Understanding Paper Grades for Corrugated Board Production

Paper selection significantly impacts corrugated board quality, cost, and performance. Understanding paper grades helps optimize your packaging specifications.

Linerboard Grades

Kraft Linerboard (Virgin Fiber)

Made from virgin wood pulp

Highest strength and quality

Best print surface

Used for premium packaging and outer facing

Basis weights: 125-440 g/m²

Test Linerboard (Recycled)

Made primarily from recycled fiber (OCC)

Good strength at lower cost

Variable quality depending on source

Suitable for inner liners and general packaging

Basis weights: 112-440 g/m²

White Top Linerboard

White clay-coated surface

Excellent print quality

Used for retail-ready packaging

Premium pricing

Corrugating Medium Grades

Semi-Chemical Medium

Made from hardwood using semi-chemical pulping

Highest flute strength

Best for demanding applications

Recycled Medium

Made from recycled fiber

Lower cost than semi-chemical

Adequate for most applications

Quality varies with recycled content

Selecting the Right Papers

Consider these factors

1. Required Strength: Higher-value products need stronger papers

2. Print Requirements: Quality printing needs smooth surfaces

3. Cost Constraints: Balance performance with budget

4. Adhesive Compatibility: Some papers bond better than others

5. Sustainability Goals: Recycled content requirements

Adhesive Considerations

Different papers may require adhesive adjustments

High-recycled papers: May need higher viscosity adhesive

Coated papers: May resist adhesive penetration

Lightweight papers: Risk of over-penetration

Xuegong adhesives are formulated to work with a wide range of paper grades. Contact us for specific recommendations.