Introduction to torque testing
Torque testing is a vital part of packaging quality control. It measures the rotational force required to open or close caps and closures, helping ensure product integrity, user safety, and regulatory compliance. In packaging, this often involves static torque testing, where force is applied without ongoing motion, as opposed to dynamic torque, which occurs under motion or vibration.
Common issues such as over-tightened caps causing breakage, loose closures leading to leakage, or child-resistant mechanisms being too difficult or too easy to open can all be identified and mitigated through accurate torque measurement. Testing ensures forces remain within safe and functional limits.
Why torque testing is essential in packaging
- Prevents leakage in liquid containers
- Ensures seal integrity and prevents contamination
- Confirms child-resistant closures are effective and compliant
- Improves user experience by avoiding over-tightening
Reliable torque values not only reduce product failures but also protect brand reputation - especially in pharmaceutical, food, and chemical sectors.
Applications of torque testing in packaging
- Food and beverage: PET bottles, screw-top jars
- Pharmaceutical: Child-resistant packaging, blister packs
- Personal care: Tubes, pump dispensers
- Chemical products: Industrial containers, tamper-evident closures
Explore our torque testing solutions for packaging
Types of torque testing equipment
Whether you're validating production output or designing closures in R&D, Mecmesin offers systems to suit every environment.
Manual and automated solutions
- Tornado Digital Torque Tester – Ideal for low-volume or batch testing. View the Tornado
- VortexPro Automated Torque Tester – High-throughput, motorised precision with VectorPro™ software integration. View the VortexPro
View our full range of torque testers
Testing child-resistant closures (CRCs)
Child-resistant packaging must comply with strict regulations. Mecmesin’s equipment accurately tests the opening and resealing torque of CRCs to ensure usability and safety.
Read our CRC torque testing case study
Standards in torque testing
ASTM standards
- ASTM D2063 – Reclosable child-resistant packaging
- ASTM D3198 – Continuous thread closure torque testing
- ASTM D3472 – Measuring removal torque from closures
ISO standards
- ISO 8317 – Child-resistant packaging for reclosable containers
Real-world examples
Beverage packaging automation
A global beverage brand used the VortexPro to automate PET bottle cap testing:
- Up to 40% reduction in test time
- Improved batch consistency
- Traceable digital records with VectorPro™
Read the PET bottle case study
Pharmaceutical CRC compliance
A pharmaceutical client validated CRC packaging using Mecmesin systems, achieving:
- Compliance with ASTM D2063
- Reduced seal failure rates
- Faster validation via VectorPro™
View CRC testing details.
Best practice and future trends
Maintaining accuracy
- Calibrate to ISO 6789 or Mecmesin protocols
- Use in controlled environments
- Validate with certified torque standards
Learn about calibration services
Technological developments
- Sensor integration: Real-time production line monitoring
- Automation: Robotic arms for cap testing
- Software integration: Centralised test data management with VectorPro™
Why Mecmesin?
With over 40 years of experience, Mecmesin delivers torque testing systems that are precise, easy to use, and fully supported.
- Accurate sensors for reliable testing
- Intuitive, ergonomic equipment design
- Modular fixtures for a wide range of packaging formats
- Advanced VectorPro™ software for data capture and reporting
- Comprehensive support and calibration services
See why manufacturers choose Mecmesin
Contact our torque testing specialists