Lovibond EComparator — Portable Electronic Color Measurement
The bridge between visual and electronic color grading. Push-button operation, on-screen color and numerical display, 20,000+ result storage. Four models covering ASTM, Saybolt, Gardner, and Platinum Cobalt scales — straight from the box.
Color Grading That Matches What Your Eyes See — And What Your Records Require
What the EComparator Series Delivers
Dual On-Screen Display
See both an on-screen color simulation and a numerical result at the same time — the visual grader's confirmation alongside the traceable number your records require.
On-Screen Tolerance Warning
Results flagged green (within), amber (borderline), or red (out of tolerance) — instantly, at the point of test. No manual comparison to specification sheets required.
Portable Case — Field & Lab
Every EComparator ships in a purpose-built portable case with all accessories and reference standards included. Ready to run immediately at the bench or in the field.
20,000+ Result Storage + USB
Large onboard storage with USB connectivity ensures your results are recorded, exportable, and ready for your LIMS, QC system, or audit file without manual transcription.
Easy Transition from Visual Methods
Designed for labs upgrading manual methods. The on-screen format mirrors what your team already knows, eliminating the learning curve that often stalls upgrades.
Programmable Projects & Tolerances
Set language, date, time, individual tolerance limits per project, and custom view preferences. Multiple operators, multiple products — one instrument with clear separation between workflows.
Which EComparator Model Is Right for Your Lab?
Part #163010 · Path: 33mm · Range: 0–8 · Resolution: 0.1
Part #163020 · Path: 33mm · Range: +30 to −16
Part #162020 · Path: 12mm · Range: 1–18
Part #162010 · Path: 50mm · Range: 2–500 mg Pt/L · Resolution: 0.1
Not sure which model applies to your product or method? Kevin will confirm the right one for your lab.
Specifications — All EComparator Models
Specifications — All EComparator Models
| Color Scale | Standards | Measurement Range | Primary Applications | Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM Color |
ASTM D1500
ASTM D6045
ISO 2049
IP 196
|
0 – 8 (0.1 resolution) | Lubricating oils, heating oils, diesel fuel oils, residual fuel oils | EC 3000 ASTM |
| Saybolt Color |
ASTM D156
ASTM D6045
ISO 2049
|
+30 to −16 | Kerosene, white mineral oils, hydrocarbon solvents, petroleum waxes | EC 3000 SAYBOLT |
| Gardner Color |
ASTM D1544
ISO 4630
|
1 – 18 | Resins, lacquers, drying oils, fatty acids, lecithin, edible oils | EC 2000 GARDNER |
| Platinum Cobalt / Hazen / APHA |
ASTM D1209
ISO 6271
|
2 – 500 mg Pt/L (0.1 resolution) | Wastewater, clear oils, chemicals, petrochemicals, water quality | EC 2000 PT-CO |
Who Uses the EComparator Series
Petroleum Refinery Labs
ASTM D1500 / D6045 color grading of lubricating oils, heating oils, and diesel fuel at product release and blending control.
Fuel Pipeline & Terminal Labs
Saybolt and ASTM color testing for kerosene, light petroleum products, and refined fuels at terminal acceptance and custody transfer.
Independent Testing Labs
Multiple color scale methods on a single portable platform — ASTM, Saybolt, Gardner, and Pt-Co — covering a broad client sample portfolio without multiple instruments.
Lubricant & Coolant Manufacturers
ASTM D1500 color QC for finished lubricant products, transformer oils, and process oils with traceable documentation for product release.
Chemical Manufacturers
Gardner color for resins, lacquers, and drying oils. Platinum Cobalt / APHA color for clear chemicals and solvents where trace color affects product grade.
Edible Oil & Food Processing
Gardner and Pt-Co color measurement for edible oils, fatty acids, lecithin, and food-grade oils where color is a direct indicator of purity and processing quality.
Why Get the EComparator Through KB Scientific
Three things that set sourcing through KB Scientific apart from ordering through a general laboratory distributor with no Midwest presence or petroleum testing background.
Authorized Lovibond Representative
KB Scientific is an authorized representative for Lovibond — not a secondary reseller. That means direct manufacturer support, accurate method documentation, and a clear accountability line when you need it.
Method Guidance From a Former Lab Manager
Kevin Batt has managed petroleum and fuel testing labs. When you're deciding between ASTM D1500, Saybolt, or another color scale, Kevin's recommendation comes from operational experience — not a product selector tool.
Midwest-Based, Directly Accessible
Based in Fishers, Indiana and serving 10 states. Kevin is reachable by phone, email, or call for pre-sale guidance, method questions, and post-installation support — not a tiered support system.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Answers to what laboratory managers, QC teams, and procurement professionals ask most often about the EComparator
What is the difference between the EC 2000 and EC 3000 series?
The EC 2000 series uses a 2-field comparator view aligned to the visual Comparator 2000, while the EC 3000 uses a 3-field view aligned to the Comparator 3000. The difference matters if you’re upgrading from an existing visual system — you can maintain the same workflow your team already knows. The 2000 covers Platinum Cobalt and Gardner scales; the 3000 covers ASTM and Saybolt scales.
Can one EComparator measure multiple color scales?
No. Each EComparator model is dedicated to a single color scale — ASTM, Saybolt, Gardner, or Platinum Cobalt. This is by design: single-scale instruments provide higher precision and simplified compliance documentation. If your lab requires multiple scales, KB Scientific can help you select the right combination of models.
Which model do I need for ASTM D1500 petroleum color testing?
The EC 3000 ASTM Color (Part #163010) is the correct model. It measures ASTM color on the 0–8 scale per ASTM D1500, ASTM D6045, ISO 2049, and IP 196 — the standard for lubricating oils, heating oils, diesel, and residual fuel oils. The 33mm path length cell is included in the delivery kit.
Are calibration standards included with the EComparator?
Yes. All four EComparator models ship with both liquid and glass validation reference standards included in the portable case. The instrument is ready to validate and run immediately — no additional standards need to be sourced separately before first use.
How does the EComparator compare to the Lovibond PFXi series?
The EComparator is a portable, single-scale entry-level electronic colorimeter ideal for labs transitioning from visual comparator methods. The PFXi series offers multi-scale capability, touchscreen operation, remote calibration (RCMSi), and higher throughput for dedicated laboratory environments. Kevin can help you assess which platform fits your volume, method, and budget requirements.
Is the EComparator suitable for field use?
Yes. The EComparator is battery-powered (4 × AA) and ships in a purpose-built portable case with all accessories and reference standards included. It is suitable for field sampling at tank farms, terminal labs, or mobile quality control operations — not just fixed laboratory benches.
Other Instruments You May Need
Not Sure Which EComparator Model
Fits Your Lab?
Kevin Batt — former lab manager, authorized Lovibond representative — will review your test method, product type, and current setup and tell you directly which model applies. No obligation.
Request a Quote or Technical Consultation
Tell Kevin about your testing application, method requirements, and current setup. He will identify whether the RVP Pro fits your lab — and if it doesn’t, he’ll tell you that too.