【Inspector Encyclopedia】Sharing knowledge on pencil classification, craftsmanship, quality, etc.

Pencils, a common stationery item, come in a wide variety of types and are categorized in various ways. Based on their raw materials, they can be divided into graphite pencils and colored pencils; based on their use and properties, they can be categorized into regular graphite pencils, drawing pencils, painting graphite pencils, colored pencils, and specialty pencils; and based on the barrel material, they can be divided into wooden, plastic, paper, and mechanical pencils. This article systematically explains pencil classification, manufacturing processes, quality indicators, performance testing, and key inspection points, providing a reference for quality inspectors, product inspectors, and those involved in production quality control.

1. The correspondence between pencil classification and inspection

1. Graphite pencils are classified into 18 grades of hardness according to GB/T149-1995, ranging from 6B (softest) to 10H (hardest). When inspecting products, verify that the hardness markings on the pencil barrel or packaging are clear and accurate, and conduct random testing to ensure that the writing performance meets the stated hardness.

2. Color pencils <br>Includes red, blue, and colored pencils (6 to 48 colors). During inspection, focus on color consistency, color saturation, and whether they are easily breakable.

3. Special pencils <br>Such as glass/metal marking pencils, color-changing pencils, carbon brushes, carpenter pencils, etc. Inspection needs to pay attention to whether their special properties meet the standards, such as water resistance, adhesion, etc.

2. Manufacturing process and factory inspection focus

The pencil production process mainly includes four steps: lead production, pencil plate processing, pen barrel production and appearance decoration. The following steps should be reviewed during the factory inspection:

1. Lead production

   • Graphite lead core : It is necessary to check the uniformity of the mixing material, the density of the pressed core, the baking temperature record and the oil immersion process parameters.

   • Color pencil core : Check the ratio of pigment to binder and whether the grease absorption is uniform.

   • Key points of factory inspection : storage conditions of raw material warehouse, dust control in workshop, and equipment calibration records.

2. Pencil board production

   • The processes of log splitting, board cutting, drying, dyeing, etc. must comply with environmental and process standards.

   • The factory inspection should verify whether the source of wood meets environmental protection requirements (such as FSC certification) and the temperature and humidity records of the drying room.

3. Pen barrel production and assembly

   • Processes such as grooving, gluing the core, clamping, and grinding the head affect the structural strength of the pencil.

   • Common problems encountered during inspection include core deviation, broken core, and cracked pen barrel, which are mostly caused by lack of control over the process in this link.

4. Exterior decoration

   • During the painting, printing, cutting and eraser installation processes, attention should be paid to coating adhesion and printing clarity.

   • When inspecting the goods, you should check whether the paint film is uniform, without sagging or missing prints, and whether the rubber head is firmly installed.

3. Safety and health indicators and inspection requirements

As a product that may come into contact with children, the safety of pencils is of paramount importance. Countries have strict restrictions on harmful elements (such as lead, cadmium, chromium, etc.) in pencil lacquer and lead cores:

• Chinese Standard : The content of migratable elements is required to comply with GB 21027-2020;

• EU standards : must meet EN 71-3 (Toy Safety Directive);

• American Standard : Refer to ASTM F963 and CPSC requirements.

During inspection, samples should be taken for testing to ensure that heavy metal content does not exceed the standard. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and third-party testing reports (such as SGS and CTI) provided by the supplier should also be checked.

IV. Appearance Quality Inspection Specifications

According to SN/T 0749-1998, key inspections are required during inspection:

• Pen barrel appearance : no cracks, no stains, no coating peeling;

• Printing and marking : clear handwriting, accurate content, no blurring or falling off;

• Structural integrity : The pen barrel and eraser are firmly connected without any looseness;

• Sharpening performance : Try using a pencil sharpener to check whether it is easy to sharpen and there is no breakage of the pencil.

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5. Performance Test Items and Methods

The physical properties of pencils directly affect the user experience. Inspection should be carried out according to GB/T 149 and SN/T 0749, mainly including:

1. Hardness test : Compare writing marks with standard hardness samples;

2. Core tip stress : Test the compressive strength of the lead core to determine whether it is easy to break;

3. Abrasion and slip : Evaluate writing smoothness and paper wear;

4. Concentration test : compare the consistency of the depth of the written color;

5. Deflection test : Cut open the pen barrel and measure the degree to which the lead core deviates from the center;

6. Inspection of broken core inside the rod : Check the internal broken core through X-ray or sampling rod cutting.

VI. Packaging, storage, transportation and inspection specifications

1. Packaging requirements

   • The outer box should be marked with the product name, specifications, quantity, production batch number and environmental protection mark;

   • The inner packaging must be moisture-proof and shock-proof, and the transparent film packaging must be sealed and not damaged;

   • During inspection, we will conduct random inspections on packaging, printing, material volume and packing conformity according to AQL standards.

2. Storage and transportation conditions

   • The warehouse should be dry and ventilated, with a temperature of less than 40°C and a humidity of less than 75%;

   • Avoid coexistence with organic solvents or corrosive gases;

   • The stacking shall not exceed the specified number of layers, and the bottom layer must have a pad to prevent moisture.

3. Inspection Key Points

   • Check whether the packaging is intact and whether it is damp or deformed;

   • Check whether the product is consistent with the order specifications (hardness, color, quantity);

   • Sampling for performance testing and appearance inspection;

   • Check the factory's quality inspection records (IQC, IPQC, OQC reports).

7. Common inspection failures

• The lead core is broken or deflected;

• The pen barrel coating has impurities, scratches or color differences;

• Printing errors or ambiguities;

• The hardness does not match the nominal value;

• Excessive levels of hazardous substances;

• The packaging is damaged or the label is unclear.