Dr eng. Mariusz Sowa
University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
Email: [email protected]
DOI: 10.23918/ICABEP2022p19
Abstract
The aim of the article is to present the results of tests of selected physical parameters of cardboard packages made of cellulose, which constitutes 75% of the weight of the package, of polyethene film, which constitutes 20% of the weight of the package, and of a thin layer of aluminium which constitutes about 5% of the weight of the package. The strength tests carried out resulted in the determination of the strength parameters of the packaging materials and the assessment of the protective function, and thus the determination of the packaging resistance to exposure during the transportation process. Strength laboratory tests were carried out in a laboratory equipped with specialized research equipment. The performed tests were aimed at determining the resistance of packaging occurring in the trade of mechanical stresses. Proper preparation of packaging for tests is an important factor, often decisive for the test results. Strength tests of packaging were carried out with the original product. If the original product is impossible to use, another product should be selected that is as close as possible to it in terms of dimensions, structure, construction form, weight, purpose, etc. While the research test is carried out, the form (shape) of the packaging should be kept unchanged as it is in practice, i.e. it should be properly closed and secured. Before starting the tests, all materials subjected to endurance tests were air-conditioned overnight at 23 ° C and 50% ± 2% relative air humidity, which is important and has a significant impact on the strength of the packaging material. An increase of only 1% in humidity in cardboard packaging causes not only cardboard deformation but above all a 10% loss of its strength. The Edge Crush Test (ECT /) and the drop test were performed. Determining the ECT value is one of the most useful tests for corrugated cardboard packaging. This factor is given in kilonewtons per meter. Another test performed was a drop test that simulates the free fall of the package onto corners, edges and surfaces. Before starting the test, the package is filled with the product intended for it and dropped from a strictly defined height. In this way, the actual transport conditions are simulated. The results obtained from the laboratory tests carried out allow for an objective assessment of the quality of the transport packaging used in the trade of goods. The tests show that over 80% of the tested packaging has passed the required tests with a positive result. The packaging that was subjected to the research did not show any permanent deformations. In the case of cardboard packaging from one of the manufacturers, the negative test result is caused by the insufficient thickness of the packaging walls. These packages should not be placed on the market. Their producers should strive to eliminate the defects of materials that cause insufficient mechanical resistance in their packaging. The resistance of the packaging to static loads should allow the products to be stacked. The moment of inertia of the cross-section, and thus the bending stiffness, increases with the increasing thickness of the cardboard. Practical Implications: During the transport process, the packaging is exposed to several exposures, including climatic, physicomechanical or biological. The results obtained from the packaging strength tests carried out allow for the improvement of the packaging design and production process by manufacturers.
Keywords: Strength, packaging, transport.
ICABEP2022
4th International Conference on Accounting, Business, Economics and Politics
Organized by
Tishk International University, College of Administration and Economics, Salahaddin University-Erbil, and
University of Szczecin, Poland.
