Laminating Process
Attachment of a flat printed paperboard liner to a single-faced corrugated sheet produces a stiff substrate suitable for high-end graphic packaging. This industrial technique, called single sided board lamination, combines the strength of corrugated fluting with the superior print surface of a solid bleached sulfate or coated board. It creates a strong composite that resists bending and crush loads.
Production Phase
In-line laminating systems apply a thin layer of adhesive to the exposed flute tips of the single-faced corrugated web before pressing the flat liner onto them. Precise control of the adhesive volume is necessary to prevent the glue from wetting the paper excessively, which causes washboarding or curling. After the bonding step, the laminated sheet is cut into individual blanks for subsequent die-cutting.
This operation requires careful synchronization of the sheet feeder and the web speed to ensure perfect alignment of the printed graphics. Modern laminators use optical cameras to monitor register accuracy.
Market Application
Retail packaging often requires both protective cushioning and vibrant multicolor branding to attract consumers. Utilizing single sided board lamination delivers the necessary structural protection for heavy items like electronics or glassware while maintaining a high-quality retail appearance. The resulting packages withstand the rigors of distribution while displaying high-resolution imagery.
