Anatomy of a Bottle: Plastic Bottle Terminology

Part 4 of our series will help define terminology as it relates to plastic bottles. When looking for the perfect packaging solution it's imperative to know what part you are referring to when on the phone or searching the internet. 

We put together two more downloadable PDFs to keep handy. Explore both images below and match the definitions with the terms. 

In the picture below you will see different types of blown plastic bottles and a rundown of the bottle’s anatomy:

Oblong

A particular shape. A rectangular figure having a greater length than width, may have an angle or rounded corners and parallel or nearly parallel sides.

Round

A bottle is considered to be round when the horizontal cross-section is a circle. The spec drawing below that shows diameter is a good visual example of this.

Round with Waist

A bottle with a waist is defined by having a midsection that is wider or skinnier than the rest of the package. 

1. Neck

The part of a container where the bottle cross section decreases to form the finish.

2. Finish

 The plastic forming the opening of a container shaped to accommodate a specific closure. The finish description reflects the outside diameter of a bottle or jar's neck in millimeters.

3. Shoulder

The part of a container between the main body and the neck usually sloped.

4. Label Panel

The portion of the body of a container to which labels are affixed or decoration imprinted.

5. Heel Radius

The degree of curvature at the extreme bottom end of a bottle extending upward from the bearing surface. Also called base radius.

6. Waist Width

The diameter of the midsection of the body of a bottle or container.

7. Mold Parting Line

A vertical line formed at the point of contact of the mold halves. The prominence of the line depends on the accuracy with which the mating mold halves are matched. Also known as the mold seam.

8. Deco Lug

A notch in the bottom of the bottle used to align and engage the bottle to a specific orientation. This ensures your artwork will be applied to the same area for every bottle in the line. 

Here's another diagram that describes the terminology of the classic Boston Round bottle.

1. Pour out Lip

The part of a container where the bottle cross section decreases to form the finish.

2. Finish

The plastic forming the opening of a container shaped to accommodate a specific closure. The finish description reflects the outside diameter of a bottle or jar's neck in millimeters.

3. Shoulder

The part of a container between the main body and the neck usually sloped.

4. Heel Radius

The degree of curvature at the extreme bottom end of a bottle extending upward from the bearing surface. Also called base radius.

5. Push Up

The recessed area on the bottom of a container designed to allow a stable bearing surface on the outside edge and prevent rocking.

6. Pinch Off Scar

In plastic bottle manufacturing, the mark left the bottom of a bottle were the parison was pinched or cut off. 

7. Deco Lug

A notch in the bottom of the bottle used to align and engage the bottle to a specific orientation. This ensures your artwork will be applied to the same area for every bottle in the line. 

If you still have questions regarding a particular part of a bottle, give us a call! We are here to help make sure your product has the best packaging possible.