Laser Perforation of cigarettes and heat not burn products is a widely used process in the tobacco industry in order to achieve certain regulatory values for tar and nicotine tested by the ISO machine-smoking method.
The required perforation can be achieved both during the converting process of the cigarette tipping paper as well as “inline” during the cigarette or HNB stick production process.
Heat-not-burn (HNB) or heated tobacco products (THP) are also perforated. These are produced as sticks, usually made from thicker cardboard material. The reasons for perforation vary considerably, but are generally related to ventilation.
The aim in each case is the manufacture of cigarettes with reduced tar and nicotine values - previously known as "light" cigarettes. Laser perforation ensures that modern filter cigarettes comply with current legislation.
Inline Cigarette Perforation vs. Paper Perforation
Depending on your requirements, it is possible to perforate the cigarette tipping paper during the paper converting process or to perforate the cigarette in the filter area during the production process within the cigarette making machine.
Which solution is right for you depends on various factors in the production process:
If you are unsure which method suits best, consult us for further information without obligations.
MLT - Micro Laser Technology is a world renowned leader in laser production technologies throughout various industries, including the tobacco industry.
We follow a “process first” approach which means that our machines are built to the needs of your production process - not the other way around. Our customers value our flexibility and the high degree of customizability of our laser systems.
The ISO Machine-Smoking Method refers to a standardized technique used to measure the yield of constituents (like tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide) from cigarettes during smoking. This method is outlined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), specifically in ISO 4387 for cigarette tar and nicotine yield, and ISO 8454 for carbon monoxide yield.
Key aspects of the ISO Machine-Smoking Method include:
But also for the perforation of cigarette tipping paper during the paper converting process, laser perforation is state of the art.
This method surpasses conventional techniques by offering unparalleled precision in controlling the size, shape, and distribution of holes, all managed through software without the necessity of altering physical tools.
Such a degree of control is essential for regulating the ventilation and filtration of cigarettes. Laser perforation is characterized by its consistency and the minimal need for setup alterations.
Heat-not-burn (HNB) or heated tobacco products (THP) could often not be produced today in the same way and quality without laser perforation.
Highest speeds of up to 20,000 individual cigarettes per minute can be produced in this way.
Its non-contact approach also preserves the integrity of the tipping paper. The advanced laser machines from MLT deliver this precision at high speeds, making them particularly suitable for the perforation of cigarette tipping paper. The efficiency and precision of this technology highlight its adaptability and sophisticated capabilities.