Overview
EN ISO 8113:2004 (ISO 8113:2004) defines a standardized test method to determine the resistance of glass containers to vertical (axial) load. It describes sampling, required apparatus, test procedures (pass test and progressive break test), safety considerations and the required content of the test report. This standard is used to assess how much compressive force a bottle, jar or other glass container can withstand along its vertical axis, a key parameter for packaging performance and transport safety.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope: Method for determining resistance to external force applied along the container’s vertical axis.
- Sampling: Tests are performed on a predetermined number of containers; samples must be free from prior mechanical or thermal testing that could affect results.
- Apparatus:
- Press with two horizontal flat steel pressure plates (upper plate self-aligning, lower plate with centring marks).
- Force indication accurate to at least ±2.5%.
- Protective cover or a firm cylindrical cover for each container height.
- Pads (cardboard, folded paper, plastic or rubber) to prevent glass-to-metal contact and ensure even load distribution.
- Procedure:
- Sample temperature must be within 5 °C of ambient.
- Centre the container on the lower plate and secure with protective cover; use a closure on the finish when specified.
- Maintain a constant approach speed (rate of force increase) and report this value.
- Two test types:
- Pass test: Apply force up to a specified value and withdraw plates; report containers that fail.
- Total progressive test: Increase force until each container breaks; record breaking force for each sample.
- Safety: Tests can be hazardous; operators must take appropriate safety precautions.
- Test report: Must include reference to the standard, apparatus description, sample description, pads/closures used, approach speed, test results (forces, mean, standard deviation), date, location and responsible signature.
Applications and Users
- Quality control and production testing in glass container manufacturing (bottles, jars, pots).
- Packaging engineers assessing container strength for transport, stacking, and storage.
- Test laboratories performing compliance testing and supplier validation.
- R&D teams developing stronger container designs or assessing closure effects on axial strength.
- Buyers and specifiers requiring documented mechanical performance for procurement.
Related Standards
- EN ISO 7458: Internal pressure resistance - Test methods
- EN ISO 7459: Thermal shock resistance and endurance - Test methods
- prEN ISO 8106: Determination of capacity by gravimetric method
- EN 29008 / EN 29009: Verticality and finish non-parallelism test methods for glass containers
Keywords: EN ISO 8113:2004, ISO 8113, glass containers, resistance to vertical load, axial load test, glass bottle testing, packaging quality control, vertical load resistance.
