EN 23-1:1978

Overview

EN 23-1:1978 is a CEN standard that defines the dimensions and volumes for packages intended for washing and cleaning powders, specifically for cartons and drums made from fibre board. The standard establishes a nominal volume system based on a unit volume of 750 ml: package volumes are expressed by a symbol (a letter plus a whole number) which, when multiplied by 750 ml, gives the nominal package volume. EN 23-1:1978 applies to cartons (with or without sleeve liners) and drums manufactured from cartonboard, solid fibreboard or corrugated fibreboard, used alone or in combination.

Key Topics

• Nominal volume system: Volumes are standardized as multiples of 750 ml, identified by a letter+number code that indicates the package’s nominal capacity.
• Characteristic dimensions: The standard specifies the characteristic external dimensions for cartons and drums so that pack sizes are interoperable and predictable.
• Materials covered: Applies to packages manufactured from cartonboard, solid fibreboard, and corrugated fibreboard; includes cartons with or without sleeve liners and fibreboard drums.
• Scope of application: Focused on dimensional and volumetric standardization rather than on material strength, performance testing, or labelling requirements (those are covered by other standards).
• Coding convention: Volume symbols allow manufacturers and buyers to reference nominal package volumes quickly and consistently.

Applications

EN 23-1:1978 is practical for:

• Packaging engineers and designers creating cartons or drums for powdered detergents and cleaners.
• Manufacturers of washing and cleaning powders selecting standard pack sizes to facilitate production, filling, and logistics.
• Contract packers and converters using cartonboard or corrugated fibreboard to produce retail and bulk packs.
• Procurement and supply chain teams seeking consistent volumes for transport, shelving, and warehousing optimization.
• Quality and regulatory teams ensuring product packaging follows recognized dimensional standards for market acceptance.

Benefits include improved interchangeability of pack sizes, simplified SKU management, and compatibility with automated filling and handling equipment.

Related Standards

• Other EN and national standards covering packaging materials (cartonboard, corrugated board), packaging testing, and transport packaging are typically consulted alongside EN 23-1:1978 for a complete packaging specification.
• For adopted national versions, consult your national standards body (for example, SIST EN 23-1:1998 as a Slovenian adoption).

Keywords: EN 23-1:1978, packages for washing powders, cartons and drums, fibre board, packaging dimensions, 750 ml unit volume, CEN standard.