RAL celebrates 100 years with introduction of sustainable and innovative color fan

Krommenie, February 6, 2025 – On the occasion of RAL's 100th anniversary, the brand has once again taken an important step towards sustainability and innovation. The RAL K5 color fans, available in both glossy and semi-matte versions, are now produced with water-based paint technology.

Together with the RAL K7 color fan, which was already adapted last year, RAL now offers three of the most commonly used color fans from the RAL CLASSIC collection in an environmentally friendly version.

Sustainability with maintained quality

By switching to water-based paint, a saving of no less than 90% of volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions is achieved, compared to conventional production with nitrocellulose lacquer.

This switch is not only an important contribution to a better environment, but also ensures superior product properties. The water-based paint is more resistant to UV light, which increases protection against yellowing of the colors. In addition, the new color fans contain few solvents and are low-odor.

"With this technology, we deliver products that guarantee both the quality and sustainability for which RAL is known. Our customers benefit from accurate color fidelity and improved stability, while we simultaneously reduce our ecological footprint."

— Markus Frentrop, Global Head RAL COLOURS

Key features of the new RAL K5 color fans

• Colors are mixed based on water-based paint, making them low in solvents and low-odor
• Increased stability thanks to higher paper weight
• Improved UV resistance to minimize yellowing
• Accurate color fidelity and RAL's trusted quality
• Produced in Germany to avoid unnecessary transport routes and emissions
• New straight-corner finish of color fans, reducing production waste
• U-cover is uncoated and unfolded paper without foil
• No additional foil packaging for secondary packaging

Dimensions and availability

The dimensions of the new RAL K5 color fans have changed slightly due to the use of thicker paper:

• RAL K5 glossy: 5.5 x 15.6 x 7.2 cm
• RAL K5 semi-matte: 5.5 x 15.6 x 7.5 cm

The fans are marked with "Edition 2024" and available through the RAL webshop and at selected specialty stores.

The role of the Netherlands Color Institute

In the Benelux, RAL products are represented by the Netherlands Color Institute, which supports customers with advice, training and high-quality product deliveries through the online store ral-shop.nl. With nearly 50 years of experience in color, the institute offers a trusted source for designers, quality controllers and companies working with color standards.

"The switch to water-based paint technology aligns perfectly with our mission to provide sustainable solutions for color management in various industries. We remain committed to providing customers with high-quality products that are both environmentally conscious and professionally usable."

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