The manufacturing processes of tissue paper, cardboard, and printing paper differ significantly due to their specific functional requirements, raw materials, and production methods. Below is a breakdown of how these products are made and how their processes vary:

1. Tissue Paper Manufacturing

Tissue paper is lightweight, soft, and absorbent, requiring specialized processes to achieve these properties.

Key Steps:

  1. Pulp Preparation:
    • Raw Materials: Virgin wood pulp (softwood or hardwood), recycled fiber, or a mix.
    • Pulping: The raw materials are pulped and refined to achieve the desired softness and absorbency.
    • Bleaching: Pulp is often bleached for whiteness and cleanliness, especially for hygiene products.
  2. Paper Formation:
    • Thin Sheet Formation: The pulp is diluted with water to form a slurry, then spread onto a fine mesh to create a thin layer.
    • Drying: Hot air or steam is used to remove water quickly while preserving the softness.
  3. Creping Process:
    • A doctor blade scrapes the paper off a drying cylinder (Yankee dryer), creating a crinkled texture that improves softness and flexibility.
  4. Conversion:
    • The dried tissue paper is wound into jumbo rolls and converted into smaller rolls, sheets, or folded tissue products.

Distinct Features:

  • Low basis weight.
  • High porosity for absorbency.
  • Creping process for softness.

2. Cardboard Manufacturing

Cardboard is thick, strong, and designed for durability, making its manufacturing process more robust.

Key Steps:

  1. Pulp Preparation:
    • Raw Materials: A high proportion of recycled fiber, kraft paper pulp, or virgin hardwood pulp for strength.
    • Pulping: Recycled fibers are cleaned and processed to remove contaminants.
  2. Layer Formation:
    • Multi-Layered Construction: Cardboard typically consists of multiple layers:
      • Linerboard: Outer layers for smoothness and strength.
      • Corrugated Medium: Inner fluted layer for rigidity and cushioning.
  3. Corrugation Process:
    • The fluted medium is formed by passing the paper through heated rollers.
    • Adhesive is applied to the peaks of the flutes, and the linerboards are bonded to form a sandwich structure.
  4. Cutting and Shaping:
    • The cardboard sheets are cut and shaped into desired sizes for boxes or packaging.

Distinct Features:

  • High thickness and durability.
  • Multi-layer construction with fluted core.
  • Heavy use of recycled materials for cost-efficiency.

3. Printing Paper Manufacturing

Printing paper requires a smooth surface, consistent weight, and the ability to accept ink without smudging.

Key Steps:

  1. Pulp Preparation:
    • Raw Materials: High-quality virgin fibers (hardwood for smoothness and uniformity) or recycled fibers.
    • Refining: Fibers are beaten to the desired length and consistency to achieve smoothness and printability.
    • Additives: Fillers like calcium carbonate or clay are added to improve brightness, opacity, and smoothness.
  2. Sheet Formation:
    • The pulp slurry is spread evenly onto a moving wire mesh to form a thin sheet.
    • Water is removed by pressing and suction processes.
  3. Drying:
    • The paper passes through a series of heated rollers to remove moisture and achieve the desired thickness.
  4. Coating and Finishing:
    • Coated Paper: A layer of mineral or polymer coating is applied for gloss or matte finishes.
    • Calendering: The paper is pressed between heavy rollers to enhance smoothness and uniform thickness.
  5. Cutting and Packaging:
    • The finished paper is cut into standard sizes, such as A4 or rolls, and packaged.

Distinct Features:

  • Smooth, uniform surface.
  • High opacity for print clarity.
  • Coatings for specialized finishes (e.g., glossy or matte).

Conclusion

Each type of paper product is tailored to its specific application, resulting in distinct manufacturing processes. Tissue paper focuses on softness and absorbency, cardboard prioritizes strength and durability, and printing paper emphasizes smoothness and printability. Despite their differences, advancements in recycling and sustainable practices are becoming common across all types of paper production.