Sizes Of Corrugated Box Fluting
Corrugated box fluting comes in different sizes and varieties to be used for different applications. But generally, the larger the flute (A & B profiles) the greater the strength and cushioning. And the smaller the flute (D & E profiles) the better the printability and foldability.
A-Flute - This is the original fluting for corrugated boxes. With about 36 flutes per foot, it can be used for a double wall application or thick corrugated pad.
B-Flute - Primarily used for canned goods packaging, the B flute provides the second highest arch size at about 49 flutes per foot. Because of its good stacking strength and crushing resistance, some common uses are for food packaging, retail packaging, POP (point of purchase) displays, die cut inserts, and customized print packaging.
C-Flute - This is the most commonly used corrugated box flute. As an all-purpose flute, the C flute has about 41 flutes per foot and provides good cushioning, stacking and printing properties. Some common packaging uses include shipping cartons, master shippers and corrugated box displays.
E-Flute - The E flute is the second most commonly used corrugated box. E flutes are an environmentally friendly substitute for green packaging compared to printed folding cartons. At about 90 flutes per foot, it is also used to print high quality direct print graphics compared to its counterparts. Common uses include retail packaging, printed corrugated box packaging, POP packaging, and those looking for eco-friendly packaging.
F-Flute - This small, tighter flute is also an environmentally friendly replacement to folding cartons. At about 128 flutes per foot, the F flute will offer a very high-value look and provide packaging with solid structural integrity. Common uses include custom printed boxes, printed corrugated boxes, retail packaging and POP displays.