Tissue Paper Making Machine: Technical Specifications, Production Process, and Applications

Types of Tissue Paper Making Machines

A tissue paper making machine is a specialized industrial system designed to manufacture a wide range of tissue paper products, including toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, napkins, and industrial wipes. These machines transform raw materials—typically recycled paper pulp or virgin cellulose—into soft, absorbent, and hygienic paper products used in homes, hospitals, offices, and factories worldwide.

The core components of a tissue paper manufacturing machine include the press section, cast iron dryer (Yankee cylinder), vibrating screen, fan system, de-dusting unit, pulp feeder, mold or forming section, cutting mechanism, and packing and stacking systems. The integration and efficiency of these parts determine the quality, speed, and consistency of tissue production.

Tissue paper machines are broadly categorized based on two key criteria: production process and end-product configuration. Understanding these classifications helps manufacturers choose the right equipment for their output needs, quality standards, and market demands.

Type by Production Process

Converting Machines (Off-the-Roll Processing)

These high-speed machines process pre-manufactured jumbo reels of tissue paper into finished consumer products. They are ideal for secondary production stages.

Advantages

• High production speed and automation
• Lower initial investment compared to full-line systems
• Compact footprint and easy integration
• Supports customization (embossing, perforating, printing)

Limitations

• Dependent on external pulp or base paper supply
• Less control over raw material quality
• Limited to converting, not full production

Common Applications: Toilet paper rewinding, kitchen roll embossing, napkin folding, and packaging lines.

Integrated Tissue Machines (From Pulp to Sheet)

These machines produce tissue paper directly from raw pulp, offering complete control over the manufacturing process. The most common design is the crescent former system.

Advantages

• Full production control from pulp to finished sheet
• Higher quality consistency and customization
• Ideal for large-scale, continuous production
• Efficient use of recycled or virgin fibers

Limitations

• High capital and operational costs
• Larger space and utility requirements
• More complex maintenance and operation

Key Components: Crescent-shaped forming section, forming wire, press roll, and large-diameter cast iron dryer (Yankee cylinder).

Types by End Product

Machine Type	Primary Output	Key Features	Common Configurations	Typical Use Cases
Toilet Paper Making Machine	Toilet rolls (bath tissue)	Embossing, perforating, rewinding	Double embossed, interleaved, coreless	Households, public restrooms, hotels
Kitchen Towel Machine	Paper towels (kitchen rolls)	High absorbency, multi-ply options	Rolled, interleaved, boxed	Residential kitchens, food service
Industrial Wiper Machine	Heavy-duty wiping rolls	Durable, lint-free, high tensile strength	Large rolls, center-pull, jumbo reels	Factories, garages, medical facilities
Napkin Making Machine	Folded paper napkins	Precise folding, edge sealing, printing	Square, pocket, cocktail, dinner napkins	Restaurants, events, catering
Facial Tissue Box Machine	Boxed facial tissues	Interleaving, packaging, branding	Standard 3-ply, pocket packs, travel boxes	Home use, offices, healthcare
Wiper Paper Towel Machine	Interleaved white wipers	Quick dispensing, uniform size	Stacked, boxed, center-feed	Commercial cleaning, industrial maintenance

Expert Tip: When selecting a tissue paper machine, consider your production scale, raw material availability, and target market. Converting machines are ideal for startups or niche brands, while integrated systems suit large manufacturers aiming for vertical integration and quality control.

Modern tissue paper machines often include advanced features such as automatic tension control, digital embossing rollers, in-line quality sensors, and eco-friendly drying systems to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Whether producing everyday household items or premium branded tissues, choosing the right machine type is crucial for operational success and product competitiveness.

Specifications and Maintenance of Tissue Paper Machines

Tissue paper machines are precision-engineered systems designed to produce various types of tissue products, including toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues. Understanding the key specifications ensures optimal product quality and operational efficiency, while consistent maintenance is essential for maximizing uptime, minimizing breakdowns, and extending the lifespan of the equipment.

Key Tissue Machine Specifications

Each tissue paper machine is configured based on the desired end product, production volume, and customer requirements. Below are the most critical specifications that influence both machine design and output quality.

Tissue Width

The width of the final tissue roll is determined by its intended application and consumer demand. For example, toilet tissue typically requires narrower rolls, with an average width of around 100 mm, suitable for compact dispensers and household use.

In contrast, kitchen towels and industrial wiping papers require wider formats, ranging from 200 mm to 300 mm or more. Wider widths allow for greater coverage and efficiency in commercial or domestic cleaning applications. Modern machines often include adjustable slitting systems to customize roll widths during production.

Basis Weight

Basis weight—measured in grams per square meter (g/m²)—is a crucial factor affecting the softness, strength, and absorbency of tissue paper. It directly influences the perceived quality and performance of the final product.

Low-density tissue (12–16 g/m²) is ultra-lightweight and commonly used for facial tissues and single-ply toilet paper. Medium-density tissue (16–22 g/m²) offers a balance of softness and durability, ideal for two-ply toilet paper and light-duty paper towels. High-density tissue (above 22 g/m²) provides enhanced strength and absorbency, making it suitable for heavy-duty kitchen towels and industrial wipes.

Roll Diameter and Length

Tissue machines produce paper in large continuous rolls, which are later converted into consumer-sized products. Roll dimensions vary significantly depending on the type of tissue and downstream processing needs.

For **toilet paper**, standard jumbo rolls have a diameter between 90 mm and 120 mm and lengths ranging from 50 to 350 meters. In contrast, **kitchen towel** production uses larger rolls with diameters from 150 mm to 250 mm and lengths extending up to 800 meters, allowing for longer production runs and reduced changeover frequency.

Additionally, machines can be configured to produce rolls with or without a central cardboard core, depending on environmental goals and packaging requirements. Coreless rolls are increasingly popular for their sustainability benefits.

Embossing and Perforation

Embossing and perforation are finishing processes that enhance both the functional and aesthetic qualities of tissue products. Embossing adds texture, improves softness, increases bulk, and enhances absorbency by creating raised patterns on the paper surface.

Perforation allows for easy tearing along predetermined lines, crucial for dispensing individual sheets from rolls. These patterns can be customized—from simple straight lines to intricate designs—based on brand identity or customer preferences. Advanced machines offer programmable embossing rollers and precision laser-guided perforation systems for high flexibility and consistency.

Specification	Typical Range	Application Examples
Tissue Width	100–300 mm	Toilet paper (~100 mm), kitchen towels (200–300 mm)
Basis Weight	12–22+ g/m²	Facial tissue (12–16), toilet paper (16–22), towels (>22)
Roll Diameter	90–250 mm	Toilet rolls (90–120 mm), jumbo towel rolls (150–250 mm)
Roll Length	50–800 m	Short rolls for sampling, long rolls for high-volume production

Essential Maintenance Practices for Tissue Machines

Proper maintenance is vital to ensure consistent product quality, reduce unplanned downtime, and protect your investment. A well-maintained tissue machine operates more efficiently, consumes less energy, and produces fewer defects. Follow these best practices:

Routine Inspections: Conduct daily or shift-based checks of all major machine sections—including the forming unit, press section, drying cylinder (Yankee dryer), cutting unit, and rewinding station. Look for signs of wear, leaks, loose fasteners, unusual vibrations, or abnormal noises. Early detection of issues prevents minor problems from escalating into costly repairs.

Lubrication Schedule: Follow the manufacturer’s lubrication chart strictly. Regularly grease bearings, gearboxes, and other moving components to minimize friction, reduce heat buildup, and extend component life. Use only recommended lubricants to avoid compatibility issues or contamination of the paper web.

Cleaning Protocols: After each production run, thoroughly clean the machine to remove paper dust, fibers, and adhesive residues. Accumulated debris can interfere with sensors, cause web breaks, or contaminate the final product. Use water or mild detergents with soft cloths or brushes. Avoid abrasive materials and high-pressure water jets, especially near electrical panels and control systems.

Roll and Roller Maintenance: Inspect critical rollers (e.g., press rolls, guide rolls, embossing rolls) for scoring, buildup, or misalignment. Clean and resurface when necessary. Ensure proper alignment to prevent edge wrinkling or uneven tension across the sheet.

Filter and Air System Checks: Maintain pneumatic and vacuum systems by cleaning filters and checking for leaks. Proper airflow is essential for web handling, drying efficiency, and automated splicing operations.

Important: Always consult the machine’s operation and maintenance manual before performing any service tasks. Use only OEM or approved replacement parts to maintain performance standards and safety compliance. Skipping scheduled maintenance or using incorrect procedures can lead to equipment failure, product waste, and potential safety hazards. A proactive maintenance strategy not only protects your machinery but also ensures consistent tissue quality and production reliability.

Usage Scenarios of Tissue Paper Making Machines

Tissue paper making machines are essential in modern manufacturing, serving large-scale producers who require high-volume, consistent output of soft, absorbent paper products. These advanced systems automate the entire production chain—from unwinding raw paperboard (base tissue) to embossing, perforating, folding, and packaging—ensuring efficiency, hygiene, and precision. They are widely used across consumer, commercial, and industrial sectors to produce everyday essentials such as toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, napkins, and specialized wipes.

Did You Know? Modern tissue machines can produce up to 15,000 meters of paper per minute, with fully automated lines capable of cutting, rolling, wrapping, and palletizing finished goods with minimal human intervention.

Toilet Paper Production

One of the most common applications, toilet paper production involves converting large parent rolls into finished consumer rolls. The machine precisely controls ply count (single, double, or triple), sheet length, softness, and roll diameter to meet market demands.

• Automated core insertion and gluing ensure consistent roll formation
• Embossing enhances softness and absorbency while improving visual appeal
• Perforation systems allow easy tearing with uniform sheet counts
• Available in Jumbo Roll configurations for commercial restrooms

Key Feature: High-speed rewinding lines can produce over 500 rolls per minute

Paper Towel Production

Paper towel machines produce highly absorbent sheets or continuous rolls used in homes, kitchens, and public restrooms. These machines are designed to handle thicker base papers and incorporate advanced embossing for increased liquid retention.

• Available in both center-pull and side-wind configurations for retail and institutional use
• Multi-ply options enhance strength and absorbency for heavy-duty cleaning
• Folding units create interfolded or C-fold towels for dispenser compatibility
• Some models integrate printing for branding or decorative patterns

Pro Tip: Perforated dispensing systems reduce waste by up to 30% compared to loose sheets

Facial Tissue Production

Facial tissue machines focus on softness, lint-free performance, and compact packaging. These systems convert tissue into small, pocket-friendly boxes or flat packs ideal for personal use.

• Ultra-soft calendering ensures a gentle touch on sensitive skin
• Compact folding mechanisms create 2-ply or 3-ply pocket tissues (e.g., 100–200 sheets per box)
• Integrated packaging lines use flow-wrap or cartoning for hygienic sealing
• Specialized versions produce medicated or scented tissues with added lotions

Quality Note: Facial tissues typically use virgin pulp or high-bright recycled fiber for superior softness

Napkin Production

Napkin-making machines produce square or rectangular sheets used in dining, catering, and hospitality. These systems offer customization in size, color, texture, and folding style to suit various market segments.

• Available in single-, double-, or triple-ply options for different durability needs
• Color printing and embossing add aesthetic value for premium restaurants and events
• Folding units create pocket, zig-zag, or layered stacks for elegant presentation
• Compact packaging allows for branded bundles or dispenser-ready boxes

Design Insight: Embossed patterns can simulate fabric texture, enhancing perceived quality

Industrial Wipe Production

Designed for durability and high absorbency, industrial wipe machines produce heavy-duty paper rolls or pre-cut sheets used in manufacturing, automotive, and maintenance environments.

• Reinforced base stock withstands oils, solvents, and rough handling
• Large jumbo rolls (up to 1,000 meters) reduce changeover frequency in factories
• Perforated or die-cut sheets available for controlled usage
• Some versions include surfactants or cleaning agents for specialized tasks

Durability Focus: Industrial wipes often use cross-linked fibers for tear resistance

Specialty & Custom Applications

Beyond standard products, tissue machines are adapted for niche markets requiring unique specifications, such as medical, food service, or eco-friendly products.

• Medical-grade tissues produced under sterile conditions for clinical use
• Compostable and biodegradable options made from bamboo or sugarcane fiber
• Food-safe tissues certified for direct contact with consumables
• Custom scents, colors, and logos for branded promotional items

Innovation Trend: Increasing demand for sustainable, plastic-free packaging integration

Product Type	Typical Basis Weight (g/m²)	Production Speed (m/min)	Common Output Format	Target Market
Toilet Paper	14–18	800–1,500	Rolled, perforated, packaged	Household, Commercial
Paper Towels	20–35	600–1,200	Rolls, folded sheets, interfolded	Home, Hospitality, Industrial
Facial Tissues	18–24	500–900	Folded boxes, flat packs	Consumer, Travel, Healthcare
Napkins	22–30	400–800	Folded stacks, pocket packs	Restaurants, Events, Retail
Industrial Wipes	35–60	300–700	Jumbo rolls, pre-cut sheets	Manufacturing, Automotive, Janitorial

Additional Considerations for Operators

• Automation Level: Fully automated lines reduce labor costs and improve consistency, ideal for high-volume producers
• Energy Efficiency: Modern machines use variable frequency drives (VFDs) and heat recovery systems to lower operating costs
• Maintenance Requirements: Regular cleaning and calibration ensure optimal performance and product quality
• Customization Options: Modular designs allow integration of printing, embossing, and packaging units based on business needs
• Regulatory Compliance: Machines must meet food safety (FDA), hygiene (HACCP), and environmental standards (ISO 14001)

Professional Recommendation: When selecting a tissue paper making machine, consider not only the primary product but also future diversification potential. A flexible machine capable of switching between toilet paper, towels, and napkins can significantly improve ROI. Additionally, investing in IoT-enabled monitoring systems allows real-time tracking of production metrics, downtime, and quality control—key for scaling operations efficiently.

How to Choose the Right Tissue Paper Making Machine for Your Business

Selecting the ideal tissue paper making machine is a critical decision that directly impacts your production efficiency, product quality, and long-term profitability. Whether you're launching a new business or expanding your current operation, understanding the key selection criteria will help you make an informed investment. This comprehensive guide outlines the most important factors business buyers should evaluate when choosing a tissue paper manufacturing machine.

Important Note: Tissue paper machines vary significantly in design, capacity, and functionality. Always verify technical specifications with the manufacturer and consider requesting a live demonstration before making a purchase decision.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tissue Paper Machine

1. Production Capacity

   The production capacity refers to the amount of tissue paper a machine can produce within a specific timeframe, typically measured in kilograms per hour (kg/h) or tons per day. Modern machines may also specify output in grams per minute (g/min). This is one of the most crucial factors to align with your business goals.

   • Small-scale operations (home-based or local markets): 100–500 kg/day
   • Medium-scale production: 500–2,000 kg/day
   • Industrial-scale manufacturing: 2,000+ kg/day

   Choosing a machine with appropriate capacity ensures you meet demand without over-investing in unnecessary power or space requirements.

2. Automation and Technology Integration

   Advanced automation significantly enhances operational efficiency, reduces labor costs, and improves product consistency. Modern automatic tissue paper machines are designed for seamless operation and often feature:

   • Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems for precise process control
   • Touchscreen Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for intuitive operation
   • Real-time monitoring of speed, tension, moisture, and roll diameter
   • Automated fault detection and diagnostic alerts
   • Energy-saving modes and variable frequency drives (VFDs)

   Highly automated machines minimize human intervention, reduce errors, and allow for consistent quality across large production runs, making them ideal for businesses aiming for scalability.

3. Raw Material Versatility

   The flexibility to process different types of raw materials gives your business adaptability in sourcing and cost management. Tissue machines vary in their compatibility with:

   • Virgin wood pulp – Offers superior softness and strength, ideal for premium products
   • Recycled pulp (waste paper) – Cost-effective and eco-friendly, suitable for economical tissue lines
   • Blended pulp – Combines virgin and recycled fibers to balance quality and cost

   Ensure the machine you select can handle your preferred raw material(s). Some models are optimized for specific pulp types, while others offer adjustable settings for multiple inputs, allowing you to switch between materials based on market demand or supply availability.

4. Output Varieties and Product Flexibility

   The range of tissue products a machine can produce affects your market reach and profitability. Consider whether you need a machine that can manufacture:

   • Toilet paper (jumbo rolls, embossed or plain)
   • Facial tissues (boxed or folded)
   • Kitchen towels and paper napkins
   • Different sheet sizes, ply counts (1-ply, 2-ply), and embossing patterns

   Machines with interchangeable molds, adjustable cutting systems, and programmable settings allow you to diversify your product line without purchasing additional equipment. This flexibility is especially valuable for businesses targeting multiple customer segments or retail channels.

5. Machine Dimensions and Space Requirements

   The physical size of the tissue paper machine must match your available production space. Industrial machines can span 10–30 meters in length and require high ceilings and reinforced flooring due to their weight (often several tons).

   • Compact machines: Suitable for small workshops or startups; may have lower output but easier installation
   • Full-line production systems: Include pulping, forming, drying, rewinding, and packaging units; require large factory spaces

   Always measure your facility and plan for clearance around the machine for maintenance, ventilation, and operator access. Consider future expansion when selecting machine size.

6. Cost, Affordability, and Total Ownership

   While initial purchase price is important, consider the total cost of ownership over the machine’s lifespan:

   • Upfront investment: Ranges from a few thousand dollars for basic models to hundreds of thousands for fully automated lines
   • Maintenance costs: Regular servicing, spare parts, and technician availability
   • Energy consumption: High-efficiency motors and drying systems reduce long-term operating expenses
   • Training and support: Manufacturer-provided training can reduce downtime and improve operator proficiency

   A higher initial investment in a reliable, energy-efficient machine often pays off through lower operating costs, reduced waste, and longer service life.

Selection Factor	Small Business Needs	Medium Business Needs	Large Industrial Needs
Production Capacity	100–500 kg/day	500–2,000 kg/day	2,000+ kg/day
Automation Level	Semi-automatic with manual controls	PLC + touchscreen interface	Full automation with remote monitoring
Material Flexibility	Single pulp type (recycled or virgin)	Dual compatibility with switching	Multi-material processing with blending
Product Variety	1–2 product types	3–4 product types	Full range with customization
Space Requirement	Compact footprint (<10m)	Medium setup (10–15m)	Large production line (15–30m+)
Estimated Cost Range	$5,000–$20,000	$20,000–$100,000	$100,000–$500,000+

Expert Tip: Before finalizing your purchase, request a trial run using your preferred raw materials. This allows you to assess paper quality, machine stability, and ease of operation under real conditions. Also, verify warranty terms, after-sales service, and spare parts availability in your region.

Additional Recommendations for Buyers

• Check compliance with international standards (ISO, CE) for safety and quality
• Evaluate noise levels and environmental impact, especially if operating near residential areas
• Consider water and energy efficiency ratings to reduce operational costs and environmental footprint
• Look for machines with modular designs that allow future upgrades or expansion
• Read customer reviews and ask for references from existing users
• Negotiate training and technical support as part of the purchase agreement

Choosing the right tissue paper making machine requires balancing technical capabilities, budget constraints, and long-term business goals. By carefully evaluating production needs, automation features, material flexibility, and total ownership costs, you can select a machine that supports sustainable growth and delivers consistent, high-quality tissue products. When in doubt, consult with industry experts or equipment specialists to ensure your investment aligns with your operational vision.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tissue Paper Making Machines

Q1: Are used parts or complete tissue paper making machines safe to purchase?

Purchasing used tissue paper making machines or components can pose significant risks and should be approached with caution. While they may appear cost-effective initially, several critical factors must be considered:

• Wear and Tear: It's often difficult to accurately assess the internal condition of used machinery. Hidden wear in critical components like the Yankee dryer, press rolls, or forming fabrics can severely impact performance.
• Reduced Efficiency: Worn parts can lead to higher energy consumption, inconsistent sheet quality, increased downtime, and more frequent breakdowns.
• Product Quality Issues: Aging machines may produce tissue with defects such as uneven thickness, poor absorbency, or surface imperfections due to misaligned rollers or degraded coatings.
• Resale Value: The resale market for used tissue machines is limited, especially for outdated models, which may not support modern production standards.
• Safety and Compliance: Older machines might not meet current safety regulations or environmental standards, potentially leading to costly upgrades or operational restrictions.

If you're considering a used machine, it’s highly recommended to conduct a comprehensive third-party inspection by a qualified engineer or technician. A trial run, review of maintenance records, and evaluation of spare parts availability are essential steps before making a purchase decision.

Q2: Do tissue paper manufacturing companies offer eco-friendly production options?

Yes, the tissue paper industry has made significant strides toward sustainability, and many manufacturers now offer environmentally responsible solutions. Key eco-friendly practices include:

• Recycled Fiber Usage: A growing number of tissue producers use 100% recycled paper or blends of recycled and virgin fibers, reducing the need for virgin wood pulp and helping conserve forests.
• Waste Reduction: By utilizing post-consumer waste paper, manufacturers divert tons of material from landfills and reduce the environmental footprint of paper disposal.
• Energy-Efficient Technologies: Modern tissue machines are designed to consume less energy through optimized drying systems, heat recovery units, and high-efficiency motors.
• Water Conservation: Closed-loop water systems and advanced filtration technologies minimize freshwater usage and reduce wastewater discharge.
• Certifications: Many eco-conscious brands carry certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), or EU Ecolabel, ensuring sustainable sourcing and production practices.

Choosing eco-friendly tissue production not only supports environmental goals but also appeals to increasingly sustainability-minded consumers and corporate buyers.

Q3: How can one improve the efficiency of a tissue paper-making machine?

Maximizing the efficiency of a tissue paper machine involves a combination of maintenance, technology, and human expertise. Here are proven strategies:

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular inspection and servicing of critical components—such as steam joints, bearings, and doctor blades—prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend machine life.
• High-Quality Raw Materials: Using consistent, clean pulp or recycled fiber reduces clogging, minimizes downtime, and ensures uniform sheet formation.
• Automation Integration: Implementing automated control systems for drying, tension, and winding improves consistency, reduces waste, and allows for real-time adjustments.
• Staff Training: Well-trained operators understand machine nuances, respond quickly to issues, and optimize settings for different tissue grades, enhancing overall productivity.
• Optimized Production Speed: Running the machine at its ideal speed—balancing output with quality—prevents bottlenecks and reduces energy waste.
• Advanced Software Solutions: Process monitoring and data analytics tools can identify inefficiencies, predict maintenance needs, and maximize raw material utilization.

By combining these approaches, manufacturers can achieve higher throughput, lower operational costs, and improved product quality.

Q4: What are the latest trends in tissue paper machine technology?

The tissue paper manufacturing sector is rapidly evolving, driven by demands for sustainability, efficiency, and product versatility. The most notable technological advancements include:

Trend	Description	Benefits
High-Capacity Machines	Modern tissue machines can produce over 1,000 tons per day with wider reels and faster operating speeds.	Increased output, lower cost per ton, scalability for large markets.
Energy-Efficient Drying Systems	Technologies like TAD (Through-Air Drying), hybrid systems, and IR drying reduce thermal energy consumption.	Lower operating costs, reduced carbon emissions, improved softness and bulk.
Dust and Emission Control	Integrated dust extraction and air filtration systems minimize airborne particles in the production area.	Improved worker safety, cleaner factory environment, compliance with air quality regulations.
Flexible Machine Design	Modular systems allow quick changeovers between tissue grades (e.g., toilet paper, paper towels, napkins).	Greater product variety, faster response to market demand, reduced downtime.
Smart Manufacturing	IoT-enabled sensors and AI-driven analytics monitor performance and predict maintenance needs.	Maximized uptime, reduced waste, data-driven decision-making.

These innovations are transforming the tissue industry, enabling manufacturers to produce higher-quality products more sustainably and efficiently than ever before.