What is Corrugated Cardboard?
Corrugated cardboard is a material that is widely used in packaging and shipping. It is typically made up of three layers of paper and has a distinctive wavy or ridged pattern on the surface. But what exactly is corrugated cardboard made of? Let’s explore the answer to that question.
The Three Layers of Corrugated Cardboard
As mentioned, corrugated cardboard is typically made up of three layers of paper. The first layer is known as the linerboard or the outer facings. These are the smooth, flat sheets that make up the top and bottom of the cardboard box. The second layer is known as the fluting. This is the wavy or ridged pattern that is sandwiched between the linerboard sheets.
The Raw Materials Used to Make Corrugated Cardboard
The raw materials used to make corrugated cardboard are paper, water, and glue. The paper can come from a variety of sources, including recycled paper, virgin pulp, or a blend of both. Recycled paper is the most common source of paper used in corrugated cardboard, and it is becoming increasingly popular due to its environmentally friendly properties.
The Manufacturing Process of Corrugated Cardboard
The manufacturing process of corrugated cardboard begins with the creation of the linerboard. The linerboard is typically made from a blend of recycled and virgin pulp, which allows it to have both strength and durability. This paper is then passed through corrugating machines, which use a series of heated rollers to create the wavy pattern of the fluting.
Next, the linerboard and fluting are glued together to create what is known as corrugated board. This board can then be cut and folded into a variety of shapes and sizes to create packaging products.
In conclusion, corrugated cardboard is a material that is made up of three layers of paper – linerboard, fluting, and linerboard. The raw materials used in its manufacturing process are paper, water, and glue. By using a blend of recycled and virgin pulp, corrugated cardboard is both strong and environmentally friendly. It is a versatile material that is widely used in the packaging and shipping industry due to its durability, affordability, and ease of customization.
