity and contrast ratio measurement.
Can it measure transparency of clear coats?
Yes—by calculating reflectance over black substrate only, it supports relative transparency assessment when used with standardized film thickness controls.
Is calibration required before each use?
Daily zero and span calibration using supplied black and white reference tiles is recommended; full recalibration by an accredited service lab is advised annually or after impact events.
Does it support English-language firmware?
The base configuration features Chinese UI; English firmware upgrade is available as a factory-configurable option prior to shipment.
What film applicators are compatible with this instrument?
It is designed for use with ISO 2808-compliant wet film combs (e.g., 100 µm or 150 µm gaps) and automatic drawdown machines meeting ASTM D823 specifications.
