Ahlstrom, the global leader in masking and packaging tape base papers, has finalized an investment to upgrade and convert a paper machine in its Thilmany plant in Wisconsin, USA, to produce stretchable creped base papers for masking tape and is now ramping up the production. The new investment adds a crepe paper production capacity of 30,000 tons per year.

"This investment is a response to our customers' increased volume demand and their need to move towards a more regional material supply. With the investment, we can better focus our assets in Asia and Europe to supply their nearby markets, and we will now enhance our capability to supply the markets in the Americas through this new investment," says Sohrab Kazemahvazi, Vice President for Ahlstrom's Tape business.

The new crepe machine line in Wisconsin is unique because it enables the use of integrated pulp from the Thilmany pulp mill. This generates both sustainability advantages, including reduced emissions from lower energy consumption and less transportation, and cost benefits for customers. The line complements the existing production facilities for masking and packaging tape base papers in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

Ahlstrom is a key player in offering sustainable solutions to the tape industry. Ahlstrom's fiber-based masking tape backings are durable and long-lasting. The company also supports its customers in becoming more sustainable by offering repulpable and recyclable fiber-based packaging tape backing alternatives to the plastic-dominant packaging tape market.

Ahlstrom's creped base papers are the selected backings for general to high-performance masking tape applications. They offer good handling properties and elongation of up to 18% and are customizable to customers' needs. The primary application of crepe paper is masking tape applications, but it can also be used in packaging tape, protective wrappings, and other specialty applications.