ISO 9895 Short Span Compression Tester For Paper SCT Test TAPPI T 826

The short-span compression tester (SCT) is a highly specialized instrument used to determine the compressive strength of paper and paperboard over a very small span. As packaging industries increasingly seek stronger yet lighter materials, SCT testing plays a vital role in maintaining structural integrity while reducing raw material usage.

Designed for precise and repeatable testing, the SCT tester is ideal for quality control labs, production lines, and research facilities. Cell Instruments’ SCT-01 Short-Span Compression Tester offers outstanding accuracy, reliability, and full compliance with international testing standards.

What Is the SCT Test?

The SCT (Short-span Compression Test) measures a sample’s compressive strength using a span as short as 0.7 mm, significantly reducing the influence of sample buckling. This results in a more accurate assessment of the internal bonding and fiber structure of paper and paperboard materials.

In a typical test using the SCT-01, a strip of paperboard 15 mm wide is clamped securely between two aligned clamps. The clamps compress the sample until failure occurs, and the maximum compressive force is recorded. The result is displayed in units such as N, N/m, or N·m/g.

This method is especially useful for samples ranging from 100 to 400 g/m² in basis weight and is recognized for its high sensitivity and consistency in determining material strength across machine and cross-machine directions.

International Testing Standards

The effectiveness of a short-span compression tester depends on its adherence to globally recognized standards. The SCT-01 meets the requirements of key protocols, including:

ISO 9895

This international standard outlines procedures for short-span compression testing of paper and board. It defines sample dimensions, testing conditions, and result interpretation to ensure consistency across laboratories.

TAPPI T 826

Commonly used in the North American paper and packaging industry, this TAPPI standard provides detailed guidance on evaluating compressive strength using SCT methodology for containerboard and boxboard.

Additional Standards Supported:

• DIN 54518

• BS 7325

• GB/T 2679.10

• QB/T 2386

Compliance with these standards ensures the SCT-01 delivers internationally accepted results suitable for packaging certification and material development.

Key Features of the SCT-01 Short-Span Compression Tester

Cell Instruments’ SCT-01 has been engineered to deliver both technical excellence and ease of use. Its main features include:

• High-Precision Clamping System
  Upper and lower clamps with 30 mm contact length and clamping force of 2300 ± 500 N ensure firm and accurate sample gripping.

• Wide Testing Range
  Capable of measuring compressive forces from 1 to 500 N, the device is suitable for a broad spectrum of paper and board grades.

• Standard Testing Speed
  Testing is performed at 3 ± 0.1 mm/min, aligning perfectly with ISO and TAPPI guidelines.

• Smart Control Interface
  User-friendly touch screen (HMI) with PLC-based automation ensures streamlined operation.

• Data Output Options
  Built-in micro-printer and optional RS-232 interface enable seamless data recording and report generation.

• Safety Features
  Includes emergency stop functions and overload protection to ensure safe operation during testing.

Main Parameter

Applications Across Industries

The short-span compression tester is widely used in various industries where paperboard strength is critical:

• Packaging and Corrugated Box Manufacturing
  To ensure container strength for stacking and transport.

• Paper Mills and Fiber Research
  For monitoring internal bonding and optimizing fiber blend formulas.

• Product Development and QA Labs
  To compare different formulations and coating effects on board performance.

• Third-Party Testing Labs
  For conducting certification-level tests aligned with international standards.

By implementing SCT testing, companies can ensure their paperboard products meet the mechanical strength demands of logistics, shelf-life, and sustainability goals.

Why Choose Cell Instruments’ SCT-01?

As a trusted manufacturer of material testing instruments, Cell Instruments Co., Ltd. offers high-performance solutions designed for accuracy, compliance, and customization. The SCT-01 short-span compression tester integrates advanced control systems and precision mechanics to support the highest testing standards.

We also offer custom configurations and automation solutions tailored to your specific laboratory or production requirements, helping streamline testing workflows and improve throughput.

Final Thoughts

For packaging and paper manufacturers aiming to guarantee consistent product quality, the short-span compression tester is an essential tool. By providing precise data on compressive strength in compliance with ISO 9895 and TAPPI T 826, the SCT-01 from Cell Instruments empowers users to make informed decisions in product design, material selection, and quality assurance.

Explore how the SCT-01 can support your testing operations today.