Chroma Color Supports Customers Shifting Away from Traditional Materials Such as Metal to Plastics
Chroma Color is supporting a growing number of companies that are shifting from traditional materials, such as metal, to plastic materials paired with advanced color solutions.
In roofing, for example, suppliers are increasingly adopting plastic components because they are lighter, more resistant to cracking and corrosion, and easier to install. These materials can also replicate the appearance of classic slate or metal finishes through the use of advanced color concentrates. Additionally, plastics can be enhanced with thermal and UV stabilizers, which improve long-term durability. These additives give manufacturers confidence that their products will withstand weathering, temperature extremes, and prolonged sun exposure while maintaining their visual appeal.
A similar transition is occurring in exterior siding. Traditional wood siding is being replaced by composite materials and premium vinyl solutions that replicate the look of natural shake. Modern manufacturing techniques, combined with advanced color concentrates, enable detailed wood-grain textures and a wide range of natural-looking colors that mimic stained or weathered wood. At the same time, these materials eliminate many of the disadvantages of wood; such as rot, insect damage, and frequent maintenance, while delivering consistent performance in harsh environments.
In agriculture and other industrial applications, plastics are also replacing metal components. Thermoformed plastic sheets are now widely used due to their lighter weight, corrosion resistance, and recyclability. The reduced weight improves handling and can enhance fuel efficiency, while still providing the durability required for demanding applications.
“By Integrating polymer science with advanced color technology, we can precisely engineer materials that withstand harsh environments while maintaining long-term appearance. This is where innovation truly drives value for our customers.” – Zach Zander, PhD, R&D Director.
Coloring building and industrial products, however, introduces complexities that can impact consistency, cost, and overall quality. The following best practices can help manage these challenges:
- Use high-quality color concentrates, masterbatches, or rotomolding-specific formulations to ensure consistent performance and appearance.
- Partner with a knowledgeable supplier who can optimize pigment loadings based on your specific part geometry.
- Account for how color perception varies with part size, lighting, and viewing angles. Work with an experienced color lab that can:
- Adjust formulations for scale
- Consider environmental and visual variables
- Deliver consistent results across production runs
- Optimize color for both performance and cost efficiency. A strong supplier can help you achieve:
- Lower let-down ratios (LDR), reducing raw material usage and inventory
- Greater consistency, minimizing scrap and rework
- Faster, cleaner changeovers that reduce downtime and increase productivity
Chroma Color’s G2®
Chroma Color’s G2® product line has delivered measurable results across industries such as building and industrial products. Whether using injection or extrusion molding, G2® technology consistently provides superior color performance, efficiency, and cost savings.
Chroma Color® Rotomolding Formulations
Chroma Color® rotomolding color options offering provide exceptional dispersion, thermal stability, and consistency, helping manufacturers avoid common defects such as streaking, pinholes, and uneven coloration. These formulations offer a proprietary resin primarily composed of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), widely used in the rotational molding industry for large parts.
