The corrugating process involves a set of mechanical devices that are commonly known as corrugators. These machines are instrumental in creating various types of paper products, in particular cardboard. Producing corrugated paper requires adherence to a complex and strict process, and corrugating machines must be frequently inspected and maintained in order to function properly. Despite the fact that corrugating machines appear to be unbelievably complicated, the following information will provide you with the information you need to maintain and understand the inner workings of the corrugation process.
What is a Corrugator?
A corrugator consists of a set of machines, arranged in a line, designed to combine multiple sheets of paper in order to form single or double wall board. The machines achieve this by operating continuously. The reels of paper are placed into the corrugating machine, and the paper is then conditioned with heat and steam. This will give the paper its famous fluted shape before a starch is applied to the tip of the flutes. The paper is then moved down along the various machines in order to create corrugated board – this board is later cut and stacked for shipping.
Main Parts
Corrugator machines consist of two main machines, the reel stand and the splicer. These machines are fed the paper which will later be used to produce cardboard and other corrugated materials. A machine, known as a single facer transforms the paper in a group of connected arches, commonly referred to as flutes. The double backer is the part of the machine that glues the outer lining to the fluting in order to create wallboard. This process involves extensive heating, and moisture levels inside the corrugating machine must be closely monitored.
Lesser Parts
The corrugating machine also consists of a various other, smaller parts. Some of them include:
Hot Plate – Ensures that the machine maintains the ideal amount of moisture.
Rotary Shear – Removes uneven or damaged parts from the corrugated product.
Scorer – Determines the final size and shape of product.
Stacker – Stacks the paper boards in a neat and organized fashion.
Cutting and Packaging
The last stage of the corrugating process involves cutting the final product to the customer’s specifications. There are three types of cutting containers and packaging, and each one requiring precise oversight by professionals. The type of packaging and print has a strong impact on this part of the process.
Final Notes
In short, these machines are an integral aspect of the cardboard production industry. The type of adhesives and additives that you employ can greatly affect the type of product that they produce in the end. Corrugator machines are complex devices, but they enable us to create one of the most commonly used materials in the world.
Keeping your corrugating machine in operating condition requires the right products and a high degree of vigilance. Reach out to a corrugating machine part retailer today and take your cardboard production company to the next level.
