Overview
ISO 22414:2004 specifies a standard test method for assessing the edge quality of cut-size office paper. Applicable to papers of the ISO 216 A/B series and other cut-size office papers used for printing and copying, the method quantifies the degree of raggedness of a cut or slit sheet edge by visual comparison against a set of standard gaps. Key elements include a 42× magnification viewing device, a 200 mm measurement length, and six defined gap values (1–6 corresponding to 1 mm–6 mm at 42× magnification).
Key topics and requirements
- Principle: Compare the magnified sheet edge to a quality-measurement template showing six parallel-line gaps; estimate the distance between the highest peak and lowest valley over 200 mm.
- Apparatus:
- Viewing device capable of projecting the edge at 42× magnification (e.g., suitable microfilm reader).
- Quality-measurement template with six sets of parallel lines (gaps 1 mm to 6 mm), 200 mm long, reproduced to exact scale.
- Sampling and test pieces:
- Lot-based sampling rules (select reams according to lot size per Clause 6).
- A test piece = pack of six consecutive sheets from the same ream.
- Do not touch or damage edges; identify machine direction.
- Conditioning optional; if used, follow ISO 187.
- Procedure:
- Measure each edge at three positions (two corners + midpoint); record the worst of the three to the nearest integral gap.
- Repeat for all four sides and for six consecutive sheets per test piece.
- Ignore single protruding fibres; if fibres are numerous, flag with “H”.
- Results and reporting:
- Record frequency counts of values 1–6 and >6 per ream; separate long-edge and short-edge values.
- Calculate averages and standard deviations for each test piece and combined lot.
- Test report must reference ISO 22414 and include sample identification, conditioning, sample size, averages, deviations and any departures from the standard.
Applications and who uses it
- Paper and pulp manufacturers - incoming/outgoing quality control of trimmed cut-size sheets.
- Paper converters and finishers - monitor cutting/shearing performance and tool wear.
- Commercial printers and copier product teams - ensure sheet-edge quality for feeding and print reliability.
- Quality laboratories and procurement - verify supplier claims and specify acceptance criteria in purchase contracts.
- Practical benefits: consistent, repeatable edge-quality measurements; differentiation of long-edge vs short-edge cutting performance; objective data for process improvement and supplier acceptance.
Related standards
- ISO 216 - trimmed sizes (A and B series) - applicable sheet sizes.
- ISO 186 - sampling to determine average paper quality - lot/sample selection referenced.
- ISO 187 - standard atmosphere for conditioning and testing - conditioning procedure if applied.
Keywords: ISO 22414, cut-size office paper, edge quality, measurement of edge quality, paper testing, quality-measurement template, 42× magnification, ISO 216.
