Edge protection angles made of solid cardboard or plastic – a comparison
During transport or storage, edges can become damaged. Therefore, it's important that sensitive products, in particular, have reliable protection. Edge protectors offer the perfect solution. They protect boxes and stabilize pallets, providing optimal security for sensitive goods. Edge protectors are available in several different materials. We focus on solid cardboard and plastic edge protectors. Both options offer advantages and disadvantages. This article explains how these two options differ and which is the better choice.
What is an edge protection angle?
An edge protector is a sturdy, L-shaped protective strip. It can be applied to the corners and edges of various products. The goal is to prevent damage during transport or storage. Edge protectors are usually made of solid cardboard or plastic. By using these protectors, the pressure is evenly distributed across the edge. Impacts and friction are no longer a problem. They also increase stability when stacking on pallets.
In general, edge protectors are designed to secure products. They are effective and versatile in their application. They are also easy to use.
Why is edge protection so important?
This question is easy to answer: Edge protectors protect exactly what's important to you. It can happen again and again that packages hit something during transport or storage. Without protection, the edges are quickly damaged. Not only does the package look unsightly, but the product inside can also be damaged. Edge protectors distribute the pressure and prevent dents.
If you want your package to arrive safely at its destination, you should definitely equip it with edge protectors. Especially when it comes to delicate goods, edge protectors are a must. With the right edge protectors, you can save yourself complaints, costs, and a lot of hassle. It's a small investment with a big impact!
Edge protection angles made of solid cardboard – properties and advantages
Solid board edge protectors are a popular choice in many industries. They combine stability with sustainability. They are also very easy to use. Anyone who values an environmentally friendly packaging solution cannot ignore solid board edge protectors. They are easy to attach and offer outstanding protection. They can also be easily disposed of after use. You can use solid board edge protectors in storage, on pallets, or even for shipping. Solid board offers several advantages that quickly become apparent in everyday life. Here are some of them:
100% recyclable
stable and pressure-resistant
light and flexible
easy to dispose of
good value for money
They are ideal for light to medium-weight goods. They are also very easy to cut and adjust. Another advantage is that custom sizes are also available. Solid cardboard edge protectors protect your products without adding weight. The areas of application are endless.
Plastic edge protection angles – properties and advantages
Plastic edge protectors are also frequently used. They are very durable and retain their shape even in wet conditions. This is especially useful for heavy products. However, it's important to be aware that plastic edge protectors also have a few disadvantages. For example, plastic is not biodegradable. This means that disposal is much more complex. Furthermore, their production consumes a lot of energy.
In addition, plastic edge protectors are often stiff. This can be a problem for delicate or lighter products. Nevertheless, we have summarized some of the advantages of plastic edge protectors for you:
durable
water and weather resistant
high shock resistance
reusable
no deformation
Plastic is particularly suitable for heavy products. They are also reliable for outdoor use.
Sustainability in comparison – edge protection angles made of solid cardboard vs. plastic
Sustainability plays an important role these days. Companies are also focusing on environmentally friendly solutions when it comes to packaging. The materials used for edge protectors vary significantly in this area.
Solid cardboard – environmentally friendly and recyclable
When it comes to an environmentally friendly solution, solid board is ideal. It is almost always made from recycled waste paper. Minimal energy is used in its production. It can be easily reused after use. Solid board can even be composted. The material is completely biodegradable, meaning it leaves no harmful waste behind. For companies committed to sustainability, solid board edge protectors are the perfect choice.
Plastic – durable, but not biological
While plastic lasts a long time, it has significant disadvantages. Without a return system, it ultimately becomes hazardous waste. Its production also consumes a lot of energy, which places a significant burden on our environment. While plastic can be reused multiple times, it still remains far less environmentally friendly than solid cardboard.
Which edge protection for which application?
The intended use plays an important role in the choice of material. A solid cardboard edge protector is perfect for dry storage conditions. It is also the perfect choice for long-distance transport and single-use packaging. This type of edge protector is often used for light to medium-weight goods.
A plastic edge protector is often used in damp and wet environments. Plastic is optimal for repeated use. This type of edge protector is also increasingly used for heavier products.
Solid cardboard vs. plastic edge protection angles - processing and handling
Not only the material itself is important. Handling is also important. It's obviously advantageous if the edge protection can be installed quickly and easily. In everyday life, every minute counts. Flexibility is paramount. Some solutions are easier to adapt to different products. Others require more planning and precise measurements.
Solid cardboard handling:
Solid cardboard angles can be attached quickly and easily
they are very light in weight
Plastic angles made of solid cardboard have a high degree of flexibility
Angles can be attached additionally
these angles have a very good hold
Plastic in handling
Plastic angles are stable, but also more rigid
they cannot be bent
it always depends on the exact size
If necessary, a knob structure can provide better grip
The price-performance comparison
Price also plays an important role when purchasing edge protectors made of solid cardboard or plastic. Compared to plastic, solid cardboard is usually cheaper. This can be worthwhile, especially if you need to purchase larger quantities. Plastic is somewhat more expensive. Be sure to weigh the costs before purchasing. Also consider disposal or recycling.
Summary – the most important differences at a glance
Both materials have different properties. The following overview shows the most important differences side by side, making the decision easier.
| Material | recyclable | PE or PP |
| Environmental friendliness | very high | medium |
| Resilience | medium | medium |
| Water resistance | medium | high |
| Reusable | in some cases, yes | medium |
| Price | cheap | high |
| Areas of application | light to medium-heavy goods | heavy goods |
Which material you choose depends on your individual requirements. While plastic offers good stability, it is not as flexible as solid cardboard. It also lags behind solid cardboard in terms of environmental friendliness. Solid cardboard edge protectors are very easy to process. They last a long time and offer the necessary strength. If you want to be environmentally friendly and save money at the same time, solid cardboard edge protectors are also a better option.