ISO 27668-1:2017

Overview - ISO 27668-1:2017 (Gel ink ball pens and refills - Part 1: General use)

ISO 27668-1:2017 sets minimum quality requirements for gel ink ball pens (both refillable and non‑refillable) and refills intended for general use. The standard defines terminology, dimensional classifications for tips and refills, required performance characteristics, test equipment and methods, and marking/designation practices. It is the general‑use counterpart to ISO 27668-2, which covers additional requirements for documentary use (long‑term legibility and tamper resistance).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Tip classification: Tips are classified by ball diameter into Ultra fine (UF), Extra fine (EF), Fine (F), Medium (M) and Broad (B) - with specific diameter ranges given for each class.
• Refill types and dimensions: Standard refill shapes are designated types J, K, L, G2 and a catch‑all N for non‑specified shapes; dimensions for J/K/L and G2 are specified in the standard.
• Performance parameters covered:
  • Writing performance and reproducibility (ability to be reliably copied or scanned)
  • Strike through (ink penetration through paper)
  • Drying time (time to become non‑smearing)
  • Water resistance and other chemical resistances
  • Light resistance (fade resistance)
  • Cap‑off time (how long pen maintains writing ability when left uncapped)
  • Shelf life (minimum storage life maintaining performance)
• Test equipment & methods: Includes specifications for a write test machine (writing angle 60°–90°, load 0.1–5 N, speed 1–10 m/min, spiral line) and references to paper and lightfastness test methods used in testing.
• Designation and marking: Requirements for how pens and refills are designated and marked to communicate compliance and type.

Applications - who uses ISO 27668-1 and why it matters

• Pen and refill manufacturers use the standard to design products that meet internationally recognized quality and interchangeability expectations.
• Quality assurance and testing laboratories apply the specified test methods to verify writing performance, durability and resistance properties.
• Procurement teams (office supplies, schools, institutions) reference the standard to select gel pens with predictable behavior (drying time, cap‑off performance, water/light resistance).
• Retailers and brands use the standard for product labeling and to substantiate performance claims.

Related standards

• ISO 27668-2 - Gel ink ball pens for documentary use (additional archival and tamper‑resistance requirements).
• Normative references used in testing include standards for paper properties and lightfastness (e.g., ISO 534, ISO 536, ISO 105-B02).

ISO 27668-1:2017 is essential for consistent product performance, reliable testing, and clear market communication for gel ink ball pens and refills.