Some basic information about the SCT Test (Short Span Compression Test).

1. Definition and Basic Principle of SCT Test

The Short-Span Compression Test (SCT) is a testing method used to determine the compression strength of corrugated board and paper-based materials. Unlike traditional tests such as RCT (Ring Crush Test), ECT (Edge Crush Test), and CMT (Concora Medium Test), SCT operates on the principle of short-span compression.

Working Principle of the SCT Test

  • The test sample is cut to standardized dimensions.

  • The sample is placed in the compression test device.

  • The sample is subjected to a vertical compressive force.

  • The maximum compression strength and compression index of the sample are calculated and reported.

2. Standards Used in the SCT Test

ISO 9895 - International Standard

ISO 9895 is one of the most widely used international standards for testing the compression strength of paper and board materials.

  • Requires test samples to be of standardized dimensions.

  • Mandates that samples be tested within a specific pressure range.

  • Aims to achieve repeatable and verifiable test results.

DIN 54518 - European Standards

DIN 54518 is an SCT test standard established by the German Institute for Standardization (Deutsches Institut für Normung) and is widely used in Europe.

  • Specifies that test devices must meet certain mechanical precision requirements.

  • Requires that samples be tested under specified environmental conditions.

  • Is widely applied in industrial quality control practices.

TAPPI T 826 - North American Standards

Defined by TAPPI (Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry), TAPPI T 826 is a test method widely used in the paper industry in the USA and Canada.

  • Used to test the vertical compression resistance of paper.

  • Plays a critical role in determining the packaging durability of cardboard and paper boxes.

  • Requires specific sample preparation procedures to enhance test precision and repeatability.

3. Advantages and Benefits of the SCT Test

  • Provides precise measurements – Delivers more accurate and repeatable results compared to traditional tests.
  • Ensures cost-effectiveness – Allows paper and board manufacturers to optimize costs.
  • Facilitates standard-compliant quality control – Ensures consistent quality in manufacturing.
  • Improves packaging durability – Enables the design of stronger boxes and packaging materials.
  • Environmentally friendly – Supports sustainable solutions by minimizing raw material usage.

4. Industrial Applications of the SCT Test

The SCT test is widely used in the following industries:

  • Corrugated Board and Packaging Industry – To produce more durable and high-quality boxes.
  • Paper and Board Manufacturing – For quality control processes in cardboard and paper production.
  • Logistics and Storage Sector – To optimize the durability of packaging materials.

Conclusion

The SCT test is a crucial quality control method for corrugated board, paper, and cardboard manufacturers. Conducted in compliance with ISO 9895, DIN 54518, and TAPPI T 826 standards, this test ensures durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

This test is widely used in the packaging industry, paper sector, and logistics to provide companies with more efficient and high-quality production processes.