Overview
ISO 9727-2:2007 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that specifies a precise test method for determining the mass and apparent density of cylindrical cork stoppers made wholly or partially from agglomerated cork. This standard focuses on cork stoppers used in bottling applications, providing manufacturers and quality inspectors with a reliable methodology to measure these physical properties accurately.
The standard applies to cork stoppers that are either ready for use or semi-worked and forms part of a comprehensive series (ISO 9727) dedicated to physical testing of cork stoppers. By adhering to the procedures outlined in ISO 9727-2:2007, stakeholders can ensure product consistency and optimize stopper performance, particularly for sealing and durability purposes.
Key Topics
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Mass Measurement
The core of ISO 9727-2:2007 involves determining the mass of individual cork stoppers using a precision balance with a resolution of 0.01 grams or better. The mass is recorded for each stopper to compute average results and understand variability within production lots.
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Apparent Density Calculation
Apparent density is calculated as the ratio of the stopper’s mass to its volume. The volume is derived using measurements of diameter and length-taken according to ISO 9727-1-allowing for a standardized density value expressed in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). This value helps assess material compactness and uniformity.
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Testing Environment and Conditions
Testing must be conducted under controlled temperature (21 °C ± 4 °C) and relative humidity conditions (60% ± 20%) to minimize variability due to environmental factors. The cork stopper samples themselves should be conditioned to specific humidity and temperature ranges before testing.
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Sampling and Reporting
Proper sampling ensures representative test results. The standard mandates selecting stoppers free from visible defects and using an agreed sampling plan. Detailed test reports must include sample identification, mass and density results, and any deviations from the standard procedure.
Applications
ISO 9727-2:2007 is widely used in industries involved with wine bottling, spirit packaging, and other sectors relying on cork stoppers for sealing containers. Key applications include:
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Quality Control
Manufacturers use the standard to monitor and maintain product quality, ensuring cork stoppers meet mass and density specifications crucial for reliable sealing performance.
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Material Research and Development
Cork producers assess the physical properties of agglomerated cork to optimize manufacturing processes and develop stoppers with enhanced compression and dimensional recovery.
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Regulatory Compliance
Compliance with ISO 9727-2 ensures adherence to internationally recognized testing protocols, facilitating trade and certification.
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Customer Assurance
Bottling companies rely on standardized testing outcomes to guarantee stopper consistency, impacting final product quality and consumer satisfaction.
Related Standards
ISO 9727-2:2007 forms part of the broader ISO 9727 series, which covers comprehensive physical testing of cylindrical cork stoppers:
- ISO 9727-1: Determination of dimensions (length and diameter)
- ISO 9727-3: Determination of humidity content
- ISO 9727-4: Determination of dimensional recovery after compression
- ISO 9727-5: Determination of extraction force
- ISO 9727-6: Determination of liquid tightness
- ISO 9727-7: Determination of dust content
Additionally, ISO 633 provides relevant terminology for cork-related standards, ensuring clarity and uniform understanding across testing procedures.
By following ISO 9727-2:2007, cork stopper producers and users achieve precise measurement of mass and apparent density, critical parameters that influence stopper quality and performance. This standard supports improved product consistency, higher sealing reliability, and greater confidence in cork stopper applications worldwide.
Open preview (PDF)Cylindrical cork stoppers — Physical tests — Part 2: Determination of mass and apparent density for agglomerated cork stoppers
