The edge crush test (ECT) is the maximum force per unit length that a corrugated board can withstand until failure when subjected to a compressive force parallel to the flutes.

The edge crush resistance (method for unwaxed edges) is determined according to DIN EN ISO 3037. The test of the cut test pieces is carried out on the universal testing machine.

In this test method, two test strips of width 100 mm ± 0.5 mm (length variable, about 200 mm) are cut perpendicular to the shafts. Then cut at least 10 test pieces parallel to the shafts with a width of 25 mm ± 0.5 mm.

The 10 test pieces shall be tested with the shaft "stationary" at a feed rate of the upper plate of 12,5 mm/min until the specimen breaks. 2 guide blocks are used to hold the specimens in a vertical position and are removed when a pre-load of 50 N has been reached.

The maximum force is determined and converted into kN/m and stated. An average value is formed from the 10 individual measurements.