You’ve probably seen the acronym ‘RAL’ when shopping for paint, followed by a series of numbers that might seem confusing. These numbers aren’t random; they actually represent a standardised colour system that helps us communicate paint shades without needing to see them in person. In this article, we’ll explain what RAL stands for, how the system works and why it’s so important for paints and coatings.
What Does RAL Stand For?
RAL stands for Reichs-Ausschuß für Lieferbedingungen und Gütesicherung, which translates to National Commission for Delivery Terms and Quality Assurance in English.
What is a RAL Colour?
The RAL colours are a series of colour systems used worldwide. Each colour has its own number so that it can be communicated without a colour sample, which helps manufacturers and designers communicate exact colours without needing a physical sample. Before this standardised colour system was created and distributed, manufacturers had to get physical colour samples to match their products correctly.
How are RAL colours used?
Since being created in the 1920s, RAL colour systems have been used across Europe in a variety of industries to standardise the understanding of colours.
- Architecture: RAL colours are used for buildings and road safety.
- Manufacturing: RAL colours are used in manufacturing industrial coatings and finishes.
- Glazing: RAL colours are used in the glazing industry for windows and glass colours.
- Automotive: RAL colours are used for car paint colours.
RAL Code Meaning:
A typical RAL colour code looks like this: RAL 9012 (Clean Room White).
The first number in the code shows the range the colour belongs to:
- RAL 1xxx – Yellow
- RAL 2xxx – Orange
- RAL 3xxx – Red
- RAL 4xxx – Violet
- RAL 5xxx – Blue
- RAL 6xxx – Green
- RAL 7xxx – Grey
- RAL 8xxx – Brown
- RAL 9xxx – White/Black
RAL Colour Families:
The RAL system has several different colour charts:
- RAL Classic: The original set consisted of 213 colours.
- RAL Design: A newer set with over 1600 colours, used by designers for more precise shades and hues.
- RAL Effect: This set includes 420 solid colours and 70 metallic finishes.
- RAL Plastics: A colour set specifically for plastic materials, based on popular colours from the Classic and Design sets.
Why is RAL Important in Paints and Coatings?
RAL is important in paints and coatings because it means that colours are consistent and accurate. With a specific RAL code, you can be sure that the same colour will be used, no matter who is applying it or where. RAL numbers make it easy for manufacturers to communicate exact colours without needing a physical sample.
Find RAL Colours at BC Paints
As leading paint manufacturers, BC Paints offers a comprehensive selection of RAL colours for commercial, industrial or personal projects. Whether you’re looking for precision in your industrial coatings, architectural designs or automotive finishes, we have the exact RAL shade you need.
With 30 years of experience manufacturing and supplying professional paint, we provide a quick lead time and nationwide delivery so you can get to work as soon as possible. Contact us today to enquire about our wide selection of RAL colours.
