Standards of threads and closures in packaging
European standards – DIN and PCO
The DIN system (Deutsches Institut für Normung) dominates the European packaging industry. DIN threads are characterized by precise workmanship and versatile use. This standard covers a wide range of diameters, from small bottles to large industrial containers.
Table 1: Popular DIN threads in cosmetic packaging
Designation | Outer diameter (mm) | Thread pitch (mm) | Typical application | EU availability |
DIN 18 | 18.0 | 3.0 | Small bottles 10–50 ml | High |
DIN 20 | 20.0 | 3.0 | Tubes, small jars | High |
DIN 24 | 24.0 | 3.0 | Bottles 100–200 ml | High |
DIN 28 | 28.0 | 3.0 | Bottles 250–500 ml | High |
DIN 32 | 32.0 | 3.0 | Jars 250–500 ml | High |
DIN 38 | 38.0 | 3.0 | Large jars 500–1000 ml | Medium |
PCO threads (Plastic Closure Only), originally developed for PET bottles in the beverage industry, gained popularity in cosmetics. PCO 28 became a standard for many high-seal packaging solutions.
American standards – GPI/SPI
The Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) developed a designation system for glass packaging that has become an international standard. The designation consists of a number indicating the diameter in millimeters and the number of threads per inch.
Table 2: GPI standards for glass packaging
Designation | Diameter (mm) | Threads/inch | Typical application | EU availability |
13-415 | 13.0 | 12 | Essential oils | Medium |
15-415 | 15.0 | 12 | Serum, small bottles | Medium |
18-415 | 18.0 | 12 | Bottles 30–50 ml | High |
20-410 | 20.0 | 15 | Bottles 50–100 ml | High |
24-410 | 24.0 | 15 | Bottles 100–200 ml | High |
28-410 | 28.0 | 15 | Cream jars | Medium |
33-400 | 33.0 | 12 | Jars 200–500 ml | Low |
The SPI system (Society of Plastics Industry), used mainly in the USA, usually requires import for European producers.
Specialized threads and pump systems
Packaging with dispensing systems requires special thread standards. Pumps, atomizers, and airless systems often use dedicated solutions.
Table 3: Threads for specialized systems
System type | Designation | Diameter (mm) | Application | EU availability |
Standard pump | FEA 15 | 15.0 | Perfumes, small pumps | High |
Lotion pump | 24/410 Rieke | 24.0 | Creams, lotions | High |
Trigger spray | 28/410 TS | 28.0 | Sprays, mists | High |
Airless | 30 AP | 30.0 | Premium serums | Medium |
Roll-on | RO 17 | 17.0 | Deodorants | High |
Dropper | 18 DIN GL | 18.0 | Glass pipettes | Medium |
Airless systems often require non-standard solutions, which increase costs and lead times. European suppliers such as Aptar or Silgan offer a wide range of compatible systems.
Why thread standards matter in practice
Knowing thread standards is key to effective cosmetic packaging design. European DIN standards offer the highest availability and compatibility in the region. American GPI standards, though widely accepted, may involve longer lead times. When choosing specialized threads, it is worth working with local suppliers that provide technical support. Investing in samples and compatibility tests early in the project helps avoid costly mistakes in mass production. The trend toward standardization simplifies combining components from different manufacturers, increasing flexibility and reducing costs.