Paper Machines

The Shoalhaven Paper Mill produces a wide variety of specialty grade papers using a range of fibres, dyes and fillers. The Paper machine is computer controlled with excellant profile and colour control.

When the paper starts in the process it is made up of approx 97% water (very soggy paper).

The paper is put on a conveyor belt made of felt so that most of the water drips off. It is then smoothed out by rollers. At this stage the paper is still approximately 65% water.

The paper goes through steam heated rollers called dryers. The paper moves through these rollers quite quickly so it does not get too hot.

After going through all the dryers the water content of the paper is now only 3%.

It is then fed through the “calanders” that smooth out the surface of the paper before it is rolled up on a shell for transportation to the next step in the process.

The paper machines are computer controlled to ensure the colour, thickness, and moisture remain constant throughout production.

A sample of paper is removed from each reel that is produced and taken into the Laboratory where a number of quality tests are conducted to ensure the paper properties meet customer requirements.

The paper process from start to finish takes approximately 3 minutes. The paper reel is then transported to the finishing room to be converted or despatched.