A Legacy of Excellence in Electrical Insulating Paper

For nearly a century, Cottrell Paper Company has been a cornerstone in the production of high-quality electrical insulating paper. We’ve developed a strong reputation for serving industries worldwide with unmatched expertise and dedication.

Established in 1926 as a family-owned and operated business, we have a reputation for reliability, innovation, and superior craftsmanship. Based in Rock City Falls, New York, Cottrell Paper has evolved from a small, local manufacturer into a global leader in the paper industry, consistently delivering products that meet the rigorous demands of electrically insulating transformers, small motors, and other applications.

Founding and Early Years

Cottrell Paper Company was founded in 1926 in the small town of Rock City Falls, New York, by a family with a vision of producing the finest electrical insulating paper available. At the time, the electrical industry was rapidly expanding, and the need for reliable insulation materials was critical. Our founders recognized this opportunity and set out to create paper products that could withstand the demands of electrical applications while remaining affordable and versatile.

In the early years, we focused on producing “Rag” paper, a type of electrical insulating paper made from high-quality cotton fibers. Rag Paper, with its proven track record for strength and insulating properties in electrical applications, was not only ideal for use in motors, transformers, and other electrical components but also a sustainable option.  It could be collected from other manufacturing processes and repurposed from waste into a valuable material.  This commitment to sustainability quickly became a hallmark of our company, alongside our meticulous attention to detail and ability to meet the needs of our customers.

Our Growth and Innovation as a Company

As the electrical industry advanced, Cottrell Paper Company demonstrated its adaptability, evolving to meet its changing demands.  The company blended time-honored craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation, investing in advanced machinery and refining its manufacturing processes.  This allowed us to produce electrical insulating paper in thicknesses ranging from 0.002 to 0.125 inches, serving a diverse array of applications, from precision electronics to the largest power transformers.

Over the years, Cottrell Paper has cultivated a culture of continuous improvement. We have embraced new technologies to enhance the performance of every paper we produce. By fostering close relationships with clients, we gain a deeper understanding of their needs, enabling us to develop customized solutions that set us apart from other suppliers. 

This client-focused approach, combined with a passion for innovation, has transformed Cottrell Paper into a global leader trusted for delivering electrical insulating paper that consistently exceeds expectations.

Cottrell Paper: A Family-Owned Tradition

As a fourth-generation family-owned business, we are proud of our heritage and longstanding role in the Rock City Falls area. Our hands-on approach ensures that every roll, sheet, and coil of electrical insulating paper that leaves our production facility meets the company’s rigorous standards, which have made us the trusted partner we have been to our clients over the years. We continue to uphold the hallmarks that established our company: attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and high quality.

Our Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

At Cottrell Paper Company, quality is non-negotiable at every level. Every product we produce is designed to deliver exceptional performance for demanding applications. The company’s insulation papers are available in various configurations, including sheets, rolls, and slit rolls, because we understand that no customer has the exact needs.

In addition to our focus on quality, Cottrell Paper is committed to sustainability and green initiatives. We have utilized post-industrial cotton waste as our primary raw material since our inception. We recognize the importance of responsible manufacturing and strive to minimize our environmental impact while delivering paper products that our customers can trust.

Looking to the Future

As we approach nearly 100 years of operation, we remain as dedicated as ever to our mission of providing high-quality electrical insulating paper to customers worldwide. The company’s rich history, combined with our forward-thinking approach, positions us with continued success in an ever-changing industry. Whether serving small businesses or large industrial clients, we are committed to delivering products that exceed expectations.