The tensile strength and stiffness of a paper are important parameters to analyse the quality and durability of the paper. They also play a crucial role in determining how the paper will perform in certain applications, as they tell a lot about the mechanical properties of the paper. Hence, whether, a paper is suitable for the desired printing, packaging, or other application, can be known using these parameters.
In the following blog, we will learn about these tests, the testers used to evaluate them, and also how they affect the paper quality. So, let’s go.
What is a tensile test?
When performed on a high-quality tensile tester, the test determines the maximum stretch or elongation a paper sample can withstand before it breaks. The test is crucial to understand if the paper is able to endure excess pulling forces when it is put to practical application. A paper with high tensile strength can act more durably during applications and vice versa.
A tensile tester is used to determine the tensile strength of a variety of materials including paper products, tissue, newsprint, packaging paperboard, corrugated board, etc. With a high-quality tensile tester in the paper manufacturing process, manufacturers can reduce production costs and also increase their productivity.
What is a stiffness test?
When performed on a high-quality paper stiffness tester, the test determines the resistance of the paper to bending, when a flexing or bending force is applied. This test is crucial to understand if the paper can maintain its structural integrity as well as shape during handling or other practical applications.
A paper stiffness tester is used to test paper products, packaging materials, and packaging products such as corrugated boxes, cartons, etc. The higher the stiffness, the more durable the box is and the more it can maintain its shape or bear loads during transportation.
In addition to evaluating the durability of the material, the stiffness test and the paper stiffness tester are also useful in determining the paper’s printing effectiveness. High stiffness ensures smooth printing, feeding, and handling, and vice versa.
How Do Tensile & Stiffness Tests Affect The Paper Quality?
The tensile and stiffness test impacts the paper quality in the following manner.
Paper Stiffness test
As the stiffness of the paper is influenced by factors like fibre type and length, fillers, and calendering process, modifications in these factors, can influence the paper quality. Hence, the higher the fibre content and length, the stiffer the paper will be. Also, adjustments in the calendering process, fillers, and moisture content can increase or decrease the paper’s stiffness.
Tensile Strength test
The tensile strength of the paper is highly influenced by the fibre length, bonding between fibres, and the moisture content. Hence, the stronger the fibre bonding, the higher the tensile strength. Hence, manufacturers can increase the paper quality and durability by improving the fibre bonding. This can be done by incorporating mechanical refining, adding fillers, and wet pressing of the fibres.
Wrapping Up
Both the tensile strength and stiffness of the paper play a great role in determining the paper’s quality. During various applications, these properties will help paper and packaging products deliver the desired performance.
To know more about these tests and testers, connect with the experts at UEC. Also, visit the website to send inquiries for investment.