Overview
EN ISO 90-1:1999 (ISO 90-1:1997) - titled Light gauge metal containers - Definitions and determination of dimensions and capacities - Part 1: Open-top cans - defines terminology and test methods for measuring the dimensions and capacities of open-top cans made from light gauge metal (maximum nominal material thickness 0.49 mm). Adopted by CEN (and published as SIST EN ISO 90-1:2000 in Slovenia), this standard applies to both round and non‑round open-top cans and supports consistent specification, testing and designation across the packaging and can-making industries.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Definitions and types: Clear definitions of open-top can variants (e.g., three‑piece, two‑piece, diaphragmed, easy‑open ends) and cross‑section shapes (round, rectangular, obround, oval, trapezoidal).
- Constructions & shapes: Classification of cylindrical, tapered, necked‑in, step‑sided and beaded cans, with illustrative figures and notation for characteristic dimensions.
- Measurement of dimensions:
- Internal cross-section measured with a plug gauge or derived from external measurements (vernier caliper).
- Rounding rules for nominal cross-sections to the nearest whole millimetre.
- Body height measurement (Annex A).
- Determination of gross lidded capacity (C):
- Primary method: water-fill mass determination on empty cans (drill two small holes in an end, fill, weigh).
- Annex B describes measurement on filled cans when applicable.
- Temperature correction factors for water density are provided for precision work.
- Specified balance accuracy by can mass to ensure repeatable results.
- Tolerances on capacity: Tabulated tolerance limits by capacity ranges for round and non‑round cans; statistical basis requires at least 99.7% of individual cans to fall within limits.
- Designation: Recommended international designation format using a code letter (Cy, T, S, N, D), nominal capacity or filling volume, and characteristic cross‑section dimensions.
Practical applications and users
Who uses EN ISO 90-1:
- Packaging engineers and product designers specifying can dimensions and volumes
- Can manufacturers for production tolerances, QC and tooling design
- Quality control laboratories performing capacity and dimensional tests
- Food & beverage companies ensuring container compatibility with filling and sterilization processes
- Standards bodies and procurement teams referencing consistent designations in contracts
Benefits:
- Ensures consistent measurement and reporting of capacity and dimensions
- Facilitates international trade by harmonizing can specifications
- Reduces disputes over nominal volumes and production tolerances
Related standards
- ISO 90 (other parts): Part 2 - General use containers; Part 3 - Aerosol cans
- ISO 1361 - specifies diameters for round open-top cans (beverage cans excluded)
- EN ISO 90-1:1999 / SIST EN ISO 90-1:2000 - regional adoptions by CEN and national bodies
Keywords: open-top cans, light gauge metal containers, gross lidded capacity, nominal filling volume, can dimensions, capacity tolerances, plug gauge, packaging standards.
