RAL and DB colours for aluminium profile systems

RAL colours are clearly defined and standardised colours which can be unambiguously identified by numbers. This makes it possible to match and coordinate the colours of different construction elements and materials. The colour system is created by the German RAL gGmbH, a subsidiary of the RAL Deutsches Institut für Gütesicherung und Kennzeichnung (German Institute for Quality Assurance and Labelling). The clear identifiability of each colour facilitates the communication about colours and their adaptation to already existing elements. Therefore, RAL colours are not subject to a specific manufacturer, a paint quality (acrylic, wood lacquer etc.), an application, like inside or outside, or a coating technology.

At present, there are 2,328 RAL-colours (as of Dec. 8, 2020) in different gloss rates. They are used world-wide.

There is a total of 12 DB colours, which are defined by German Rail. Due to additional gradations of colour, heroal has 20 DB colours on offer. The most popular one is the colour DB 703.

The heroal standard range offers a wide variety of more than 500 RAL and 20 DB colours. Of course, heroal systems can also be coated in many more RAL and DB colours, if required.

DB 703, referred to as dark grey or slate, is one of the most widespread DB colours used in modern construction. DB 703 also plays an important role for windows, doors and curtain walls made from aluminium. The slight metal gloss, created by the pigment “hematite crystals”, is the unique feature of all DB colours.

DB colours can not be precisely represented in the RAL colour system. Although German Rail created a standard for these colours, they do not provide any specific samples, which may lead to deviations in colour, depending on the individual manufacturer. However, there should be no deviations when it comes to the precisely defined RAL colours, regardless of the manufacturer.

RAL colours have been standardised by RAL gGmbH, and therefore should always be identical, regardless of the surface, coating quality, manufacturer and coating technology. This way, you can enjoy a uniform and harmonious colouring of different components both inside and outside your house, like PVC windows and an aluminium front door.

The abbreviation RAL originates from the former institute’s name “Reichsausschuss für Lieferbedienungen“ (National Committee for Delivery and Quality Assurance). Founded on April 23, 1925 by numerous associations and government representatives as an independent institution, it served the “… protection of economy and consumers, for trueness and clarity in labelling“. RAL Quality Assurance evolved from this institute, and set up the constantly extended colour system we know today.