Is Edge Crush Test & Bursting Strength Test Different?

Packaging boxes are primarily chosen for their lightweight and durability. Moreover, they are a cost-effective option too, especially for small-scale businesses. While the property of being lightweight is obvious with paper packaging, its durability is essentially evaluated to match the requirements of businesses.

To cater to the requirements of businesses, paper/packaging manufacturers perform mandatory tests, which are the edge crush test and bursting strength test. While some believe these tests to be the same, they are actually different and test different characteristics of the paper packaging. Let us understand about that in the following section.

Meaning & Usage

Edge Crush Test

Evaluated using an Edge Crush Tester, the crush test determines the pressure/force/strength required to deform the packaging box. The test is performed on the corrugated sheet or corrugated fiber sheet, which is then used to make the corrugated/packaging box. 

Bursting Strength Test

Determined using a Bursting Strength Tester, the bursting strength test tells about the pressure/force/strength required to break/rupture the corrugated box. The test is performed on the corrugated fiber sheet, which is used to make the corrugated/packaging box. 

When the test is chosen?

Packaging manufacturers determine the selection of tests primarily on the basis of the box’s application. 

Edge Crush Test

Manufacturers choose this test when they are aware of the possibility of excessive pressure/force on the box during both storage and transportation.

Bursting Strength Test

On the other hand, manufacturers opt for this test, when they are aware of the possibility of the box getting damaged due to its packed contents during both storage and transportation. 

While some manufacturers prefer to opt for both tests to fully evaluate the durability of the corrugated fiber sheets, it is not necessary to choose both. As mentioned earlier, the choice is based on the application of the box, plus, also the environments it will come across. Both the tests give precise results when high-quality testers are used for evaluation.

If you’re looking to invest in high-performance testing instruments for corrugated fiber sheets and boxes, get in touch with the experts at UEC.