Open Source Simulation for Compression Analysis of Corrugated Boards

In the packaging industry, corrugated boards are widely used due to many factors like biodegradability, a high strength-to-weight ratio, and also ease of manufacturing. In this study, the finite element analysis of corrugated cardboards under the flat compression test was performed using the open source FEA software Salome-meca. A corrugated board consists of a flute sandwiched between a top and bottom liner. This study was performed with the help of Python scripting in order to iteratively perform many studies by varying the geometric shape of the flute. The pressure distribution along the top and the bottom liner was analyzed. The load–deflection curve for the corrugated cardboard was also analyzed as a part of this study. The boundary condition and the loading condition were chosen in such a way as to correctly represent the situation in real life using the flat crush test in the lab. The contact zone was identified a priori and defined during the preparation of the study. Finally, Code-Aster (the solver utilized by Salome-Meca) was used to solve the finite element solution to the problem.