Fiber Preparation: The process begins with the preparation of fibers. Cellulose fibers are the primary material used in airlaid napkin paper production. These fibers can come from various sources, including wood pulp, fluff pulp, or other natural fibers.
Fiber Opening: The prepared fibers are fed into a machine that opens and loosens them. This helps to ensure the fibers are evenly distributed and ready for the next steps.
Air-Laying: In this step, the opened fibers are airlaid onto a moving belt or conveyor. The airlaid process utilizes air streams to disperse the fibers onto the surface, creating a randomly oriented fiber web. The distribution of fibers is controlled to achieve the desired basis weight and thickness of the airlaid material.
Bonding: To give the airlaid material strength and cohesion, bonding agents are added. These bonding agents can be in the form of latex or other resins. The material is passed through a curing oven to activate and set the bonding agents, creating a solid structure within the airlaid web.
Embossing (Optional): Some airlaid napkin paper products may go through an embossing process to add texture or patterns to the material. This step can also enhance the softness and absorbency of the finished product.
Cutting and Folding: After the airlaid web is formed and bonded, it is cut into the desired size and shape for napkins. If needed, the napkins can be folded to the desired configuration, such as quarter-fold or half-fold.
Packaging: The finished airlaid napkins are then packaged and prepared for distribution and sale.
The airlaid process provides several advantages for napkin production, such as high absorbency, softness, and bulkiness. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of premium-quality napkins, as well as in various other absorbent hygiene products like disposable towels, sanitary napkins, and adult incontinence products.
