Colour Codes

Definition Of Sapphire's Colour Codes

When you study Sapphire's colour samples you will find that the reference codes are preceded by a series of letters followed by a series of numbers. These codes are a carefully thought out system which enables us to quickly identify what type of finish and colour you require as explained herein.

M = Matt
Matt is the process in which we chemically treat the aluminium to create microscopically, a very rough surface. This rough surface cannot be felt after anodising but it does almost totally disperse light rays hitting that surface giving the dull or matt finish.

Specification example M337 = Matt Chocolate ( M 337 )

B = Bright
Bright is the process in which we give the aluminium a chemically (polished) bright reflective finish. This is done by microscopically levelling the surface so that light rays hitting the surface are reflected back on a direct path giving the surface a bright or highly reflective appearance. It should be noted that any damage even minor damage that is visible to the naked eye will not be removed by this process and will be highlited which will require mechanical polishing or linishing if it is not to be seen.

Specification example B337 = Bright Chocolate ( B 337 )

S = Spectral®
Spectral is the process developed by Sapphire for superior exterior colour performance (For more information on this process go to the Spectral tab).

Specification example SM6034 = Spectral Matt Lava ( S M 6034 )

P = Polished
Polishing is a separate process which is performed prior to chemical (polishing) brightening. This is done by mechanically polishing the aluminium by a buffing process. This removes minor to medium ( scratches, die lines and marks) that are often present on aluminium . This process is specified when the very highest standard of surface finish is required.

Specification example PB337 = Polished Bright Chocolate ( P B 337 )

Please Note: Polishing cannot be performed on flat surfaces over 150mm in width.

L = Linished
Linishing is also a separate process which is performed prior to chemical (polishing) brightening or matt processes by passing the aluminium under an abrasive belt to give a coarse uniformed linished appearance as is generally seen on picture frame extrusions.

Specification example LB337 = Linished Bright Chocolate ( L B 337 ) or LM337 = Linished Matt Chocolate ( L M 337 )

Please Note: Linishing can only be performed on flat surfaces up to 150mm in width for extrusions or up to 1200mm for sheet. Linishing is also not recommended for partitioning or furniture as it can produce sharp edges.

B = Brushed
Brushing is also a separate process which is performed prior to chemical (polishing) brightening or matt processes by passing the aluminium under an abrasive scotchbrite belt to give a uniformed brushed appearance.

Specification example BB337 = Brushed Bright Chocolate (B B 337 ) or BM337 = Brushed Matt Chocolate ( B M 337 )

Please Note: Brushing can only be performed on flat surfaces up to 150mm in width for extrusions.

FB = Fine Brushed
Fine Brushing is also a separate process which is performed prior to chemical (polishing) brightening or matt by passing the aluminium under a fine abrasive scotchbrite belt to give a uniformed fine brushed appearance.

Specification example FB337 = Fine Brushed Bright Chocolate (F B B 337 ) or BM337 = Fine Brushed Matt Chocolate (F B M 337 )

Please Note: Fine Brushing can only be performed on flat surfaces up to 150mm in width for extrusions or up to 1200mm for sheet.

All the above statements should be read in conjuction with AS1231-2000 and give regard to viewing distances as defined in this standard