What is BS EN ISO 536:2021?

BS EN ISO 536:2021 is a technical standard that provides specifications for determining the grammage (basis weight) of paper and board. It was developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) in collaboration with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This standard establishes uniform procedures for measuring the mass per unit area of paper and board, which is an important parameter for quality control and product performance assessment in the paper industry.

Importance of Grammage Measurement

Grammage measurement is crucial in the paper and board industry as it affects various aspects of product development and manufacturing processes. Accurate determination of grammage allows manufacturers to ensure consistency in production and meet customer requirements. It is also essential for calculating the cost of materials and assessing the environmental impact of paper and board production.

Grammage is commonly expressed in grams per square meter (gsm) and is calculated by weighing a known area of the material. These measurements provide valuable information about the thickness, density, and composition of the paper or board, enabling better control over the final product's properties.

Testing Procedure

BS EN ISO 536:2021 outlines a standardized testing procedure for determining grammage. The method involves cutting the paper or board into a specific size and weighing it using a precision balance. The test samples should be conditioned to a defined temperature and humidity level before testing to ensure accurate results.

The standard specifies the number of samples required for testing, depending on the type and intended use of the paper or board. It also provides guidelines for sample preparation, such as removing any edge irregularities or surface defects that could affect the measurement accuracy.

Benefits and Applications

Accurate grammage measurement plays a vital role in ensuring product quality and consistency. By adhering to BS EN ISO 536:2021, paper and board manufacturers can benefit from:

- Improved quality control: Grammage measurement allows manufacturers to identify variations in material thickness, ensuring uniformity across production batches. This enables better control over printing, coating, and converting processes.

- Cost efficiency: Accurate calculation of grammage helps optimize material usage, reducing waste and minimizing production costs. It also enables precise estimation of product prices based on the required amount of raw materials.

- Environmental sustainability: Grammage measurement assists in evaluating the environmental impact of paper and board production. With accurate data, manufacturers can implement eco-friendly practices by minimizing resource consumption and optimizing recycling processes.

BS EN ISO 536:2021 is widely recognized and accepted by the paper and board industry as an essential guideline for grammage determination. Adhering to this standard ensures consistent and reliable measurements, enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality products while meeting market demands and regulatory requirements.