Glossary

A

Outer liner
The outer layer of corrugated cardboard. Affects appearance, printability, and stackability.

Spacers
Inserts made of corrugated cardboard or cardboard used to secure and protect the product inside the box.

Self-closing bottom
A pre-glued bottom that closes automatically when the box is erected—ideal for fast packing.

B

B-flute
Fine flute (approx. 3.0 mm high). Good printability; frequently used for retail and shipping packaging.

Burst strength
A measure of the cardboard’s resistance to external pressure (important for stacking).

C

C-wave
Medium wave (approx. 4.0 mm). An excellent balance between cushioning and stability.

D

Double-wall
A combination of two flutes. High stability and cushioning effect for heavy goods.

Digital printing
A printing process that does not require printing plates, ideal for small print runs and customized packaging.

E

E-flute
Very fine flute (approx. 1.5 mm). High-quality appearance, ideal for displays and retail packaging.

F

Folding
Targeted shaping of the corrugated board along the crease lines.

Fefco Code
An international numbering system for classifying packaging types.

G

Counter-creaser
A counter-creaser is a special tool used in corrugated cardboard die-cutting to create precise fold lines (creases).

Gray Cardboard
Solid cardboard without corrugation, often used for blanks or reinforcements.

Basis weight
The weight per unit area of the paper (g/m²). Affects strength and cost.

H

Carry Hole
A punched-out opening for carrying heavy boxes.

Height crease
A crease running along the height of the box, essential for clean edges and precise folding.

I

Inliner
The inner layer of corrugated cardboard; contributes to its stability.

Inlay
Product-specific inner packaging

K

Lamination
The process of bonding corrugated cardboard to film or paper to improve its appearance or functionality.

Edge Crush Strength (ECT)
A measure used to evaluate the stacking stability of cardboard boxes.

L

Liner
The smooth outer layer of corrugated cardboard (inner or outer liner).

M

Microwave
A collective term for very fine waves (E, F, and N waves).

Reusable packaging
Durable packaging designed for repeated use.

N

N-Wave
Extremely fine wave (approx. 0.7 mm). High-quality appearance, minimal cushioning effect.

Groove
A punched-out section or recess for fastening or interlocking.

O

Offset Printing
A high-quality printing process, combined with laminated corrugated cardboard.

P

Cushioning Effect
The ability of corrugated cardboard to absorb shocks and vibrations.

Perforation
Perforation is often combined with creases, slits, and full cuts: creases define the fold line, perforation defines the tear line, and contour cuts create the outer shape.

R

Creasing tool
A tool component that embosses the crease lines into the corrugated cardboard—crucial for clean folding.

Crease break
Damage to the face layer caused by incorrect crease depth or an unsuitable flute combination.

S

Die-cut outline
The shape of the packaging that is die-cut using a tool.

Protective packaging
Packaging designed with a focus on transport safety rather than visual appeal.

Z

Orientation
A counter-direction is used for the crease lines. In this process, a channel is positioned precisely on the counterplate, into which the crease line presses to create clean fold edges without damaging the corrugated board.