Dimensional characteristics are specified by the norm ISO 3863 and, as such, the length tolerance of +/- 0.4 mm.
The humidity of corks is of fundamental importance for the storage and microbial activity, as well as the mechanical characteristics of the cork. The humidity tolerance is between 5.5 and 7.5%.
The density tolerance is between 140 and 200 kg/m3.
Tolerance: Bacteria < 20 Cfu/cork, Mold < 10 Cfu/cork
Evaluate the presence of TCA, off odours and colour irregularities.
The surface coating, which can block the residual dust and humidity (a dry cork will more easily shed lenticellular contents) influences the quantity of dust which can be freed from the cork.
Tolerance is < 3 mg/cork.
Tolerance < 1.5 mm of height on the side of the cork.
Tolerance depending on the size: 45x24 mm < 3.5g, 49x24 mm < 4.0 g.