THICKNESS OF PAPER AND PAPERBOARD
Introduction
Thickness is defined as the perpendicular distance between the two principal surfaces of
paper or paperboard as measured under specified conditions. The accurate determination of
thickness requires an instrument of high precision that is correctly calibrated and used in a careful
manner.
Significance
Thickness is an important property of most grades of paper and paperboard as it affects
density, air resistance, rigidity and many other important properties. For many end use requirements,
a low level of thickness variation is necessary in addition to meeting the average thickness specified.
The thickness of book paper controls the thickness of the finished book and also affects the opacity.
The electrical insulation efficiency of capacitor paper is directly related to the square of the
thickness. Newsprint, linerboard, tabulating cards, blotting paper, printing papers, and many other
paper grades require thickness uniformity for subsequent processing or performance.
Method of Test
The thickness is measured in a micrometer between two circular and parallel plane surfaces
(about 0.25 in2 ) under a steady pressure of 7.10  0.15 psi. Extremely thin papers are measured
using a specimen of several sheets between the micrometer surfaces. For some paper and
paperboard, a single sheet is employed.
The pressure foot of the micrometer automatically lifts up and comes down on an inserted
sample. During the upstroke of the instrument, the sample is placed between the jaws of the
micrometer. Wait for the pressure foot to come down and quickly make a reading just before it lifts
up again. The thickness reading is affected by the moisture content of the sample so the test shall be
made on samples and in an atmosphere both conditioned according to TAPPI standards.
Test Specimens
From each sample, cut ten sheets at least 40 mm x 120 mm. Cut the strips so that the longer
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dimension is in the cross direction. Board samples only need one sheet for this test. For hand sheet
testing, use entire hand sheet, five sheets thick. For board, use one sheet.
Test Procedures (T 411)
Before using the micrometer, make sure the pressure foot and anvil surfaces are clean. There
is a soft bristle paintbrush located beside the micrometer that can be used to brush the dust off. After
the pressure foot and anvil are clean allow the instrument to make two more cycles. On the left side
of the machine is a knob that when turned will line the indicating pointer with zero. This has to be
done when the pressure foot is down. After the zero has been checked, place the sheets on the anvil
in such a position that all points on the contact surfaces are at least 6mm from the edges. Measure
the thickness of each stack at ten nonoverlapping intervals. Calculate the average of the intervals
and then divide by the number of sheets in the testing stack.
Report
Report the mean caliper in units of mil (1 mil = 110-3 in) and cm. Also report a 95 %
confidence interval for the mean.
Adjustment and Calibration of the Micrometer
Because of the close tolerances maintained in these instruments, it is difficult for unskilled
personnel to make repairs. It is suggested that the person in charge of the lab be notified of a
problem, and then have it sent off for repairs.
When the instrument is not in use continuously, it should be protected from dirt and other
foreign matter with the dust cover.
Feeler gauges can be used for determining the accuracy of your instrument. The machine
should be calibrated once a month by the person in charge of the lab.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CALIBRATE OR REPAIR THIS MACHINE!
Equipment Information
Precision Dead Weight Micrometer – Model 549M
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Testing Machines, Inc - Margaret Sexton
2910 Expressway Drive South
Islandia, New York 11749
(631) 439-5400
Note
A description of the apparatus can be found in the references.
References
ASTM D 645
TAPPI T 411
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