Paperboard Grammage and Caliper Fundamentals for Sourcing Specialists
Paperboard grammage and caliper dictate sheet yield, bending stiffness, and converting performance, making exact testing under ISO standards essential for sourcing.
SCAN-P 6
Testing Protocol
Standardized procedure for measuring the thickness of paper and board. SCAN-P 6 specifies the mechanical conditions under which the bulking thickness and single sheet thickness must be determined. This standard ensures that measurements are comparable across different laboratories.
It defines the pressure and the size of the pressure foot.
Mechanical Specification
Pressure applied to the sample is fixed at one hundred kilopascals to simulate the conditions of typical handling and conversion. The scan-p 6 method requires the use of a dead-weight micrometer to avoid the variability inherent in spring-loaded devices. Measurement occurs after a specific dwell time to allow for the initial compression of the fibre network.
This protocol is particularly important for calculating the apparent density and bulk of the substrate. Laboratory technicians must ensure the anvil and foot are perfectly parallel before testing begins.
Trade Application
Buyers and sellers use these standardized values to verify that a delivery meets the agreed technical specifications. Because thickness influences both the stiffness of the board and the diameter of a finished roll, adherence to scan-p 6 is a common requirement in European paper contracts. It provides a reliable basis for calculating shipping volumes and the expected yield of a print run.
Regular calibration of the micrometer against certified gauge blocks is necessary to maintain compliance with this international standard. Consistent thickness is also necessary for the setup of downstream printing and die cutting equipment.