ENSO Publication Papers - OY LTD: The Production of High Quality MFC Paper, 1994 Coating Conference Proceedings

Note: This file can not be downloaded due to file size. To use your free download for this file please call TAPPI’s Member Connection Department.

MFC – Machine Finished Coated – is a new paper grade developed less than 10 years ago. The rationale behind its development was two fold (a) printers were looking for a new type of paper with good stiffness properties, lower sheet gloss but at the same time relatively high print gloss (b) paper makers were under pressure to reduce the high investment costs involved in new projects and at the same time reduce the need of manpower. Since its introduction MFC quality has been good but only due to the efforts invested in optimising the papermaking and on-machine soft calender processes and conditions.

There are currently three MFC paper machines, although a fourth producer does specialise in manufacturing matte grades using a supercalender. In the beginning MFC paper was regarded as low quality LWC and was priced accordingly. It is now recognized as a grade in its own right with printers selecting it for specialist magazines containing volumes of both text and pictures. By maximizing the contrast between printed and unprinted gloss MFC paper has become an ideal medium for print advertising.