Global Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer

Paper machine fabrics are an indispensable key component in the papermaking process, which directly affects the quality of paper, production efficiency and stability of equipment operation.

This article will explore in depth the types, functions and effects of paper machine fabrics on the papermaking process, and analyze how to choose suitable fabrics to meet the production needs of different paper grades. In addition, it will also focus on the latest technological advances and market trends in the industry to help papermaking companies optimize production processes and improve product competitiveness.

Classification of Paper Machine Clothing

Paper machine fabrics play a vital role in the papermaking process and are mainly used for dehydration, transportation and drying of pulp. According to different papermaking links, paper machine fabrics are mainly divided into the following categories:

1. Forming Fabrics

Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer, paper machine fabrics, and industrial forming fabrics are umbrella terms for the textiles that touch the web and make the sheet. Forming fabrics, press felts, dryer fabrics, and specialty fabrics (including polyester filter belts and vacuum/transfer belts) each play a distinct role in formation, dewatering, consolidation, drying, and handling. A modern mill buying from a paper machine clothing supplier should view fabrics as performance systems — not disposable consumables — because fabric choice affects sheet quality, energy use, runability, and operating costs.

• Why classification matters (list):

  • Forming fabrics shape fiber orientation and initial drainage.

  • Press felts extract free water and minimize rewetting.

  • Dryer fabrics support and thermally transfer heat to the web.

  • Special fabrics (filter belts, shoe-press belts) solve niche problems such as filtration, seamless transfer, and chemical resistance.

2. Pressing felts

Forming fabrics sit at the headbox and are responsible for sheet formation, fines retention, and early dewatering. They come in single-layer woven, multi-layer (3–4 layer), and spiral/endless knit constructions. Choosing between a forming fabric manufacturer or an off-the-shelf product requires matching porosity (air permeability), MD/CD stability, caliper, and contact geometry to your furnish and headbox conditions.

• Types & features (bullet list):

  • Single-layer woven — cost-efficient, stable, ideal for packaging and newsprint.

  • Multi-layer — improved formation and runability for coated and fine papers.

  • Spiral/endless — low vibration, seamless options, better seaming for high-speed lines.

• Selection checklist (bullet list):

  • Match permeability to furnish consistency to control fines loss.

  • Specify MD/CD yarns (polyester, nylon) based on dimensional stability and strength.

  • Ask suppliers for pilot trials and used-fabric analysis to predict in-service life.

3. Dryer Fabrics

Press felts (also called press fabrics) are the mill’s primary mechanical dewatering tool and are typically needled batt felts backed by woven supports. A properly specified press felt increases solids leaving the press, reduces dryer load, and prevents marking. Key physical properties are absorbency/water-holding capacity, compressibility, permeability under load, and warp stability.

• Common press felt types (list):

  • Single-felt presses — simpler design, lower cost for some grades.

  • Double/twin-felt systems — greater water removal, favored on heavier grades.

  • Shoe-press felts — engineered for extended-nip pressing and higher solids.

• Maintenance & selection checklist (list):

  • Establish a felt cleaning program (vacuum, shower, doctor) to extend life.

  • Monitor compression set and stiffness — both affect nip performance and marking.

  • Request lab tests (water-holding, permeability vs. load) and on-site trials from suppliers.

4. Other types of special fabrics

Dryer fabrics (also dryer screens) must balance thermal stability, porosity, and contact geometry while resisting heat and abrasion over long runs. They appear as woven monofilament, spiral-knit, and seamless constructions. Because the dryer section is a major energy consumer, better dryerscreens can improve heat transfer and moisture profiles — directly reducing steam consumption.

• Design considerations (list):

  • Contact area affects heat transfer and sheet marking.

  • Porosity controls moisture removal and dryer section airflow.

  • Seam type and reliability are critical — seam failures cause costly web breaks.

• Buyer checklist (list):

  • Require thermal and dimensional stability data from the manufacturer.

  • Insist on installation & tensioning guides — poor installation shortens fabric life.

  • Request references from similar speeds and paper grades (e.g., tissue, SC, LWC).

Major Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturers

1. Voith Group

When talking about a global paper machine clothing manufacturer, Voith Group is always at the top. Established in 1867, Voith is a pioneer in paper machine fabrics, offering forming fabrics, press felts, and dryer fabrics that enhance paper quality and machine efficiency. Known for their high-performance polyester filter belts and innovative weaving technologies, Voith serves paper mills across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Key strengths include:

• Cutting-edge forming fabric designs for high-speed paper machines.

• Tailor-made solutions that reduce energy consumption.

• Strong after-sales service and technical support.

For mills seeking both durability and efficiency, Voith’s expertise makes them a benchmark in the industry. Their consistent R&D ensures customers benefit from continuous performance improvements.

2. ANDRITZ

ANDRITZ is a world-class paper machine clothing manufacturer with a reputation for delivering precision-engineered fabrics. Their portfolio covers forming fabrics, press felts, and drying fabrics optimized for different grades of paper and board. With a strong presence in both Europe and Asia, ANDRITZ stands out for its process-specific customization.
Highlights include:

• Advanced fabric weaving for superior dimensional stability.

• Polyester filter belts designed for maximum drainage and longevity.

• Comprehensive training and maintenance programs for mill staff.

Their solutions are particularly valued in high-speed production lines, where durability and consistent moisture control are critical. ANDRITZ blends tradition with innovation, making them a trusted name in the global paper machine fabrics market.

3. AstenJohnson

AstenJohnson is another leading paper machine clothing manufacturer, headquartered in the United States but with a global footprint. They are renowned for their engineered fabrics and polyester filtration belts that cater to both paper and pulp processing industries.
Distinct advantages:

• Focus on custom-engineered forming fabrics to optimize drainage and retention.

• Press felts with enhanced durability for longer operational cycles.

• Global technical service teams for rapid on-site support.

AstenJohnson’s commitment to sustainability also stands out, with eco-friendly manufacturing processes and recyclable fabrics. For mills seeking a balance between performance, service, and environmental responsibility, AstenJohnson delivers dependable solutions backed by decades of expertise.

Important suppliers in China and other regions

China:

• Xuzhou Huadong Paper Fabric Co., Ltd.: Focuses on high-performance papermaking fabrics, and its products are widely used in domestic and foreign paper mills.

• Hangzhou Yongchuang Mesh Co., Ltd.: Its products cover forming fabrics, press felts, drying fabrics, etc., with high cost performance, and occupy a certain share in the domestic market.

• Guangzhou Keylife Textile Co., Ltd.: Its products perform well in air permeability, stability and durability, and are exported to many countries.

Other regions:

• Heimbach Group (Germany): Focuses on high-end papermaking fabrics, especially high wear-resistant and high anti-pollution products.

• TEXTECHNOLOGY (Italy): Provides high-performance drying fabrics suitable for special paper production.

Comparison of the characteristics and advantages of major manufacturers

Manufacturing Process and Technology of Paper Machine Fabrics

Paper machine clothing (PMC) is a vital component of the papermaking process. Its manufacturing process and technology directly affect paper quality and production efficiency. The following is a detailed analysis from the aspects of raw material selection, weaving and coating process, and innovative technology.

1. Raw material selection

Choosing the right raw materials is the first step for any top paper machine fabrics supplier and is central to every Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer’s quality strategy. Producers typically select high-tenacity synthetic yarns such as polyester (PET) and polyamide (PA) for their warp/weft because these materials balance dimensional stability, chemical resistance, and wear life. For press felts and filter belts, synthetic batt fibers and engineered nonwovens are blended to tune absorption, void volume, and dewatering capacity. Proper yarn twisting, tenacity specs, and contamination control reduce the risk of early failures and lower cost per ton. Reliable suppliers (Voith, Valmet, AstenJohnson) publish technical notes on material specs that mills often use as references.

2. Weaving and coating process

(1) Weaving process

Below is a compact, actionable breakdown of the weaving process for forming fabrics and dryer fabrics, presented in short lists for mill engineers and procurement teams:

A. Loom & yarn preparation (pre-weave)

• Warping: prepare high-tenacity polyester warp beams with controlled tension.

• Sizing & twist: specify yarn twist level, coating compatibility, and surface finish.

• Quality checks: tensile tests, elongation specs, and contamination inspection.

B. Weaving & pattern control (weave stage)

• Weave selection: choose single-layer, multi-layer, or double-layer patterns to meet drainage and stability targets.

• Mesh geometry: set open area and support points for sheet formation.

• Seaming plan: integrally plan seam type (woven vs. laser welded) for life and runnability.

(2) Coating process

Coating and finishing determine how a fabric interacts with the paper web. The list below clarifies common coating steps and their performance impact:

A. Surface preparation

• Cleaning & drying: remove oils/particles to improve adhesion.

• Pre-treatments: corona or plasma treatments to increase surface energy for uniform coating uptake.

B. Coating & impregnation

• Resin impregnation: apply synthetic resins or binders to stabilize the weave and reduce fuzzing.

• Topcoats: add thin polymer or PTFE-like coatings to modify friction, release, and hydrophobicity.

• Calendering / finishing: use calender rolls to set thickness, compress batt, and tune surface smoothness.

C. Quality & inspection

• Porosity tests, surface profilometry, and adhesion testing before shipping. Practical mills follow papermachine standards to ensure coatings don’t degrade sheet quality or increase fiber marking.

3. Innovative technology

Top Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturers are adopting smart materials and advanced joining methods to extend life and improve mill KPIs. Innovations include laser-welding and ultrasonic seaming for nearly invisible seams, engineered batt architectures for targeted dewatering, and sensor-integrated fabrics that give real-time wear and moisture mapping. R&D also focuses on coating chemistries that reduce fiber pickup and enable longer runs with lower cost per ton. Industry papers and patents describe laser seam techniques and online monitoring best practices—areas where vendors like AstenJohnson, Voith, and specialized patentees lead development. For case studies on high-tech adoption, see coverage in trade outlets such as Pulp & Paper Canada.

Quick reference table — materials vs. performance (compact SEO table)

How to Choose the Right Paper Machine Fabric

Selecting the ideal paper machine clothing requires a nuanced understanding of both papermaking processes and machine specifications. Below, we break down the most impactful factors:

1. Key factors affecting the selection

(1) Papermaking type

Different paper grades (e.g., newsprint, packaging board, tissue) demand specialized fabrics to achieve optimal dewatering, strength, and surface finish. For instance:

• High-speed machines producing lightweight paper (e.g., tissue) require forming fabrics with precise pore structures to balance drainage and sheet integrity .

• Heavyweight packaging board may necessitate press felts with robust support layers to withstand high line pressures and extended wear .

• Sustainable materials, such as Valmet’s bio-based press felts, are gaining traction for reducing carbon footprints in eco-conscious production lines .

By tailoring fabrics to papermaking type, manufacturers can minimize downtime, enhance output, and meet evolving market demands.

(2) Machine parameters

Machine speed, width, and operating conditions directly impact fabric performance. For example:

• Forming fabrics for machines running at 1,800 meters per minute must exhibit exceptional dimensional stability and abrasion resistance .

• Dryer fabrics in high-temperature environments (e.g., 150°C+) require heat-resistant materials like polyester or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) to prevent premature degradation .

• Machine width and roll configuration dictate fabric dimensions and seam design, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure .

Ignoring these parameters can lead to increased energy consumption, fabric failure, and compromised paper quality.

2. Procurement advice and cost control

Strategic procurement balances quality, cost, and long-term value. Below are actionable insights to optimize your supply chain:

(1) Select high-quality suppliers

Choosing a trusted supplier is pivotal for minimizing risks and maximizing performance. Look for:

• Technical expertise: Suppliers like Andritz and Valmet offer custom-engineered solutions backed by decades of R&D .

• Quality certifications: ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 ensure adherence to global standards for product consistency and environmental responsibility .

• Responsive support: Feltest emphasizes the importance of suppliers who provide on-site trials and technical audits to refine fabric performance .

Avoiding low-cost, low-quality alternatives can save millions in downtime costs and rework .

(2) Balance cost and performance

While initial costs are a consideration, focusing solely on price often leads to hidden expenses. For example:

• A slightly higher-priced forming fabric with a 20% longer lifespan can reduce replacement frequency and associated labor costs .

• Polyester-based fabrics offer a cost-effective balance between durability and performance for mid-speed machines, while nylon-reinforced felts excel in high-pressure applications .

• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis, including energy efficiency and maintenance needs, provides a holistic view of long-term savings .

(3) Regular maintenance and optimization

Proactive maintenance is key to extending fabric life and maintaining peak performance:

• Cleaning protocols: High-pressure washing and chemical treatments prevent pore clogging and resin buildup, common issues in recycled pulp processes .

• Tension monitoring: Misaligned rolls or uneven tension can cause premature wear; regular inspections ensure optimal alignment .

• Predictive analytics: Digital tools like Valmet’s TransForm™ technology analyze fabric behavior to predict failures and schedule timely replacements .

By investing in preventive maintenance, manufacturers can reduce unplanned downtime by up to 30% .

Summary of Development Trends and Market Outlook for Paper Machine Fabrics Industry

From the perspective of market demand, as environmental protection policies become increasingly stringent, the demand for green and intelligent equipment will drive the industry to upgrade further. The introduction of digital technology also makes it possible to optimize and control the production process.

Looking ahead, with the recovery of the global paper industry and the improvement of environmental awareness, the paper machine fabric market will continue to grow and develop under the dual goals of improving technology content and reducing production costs.

For more in-depth analysis of the paper machine fabric industry, click here to contact us!

FAQ 

Q: How long does paper machine clothing typically last?​

A: It depends on type and usage—forming fabrics last 3–6 months, press fabrics 2–4 months, and dryer fabrics 6–12 months. A quality Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer will provide a lifespan guarantee (e.g., “Our dryer fabrics last 8+ months in medium-speed mills”).​

Q: Can a manufacturer customize fabrics for my unique machine?​

A: Yes! Top Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturers (including Chinese polyester filter belt specialists) offer custom widths, thicknesses, and coatings. Share your machine’s technical specs (e.g., “1.8m wide, 5m circumference”) for a tailored solution.​

Q: How do I verify a manufacturer’s product quality?​

A: Ask for third-party certifications (ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX) and customer references. A reputable Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer will connect you with existing clients (e.g., “Here’s how we helped a Indian mill reduce downtime by 25%”).​

Q: Do Chinese manufacturers offer after-sales support (e.g., installation help)?​

A: Many do! Leading Chinese Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturers provide on-site training, fabric installation guidance, and troubleshooting via video calls—critical for mills new to polyester filter belts or custom fabrics.​

Q: Are recycled paper machine fabrics as durable as new ones?​

A: When made by a skilled Paper Machine Clothing Manufacturer, yes! Recycled polyester fabrics meet 90% of the strength standards of new ones and cost 15–20% less. They’re a great choice for eco-conscious mills.