Quantifying Surface Elevation Variance along Score Lines Using Optical Profilometry
Optical profilometry quantifies score elevation variance down to sub-micron resolution, identifying die wear and coating micro-fractures before carton assembly.
Die Creasing Rule
Pressing Tool
Steel strips with rounded top edges are utilized in die-cutting presses to form precise crease lines in paperboard. Deploying the correct die creasing rule pushes the substrate into a corresponding channel in the counter-die to create a pre-defined hinge. Selecting the correct height and thickness of this tool is essential for achieving clean folds without cracking the linerboard.
Dimensional Specification
Standard heights for these tooling inserts are determined by the thickness of the board and the height of the accompanying cutting rules. A die creasing rule must be shorter than the cutting rule by an amount that corresponds to the compressed thickness of the substrate. If the height is too great, the rule will cut through the board instead of forming a crease.
Material Interaction
The mechanical force applied by the rounded edge causes localized delamination within the internal plies of the board. This controlled structural breakdown reduces the force required to fold the carton along the designated line, allowing high-speed packaging machines to run smoothly. When the die creasing rule is paired with a counter-die of correct width, the resulting crease exhibits high tensile strength and minimal springback.
This enables precise carton squaring and prevents the flaps from popping open during the filling process.