corrugate cardboard side view

How are Cardboard boxes made?

Posted on February 8, 2023
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Cardboard boxes are a staple of the packaging industry and are used to transport and store a wide variety of products. They are made from corrugated paper, which is a combination of paper pulp, water, and chemicals. The manufacturing process of cardboard boxes is a combination of cutting, glueing, and printing techniques that result in a sturdy and reliable container.

multiple boxes arranged.

The first step in making cardboard boxes is the creation of paper pulp. This involves mixing water, wood fibres, and chemicals to form a mixture that is then flattened and pressed into large flat sheets. These sheets are then dried and rolled into large reels for storage. The paper pulp used to make cardboard boxes is typically made from recycled materials, such as old newspapers, magazines, and cardboard, but it can also be made from new, virgin fibres.

The next step is to cut the paper sheets into the desired size and shape for the individual box pieces. This is done using a cutting machine, which can produce hundreds of boxes per minute. The pieces are then scored along the lines where they will be folded, making it easier to form the box. The scores also help to maintain the box's shape during transportation and storage.

The individual pieces are then glued together to form the box. A glue machine applies a thin layer of adhesive to the scored lines, and the pieces are then assembled into a box shape. The lid is usually made from a separate piece of cardboard that is cut and scored in a similar manner.

Once the box has been assembled, additional reinforcements, such as flaps or corners, can be added to increase its strength and stability. These reinforcements help to keep the box intact during shipping and handling and prevent it from collapsing.

After the box has been reinforced, it can be printed or stamped with branding or other information. This step is usually done using a printing press or a rotary printing machine. The printing machine applies ink to the box's surface, which is then dried, resulting in a vibrant, long-lasting image.

Once the printing is complete, the boxes are folded and stacked for transportation to their final destination. They can then be filled with products, sealed, and shipped to customers.

In conclusion, the process of making cardboard boxes is a complex and efficient operation that involves a combination of cutting, gluing, and printing techniques. From the creation of paper pulp to the printing of branding, each step is carefully controlled to ensure that the boxes are strong, reliable, and visually appealing. Cardboard boxes play a critical role in the packaging industry, providing a cost-effective and versatile solution for the transportation and storage of products.

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