The five types of corrugated flutes are: A flutes, B flutes, C flutes, E flutes, and F flutes. These flutes range in size from 5 millimeters thick to 0.8 millimeters thick. And while it may seem that the flutes are named in order according to size, they are actually named according to when they were invented — with A being the first flute invented and F being the last flute invented.
A Flute
A flute is the thickest corrugated flute available, measuring at about 5 millimeters or ¼ inch in thickness. This means that there are about 36 flutes within a single linear foot of packaging.
An A flute is ideal for fragile items that need extra protection, thanks to extra-thick fluting. This flute is also ideal for heavier items that require a strong packaging structure.
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B Flute
The B flute falls in the mid-range, measuring at about 3.2 millimeters or ⅛ inch in thickness. This means that there are about 49 flutes within a single linear foot of packaging.
The B flute is ideal for inner packaging components as it is crush- and puncture-resistant. This flute is also ideal for printing words, graphics, and logos directly onto the corrugated cardboard.
C Flute
The C is the second-thickest corrugated flute available, measuring about 3.2 millimeters or 11/64 inches in thickness. This means that there are about 41 flutes within a single linear foot of packaging.
A C flute is ideal for shipping boxes as it is also crust-resistant and is not easily compressible. Like B flute, it also provides a good printing surface for branded and marketing materials.
E Flute
The E flute is the second-thinnest corrugated flute, measuring about 1.6 millimeters or 1/16 inch in thickness. This means that there are about 90 flutes within a single linear foot of packaging.
An E flute is ideal for reducing storage space and costs since it is quite thin. This flute is also commonly used for the packaging of consumer goods.
F Flute
The F flute is the thinnest corrugated flute available, measuring at about 0.8 millimeters or 1/32 inch in thickness. This means that there are about 128 flutes within a single linear foot of packaging.
The F flute is ideal for stiff packaging needs for some types of consumer goods.
