Multi-ply forming was first introduced in 1830 when two cylinder formers were combined to produce a two-ply sheet. Equipment designs have changed over the years, however, the multiple cylinder former design is still in use. Multi-ply sheets can contain a different stock mixture in each layer, which has several potential benefits, including those related to fiber costs, machine speeds, and sheet properties. Therefore, multi-ply forming has expanded from mostly paperboard grades to tissue and other paper grades.
•Describe the history of multi-ply forming
•List the goals of multi-ply forming
•Describe the three basic methods of multi-ply forming
•Describe the design and operation of cylinder formers
•Identify and describe the different types of equipment used to produce multi-ply sheets
•Identify the challenges of multi-ply forming
