Problem Summary

In the production of tissue paper, softness is one the key attributes to improving the marketability of the final product.  Consistent production of soft tissue is the key in ensuring production; sales and cost targets are met.  If softness is not consistent then there can be problems such as:

Reduced sales and market share
Increased production costs due to the downgrading of tissue to a lower specification product
The need to use higher quality and cost pulps to achieve the required softness, again resulting in increased costs
Excessive use of chemicals in an attempt to increase softness but which may be working against each other

Recommended Solution

Softness improvement should be an integrated approach to ensure all manufacturing processes are optimized.

Hercules offers a system of steps that lead to improve softness:

1. Crepetrol® Creping Technology in conjunction with the appropriate Rezosol® Release and/or Rezosol®  Modifier Technologies will improve and control the creping process to help the sheet break down at the creping blade.  By providing a consistent coating on the surface of the dryer, softness can be enhanced without sacrificing productivity.
2. ProSoft® Debonder and Softener Technology can be added internally to the stock system to control tensile strength, which reduces sheet stiffness and surface smoothness. This program works hand in hand with Crepetrol® Creping Technology to provide a complete solution for softness, improved sheet smoothness and improved sheet drape.
3. To gain additional sheet smoothness ProSoft® Debonder and Softener Technology can be sprayed on the surface of the sheet prior to creping to further enhance the surface feel of the product without significantly reducing tensile strength.