Different Types of Cardboard and Their Uses in Protective Packaging

 

Cardboard is a highly versatile protective packaging material that can be used for various purposes, such as packaging products and cases for transport.

Traditionally, cardboard was used mainly as an exterior box for business use. Still, in recent years, with the development of e-commerce sites, its usage has expanded to include cardboard with color printing that evokes a brand image and specialized packaging cases sold at convenience stores and 100-yen shops for shipping products at auctions. The uses

and demand for cardboard is expected to continue to expand in the future.

This time, we will explain the surprisingly complex subject of cardboard.

What is cardboard?

Cardboard is a protective packaging material used as an outer box for products.

It is made by pasting a base paper called " liner " on one or both sides of a corrugated paperboard called " core ." The pasted base paper forms a sheet, then cut or creased to become cardboard's final product.

The name "danbo" (cardboard) comes from the meaning "cardboard whose cross-section looks like a staircase."

As you may know, the cross-section of cardboard is made up of connected triangles, called a " truss structure.

". This structure, also used for large items such as bridges and towers, strengthens cardboard. Even though it is paper, its contents can be protected from impact.

About types of cardboard

Cardboard can be made in various variations by combining liners and cores.

● Single-sided corrugated board ... A medium is attached to a liner on one side.

● Double-sided corrugated board ... It comprises three sheets, the top and bottom liners and the medium, and is called a single flute. This is the most common shape.

● Double-sided corrugated board ... It comprises three sheets, the top and bottom liners and the medium, with two layers of corrugated board, and is called a double flute.

● Double-sided corrugated board ... It is called a triple flute, has three layers of corrugated board and is used for applications that require particular strength and durability.

Evolving functional cardboard

Since cardboard is used in various situations, adding functions according to its purpose may be necessary.

In such cases, functionality can be added to regular cardboard by applying chemicals to the liner surface or adding processing such as inserting paper.

● Water-resistant liner :

A special waterproofing agent protects the contents from the effects of rain and moisture. This method is especially suitable for protective packaging contents sensitive to water, such as food and electronic devices.

● Moisture-proof liner :

A special coating is applied to maintain the freshness of the contents. This method is particularly effective when preventing moisture loss from fruits and vegetables.

● Anti-rust liner :

This liner effectively prevents damage caused by rust when packaging metal products such as iron, zinc, and copper.

Names of each part of the cardboard

Each part of a cardboard box has a name. Here is a simple diagram summarizing them.

Uses of cardboard

So far, we have examined the different types of cardboard in detail. We use cardboard daily without even thinking about it, but considering its uses, it can be divided into four types.

Product protection

The most common use of cardboard is for protective packaging products.

It protects products from damage and dirt during transportation and storage. It is lightweight and strong, accommodating products of various shapes and sizes.

Convenience of transportation

Cardboard boxes are also widely used for transporting goods.

Products packed in cardboard boxes can be safely transported to remote locations by truck, ship, or plane while protecting the packaged goods.

In addition, by adding water resistance, the material can temporarily withstand bad weather such as rain or snow.

Storage

Cardboard boxes are also used to store products.

Products stored in cardboard boxes can be stacked or stored on shelves. They

also have excellent breathability, which helps prevent the deterioration of products.

1. Information provision and display

By printing on its surface, cardboard can also become a communication tool for conveying various product information.

It is also possible to create designs that can be used for product displays as is, with minimal effort on the part of the store. Displaying products per the manufacturer's vision can highlight their appeal and increase consumer desire to purchase.

Features of cardboard

Cardboard, made from processed paper, has two major features: light and durable.

It is a protective packaging material widely used around the world. It has many advantages but disadvantages, so it is important to understand each one and use it wisely.

[Advantages]

1. Protective function: Depending on the contents, this can protect various strengths.

2. Convenience: Lightweight and strong, making assembly, sealing and packing easy.

3. Information dissemination: Printing adds advertising and sales promotion functions.

4. Recycling: With a high recycling rate of approximately 90%, it is an environmentally friendly packaging material.

5. Workability: Made of paper, it is easy to cut and line.

6. Economical: A cheaper packaging material than metal or plastic materials.

[Disadvantages]

1. Water resistance: Because it is made from pulp and recycled paper, it is vulnerable to water and moisture.

2. Quality stability: Metal and plastic may need to be improved in strength and durability.

3. Paper dust: Because it is made from pulp and recycled paper, it may be generated from the cut surface.

Cardboard as an eco-friendly material

In a society where interest in SDGs and plastic-free practices is rising, cardboard is noteworthy as it can be recycled as new cardboard after being collected as waste paper. The

recycling rate in Japan is high at over 90%, making it an environmentally friendly material that can be reused many times.

Environmentally friendly FSC® cardboard

As mentioned above, cardboard is an excellent, environmentally friendly product, but incorporating an international certification mark further ensures environmental friendliness. The " FSC® certification mark" proves the product uses pulp from properly managed forests. By choosing products with the FSC® certification mark, you can contribute to activities to protect our limited forests.

If you have any problems with protective packaging, leave it to the packaging professionals.

Britwrap handles various packaging and logistics materials, including cardboard boxes. We

We also have six protective packaging specialists on staff who will propose optimal protective packaging solutions.