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What is the Meaning of RAL

I would like to know what the letters or the word ral stand for as this is a question I am often asked this is getting very embarrassing not knowing.

Glen Gilchrist
painter decorater - Arnold, Nottingham, England
2004

First of two simultaneous responses

Glen,

RAL is an acronym for "Reichs-Ausschuss für Lieferbedingungen" Translated this means something like State council for terms of delivery and supply.

Started in 1925 as an initiative of (private)industry and the Weimar Republic. Goal was to standardise technical descriptions and terms of supply of all kinds of goods.

Remmelt Bosklopper
- Enschede, The Netherlands
2004

Second of two simultaneous responses 2004

Hello Glen,

How did the name RAL come about?

In 1925, the private sector and the German government of that time founded the "Reichs-Ausschuss für Lieferbedingungen" - RAL - (Committee of the German Reich for Terms and Conditions of Sale). RAL's original task was to standardize precise technical terms of delivery and sale for the purpose of rationalization. Today, RAL is the recognized competent body for reliable certification of products and services.

Best Regards

Paul

Paul Moreau
aluminum reflectors for lighting - Liège, Belgium

In 1925, the private sector and the German government of that time founded the "Reichsausschuss für Lieferbedingungen" - RAL - (Committee of the German Reich for Terms and Conditions of Sale).

RAL's original task was to standardize precise technical terms of delivery and sale for the purpose of rationalization. Today, RAL is the recognized competent body for reliable certification of products and services. They introduced colour charts in 1927.

Dougie Lightfoot
- Fife, Scotland
2004

I wish to know what is the long form of RAL. Where and when it is originated from. Is it the only colour code accepted universally. Is there any difference of RAL colours for different finishes such as wall finishes / metal finishes etc ? This information shall give me clear concept of RAL.
Umakant

Umakant Kulkarni
consultant in engg industry - Pune ( INDIA )
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