Cell size is the width of one hexagon in the paper core, and we offer 4, 6, 8 and 10 mm. It is the quiet specification: two boards of the same thickness and the same facing can behave very differently because one has twice as many cell walls under the surface. Cell size sets the density of support points, the smoothness of the face and how the board behaves when it is cut.
What a smaller cell actually gives you
More walls per square metre means more support under the facing, so the surface stays flatter under a point load and the board feels harder under a thumb. That is why a 4 mm cell is chosen for die-cut components, door cores and anything with a slot or a fixing.
It also gives a cleaner cut edge. A large cell leaves a more open edge with visible voids, which matters when the edge is exposed or when the component is inspected.
Specification at a glance
The four available cell sizes cover most work. The table shows where each one is normally specified.
| Cell | Support points | Typical use | Avoid |
|---|
| 4 mm | Highest | Door cores, dividers, die-cut parts | Cheapest large-area fill |
| 6 mm | High | Pallet pads, box walls, general | Soft conforming liners |
| 8 mm | Medium | Cushioning liners, curved faces | Slots and fixings |
| 10 mm | Lowest | Void fill, light separation, display | Any load-bearing edge |
When the larger cell is the better answer
A 8 or 10 mm cell uses less paper per square metre, so it is lighter and cheaper at the same thickness. Where the board is only separating tiers, filling a void or forming a display face, that is the right trade.
The larger cell also conforms slightly more, which helps on a curved appliance front. It is the wrong choice wherever a slot, a screw or a hinge has to hold.
Measuring a cell, and the tolerance question
Cell size is a nominal figure measured across the cell opening after expansion. Because the core is expanded paper, the figure varies slightly across a sheet and between sheets, and that variation is normal.
If a component depends on an exact cell pitch, for example a die-cut lattice, send the drawing and we will check the layout against the available cells rather than promise a pitch the core cannot hold.
Questions buyers ask before ordering
What cell sizes do you offer?
4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm as standard on our lines.
Does a smaller cell make the board stronger?
It gives more support points and a harder surface. Overall performance still depends on thickness, facing grammage and bonding.
Can I mix cell sizes in one order?
Yes, they are separate specifications and are quoted separately.
How is cell size measured?
Nominally across the cell opening after expansion. Slight variation across a sheet is normal for an expanded paper core.
Which cell for a die-cut divider?
4 mm, because the slot walls need density to stay square.
For a quotation, post the product dimensions, load and destination port to mona@hengnicepacking.com.
