SCT-01 Short Span Compression Tester

Short-span compression test (SCT)

ISO 9895, DIN 54518 or TAPPI T 826

In the short-span compression test the compressive strength of paper is determined to ISO 9895, DIN 54518 or TAPPI T 826.

1. Application of Short Span Compression Tester

У "The Short Span Compression Tester is designed to assess the compressive strength of paper and paperboard materials, especially those used in corrugated packaging, containerboard, and linerboard. With an ultra-short test span of just 0.7 mm, this method provides accurate insight into the internal fiber bonding і structural strength of paper products. It’s an essential tool in paper mills, packaging quality control, research labs, and production lines, supporting product development, raw material evaluation, and quality assurance.

The short span compression tester is a paper and paperboard short span compression strength tester designed and developed by our company in accordance with the latest national standard GB/T 2679.10. It is suitable for the production of paper and paperboard for cartons and boxes. Short span compression refers to the maximum compression force per unit width when the paper and paperboard sample begins to break, expressed in kN/m; the short span compression index refers to the short span compression strength divided by the quantitative, expressed in Nm/g. The test principle is: place a 15mm wide sample between two clamps with a spacing of 0.7mm and compress until the sample is broken, measure the maximum short span compression force, and calculate the short span compression strength. Short span compression is the latest international method for evaluating the strength of base paper, and is gradually replacing the ring compression strength RCT, using short span compression force to predict the compression strength of cartons.

2. System Description of Short Span Compression Tester

The Short Span Compression Tester is a precision mechanical testing system equipped with dual motorized clamps that apply compression on the sample over a minimal span. Controlled by a PLC system and operated through a touchscreen interface, the tester automates the clamping, compression, measurement, and data output processes. The instrument is built with robust mechanics, high-accuracy sensors, and safety features for dependable and repeatable testing.

3. Technical Features

• Short Test Span: Measures compressive strength over a 0.7 mm span to reduce buckling influence

• Wide Measurement Range: Suitable for samples with a basis weight from 100 to 400 g/m²

• High Clamping Force: 2300 ± 500 N ensures consistent grip and alignment

• Automated Control: PLC-based operation with HMI for simplified testing workflows

• Real-Time Results: Displays force and strength in N, N/m, or N·m/g

• Multiple Output Options: Built-in micro-printer and optional data interfaces (RS-232/USB)

• Safety Protections: Overload detection and emergency stop function included

Image Title: Short Span Compression Tester for Paper

4. Test Principle

The Short Span Compression Test (SCT) measures the maximum compressive force that a paper or board sample can withstand before failure when compressed across a short 0.7 mm span. This minimal span eliminates the risk of premature buckling, offering a true evaluation of the material’s internal bonding and structural integrity. The force at failure is recorded and used to calculate compressive strength.

5. Test Procedures

• Sample Preparation:
  Cut paperboard strips to standardized dimensions (typically 15 mm wide) with clean, even edges.

• Clamping:
  Place the sample between the upper and lower clamps, automatically aligned for parallel contact.

• Compression Test:
  The clamps move together at a fixed speed (3 ± 0.1 mm/min), compressing the sample until it breaks.

• Result Display:
  The maximum force is measured and displayed automatically. The result may be printed or exported.

• Repeat for Average:
  Perform tests in both machine and cross-machine directions to calculate average strength values.

6. Specifications

7. Standards

The Short Span Compression Tester complies with major international and regional testing standards, including:

• ISO 9895 – Paper and board — Compressive strength — Short-span test

• TAPPI T 826 – Short-span compressive strength of containerboard

• DIN 54518 – German standard for SCT testing

• BS 7325 – British standard for paper compressive strength

• GB/T 2679.10 – Chinese national standard

• QB/T 2386 – Industry standard for packaging paper testing

8. Configuration

Standard Configuration:

• Main SCT testing unit

• Built-in micro-printer

• Power cable and operation manual

Optional Accessories:

• RS-232 or USB data output module

• Calibration weight set

• Sample cutting guide or template

• Thermal printer paper

9. FAQs

Q1: What types of paper are suitable for SCT testing?
A1: The SCT tester is ideal for linerboard, corrugated base paper, whiteboard, and packaging paper with basis weights from 100 to 400 g/m².

Q2: Why is the test span set to 0.7 mm?
A2: The ultra-short span prevents the sample from buckling during testing, allowing accurate measurement of compressive strength based purely on material properties.

Q3: How many tests should be performed for reliable results?
A3: At least 5 tests in both machine and cross-machine directions are recommended to obtain statistically meaningful averages.

Q4: Is the tester easy to operate for beginners?
A4: Yes, the touchscreen interface and automatic clamping make it user-friendly, even for operators with minimal training.

Q5: Can the tester export data for analysis?
A5: Yes, data can be printed directly or exported through optional RS-232 or USB interfaces for digital processing.

If you have purchase needs, please contact us і Cell Instruments will give you satisfactory products.

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