Box Compression Tester

Introduction: 

A box compression tester (BCT) measures the maximum compressive force a corrugated box or other shipping container can withstand before buckling or collapsing. This test is critical for determining the stacking strength of boxes, which is vital for safe and efficient warehousing and transportation of goods.

Types of Product: 

• Manual BCT: Hand-operated for applying load.
• Motorized BCT: Uses an electric motor for controlled load application.
• Digital BCT: Features digital display of force and deformation, often with graphical output and data logging.
• Computerized BCT: Advanced models with software for test programming, data analysis, and reporting.

Applications, Technology in Various Industries: 

• Packaging Industry: Primary application for quality control of corrugated boxes, ensuring they meet specified stacking strength requirements for various products and shipping conditions.
• Food & Beverage: Ensuring packaging can withstand the weight of stacked goods in warehouses and during transport.
• Logistics & Shipping: Optimizing pallet configurations and storage density.
• Manufacturing: Evaluating and improving box designs for different products.
• Technology: Load cell for force measurement, high-precision linear encoder or LVDT for displacement measurement, rigid platen system for uniform load distribution, servo motor for controlled compression speed, robust frame to prevent deflection, and software for test execution, data acquisition (force-deformation curve), and analysis (e.g., calculating stack height).

Material Selection Considerations: 

• Load Frame: Heavy-duty, rigid steel to prevent deflection under high compressive loads.
• Platens: Thick, flat, hardened steel or aluminum plates to ensure uniform load distribution across the box surface.
• Lead Screws/Ball Screws: High-strength steel for precise movement and load transmission.
• Load Cell: Stainless steel or alloy steel with strain gauges.