Blister cardboard, a widely used packaging material, combines the protective qualities of blister packaging with the strength and printability of cardboard. As a blister cardboard supplier, I'm excited to share the detailed process of how blister cardboard is made. Understanding this process can help our customers appreciate the quality and craftsmanship behind our products and make more informed decisions when choosing packaging solutions.
Raw Material Selection
The first step in making blister cardboard is selecting the appropriate raw materials. For the cardboard component, high - quality paper pulp is crucial. The pulp can be sourced from various types of wood, such as softwood or hardwood, or from recycled paper. Softwood pulp provides long fibers, which contribute to the strength of the cardboard, while hardwood pulp offers a smoother surface for printing. Recycled paper pulp is an environmentally friendly option that can reduce the cost of production without sacrificing too much on quality.
The blister part is typically made from thermoplastic materials, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polypropylene (PP). PVC is a popular choice due to its flexibility, transparency, and good barrier properties against moisture and oxygen. PET is known for its high strength, clarity, and recyclability, making it suitable for food and pharmaceutical packaging. PP is lightweight, has good chemical resistance, and is often used in applications where heat resistance is required.
Cardboard Manufacturing
Once the paper pulp is selected, it goes through a series of processes to become cardboard. The pulp is first mixed with water to form a slurry, which is then fed onto a moving wire screen in a paper machine. As the water drains through the screen, the fibers start to bond together, forming a continuous sheet of paper. This sheet is then pressed and dried to remove excess water and increase its density.
After drying, the paper may undergo additional treatments, such as calendering, to improve its smoothness and gloss. Calendering involves passing the paper through a series of rollers under high pressure, which compresses the fibers and gives the paper a uniform surface. The cardboard can also be coated with a thin layer of clay or other materials to enhance its printability and moisture resistance.
Blister Forming
The thermoplastic material for the blister is supplied in the form of sheets or rolls. The blister forming process typically uses a thermoforming machine. First, the plastic sheet is heated to a specific temperature, making it soft and pliable. The heated sheet is then placed over a mold, which has the shape of the desired blister. A vacuum is applied to draw the plastic sheet into the mold, conforming it to the shape of the mold cavity.
Once the plastic has cooled and solidified, the excess material around the blister is trimmed off. The blisters can be formed in various shapes and sizes, depending on the product they are intended to hold. For example, blisters for small electronic components may be very precise and have a tight fit, while blisters for larger consumer products may be more spacious.
Combining Blister and Cardboard
After the cardboard and blisters are manufactured separately, they are combined to form blister cardboard. There are several methods for joining the blister to the cardboard. One common method is heat sealing, where the blister and the cardboard are heated at the contact points and then pressed together. The heat melts a thin layer of the plastic on the blister, creating a strong bond with the cardboard.
Another method is using adhesives. Adhesives can provide a reliable bond between the blister and the cardboard, especially when heat sealing is not suitable. The adhesive is applied to either the blister or the cardboard, and then the two components are pressed together until the adhesive dries and cures.
Printing and Finishing
Once the blister and cardboard are combined, the blister cardboard can be printed with product information, branding, and other graphics. Printing can be done using various techniques, such as offset printing, flexographic printing, or digital printing. Offset printing is a high - quality printing method that is suitable for large - volume production, while flexographic printing is more cost - effective for smaller runs and can be used on a variety of substrates. Digital printing offers the advantage of short setup times and the ability to print variable data, such as barcodes and serial numbers.
After printing, the blister cardboard may go through finishing processes, such as die - cutting, to cut it into the desired shape and size. Die - cutting involves using a sharp metal die to cut through the cardboard and blister, creating a precise outline. The blister cardboard can also be laminated with a protective film to enhance its durability and appearance.
Quality Control
Throughout the manufacturing process, strict quality control measures are in place to ensure that the blister cardboard meets the required standards. The raw materials are inspected for their quality and properties before use. During the cardboard and blister manufacturing processes, the thickness, density, strength, and other physical properties of the materials are monitored regularly.
The finished blister cardboard is also subjected to various tests, such as seal strength testing, drop testing, and puncture resistance testing. Seal strength testing measures the force required to separate the blister from the cardboard, ensuring that the seal is strong enough to hold the product securely. Drop testing simulates the impact that the packaging may experience during transportation and handling, and the blister cardboard should be able to protect the product from damage. Puncture resistance testing checks the ability of the blister and cardboard to resist punctures, which is important for protecting the product from sharp objects.
Our Products
At our company, we offer a wide range of blister cardboard products to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Our SengFeng BlisterCardboard Blister Packaging For Toothbrushes is designed specifically for toothbrush packaging. It provides excellent protection for the toothbrush, while the clear blister allows the product to be easily visible to consumers. The cardboard is printed with attractive graphics and product information, helping to enhance the brand image.
Our Senfeng High Quality Blister Cardboard is made from premium raw materials and undergoes strict quality control. It is suitable for a variety of products, including electronics, toys, and cosmetics. The blister is formed with high precision, ensuring a perfect fit for the product, and the cardboard has good printability and strength.
We also offer Highly Resistant To Pressure Laminated White Thick Paper Cardstock 1000 GSM For Scrapbooking. This thick cardboard is ideal for scrapbooking and other craft applications. It is highly resistant to pressure, making it durable and long - lasting. The laminated surface provides a smooth and glossy finish, which is perfect for printing and decorating.
Contact Us for Procurement
If you are interested in our blister cardboard products or have any questions about our manufacturing process, please feel free to contact us. We are committed to providing high - quality products and excellent customer service. Our team of experts can help you choose the right blister cardboard solution for your specific needs and provide you with a competitive quote. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, we have the capacity and expertise to meet your packaging requirements.
References
- "Packaging Materials and Technology" by John A. Robertson
- "Thermoforming Handbook" by P. K. Mallick
- "Paper and Board Packaging Technology" by David A. Roisum