Force Requirement
Mechanical resistance measured during the erection of a folded carton blank defines the physical threshold required to restore the flat sleeve to a three-dimensional shape. This carton opening force determines how efficiently a high-speed packaging line can process the blanks. High resistance causes the feeding mechanisms to fail, which halts the filling cycle.
Crease Resistance
Scoring and creasing processes during board converting alter the fiber matrix along the hinge lines to reduce the bending stiffness of the board. The relation between carton opening force and crease depth is a critical parameter for quality control in packaging plants. Insufficient scoring leaves the board too stiff, whereas excessive depth tears the outer liners.
Machinery Constraint
High-speed cartoning machines utilize pneumatic suction cups to pull the flat sleeves open in a fraction of a second. If the force exceeds the holding power of the vacuum, the carton slips and causes a line stoppage. The stiffness of the board and the aging of the paper fibers must be monitored to ensure the carton remains within the operating limits of the machine.
Changes in ambient humidity alter the moisture content of the board, which directly affects the stiffness of the uncreased board and shifts the force profiles.