Label Measurements
What it calculates
This calculator estimates the percentage of silicone by weight on a single linerless label. For a linerless label to be categorised as GREEN under EPR in the RAM 2027, it must contain less than 0.3% silicone by weight.
Key assumptions
- +5 gsm is added to the paper weight to account for ink, varnish, and adhesive coverage. You should enter this adjusted figure in the Material Weight field.
- The calculator uses the worst-case scenario: release coating with 84% silicone content applied at a coat weight of 1.5 gsm, giving an effective silicone weight of 1.26 gsm (1.5 × 0.84).
- Release coating lines are 2 mm wider on each side than the adhesive lines they cover (i.e. +4 mm total). For example, a 12 mm adhesive line has a 16 mm release coating line.
The calculation
- Label area = width × length ÷ 1,000,000 (m²)
- Label weight = material weight × label area (grams)
- Silicone weight = (total RC line width × length ÷ 1,000,000) × 1.26 (grams)
- Silicone % = silicone weight ÷ label weight × 100
Release coating line widths
A label can have anywhere from 2 to 7 adhesive lines. Simply add together the widths of all release coating lines and enter the total. For example:
- 2 lines of 16 mm = enter 32
- 4 lines (16 + 18 + 20 + 20 mm) = enter 74
Why it is an estimate
Material weight is manufactured to a tolerance of ±2 gsm, and actual coat weight can vary. This calculator uses worst-case values to give a conservative result, but independent testing should always be obtained for regulatory compliance.
Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for guidance purposes only and does not constitute a verified measurement of silicone weight. Results are estimates based on the information you enter and may differ from actual tested values due to factors including, but not limited to, adhesive coat weight variations, coater calibration, operator error, or subsequent changes to label design. It is your responsibility to obtain independent testing and carry out your own calculations before relying on any figure for regulatory compliance under the Extended Producer Responsibility (Packaging) Regulations. Ravenwood Packaging Ltd accepts no liability for any loss, cost, or regulatory consequence arising from reliance on the output of this calculator.
