HunterLab UltraScan PRO Textile Color Measurement Spectrophotometer

Overview

The HunterLab UltraScan PRO Textile Color Measurement Spectrophotometer is a high-precision, benchtop spectrophotometer engineered for rigorous color measurement across the full ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared (UV-VIS-NIR) spectrum (350–1050 nm). Designed specifically for textile, fiber, and polymer industries, it employs a dual-beam optical architecture with a high-stability pulsed xenon lamp and a precision 512-element diode array detector. Its d/8° integrating sphere geometry conforms to ISO 7724-1, ASTM E308, and CIE No. 15 standards, enabling accurate measurement of both specular-included (SCI) and specular-excluded (SCE) reflectance—critical for evaluating surface texture, gloss, and fluorescence effects in synthetic fibers and treated fabrics. The instrument’s UV-calibrated D65 illumination ensures traceable quantification of fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs), while its extended spectral range supports advanced applications including UV-blocking efficacy assessment, camouflage material characterization, and NIR spectral fingerprinting of dyestuffs and additives.

Key Features

• Dual-beam optical design with 5 nm effective bandwidth and 2 nm acquisition resolution for high photometric stability and spectral fidelity
• Pulsed xenon light source: zero warm-up time, minimal thermal load on samples, low sensitivity to ambient light, and high color rendering index (CRI > 95)
• Three interchangeable apertures: Large Area View (LAV, 25 mm), Small Area View (SAV, 13 mm), and Extra-Small Area View (XSAV, 7 mm) for spatially resolved color analysis of heterogeneous or patterned textiles
• Automated SCI/SCE mode switching via motorized baffle—enabling simultaneous evaluation of total reflectance (including surface reflection) and diffuse reflectance (excluding specular component)
• Robust mechanical construction: stainless-steel fasteners, vibration-damped optical bench, and matte-black non-reflective interior coating to minimize stray light and ensure long-term photometric repeatability
• Integrated status indicators and ergonomic sample stage with quick-release fixtures for solids, liquids (as low as 0.4 mL), films, and irregularly shaped textile specimens

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The UltraScan PRO accommodates diverse sample forms—including opaque woven fabrics, translucent knits, transparent polymer films, liquid dye baths, and coated optical substrates—without requiring external accessories for basic operation. Its spacious transmission compartment accepts oversized samples up to 50 mm × 50 mm, while dedicated holders ensure consistent positioning of yarns, swatches, and laminated composites. All measurements comply with ISO 11664 (CIE colorimetric standards), ASTM D2244 (color difference calculation), and ISO 17220 (spectrophotometer performance verification). For regulated environments, the system meets FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements through its validated EasyMatch QC software with audit trail, electronic signatures, and role-based access control—supporting GLP and GMP-aligned quality systems in textile R&D and production QA labs.

Software & Data Management

EasyMatch QC v5.x provides comprehensive color data management, statistical process control (SPC), and method-driven workflows. It supports custom tolerance ellipsoids (ΔE*ab, ΔE00), multi-instrument network calibration, and automated pass/fail reporting against AATCC, ISO, or user-defined specifications. Raw spectral data (350–1050 nm at 5 nm intervals) is exportable in CSV, XML, and CxF/XRGA formats for integration with LIMS and enterprise analytics platforms. Software validation documentation—including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance reports—is provided with each instrument shipment.

Applications

• Quantitative evaluation of fluorescent brightener concentration and uniformity in polyester, nylon, and acrylic fibers
• Color consistency monitoring across dye lots, batch-to-batch, and supplier-to-supplier comparisons
• UV transmittance and blocking efficiency assessment of sun-protective textiles and functional coatings
• Spectral characterization of camouflage fabrics under standardized daylight (D65) and tactical lighting conditions
• Transmittance, haze, and clarity measurement of transparent films and laminated safety glasses
• Development and validation of color-matching algorithms for digital textile printing and pigment formulation

FAQ

Does the UltraScan PRO support measurement of fluorescent materials?
Yes—the D65 illumination is UV-enhanced and calibrated to NIST-traceable standards, enabling accurate quantification of fluorescence from optical brighteners and pigments.
Can it measure very small or irregular textile samples?
Yes—XSAV (7 mm) aperture and optional micro-sample holders allow precise analysis of yarn segments, embroidery threads, and cut-edge swatches.
Is spectral data export compliant with industry interoperability standards?
Yes—exports include CxF/XRGA, ASTM E308-compliant spectral data, and ISO 12647-2 reference spectra for cross-platform color communication.
How does the instrument ensure long-term calibration stability?
It includes onboard ceramic tile standards, automated wavelength verification routines, and drift-compensated dual-beam optics—validated per ISO 17220 Annex B.
What regulatory documentation is included for pharmaceutical or medical textile applications?
Full 21 CFR Part 11 validation package, IQ/OQ/PQ templates, and raw data integrity certification are supplied as standard.