All posts by Jeff E

Packaging, Packaging Film, Paper

First Modern Ag Residue Paper Plant in NA Under Construction

Making Paper out of Wheat Straw – the first modern paper mill is officially under construction in the sate of Washington to make this happen.

“On September 27 FeedStock (Chicago, Ill., USA) reported that for the past 15 years, environmental not-for-profit Canopy (Vancouver, Canada) has been advocating making paper from commercial agricultural residue a reality. Columbia Pulp, the first modern mill of its kind, is now slated to make pulp for paper and packaging out of wheat straw; it is now officially under construction in the state of Washington.

By securing the support of large consumer corporations and creating focused demand, Canopy claims it has helped position straw papers and packaging as a strong alternative to products made with virgin tree fiber. Through Canopy’s Second Harvest initiative, corporations such as Staples, EarthColor and more than 100 fashion brands have expressed clear interest in buying agricultural residue paper, packaging and/or textiles as they become available.”

Read more about it in this article from Naylor Network

Food Packaging, Packaging, Paper

What Is Driving Growth in the Specialty Paper Market

The Global Specialty Paper Market is expected to grow by 5.7% from US$31 Billion to US$54 Billion by 2027, according to July’s PaperAge magazine.  Driving this growth is more convenient and lighter packaging, tea bags, security labels and sustainability.

Lighter Packaging

Packaging is always about protection and transport, but it is the promoting of the shape, color, texture and even smell that makes thing move off a shelf.   Specialty coated papers provide better performance, lower weight, less scope of contamination, increase in shelf life of products and all while enabling seamless transportation handling.   In Western Europe they have seen growth in pouches, bags, wrapping and paper based flexible packaging.

Its Tea Time!

Europe being one of the largest consumers of tea has seen an increase driven by “packet tea”.  Tea bags have a low market share in the region, but the demand has by taking off due to tea bags made of specialty paper and the fact that specialty paper is biodegradable helps promote the environmental side of this paper.  From non-woven materials to lighter filter papers has played a part in this.

Labels Stop Counterfeiting

The world has started to take notice of the ease of certain items can now be counterfeited and more importantly with the Internet sold at a pace that has never been seen before.  Working to stop this dead in its tracks are QR code and NFC technology used in labels.  By having these codes on merchandise, has provided the ability to make items unique. While providing the consumer with a mobile app on their phone, they can easily scan this code that proves it is not a fake.  All this is due to the various specialty papers that been showing up in label’s, a good example of this is Johnnie Walker Scotch with its mobile app and label of authenticity on each bottle.

Sustaining This Growth Going Forward

An example of this is the increase of water-based barrier coatings, as well lightweight and special performance coatings.  This is all been due to the constant research and development in the enhancement of specialty papers.   Stemming from this work we are now seeing high performance composites, biodegradability and nanomaterials all starting to make their way into the market.   We at Cheever have been working with a local mill that is using Nano Cellulose fibers to produce a specialty parchment like paper without having to use the harsh chemical’s that are used to produce parchment paper.

Ultimately it has been the consumer pushing for these changes and we are now listening and making products for these end-user preferences.  It is an exciting time for the Specialty Paper Market and we at Cheever can’t wait to embrace this growth and change. Feel free to chat with us what you are seeing in your markets, we would love the feedback.

 

Paper

Cheever Specialty Paper & Film Conversion Chart

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we are always looking for new ways to provide the best service to our customers.  Our services include designing, sourcing and inventorying specialty paper, film and tape for the manufacturing and packaging industries, as well working with customers to solve problems that require a custom solution.  The latest innovation we have developed to meet our customers’ needs is a dimensions and dollars conversion chart.

The Cheever dimensions and dollars conversion chart was developed to easily convert different sizes and weight of paper.  This is important as basis weight, which describes the density of a specific sheet of paper according to how many pounds one ream weights at its basic size is only used in the United States.  One ream of paper is typically about 500 sheets of paper.  Other countries around the world measure this using the metric equivalent, which is grammage weight.   Grammage weight is the weight of paper in terms if grams per square meter.  It measures the same thing as basis weight, but does not consider paper density or basic size.

Another form of paper measurement is M Weight.  This refers to weight of 1000 cut sheets of paper.  M weight is useful for paper suppliers because it is always consistent with a specific paper size, which makes calculating shipping charges easier.  Many times this information needs to be converted into different units of measurement like lbs., linear foot, linear yard, and square yardage among others.  Once this conversion is made, it is also important to know how much it will cost per this unit of measurement to order.

Our conversion chart makes easy this process for you.  With this chart no longer will you have to do all of the equations to find out the information you are looking for each time you are looking to order new products.  For more information about this chart, and how it could benefit you, please reach out to our team.

Earth Day

Earth Day and Environmentally Friendly Products

Protecting the environment of planet Earth is a job for all people across the globe no matter what country they reside in.  It is the most valuable resource mankind has, and steps can be taken by both individuals and businesses to limit the harm done to the environment on both micro and macro levels. To call attention to the potential hazards to the Earth and the environment, Earth Day is celebrated around the world each April the 22nd.

Earth Day

Earth Day is an event that started in 1970 as a way to demonstrate support for environmental protection.  The goal of the day and the events around it is to bring attention to the vital importance of protecting our planet and to bring people together while doing it.  The campaign for Earth Day 2017 is Environmental & Climate Literacy.  Because education is the foundation for progress, the best way to foster change is to teach people about the concepts of climate change and make them aware of the potential threat to our planet.  Environmental groups around the world will be hosting events to educate their community on the things they can do to limit the pollution they contribute, and the steps they can take to make a positive impact on the environment.

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we recognize that many of our customers would like to take steps to help the environment whenever possible.  Many times this can mean using products and materials that are environmentally friendly or green.  With our over 75 years of experience designing, and sourcing specialty paper, film and tape for the manufacturing and packaging industries, we have the experience to get you the products you need.  Our capabilities allow us to provide products like papers or tapes that are made of recyclable materials of various percentages to help you lessen your negative impact on the environment.  Our team can also work with you figure out the best materials for your projects requirements that are cost effective while still being environmentally friendly.

For more information on how we can assist you with your paper, film, and tape needs, please contact us.

Adhesive Tapes, Packaging Film

Designing Solutions for Paper, Film, or Tape Projects

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we are more than your typical paper mill or distributor.  Our capabilities and experience allow us to work with you design an innovative solution to meet your needs.  Working within the framework of a 3 step process, our goal is to make sure your problem is solved.

Our 3 Step Process Includes:Custom tape capabilities

  • Design/Communication
  • Sourcing
  • Inventorying

An example of how this process can work is when we recently worked with a medical facility that was having an issue with keeping their operating room totally free of contamination.  After first communicating with them, we learned the problem they were having is when they used a portable overhead lamp to provide light to the area of the body they were working on, sometimes germs or bacteria would bounce off the light lens and into the open area of the body.  This could cause infection and was a serious health risk for patients under their care.

After learning what the issue was, we discussed possible solutions with them and came to the realization that a piece of film that you place over the light lens that is sterile and clean could solve their issue.  The next step was the sourcing process to determine what material would work best.  Once the material type was determined, then figuring out the best size, thickness, and adhesive type.  This process involves trying out different options to make sure the best one is found.  After a few iterations of trial-and error we were able to find the correct product that would cover the light lens without affecting the amount of light shining through, and would not allow germs to bounce off of it.  This was a big benefit for the medical facility as they were able to solve their contamination problem with this lamp lens film.

As part of our full service offerings we also were able to offer this medical facility the option to hold this film inventory for them with our inventory program.  This option allows 30, 60, 90 or even 120 days to hold inventory of this new product.  With delivery times of 1-3 days, you can easily plan and schedule your ongoing needs.

For more information on how our custom innovation capabilities can meet your needs, please reach out to us.

Packaging

Corrugated Packaging Stops Bacteria

One of the most popular forms of packaging for food items are returnable plastic containers or RPCs.  They are widely used in the food industry because the plastic used to make these containers creates a durable packaging option that can be used multiple times, while keeping the food items inside fresh.  Recently new scientific research has been done that shows evidence that a better packaging option to keep food fresh is corrugated packaging.  The findings from this study could lead to a shift in the packaging of choice for food storage and shipment.

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A research study conducted by a research team at the University of Bologna’s Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, and published in Frontiers in Microbiology, had results which showed corrugated containers keep fruit and vegetables fresh up to three days longer than RPCs. The study showed that bacteria or microorganisms would get trapped in the paper fibers and die due to lack of water and nutrients.  Without the corrugated material to trap them, bacteria would survive much longer on plastic surfaces.   The goal of this study was to study microorganisms that could cause foodborne illness and see how they reacted when exposed to both plastic and corrugate packaging materials.  While the study was carried out with both materials under the same environmental and correct storage conditions, it was clear that the corrugated packaging material was able to stop bacteria and keep food fresher longer.

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we strive to satisfy our customers by exceeding to meet their needs and expectations.  We offer numerous commercial packaging supplies including items such as bubble wrap, stretch film, dispensers and tape among many other products.  Our team will work with you to put together a full packaging solution that will meet your needs and fit your budget. Contact us for more information on who we can help you with all of your packaging needs.

Packaging Film

Many Choices of Packaging Film for the Baking Industry

When it comes to the baking industry, there is a long history of different films being used for packaging going back years.  Waxed paper was the initial wrapping material of choice for many decades with paraffin wax serving as the exclusive coating material for bleached paper stock of suitable weight.  As the years went by other types of films were introduced to the baking industry including cellulose film and plastic polyolefin films.  Below we explore some of the films being used in the baking industry today, and the characteristics that make them popular choices.

Packaging Film for the Baking Industry

 

Cellulose (Cellophane):  Plain cellulose is a glossy transparent film that is odorless and tasteless as well as biodegradable.  Easy to tear, it also is tough and puncture resistant which is important for the baking industry.  The folding properties of cellophane make it suitable for twist-wrapping, but it is not heat sealable.  Ideally it is used for foods that do not require a complete moisture or gas barrier like fresh bread and some types of sugary sweets.

Polyethylene:  Commonly less expensive than most films, low-density polyethylene is heat sealable, odor free and a material that shrinks when heated.  While it is a good moisture barrier, it is a poor odor barrier since it is relatively permeable to oxygen.  Generally it is used for bags, coating papers and as a component in laminates.  High-density polyethylene is stronger, thicker and less flexible than low-density polyethylene and is often used for bread bags and bulk bun wrappers.ldpe_film

Polypropylene: Used widely to pack baked foods, biscuits, snack foods and dried foods, polypropylene is a clear glossy film with good puncture resistance and a high strength.  It stretches and has a moderate barrier to moisture, gases and odors, while not being affected by changes in humidity.  In Europe it is used to wrap baguettes and rolls.

Coextruded films:  A common choice for baked foods, confectioneries and cereals, coextrusion is the simultaneous extrusion of two or more layers of different polymers to make a single film.  Compared to other types of film these have very high barrier properties, and are thinner than laminates and therefore easier to use on filling equipment. A coextrusion typically has 3 layers including an outside layer with high gloss and printability, a middle bulk layer, and an inner layer for heat sealing.

 

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we are experienced with working with the baking industry to find the best films that will meet your needs.  Working with well over 100 variations of films and siliconized release films, we are an experienced release liner source that understands the requirements of our customers. Contact us for more information.

Adhesive Tapes

The Benefits of Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Tapes For The Packaging Industry

The packaging industry is a growing field in much demand as it becomes easier and easier to ship items around the world.  Proper packaging is vital in this field to make sure that item reaches its destination in the same shape it was sent out in. Packaging engineers are always looking for the best ways to meet their packaging challenges, and one option is double-sided pressure sensitive adhesives.

Pressure sensitive adhesives do a great job in making sure that the packaging remains in place until it reaches its final destination.  While it is available in many different variations, some of the common types are silicone based, rubber based and acrylic based.  A common tool for packaging engineers , it has a few important advantages that make it a great choice for the packaging industry.

Various Pressure Sensitive Tapes

Advantages of Double-Sided Pressure –Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs)

  1. Flexibility: Using pressure-sensitive adhesives gives you the ability to package products quickly because they do not require heat during application. They are also safer than glue sticks, and less obtrusive than traditional tapes. These characteristics allow you to package products quickly, without blocking any branding or logos on the packaging which helps maintain brand awareness.
  2. Instant Bond: Pressure- sensitive adhesives will help you increase your packaging speed due to its instant bonding capability. No time is spent waiting for the adhesive to cure, it will bond instantly as soon as you apply it and add pressure to it. This a huge benefit for high volume packaging operations.
  3. Variety of Applications: Versatility is important, and pressure-sensitive adhesives are versatile due to their ability to meet many different packaging requirements. From bonding metalized PET or being removable for consumers, PSAs are available in many different sizes and tack levels to fit your packaging needs.

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we can supply you with the pressure-sensitive adhesives that will meet all of your packaging needs. We also supply many other packaging materials including specialty paper and specialty films. For more information about our products and the services we offer please contact us here.

Medical Marijuana

The Positive Effect of Medical Marijuana on the Economy

For years now there has been concerns over the state of the manufacturing industry and if it will ever reach the previous pre-recession highs.  The automotive, aerospace, and building/construction industries among others have only recently begun to improve.  One industry with untapped growth potential is the medical and recreational marijuana industries.  As state governments change their laws regarding the legality of marijuana in their state, a whole new production industry is starting from scratch to meet the demand.

Medical marijuana production

Why the Marijuana Industry is Growing

Until fairly recently marijuana was illegal under both state and federal law.  This has changed with Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and Washington making the use of both recreational and medicinal marijuana completely legal.  Many additional states including almost all in the northeast and the southwest have changed their laws to make marijuana for medical purposes legal.  Numerous additional states have legislation under review and up for vote to determine if the status will change.

The Marijuana Industry Creates Jobs

With the status of marijuana changing in states all across the country, the infrastructure for marijuana production must be created from scratch.  A study from the Las Vegas based RCG Economics group concluded that legalizing recreational marijuana would add more than 6,200 jobs in the first four years in the state of Nevada.   This would also create millions of tax dollars and would create nearly 3,000 jobs in related industries like security firms, attorneys and transportation companies.  In Connecticut the use of medical marijuana is growing with over 500 physicians currently registered to recommend treatment up from 81 in September 2014. Miami-Dade county has recently investigated the effects of medical marijuana production and has estimated that 125 direct jobs, 75 indirect jobs, and 102 construction related jobs could be created with an annual impact of nearly $62 million, a figure that would grow in the next 10 years.  With these kinds of economic numbers, it’s clear that more cities and states will be looking to bring production of medical marijuana locally in an effort to generate revenue and create jobs.

At Cheever we understand this is a new industry that is rapidly growing.  In our previous blog Who Put Paper in My Marijuana? we have explored the benefits of specialty paper in the process of extracting marijuana for the oils.  As a specialty paper supplier we work with growers, medical labs and production facilities to help them find the correct parchment paper, the correct size paper, and to educate them about printing on certain materials, and what oils work best with what paper.  For more information on how we can assist please contact us.

Adhesive Tapes

The Growing Demand for Adhesive Tapes in the Medical and Packaging Industries

The global adhesives and tape market is growing rapidly. By 2020, over 53.78 billion square meters of different bonding products will be created and used by numerous industries. However a close breakdown of the numbers shows that applications in healthcare and packaging outnumber the consumption in other sectors by a definitive margin.

Silicone Adhesive Tape

Adhesives & Their Components:

A good adhesive is not only durable with high bonding strength, it is also flexible and doesn’t corrode the surface to which it is applied. Both the medical industry and the packaging industry have different demands so the right category of tape is found by experimenting with carrier, the adhesive and the release liner.

Why are Adhesive Tapes so Popular?

Adhesive tapes offer significant non-intrusive benefits that mechanical fastening options do not. They typically remove the need of screws and non-structural substrates that are risky to handle and can’t be used on surfaces like sensitive human skin. Also adhesive tapes are cost effective, they are flexible, and their disposal doesn’t pose environmental hazards.

Use of Adhesive Tapes in the Medical & Packaging Industry:

In the medical industry adhesive tapes are generally of two kinds:

  • Structural tapes are chemically cured and used to hold together surgical instruments, rubber bumpers on crutches and figure prominently in the manufacture of IV tube sets.
  • Pressure Sensitive tapes which necessitate the application of higher pressure to forge the initial bond. Found in acrylic, silicone and hydrogel variants, these adhesives are extremely flexible and can hold together plastics, uneven surfaces with dips and bumps and even human skin.

The packaging industry relies on adhesive tapes to secure carrier boxes that store goods and perishables. Because of the rise of e-retailing and drop shipping, there is an inherent need to ensure the safe transit if often delicate and fragile items. Adhesives play a major role in this regard, especially in the food and beverage sector where the goods might be rendered unusable if they are jostled or exposed to the elements.

At Cheever Specialty Paper & Film we are specialists in tailored adhesive tapes and films. We take the time to understand our client’s needs, and then use our years of experience to get the best product for their application to them.  In the past we have served the pharmaceutical and medical industry by providing products for wound care, surgical drapes and gowns and medical devices.  Contact us for more information about our products and services.