The production secrets that affect the quality of paper

A new video released by paper manufacturer Navigator sheds light on what goes into making office paper – and the differences that decisively affect the quality of paper produced. If you’re fed up of paper jamming in the office printer, this is something you need to know!

Navigator manufactures a range of papers for office use. In its new video, the European business explains its production process – from Portugal to printer and from forest to flyer.

These are the steps that make all the difference in the quality of paper that is produced!

#1. The type of tree grown in the forests

The raw material used to produce the wood pulp from which paper is made will affect the quality of the final product. That’s why Navigator uses the pulp from Eucalyptus Globulus trees grown in sustainably managed forests in Portugal. The trees have fibres that make for a strong, high quality paper. And the use of sustainable forestry practices means the finished product – the office paper – bears the FSC-certified logo.

Always look for this logo on the office paper you buy!

#2. How the pulp is cleaned and refined

Once the wood fibres are delivered to the pulp mill, the wood is cooked in a giant pressure pot. It is then cleaned and refined to produce a high-quality white pulp. This stage is really important in determining the quality of the finished product.

#3. How the pulp is treated

Once the pulp is ready, it is pressed, squeezed out and dried. Extracting the maximum amount of water via compression ensures a high bulk. Evaporation and heating aid the water extraction process. The high bulk ensures that the final product runs through the printer better – meaning fewer printer jams!

#4. Jumbo reels are cut down to create premium office paper

When the paper leaves the paper mill, it leaves in the form of giant reels. These reels can weigh up to 80 tons. These reels are then sent to another production facility where they are treated and cut down into sheets to produce the office paper you know and love!

#5. Select the right weight and finish of paper for your purpose

When the office paper is produced, there is a wide range of finishes, sizes and weights that could be used. It is important for consumers to understand the difference between these weights and finishes, so that you can use the most appropriate paper for your use case.

For example, Navigator paper offers a range of UHD papers which are great for full-color printing. The ultra-high-definition finish makes these papers ideal for printing flyers, artwork or posters.

If you’d like to watch the video in full for yourself, you can find it here.

What now?

For more information about how to select the right type of paper for your print job, you can find more resources on our blog. This includes:

• How to choose a paper for color printing.
• Understanding the sustainability issues when it comes to choosing office paper.
• Your essential paper glossary.

Or read about:

• More 2022 office and productivity trends.