In a perfect world, delivering square and sealed cases to the packaging line would be a simple and repeatable process. But in the real world, there are many variables with the potential to cause unplanned downtime, lost production or damaged product. We’ve identified four areas that, properly addressed, can keep your packaging line operating at capacity and maximize the return on your machinery investment.
The first is corrugated. Although corrugated suppliers work to produce top quality product, off-spec board is a reality. Common defects include misaligned slots, poor score lines, or incorrect or over-glued manufacturer’s joints. Variations in liner board also occur, as all major corrugators inter-ship liner board to conserve freight costs. As a result, cases from a single supplier may have a wide range of porosity, which can affect performance. Another factor is recycled corrugated; a win for sustainability, yet it is important to plan for the effects it may have on your production. Finally, your plant temperature, humidity and warehousing conditions can all affect your corrugated performance.