NRC Paper Napkin Making Machine

Napkin Converting Line (The Core Napkin Machine)

This is an integrated production line consisting of several machines in sequence. Here’s the typical flow:

Jumbo Roll Stand → Printing (Optional) → Embossing & Ply Bonding → Log Saw → Folding & Interfolding → Counting & Packaging → Cartoning

1. Unwind Stand: Holds the jumbo tissue roll and feeds it into the line at high speed.

2. Flexographic Printing Unit (Optional): Prints patterns, borders, or designs on the paper web using fast-drying, food-safe inks. Can have multiple colors.

3. Embossing & Ply Bonding Station:

   • Embossing: Two steel rollers with matched patterns press the paper to create decorative textures (like diamonds, flowers). This also increases bulk and softness.

   • Ply Bonding: For 2-ply or 3-ply napkins, separate webs are brought together here. They are often bonded using knuckle-to-knuckle embossing (the raised points of each ply interlock) or a light adhesive.

4. Log Saw / Rewinder & Cross Cutter:

   • The wide embossed web is slit into multiple, narrower widths (e.g., for dinner napkins, facial tissues).

   • It is then wound into a large diameter "log" of multiple layers.

   • A high-speed rotary cross cutter slices the log into individual napkin stacks of precise count (e.g., 200-400 napkins per stack).

5. Folding Machine: This is a critical component. The stacks are automatically folded into the final napkin shape.

   • Common Folds: 1/4 Fold (for dinner napkins), 1/2 Fold, "C-Fold" or "Multifold" (for dispenser napkins).

6. Counting & Packaging Machine:

   • Counts the precise number of napkins (e.g., 50, 100, 200).

   • Feeds them into a packaging film (polyethylene or cellophane).

   • Seals the bag, often with a tear tape for easy opening.

7. Cartoning / Case Packing (Optional but common):

   • Groups multiple packaged napkin bundles into a cardboard carton for shipping and sale.