HunterLab UltraScan Pro Desktop Color Spectrophotometer
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | UltraScan Pro |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The HunterLab UltraScan Pro Desktop Color Spectrophotometer is a high-precision, dual-beam, d/8° integrating sphere spectrophotometer engineered for metrologically traceable color measurement across the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared (UV-VIS-NIR) spectral domains. Operating on the principle of double-monochromator spectral photometry, it employs two 512-element diode array spectrometers coupled with high-resolution concave holographic gratings to deliver exceptional wavelength fidelity and photometric stability. Its 350–1050 nm spectral range—extendable to 1100 nm for select configurations—enables quantitative assessment of both conventional chromatic materials and optically complex specimens, including fluorescent substrates (e.g., optical brightener-treated textiles), NIR-responsive camouflage fabrics, thermochromic and photochromic polymers, and multi-layer transparent films. The instrument implements D65 illuminant calibration with active UV control, ensuring accurate CIELAB (CIE 1976 L*a*b*) and CMC tolerancing for fluorescent samples under standardized daylight simulation—a capability validated by its 2004 Textile World Innovation Award.
Key Features
- d/8° geometry with automated specular component included/excluded (SCI/SCE) mode selection via motorized baffle
- Integrating sphere diameter: 15.2 cm (6″), coated with Spectraflect®; baffles and port inserts utilize Duraflect® for long-term reflectance stability
- Triple-pulse xenon flash lamp system with >500,000 flashes lifetime and <1.5 s measurement cycle time
- Variable aperture sizes: 19 mm (LAV), 9 mm (MAV), and 4 mm (SAV); automatic lens switching ensures optimal signal-to-noise ratio per sample size
- UV-adjustable D65 illumination with real-time spectral correction for fluorescence excitation at 350–400 nm
- Transmittance chamber with triple-access design (10.2 × 35.6 × 16.5 cm), supporting directional and total transmittance measurements over up to 80 mm pathlength
- Integrated viewing mirror for precise sample positioning and exclusion of stray light during reflectance analysis
- Photometric accuracy: 0–200% transmittance/reflectance, resolution 0.01%; spectral bandwidth: 5 nm (triangular), wavelength accuracy ±0.1 nm
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The UltraScan Pro accommodates solids, liquids, powders, granules, pastes, fibers, and thin films through an extensive modular accessory ecosystem—including fiber clamps, transmission cuvette holders (including flow cells), plastic preform stands, semi-micro reflection/transmission stages, and custom-engineered sample handlers. All measurement protocols adhere to ASTM E308, ISO 11664 (CIE S 014), ISO 7724, and AATCC TM173 for textile color evaluation. Instrument calibration is traceable to National Physical Laboratory (NPL) reference standards, and spectral data output supports GLP/GMP audit trails when integrated with compliant software environments. The system meets requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance in regulated pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing settings when deployed with appropriate electronic signature and data integrity controls.
Software & Data Management
The UltraScan Pro operates natively with HunterLab’s EasyMatch QC and Universal Software platforms, enabling full spectral data capture (at 5 nm reporting intervals), multi-instrument network synchronization, statistical process control (SPC) charting, pass/fail tolerance mapping, and batch-level reporting. Raw spectral files (.HUN, .CSV, .XML) retain complete metadata—including illuminant, observer angle, aperture size, SCI/SCE mode, and calibration timestamp—for third-party analysis or regulatory submission. Software modules support automated report generation compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation standards and integrate seamlessly with LIMS and ERP systems via ODBC and RESTful API interfaces.
Applications
- Quantitative color release testing of optical brighteners in paper, detergents, and textiles
- NIR spectral characterization of military-grade camouflage textiles and adaptive coatings
- Batch-to-batch consistency validation for automotive interior plastics and exterior paints
- Color stability monitoring of UV-curable inks, LED phosphors, and OLED display materials
- Transmittance profiling of ophthalmic lenses, solar control glazing, and packaging films
- Fluorescence-corrected whiteness index (WI E313, WI CIE) and yellowness index (YI E313) determination per ASTM D6541 and ISO 105-J02
FAQ
What is the spectral range and resolution specification of the UltraScan Pro?
The instrument covers 350–1050 nm (extendable to 1100 nm), with 5 nm nominal bandwidth, <2 nm effective resolution, and 0.1 nm wavelength accuracy.
Does the UltraScan Pro support fluorescence compensation for optical brighteners?
Yes—it features active UV control and D65 spectral correction optimized for fluorescent emission between 400–450 nm, enabling accurate CIELAB values under standardized daylight conditions.
Can the UltraScan Pro measure small or irregularly shaped samples?
Yes—via interchangeable apertures (4 mm, 9 mm, 19 mm), optional fiber clamps, semi-micro stages, and custom fixtures for non-planar geometries.
Is the instrument suitable for regulatory-compliant quality control environments?
Yes—when configured with audit-trail-enabled software and calibrated against NPL-traceable standards, it satisfies ISO/IEC 17025, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and GMP documentation requirements.
What accessories are available for liquid and transmission measurements?
Standard options include fixed-pathlength cuvette holders (10 mm to 80 mm), flow-through cells for continuous monitoring, and precision alignment jigs for film and glass substrates.
