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Paperboard Manual

Gain more knowledge about paperboard as a material, its interdependencies and how it behaves in different conversion methods in our Paperboard Manual.

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The Paperboard Manual contains information about:

  • The paperboard production process and the different types of paperboards.
  • The paperboard converting methods and why paperboard behaves in a certain way in the converting process.
  • The design versatility and durability of paperboard and the immense possibilities of using Holmen paperboard products.

Holmen Board and Paper has, since 1992, collected and shared the foundation of paperboard making in the Paperboard Manual. Our ambition is to give a comprehensive understanding of paperboard production and converting. We want to support professionals within the industry.

Over the years, the manual has been much appreciated, and in addition to its purely professional use within the graphics and packaging industries, the manual also features in courses given by several universities and other third-level educational institutions. Our ambition has been to maintain a high level of factuality and neutrality of information so that the Paperboard Manual will remain a credible reference.  

Access the entire online publication here, or go straight to some of the most-read chapters via the modules below. 

Printing & converting performance

Die-cutting and creasing

When converting paperboard, the die-cutting and creasing operations are usually performed simultaneously. To achieve a consistent, accurate result, it is important to choose the right tools, machine settings, types of paperboard and conditions for the paperboard.

Die-cutting and creasing in practice

Baseboard physical properties

Stiffness

A paperboard’s stiffness is one of the most important properties that paperboard specifiers consider when choosing paperboard. It is particularly important when determining the correct grade of paperboard for packaging applications.

More about stiffness

More about paperboard properties

Creasability and foldability

Learn more about two of the most vital paperboard properties for designing creative shapes and obtaining a carton’s function.

More about creasing & folding

Absorption, setting and drying

If the paperboard is printed or varnished, especially in a high-speed operation, the absorption and drying properties are vital.

Learn more

Complex physical properties

Learn more about complex paperboard physical properties, such as compression strength and tearing resistance.

More paperboard properties

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Holmen produces premium paperboard and innovative paper products suitable for multiple packaging solutions and graphical applications. Conscious customers appreciate our products due to their product properties and low climate impact. We use fresh fibres from sustainably managed forests and have four production facilities in Sweden and the UK. 

Our paperboards are developed for purposeful packaging solutions and graphical applications in sectors including cosmetics, electronics, pharmaceuticals and food. 

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