For any manufacturer involved in producing cigarette filter rods, a deep understanding of the technical specifications of the acetate tow used is not just beneficial—it's essential. At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we pride ourselves on producing acetate tow that meets rigorous industry standards. This article aims to demystify these specifications and highlight why each parameter is critical for achieving optimal cigarette filter quality and performance.

The fundamental properties of acetate tow dictate its behavior during the filter manufacturing process and its effectiveness in the final product. Let's delve into some of the most important specifications:

Tow Denier & Denier per Filament (Dtex): This refers to the fineness of the individual fibers within the tow. A lower denier per filament results in finer fibers, which can affect the density, porosity, and filtration efficiency of the filter rod. Manufacturers often require specific denier ranges to achieve desired draw resistance and particulate capture. For example, a typical range might be 2.5 to 8.0 Dtex. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers a variety of denier options to suit diverse manufacturing needs.

Crimp Number/25mm: Crimp refers to the waves or kinks in the fiber. The crimp number influences the bulk and resilience of the tow, which are important for forming a stable, well-packed filter rod. A consistent crimp ensures that the tow can be processed uniformly, preventing issues like uneven density in the filter.

Breaking Strength (N/Ktex): This measures the tensile strength of the fiber. A sufficient breaking strength is necessary to ensure the tow can withstand the mechanical stresses during the filter manufacturing process without breaking. Higher breaking strength generally indicates a more robust fiber.

Moisture Content (%): Cellulose acetate can absorb moisture, which can affect its processing characteristics and the final filter. Controlling moisture content within a specific range (typically ≤6%) is crucial to prevent issues like static electricity buildup or changes in fiber behavior during manufacturing.

Oil Content (%): A small amount of oil is often applied to the tow as a processing aid to improve its flowability and reduce static. However, the oil content needs to be carefully controlled (e.g., 0.8%-1.5%) as excessive amounts can negatively impact filter performance or cause odor issues.

Residual Acetone Content (%): Acetone is used in the production of cellulose acetate. It is vital that residual acetone is kept to a minimum (e.g., ≤0.006%) to ensure the filter is odorless and free from any potentially harmful residues.

Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Content (%): TiO2 is often added to provide opacity and whiteness to the cellulose acetate tow. The concentration, typically around 0.5%, influences the visual appearance of the filter.

At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we understand that precision in these specifications is non-negotiable for cigarette manufacturers. By adhering to strict quality control measures and utilizing advanced production techniques, we ensure that our acetate tow provides the consistency and performance required to produce premium cigarette filters. When you choose to buy cellulose acetate tow, understanding these specifications empowers you to select the best material for your production goals.