Particle Size in Tissue Manufacturing – What You Need to Know

When you pull a roll of tissue from the shelf, you probably don’t think about the tiny fibers inside it. Those fibers, or particles, are the heart of every sheet. Their size decides how soft the tissue feels, how strong it is, and even how fast it dries. If you understand particle size, you can tweak the process to get a product that feels premium while staying affordable.

Why Particle Size Controls Softness and Strength

Smaller particles pack tighter, creating a smooth surface that glides over skin. That’s why ultra‑soft bathroom rolls use finely milled pulp. Bigger particles leave more gaps, which can make the sheet feel rough but also add bulk. The trick is to find the sweet spot where the tissue is soft enough for comfort but strong enough to hold up during use. In our factory, we target a fiber length of 2‑3 mm for facial tissues and 4‑5 mm for kitchen rolls.

Practical Ways to Measure and Adjust Particle Size

First, grab a simple laser diffraction analyzer – it tells you the size distribution in seconds. If you don’t have one, a basic sieve test can give a rough idea. Once you know where you stand, you can adjust the refiner settings on the pulp line. Turning the refiners slower produces larger fibers; cranking them up breaks the fibers down. Keep an eye on the water content too, because too much moisture can make fibers clump and look bigger than they are.

Another tip: blend different pulps. Mixing hardwood fibers (short, fine) with softwood fibers (long, sturdy) balances softness and strength. Many Indian manufacturers use a 70/30 mix to hit the right texture without sacrificing durability. Test a small batch, measure the particle size, and compare the hand feel. Small tweaks often lead to big improvements in the final roll.

Don’t forget the end‑stage coatings. Adding a thin layer of lotion or fragrance can mask slight roughness caused by larger particles. However, over‑coating can make the tissue feel sticky. Keep the coating under 0.5 g/m² for a natural feel.

Finally, track your results. Log the particle size, the refiner speed, and the consumer feedback. Over time you’ll spot patterns – maybe a certain fiber source consistently gives a softer roll. Use that data to negotiate better raw material contracts and lock in quality.

In short, particle size is the silent driver behind every tissue’s look and feel. By measuring, adjusting, and blending wisely, you can create a product that stands out on the shelf and keeps customers coming back. Ready to experiment with your own pulp line? Start with a quick size test and watch the difference unfold.