Overview
EN ISO 19076:2023 - Leather - Measurement of leather surface - Electronic techniques specifies a standardized method for measuring the surface (area) of leather or leather parts using electronic measuring machines. Approved by CEN and aligned with ISO 19076:2023, this document covers finished or unfinished flexible dry leather, flexible wet (pickled) leather (see Annex E), and leather that can be fully distended on the measuring line or surface. The standard defines metrological principles, machine types, measurement procedures, verification and reporting requirements for reliable leather surface measurement.
Key topics and requirements
- Measurement principle: Uses linear or two-dimensional opto-electronic sensor arrays or digital cameras to detect leather presence. Digital signals are processed to compute elementary surface units and total area.
- Machine types: Covers devices with linear sensor arrays (types A, B, C) and camera-based systems (type D). Detailed variants include roller machines (A, A1, A2), conveyor machines (B, B1, B2), flatbed scanners (C), and camera measuring devices (D).
- Apparatus & calibration: Specifies requirements for measuring machines and the use of reference calibrated templates for verification (Annex A and B). Laboratory records and verification procedures are provided (Annices B and C).
- Sampling and conditioning: Refers to sample preparation and conditioning requirements - including special conditioning for pickled/wet leather (Annex E) - and normative references such as ISO 2419 and EN 15987.
- Measurement operations & orientation: Guidance on measuring whole, half, or cut leather pieces, required leather orientation, and procedures for roller, conveyor and static measuring devices.
- Quality metrics: Includes requirements and informative guidance on repeatability and reproducibility (Annex D) and the format/content of the test report.
- Regulatory note: Leather surface measuring equipment used in the EU may be subject to legal metrology rules (EU Directive 2014/32/EU).
Applications and users
EN ISO 19076:2023 is intended for:
- Tanneries and leather manufacturers for accurate area measurement in production and inventory control.
- Quality control and testing laboratories performing standardized leather surface tests.
- Footwear, upholstery and leather-goods manufacturers who need reliable area data for costing, cutting optimization and material allocation.
- Equipment manufacturers and calibration labs implementing or verifying electronic leather measuring machines.
- Regulatory bodies and procurement teams requiring documented, repeatable measurement methods for conformity and trade.
Practical uses include surface area determination for pricing, material yield calculations, certification of supply lots, and routine machine verification to ensure traceable, reproducible measurements.
Related standards
- ISO 2419 - Leather - Sample preparation and conditioning
- EN 15987 - Leather terminology (key definitions)
- EU Directive 2014/32/EU - Measuring instruments (relevance for legal metrology in the EU)
Keywords: EN ISO 19076:2023, ISO 19076, leather measurement, electronic measuring machines, leather surface measurement, leather testing, calibrated templates.