New impregnator installed at paper pilot plant
Nov. 26, 2003
KALAMAZOO--The paper, paperboard and converting industries now have access to a new impregnator installed at Western Michigan University's pilot plants that can be used to study how the addition of water-based solutions can enhance the performance of paper and paperboard packaging.
In contrast to the use of a size press or calender box, where only a 5 to 10 percent level of penetration can be obtained, the impregnator allows water-based materials to be forced into the packaging sheet material at penetration rates of up to 80 percent, on one side only. The impregnator will be of interest to papermakers, converters and suppliers looking to enhance strength and/or barrier properties in their products. Impregnators are typically used in converting operations for both niche and high-volume grades where value-added specialized product performance properties are desired.
For more information on the WMU impregnator, please contact Rick Reames at (269) 387-2786 or visit the paper pilot plant Web site online at <www.wmupaper.com>.
Media contact: Cheryl Roland, 269 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu