Impact of environmental conditions on the performance of cartonboard skillets

This paper discusses the importance of understanding machine–material interaction for achieving high process efficiencies. In the area of cartoning, the performance of cartonboard and hence the efficacy of the machine–material interactions can be significantly altered by changes in environmental conditions. In this paper, the process of carton conversion is dealt with and its performance during creasing, folding and subsequent erection is considered. An experimental programme was created to investigate the effect of moisture on the carton performance and in particular the important attribute of ‘spring back’. The results of the experimental investigation are discussed with respect to the accepted understanding of the behaviour of cellulose structures. From this discussion, the implications for processing of cartonboard are identified and guidelines and considerations for storage and handling are proposed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.