Testing

Testing

Testing is done in two ways:

  1. BCT (Box Compression Test):
    the vertical strength of the trays is tested, to ensure that the trays do not collapse on the pallet, under the weight of the trays above.
  2. Static Bottom Deflection Test:
    bottom stiffness is tested.

Optimization in the supply chain:

CFQ trays are designed in such a way that they fit very well on the pallet. These pallets are stacked to a standard height (2.45 meter, incl pallet) and fit very well within the trucks, which are loaded in an optimal way. In the distribution centers (DC’s) of the retailers, these trays can be handled efficiently and without damage or loss. Different types of trays can be stacked without any problem on the same pallet.

Lower transport costs:

The standarized CFQ system offers an optimal logistic performance. The system therefore contributed to the sustainability targets set by the industry.

A European system:

These advantages do not stop at national borders. All the European CFQ boxes, from Benelux, Italy, Spain, France, UK and Germany, are interstackable. Flexible and efficient transport is now possible throughout Europe. The performance of the CFQ system is guaranteed by FEFCO, the European Organization.

Nicely printed trays promote sales

Printed trays are the perfect branding solution and enables growers, traders and retailers to promote their brand to the consumer. Thanks to an attractive presentation of the trays in the shelves at the point of sales, we contribute to promote the fruits and vegetables and increase turnover and profit.

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Testing of the trays

Pre-Conditioning and Assembly

The assembled trays will be erected either by using hotmelt glue or by manual folding. The assembling is being done according to FEFCO Method nr. 1 (document can be found on the FEFCO website: fefco.org). They are then pre-conditioned at 23°C/50% RH for a period of 48 hours (ISO 2233).

The two following tests are performed on trays carrying the Benelux CFQ mark:

Box Compression Test (BCT):

BCT test is carried out on 6 trays preconditioned
at 23°C/50% RH according to
FEFCO Method nr. 50. Each tray type has
a minimum BCT value that the arithmetic
mean of the 6 replicate results must exceed.
A third party auditor compares each tray
type with the agreed minimum value.

peer en appel

Static Bottom Deflection Test (SBD)

Testing is specified as FEFCO Method nr. 56. Static bottom deflection is compulsory for trays of 600 x 400 mm. This test is also carried out pre-conditioned at 23°C/50% RH.

Each participating company will test bottom deflection using standard equipment. Three samples are tested per tray type following a prescribed procedure:
• The test tray is supported along the two shorter sides.
• A dial gauge micrometer is applied to a 30mm disc placed at the center of the bottom of the test tray and zeroed.
• The tray is filled with dummy load equal to 1.5 times the nominal content weight.
• The load is applied for 10 minutes after which the bottom deflection is measured.
• The value of the maximum permissible deflection has been set at 15 mm.

A programme of ‘round robin’/correlation testing of SBD rigs will be implemented by CBA and the approved auditor; it will be repeated twice a year. For the above tests, the samples are measured in a controlled atmosphere at 23°C and 50% RH, defined by EN 20187 for a minimum of 48 hours before measurement.