CORRUGATED FIBERBOARD BOX.docVIP

CORRUGATED FIBERBOARD BOX I Box Basis 1. Flutes Four standard flute sizes are in common use, designated A, B, C and E. The sizes were given their letter names in the sequence of their introduction. A is the largest. B, which is smaller was the next size introduced. C came next, but it is between A and B in size. E is both the most recent and the smallest. Flute measurements are given with a plus-or-minus allowance. Although the meshed steel rollers that form them are hard, the abrasive nature of the corrugating material and the high speeds of the machines causes wear. Minor variations in size have little effect on performance. The selection of flute size is determined by the basis weight of the linerboard and corrugating material and the performanace characteristics desired in the finished container. For double-wall and triple-wall board, the flute sizes for each sheet of corrugated material are usually different. This technique combines their advantages, and prevents any weakness that might result if the flutes were perfectly aligned. Manufacturers Joint It is inefficient to ship setup, empty boxes. At the same time, the box manufacturer tries to complete as many as the steps as possible. One step he can complete involves brining the side and end panels of a slotted box blank together and joining them. Three methods are used to seal this manufacturers joint. They are glue, wire stitches or staples, and tape. Glue and stitches require an extra short tab on one send or side panel. When the boz is partially folded, the tab overlaps and is fastened to the adjacent side or end panel. The overlap, in more cases, is at least 1? inches, and it can be on the inside or outside of the box. On the outside, the inner panels remain smooth; on the inside, there is less opportunity for the exposed tab to snag. Glue is the most common method of sealing the manufacturers joint. Various formulas, including hot melts, can be used. The adhesive is usually a