Large archival boxes

Karen Potje <kpotje [at] cca__qc__ca> writes

>At the Canadian Centre for Architecture we use large boxes made of
>acid-free corrugated cardboard (Interior dimensions 49" x 37" x 3")
>to store certain collections of flat oversize archival documents on
>open shelves.
>...
>Can anyone suggest another material which can be used to make these
>large boxes affordable.  Can anyone suggest a method of engineering
>a large corrugated plastic box to make it sturdy?  And does anyone
>have comments on the use of corrugated plastic for housings for
>artworks.  (Are there problems with dust?  Sharp edges? The
>pronounced corrugated texture, compared to that of the paper
>product?  Some awful thing I haven't even thought of?)

I have used two different manufacturers for creating oversize fluted
polypropylene boxes (24 X 36 inch for wedding gowns, and an even
larger 36 X 36 inch box and lid for a collection of ballet
costumes). Coroplast boxes can be an adventure--they must be made of
the correct thickness for rigidity, and proper scoring and cutting
can be dicey on the heavier weights. I have returned product for
remanufacturing more than once.

However, I would strongly advise Karen to find another manufacturer
and get a second opinion. Manufacturers of shipping boxes seem to
have a limited vision of design possibilities--they are hooked on
lowest price, fast assembly of the finished box, and quick delivery.
(Their regular customers demand this.) Don't forget, a museum order
is "small potatoes" to a company supplying boxes for commercial
applications. I don't see why adequately rigid boxes cannot be made
if a little imagination is used. (extra bottom panels, etc.) Try
again!

Jerry Shiner
Keepsafe Systems
800-683-4696


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 14:2
                  Distributed: Thursday, June 29, 2000
                        Message Id: cdl-14-2-008
                                  ***