The use of cotton in electrical applications can be traced back to the 1920s. As the director of H. Weidman Limited, Hans Tschudi-Faude developed a type of pressboard suitable for electrical machines. This type of pressboard was made of cellulose and free of resins and binders.
In 1926, as soon as Cottrell Paper Company opened its doors, Rag Paper, made from high-quality cotton fibers, was used to make its insulation and other paper-based products. Nearly a century later, we’ve increased our green initiatives by developing cotton waste into a cellulose product, surpassing the standards for quality and reliability of insulation papers.
Plastics and other synthetic materials became popular in the 1930s for insulation purposes. But with greenhouse gases and water resources being a big part of the production process, we now know that using natural resources such as cotton is not as harmful to the environment.
Why Cotton Outperforms Other Materials
As a natural material, cotton is usually a better choice in combating climate change when compared to other materials. But it has some additional advantages:
- Durability: Cotton retains its shape and lasts longer than synthetic materials and other natural fabrics such as wool.
- Breathability: The loose weave of cotton allows for breathability. This is a positive feature for clothing and industrial use.
- Cost-effective: Though cotton may be initially more expensive than some other materials, when you factor in the longevity and sustainability factors, it is more cost-effective.
Especially when you consider that electrical insulation can be manufactured using recycled cotton waste, there is no doubt that paper insulation derived from cotton is the most practical and reliable choice.
Proven Performance in the Electrical Industry
For nearly a century, Cottrell Paper Company has earned a position as a leader in the electrical insulation industry. At the center of our company’s success is the use of recycled cotton waste that is transformed into insulation paper. The recycled cotton waste product is successful for several reasons:
Responsible Processing
Before climate change was a known term, Cottrell Paper Company practiced good stewardship through its eco-friendly production processes. The plant features on-site hydroelectric power and high-efficiency heat. Along with our clean energy practices and responsibility toward natural resources, we are also known for precision in our specialty paper products.
The attention to environmental responsibility results in cost savings when it comes to heating and other energy costs.
Respect for the Waterways
The water that we use for processing is returned to the Kayaderosseras Creek, cleaner and more chemically pure than before it was drawn. Cottrell Paper Company takes the responsibility of protecting the stream’s ecological value while also ensuring trout restocking and recreation.
Intelligent Use of Waste Materials
Cottrell Paper’s practice of using post-manufactured waste and composting fiber residual into the soil results in fewer scraps going into landfills. Of course, the attention to environmental responsibility doesn’t take away from the quality of the product.
Engineered for Customer Satisfaction
Specialty papers designed for electrical and industrial applications must be reliable and comply with US-based production standards. Every customer’s needs are taken into account when dealing with their domestic supply chain and environmental objectives.
Cottrell Paper Products goes beyond the manufacturing of the product. The efficiency of how products are packaged and delivered to the customer contributes to the sustainability and environmental responsibility of the company.
Cottrell Paper Continues the Tradition of Sustainability and Excellence
Since its inception in 1926, Cottrell Paper Company has always made sustainability and customer satisfaction priorities. Combining the commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction is a business philosophy that has worked for nearly a century.
Earning the ISO 9001 Certification is another indication of our global leadership in the industry. This certification indicates that the planning and management behind the scenes sets the foundation for quality products and very satisfied customers.
Cottrell’s superior products include Rag Paper, pressboard, and electrical insulation. Clients worldwide rely on these products, and you’ll find the electrical insulation papers in most household appliances and vehicles.
If you have questions about how we incorporate recycled cotton waste into our paper insulation products or need help with any of our products or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We want to help you improve the quality and safety of your products.
