Overview
EN 29009:1994 (identical with ISO 9009:1991) defines standardized test methods for determining the height and the non-parallelism of the finish with reference to the container base for glass containers. The standard is published by CEN and specifies the principle, required apparatus, sampling considerations, the test procedure, expression of results and the required contents of the test report.
This test standard supports consistent quality control and specification verification for bottles, jars and other glass containers where finish alignment and overall height affect sealing, filling and packaging performance.
Key Topics
- Scope and purpose: Measurement methods for (maximum) height, minimum height and the derived non-parallelism (difference between maximum and minimum heights).
- Definitions: Clear definitions for maximum height, minimum height and non-parallelism are provided to ensure consistent interpretation.
- Principle: Two complementary checks - a quick GO/NO-GO attribute check and a quantitative measurement of heights to determine non-parallelism.
- Apparatus:
- Height gauges (baseplate with vertical pillars and fixed or adjustable cross-piece).
- Window gauges combining minimum body diameter and maximum height.
- Engineering height verniers and micrometer height gauges for quantitative measurement (accuracy at least 0.1 mm).
- Feeler gauges or spirit levels for qualitative checks.
- Sampling: Sampling is to be agreed between the parties; the standard leaves sample size and acceptance criteria to contractual agreement.
- Procedure:
- Quick check: place container on a metal baseplate and use a height gauge set to tolerance limits to identify accept/reject by sliding under gauge points.
- Quantitative measurement: measure maximum and minimum finish heights using appropriate instruments to 0.1 mm accuracy and calculate non-parallelism.
- Expression of results: Report results in millimetres - maximum height, minimum height and their difference (non-parallelism).
- Test report requirements: The standard specifies required report items, including reference to the standard, test methods used, sample size and container type, manufacturing details, apparatus, results, tester name and date.
Applications
- Routine quality control in glass container manufacture
- Incoming inspection for suppliers and manufacturers
- Verification of finished container suitability for capping, sealing and automated filling
- Conformance testing for procurement and regulatory documentation
Related Standards
For manufacturers, quality engineers and inspectors, EN 29009:1994 provides pragmatic, repeatable methods to assess critical dimensional features that affect container performance and downstream operations.
