Mechanical Property
Physical measurements of the maximum force a vertical strip of corrugated board can support without buckling provide a baseline for package engineering. This edgewise compressive strength is the most critical variable in determining how much weight a finished box will hold in a stack. It focuses on the structural integrity of the fluting and liners when the load is applied parallel to the flute direction.
Structural Calculation
Designers use the value of the edgewise compressive strength in the mckee formula to predict the final top to bottom compression of a container. A higher value indicates that the paper fibers are well bonded and the fluting has been formed correctly without crushing during the corrugating process. If the medium is damaged or the glue lines are weak, the edgewise compressive strength will drop and the boxes will fail prematurely.
Process Control
Regular testing during a production run allows the operator to detect issues with the corrugator settings. Monitoring edgewise compressive strength helps maintain a consistent product that meets the safety requirements of the shipping industry. Variations in the moisture content of the paper or the temperature of the heating rollers can cause the measured strength to fluctuate during the day.
