Military Specification Corrugate
Corrugated (Corrugated Fiberboard)
Corrugated, specifically corrugated fiberboard, is a powerhouse in military packaging due to its exceptional strength and cushioning properties. It’s constructed with a fluted (wavy) layer sandwiched between one or more flat linerboards. This structure creates a lightweight yet incredibly strong material that can withstand significant impact and stacking pressure.
SPECS
Common Applications and Military Specifications:
- Shipping Containers: Corrugated boxes are the standard for shipping a wide array of non-fragile items. Military applications often require weather-resistant or water-resistant grades of corrugated fiberboard.
- Spec: These boxes must conform to standards such as ASTM-D5118, which superseded the older PPP-B-636. Specific grades like V3C (weather-resistant, single-wall) and V11C (weather-resistant, double-wall) are frequently cited for their durability and protection against environmental factors.
- Ammunition & Ordnance: Specialized corrugated boxes, often with custom inserts, are used for the safe transport of ammunition and other ordnance.
- Spec: Packaging for these items is often governed by MIL-STD-2073, which defines the packaging and preservation methods for military materiel. This standard dictates not only the container but also specific preservation methods, such as the use of barrier materials (e.g., MIL-B-121) to prevent moisture or corrosion.
- Protective Inserts: Molded or die-cut corrugated inserts are crucial for holding sensitive equipment in place within a larger container, preventing movement and damage.
- Spec: The use and construction of these inserts are defined under the larger umbrella of MIL-STD-2073, with specific details often provided in the contract or technical data for the item being packaged.
Primary Material and Container Specifications
- ASTM-D5118: This is a key standard that has largely superseded older federal specifications. It covers the requirements for corrugated and solid fiberboard shipping boxes. Within this standard, specific grades are defined for military use:
- V3C: A weather-resistant, single-wall corrugated fiberboard with a bursting strength of around 400 PSI. It is designed for covered outdoor storage, long-term inventory, and high-humidity environments.
- W5C: A weather-resistant, single-wall corrugated fiberboard with a lower bursting strength (around 275 PSI) compared to V3C.
- V11C: A weather-resistant, double-wall corrugated fiberboard with a higher bursting strength (around 600 PSI), used for heavier or more sensitive items.
- ASTM-D5168: A standard for triple-wall corrugated containers, used for very heavy or bulky items where exceptional stacking strength and impact resistance are required.
- PPP-B-636: This is an older, now-superseded federal specification for fiberboard boxes. It is still commonly referenced in older contracts or by name, though the technical requirements are now largely met by ASTM-D5118.
- PPP-B-1672: This specification covers “Fast Packs,” which are often made with corrugated and foam, and are designed for rapid packing and deployment.