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What is a flat crush test (FCT)?

  • Mecmesin
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Mecmesin's flat crush resistance test serves to define corrugated cardboard/fiberboard's resistance to compressive loads. The level of the flat crush resistance depends on the flute material and the type of the flute.

In the test, walls simply retain the shape and do not influence the crush resistance. Round samples, 90mm in diameter, are cut out of the cardboard, and then crushed between two crushing plates.

The pressure necessary to deform the flute is then measured and the results are expressed in kPa.

This test is applicable to ISO 3035*, TAPPI T825 and similar rigid support methods. The accuracy of this test is greatly enhanced by self-adjusting compression plates, or ultimately by a precision guide fixture. The above video shows an upper self-adjusting compression plate.

The equivalent of the FCT test in the case of measuring the flute resistance to flat crush is CMT test.

Contact Mecmesin to learn more about the FCT test and which other tests you may also require to test your products.


*ISO 3035: This International Standard specifies a method for the determination of the flat crush resistance of corrugated fibreboard used in the manufacture of packing cases.

Image shows Flat Crush Test Upper and Lower Plates with Modified Anvil Plate and Self-Adjusting Adapter

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  • Company News
  • English
  • Modified 10 May 2023
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