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Why Your Maintenance Strategy Might Be Costing You a Fortune (and How RCM Can Fix It), Paper360º January/February 2026

The Next Generation: The Rise and Rise of Progroup in Europe, Paper360º March/April 2023

Digital Printing Helps Boxmakers Embrace the Future, Paper360º March/April 2023

Managing a Successful Rotary Die Cut Operation, Paper360º May/June 2023

The Conversion of Corra Gator-Boardy Part 3: Die Cutting Section, Paper360º May/June 2023

North American/European Containerboard Capacity Declines, Paper360º May/June 2023

Corrugated medium strength assessments in different flute structures, TAPPI Journal April 2026

ABSTRACT: Recent advancements in our ability to evaluate papers and our understanding of the mechanics of box failure have brought a renewed focus on measuring the performance of corrugated medium and an associated evolution of paper measurement approaches. This study evaluates the load curves, Hardness (where the fluted structure’s loading shifts away from an elastic response), and Concora medium crush test (CMT) values for a range of corrugated mediums in different common flute geometries. The shape of the load curve is a function of the geometry of the fluting profile and the relative stiffness of the paper, with smaller flutes and heavier papers reaching both the Hardness value and the ultimate load at lower deformation. Nonetheless, while the specific dynamics during the loading process vary, Hardness and CMT values correlate linearly between flute structures, even when testing specimens after different equilibration periods post-fluting. These correlations confirm the applicability of the standard A-flute CMT test to a broad range of papers and potential combined board flute structures, supporting quality assurance processes for medium production and optimization in corrugated board manufacturing.

The Conversion of Corra Gator-Boardy, Paper360º January/February 2023

Chicago TAPPI is All About Corrugated, Paper360º January/February 2023

PM Upgrade Requires a Comprehensive Condition Monitoring Solution, Paper360º January/February 2023