Sutherland Packaging, Inc.

Sutherland Packaging, Inc.

custom packaging and displays
973-786-5141

---Flutes

Ancient Rome Stacks Up	The architects of ancient Rome understood that a properly curved arch is the strongest way to span a given space. It is that same concept (shown at work with the Coliseum at right) that we carefully exploit with our corrugated boxes.

These noble arches (we call them flutes) anchor to sturdy linerboard where they steadfastly resist bending and pressure from all directions. Imagine your corrugated box fully set up. The flutes run top to bottom forming mighty columns -- shoulder to shoulder -- within each of the four vertical walls. These walls are capable of supporting weights many times their own mass.

The same natural fibers supporting the tall shade tree in your front yard are microscopically strung together within the carefully formed flutes and linerboard so that pallets of heavy product can be stacked without collapsing.

	Flutes come in various shapes and profiles. A-flute is the largest common flute profile, B is much smaller, and C -- the most popular flute -- is sized between A and B. E-flute is smaller than B and F-flute is smaller yet. New flute profiles—both larger and smaller than those listed here—are being created for more specialized boards. As a general rule, the larger the flute profile the higher you can stack your cases. And the greater the side shock that can be sustained. Smaller flute profiles are often used to optimize print quality. Flutes can be combined (doublewall and triplewall) to add compression and cushioning strength.

	Our well-schooled crews are careful to dial in a "kiss impression" when printing your boxes to avoid compromising the flutes. We need those flutes in good working order for it is the air chamber beneath the flutes that absorbs the blow of a kick across a dock or the impact of a fall from the tail of a trailer.