Manufacturing method for reconstructed tobacco sheets

Abstract

Provided is a method for producing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet. This production method has: a first step for loading water and a binder into a mixer and mixing to dilute the binder; a second step, after the first step, for loading a first liquid raw material and a powder raw material, which contains at least tobacco, into the mixer and mixing with the diluted binder; and a molding step for molding the raw material mixed in the second step into a pressure-molded sheet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as methods for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, a rolling method, a casting (slurry) method, and a papermaking method are known. These manufacturing methods are selected according to the moisture content contained in the reconstituted tobacco raw material. Further, each of these manufacturing methods is realized by a manufacturing apparatus for a reconstituted tobacco sheet that is different from one another.

[0003] The rolling method is known to be particularly suitable for a reconstituted tobacco raw material containing 50% by volume or less of moisture. In the rolling method, a kneaded product of the reconstituted tobacco raw material is roll-formed by a rotating roller, the thickness is adjusted, and then it is dried by a separately provided dryer.

[0004] The casting (slurry) method is known to be particularly suitable for a reconstituted tobacco raw material containing 50% by volume or more of moisture. In the casting (slurry) method, a fluid of the reconstituted tobacco raw material is continuously spread on a rotating drum or a belt conveyor, leveled to a desired thickness by a member called a blade, then peeled off from the rotating drum or the belt conveyor, and dried by a separately provided dryer.

[0005] The papermaking method is known to be particularly suitable for a reconstituted tobacco raw material containing 80% by volume or more of moisture. In the papermaking method, a fluid of the reconstituted tobacco raw material is continuously spread on a liquid-permeable belt conveyor, the moisture is removed by a squeezing roller and made to a desired thickness, and then it is dried by a separately provided dryer.

[0006] Regarding these manufacturing methods selected according to the moisture content, there are known a manufacturing apparatus and a manufacturing method for a reconstituted tobacco sheet that can obtain a reconstituted tobacco sheet having a uniform thickness with a simple manufacturing process regardless of the moisture content contained in the reconstituted tobacco raw material (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 019027 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] In the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, or the rolling method, etc., when compressing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, the method for producing the raw material for the reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco is not considered.

[0009] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a new method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to the first embodiment, a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet is provided. This manufacturing method comprises a first step of mixing two or more powdered raw materials, including at least tobacco, in a mixer; a second step of adding a first liquid raw material to the mixer after the first step and mixing it with the two or more powdered raw materials; and a molding step of forming the raw materials mixed in the second step into a pressure-molded sheet.

[0011] According to the first embodiment, since two or more powdered raw materials are mixed in the first step before the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material are mixed, the two or more powdered raw materials can be thoroughly mixed.

[0012] The two or more powdered raw materials mentioned above may include tobacco, a binder, and an additive.

[0013] In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material with the first liquid raw material, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. The additive may also include one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder, etc.), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdered flavorings. The inclusion of the additive in the powdered raw material can increase the strength of the tobacco sheet or impart flavor.

[0014] The first liquid raw material may include an aerosol source, water, and additives.

[0015] In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material with the first liquid raw material, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. By including the liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material, a flavor can be imparted to the tobacco sheet.

[0016] The second step may include putting the first liquid raw material, which is formed by pre-mixing the aerosol source, the water, and the additive, into the mixer.

[0017] In this case, since the aerosol source, water, and additives contained in the first liquid raw material are pre-mixed, the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material can be mixed more uniformly.

[0018] The above manufacturing method may include a step of supplying the raw materials mixed in the second step to an extruder, and a step of further adding a second liquid raw material to the raw materials supplied to the extruder.

[0019] In order to extrude the raw material with an extruder, the raw material needs to have moisture suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, when the moisture of the raw material is at a level that can be extruded by the extruder, due to its high adhesiveness, it is difficult to handle the raw material outside the extruder. Therefore, when adding a second liquid raw material to the raw material in the extruder, the moisture of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder, so the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to suppress the increase in the adhesiveness of the raw material in the mixer, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder.

[0020] The second liquid raw material may contain water.

[0021] In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to suppress the increase in the adhesiveness of the raw material in the mixer, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid flavor.

[0022] The forming step may include a step of extruding the raw material mixed in the second step by an extruder into a die, and a step of extruding the raw material from the die into a sheet shape.

[0023] The forming step may include a step of extruding the raw material mixed in the second step by an extruder, and a step of forming the raw material extruded from the extruder into a sheet shape by at least a pair of rolling rollers facing in the vertical direction.

[0024] The forming step may include a step of extruding the raw material mixed in the second step by an extruder, and a step of passing the raw material extruded from the extruder between two or more adjacent rolling rollers in the horizontal direction to form it into a sheet shape.

[0025] According to the second aspect, a method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-formed tobacco sheet is provided. This manufacturing method includes a first step of putting a first liquid raw material into a mixer, a second step of, after the first step, putting a powdery raw material containing at least tobacco into the mixer and mixing it with the first liquid raw material, and a forming step of forming the raw material mixed in the second step into a pressure-formed sheet.

[0026] According to the second aspect, since the powdery raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material, it is possible to suppress the powdery raw material from forming lumps, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0027] The powdery raw material may contain tobacco, a binder, and an additive.

[0028] In this case, by mixing the powdery raw material and the first liquid raw material, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. Also, the additive may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (such as crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdery flavors. By including the additive in the powdery raw material, the strength of the tobacco sheet can be increased and flavors can be imparted.

[0029] The second step may include putting the tobacco, the binder, and the additive into the mixer separately and mixing them with the first liquid raw material.

[0030] In this case, since each powdery raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material separately, it is possible to further suppress the powdery raw material from forming lumps, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0031] The first liquid raw material may contain an aerosol source, water, and an additive.

[0032] In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material with the first liquid raw material, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. By including the liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material, a flavor can be imparted to the tobacco sheet.

[0033] The above manufacturing method may include the steps of supplying the raw materials mixed in the second step to an extruder, and further adding a second liquid raw material to the raw materials supplied to the extruder.

[0034] For a raw material to be extruded in an extruder, it needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is sufficient to be extruded in an extruder, its high viscosity makes it difficult to handle outside the extruder. Therefore, when a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material in the extruder, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder, thus reducing the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder.

[0035] The second liquid raw material may contain water.

[0036] In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0037] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step into a die using an extruder, and a step of extruding the raw materials from the die into a sheet.

[0038] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction.

[0039] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, and a step of passing the raw materials extruded from the extruder between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers to form a sheet.

[0040] A third embodiment provides a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet. This manufacturing method comprises: a first step of mixing water and a binder in a mixer to swell the binder; a second step of mixing a first liquid raw material and a powdered raw material containing at least tobacco in the mixer after the first step with the swollen binder; and a molding step of forming the raw materials mixed in the second step into a pressure-molded sheet.

[0041] According to the third embodiment, the binder is mixed with water beforehand and swelled to create a binder function, and then mixed with the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material, thereby increasing the viscosity of the raw materials. As a result, the raw materials are made easier to handle and easier to extrude with an extruder. In addition, the increased viscosity of the raw materials improves the strength of the tobacco sheet. In this specification, the binder can be one or more binders selected from the group consisting of, for example, tamarind seed gum, guar gum, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, glucomannan, native gellan gum, gum arabic, shellac, lecithin, gluten, CMC, HPC-L, HPC-H, pullulan, sorbitol, guar gum, pregelatinized waxy corn starch, glycerin gum, hydroxypropyl starch, shellac, hydroxypropyl potato starch, and phosphate-crosslinked tapioca starch.

[0042] The aforementioned powdered raw material may contain tobacco and additives.

[0043] In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material with the first liquid raw material, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. The additive may also include one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder, etc.), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdered flavorings. The inclusion of the additive in the powdered raw material can increase the strength of the tobacco sheet or impart flavor.

[0044] The second step may also include placing the tobacco and the additive separately into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

[0045] In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with a binder that has been swollen, clumping of the powdered raw materials can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0046] The first liquid raw material may include an aerosol source and additives.

[0047] In this case, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced by mixing a swollen binder, a powdered raw material, and a first liquid raw material. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. The inclusion of the liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material can impart flavor to the tobacco sheet. The first liquid raw material may further contain water.

[0048] The second step may also include putting the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material separately into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

[0049] In this case, the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material are mixed separately, allowing for a more uniform mixing of the raw materials.

[0050] The second step may include putting the first liquid raw material into the mixer before the powdered raw material and mixing it with the swollen binder.

[0051] In this case, since the powdered raw material is added to the swollen binder and liquid raw material and mixed, clumping of the powdered raw material can be suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0052] The above manufacturing method may include the steps of supplying the raw materials mixed in the second step to an extruder, and further adding a second liquid raw material to the raw materials supplied to the extruder.

[0053] For a raw material to be extruded in an extruder, it needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is sufficient to be extruded in an extruder, its high viscosity makes it difficult to handle outside the extruder. Therefore, when a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material in the extruder, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder, thus reducing the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder.

[0054] The second liquid raw material may contain water.

[0055] In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0056] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step into a die using an extruder, and a step of extruding the raw materials from the die into a sheet.

[0057] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction.

[0058] The molding step may include a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, and a step of passing the raw materials extruded from the extruder between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers to form a sheet.

[0059] A fourth embodiment provides a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet. This manufacturing method includes a mixing step of putting a powdered raw material containing at least tobacco and a first liquid raw material into a mixer and mixing them; a step of supplying the raw materials mixed in the mixing step to an extruder; a step of adding a second liquid raw material to the raw materials supplied to the extruder; and a molding step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder into a pressure-molded sheet.

[0060] In order to extrude raw materials in an extruder, the raw materials must have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw materials is such that they can be extruded in an extruder, their high viscosity makes it difficult to handle the raw materials outside the extruder. Therefore, according to the fourth embodiment, the moisture content of the raw materials can be adjusted in the extruder, so the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw materials in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw materials when supplying them from the mixer to the extruder.

[0061] The second liquid raw material may contain water.

[0062] In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer to the extruder. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0063] The mixing step may include a first step of putting two or more powdered raw materials into a mixer and mixing them, and a second step of putting a first liquid raw material into the mixer after the first step and mixing it with the powdered raw materials.

[0064] In this case, since two or more powdered raw materials are mixed in the first step before the powdered raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material, the powdered raw materials can be thoroughly mixed.

[0065] The second step may include putting the first liquid raw material, which is formed by pre-mixing the aerosol source, water, and additives, into the mixer.

[0066] In this case, since the aerosol source, water, and additives contained in the first liquid raw material are pre-mixed, the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material can be mixed more uniformly.

[0067] The mixing step may include a first step of putting a first liquid raw material into a mixer, and a second step of putting a powdered raw material into the mixer after the first step and mixing it with the first liquid raw material.

[0068] In this case, since the powdered raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw material can be suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0069] The second step may include putting the tobacco, binder, and additives separately into a mixer and mixing them with the first liquid raw material.

[0070] In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw materials can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0071] The mixing step may include a first step of putting water and a binder into a mixer and mixing to swell the binder, and a second step of putting a first liquid raw material and a powdered raw material into the mixer after the first step and mixing them with the swollen binder.

[0072] In this case, the binder is pre-mixed with water and swelled, creating a binder function, before being mixed with the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material. This increases the viscosity of the raw materials, making them easier to extrude in the extruder. Furthermore, the increased viscosity of the raw materials improves the strength of the tobacco sheet.

[0073] The second step may also include placing the tobacco and the additive separately into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

[0074] In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with a binder that has been swollen, clumping of the powdered raw materials can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0075] The second step may also include putting the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material separately into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

[0076] In this case, the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material are mixed separately, allowing for a more uniform mixing of the raw materials.

[0077] The second step may include putting the first liquid raw material into the mixer before the powdered raw material and mixing it with the swollen binder.

[0078] In this case, since the powdered raw material is added to the swollen binder and the first liquid raw material and mixed, clumping of the powdered raw material can be suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0079] The molding process may include the steps of extruding the raw material into a die using the extruder and extruding the raw material from the die into a sheet.

[0080] The molding process may include the steps of extruding the raw material using the extruder and forming the raw material extruded from the extruder into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction.

[0081] The molding process may include the steps of extruding the raw material using the extruder and passing the raw material extruded from the extruder between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers to form it into a sheet. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0082] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the manufacturing system for reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheets. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer, extruder, and die according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer, extruder, and die according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer, extruder, and die according to the third embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer, extruder, and die according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0083] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0084] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing system for reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheets. As shown in Figure 1, the manufacturing system 100 for reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheets includes a first crusher 10, a second crusher 20, a classifier 30, a mixer 40, an extruder 50, a die 60, a taker 70, and a dryer 80. In this manufacturing system 100, first, tobacco is crushed to a predetermined particle size in the first crusher 10. Then, the crushed tobacco (tobacco particles) is further crushed to a smaller particle size in the second crusher 20. The tobacco crushed in the second crusher 20 is classified in the classifier 30. The tobacco that is excluded in the classifier 30 is crushed again in the first crusher 10 and the second crusher 20. The tobacco classified in the classifier 30 is mixed with, for example, an additive in the mixer 40 to produce the raw material for reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheets.

[0085] The raw material is supplied to the extruder 50 and extruded by the extruder 50 into the die 60. The die 60 extrudes the raw material into a sheet. The sheet of raw material discharged from the die 60 is taken up by the taker 70 and dried in the subsequent dryer 80. This allows for the production of reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheets.

[0086] Figure 2 is a flowchart of the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer 40, an extruder 50, and a die 60 according to the first embodiment. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet according to the first embodiment, first, two or more powdered raw materials, including at least tobacco, are placed in the mixer 40 and mixed (first step: step S201). This tobacco may be tobacco leaves of any shape, but it is preferable that it be tobacco particles classified in the classification device 30 shown in Figure 1.

[0087] Next, after the first step, the first liquid raw material is placed in the mixer 40 and mixed with two or more powdered raw materials (second step: step S202). This produces the raw materials for the reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet. The raw materials mixed in the second step are molded into a pressure-molded sheet (molding step). Specifically, the raw materials mixed in the second step are supplied to the extruder 50 (step S203). Since these raw materials may be highly viscous, they can be supplied to the extruder 50 by a conveyor, such as a belt conveyor.

[0088] The raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into a sheet by the extruder 50. According to the manufacturing method shown in Figure 2, two or more types of powdered raw materials are mixed in the first step (step S201) before the powdered raw materials and the first liquid raw materials are mixed, so that two or more types of powdered raw materials can be thoroughly mixed. Specifically, the raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into the die 60 by the extruder 50 (step S205), and the raw materials are extruded from the die 60 into a sheet (step S206).

[0089] As shown in Figure 2, a second liquid raw material may be added to the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 (step S204). In order for the raw material to be extruded in the extruder 50, the raw material needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is such that it can be extruded in the extruder 50, it is highly viscous, making it difficult to handle the raw material outside the extruder 50 (for example, transporting it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50). Therefore, when a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material in the extruder 50, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder 50, so the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the high viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50.

[0090] This second liquid raw material may contain water. In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0091] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the two or more powdered raw materials include tobacco, a binder, and an additive. In this case, by mixing the two or more powdered raw materials with the first liquid raw material in step S202, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. The additive may also include one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder, etc.), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdered flavorings. The inclusion of additives in the powdered raw materials can increase the strength of the tobacco sheet or impart flavor.

[0092] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 2, the first liquid raw material preferably includes an aerosol source, water, and an additive. In this case, by mixing two or more powdered raw materials with the first liquid raw material in step S202, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. By including a liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material, flavor can be imparted to the tobacco sheet.

[0093] In the second step (step S202), specifically, a first liquid raw material, which is formed by pre-mixing an aerosol source, water, and additives, may be placed in the mixer 40. In this case, since the aerosol source, water, and additives contained in the first liquid raw material are pre-mixed, the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material can be mixed more uniformly.

[0094] The manufacturing method shown in Figure 2 may also include, instead of steps S205-S206, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S202) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages using three sets of rolling rollers (i.e., six rolling rollers). Furthermore, the manufacturing method shown in Figure 2 may also include, instead of steps S205-S206, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S202) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet by passing them between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages by passing them between each of four horizontally adjacent rolling rollers.

[0095] Figure 3 is a flowchart of the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer 40, an extruder 50, and a die 60 according to the second embodiment. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet according to the second embodiment, first, a first liquid raw material is placed in the mixer 40 (first step: step S301). Subsequently, after the first step, a powdered raw material containing at least tobacco is placed in the mixer 40 and mixed with the first liquid raw material (second step: step S302). This produces the raw material for a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet. This tobacco may be tobacco leaves of any shape, but it is preferably tobacco particles classified in the classification apparatus 30 shown in Figure 1.

[0096] The raw materials mixed in the second step are formed into a pressure-molded sheet (molding step). Specifically, the raw materials mixed in the second step are supplied to the extruder 50 (step S303). Since this raw material may be highly viscous, it can be supplied to the extruder 50 by a conveyor such as a belt conveyor. The raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into a sheet by the extruder 50. According to the manufacturing method shown in Figure 3, since the powdered raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw material can be suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly. Specifically, the raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into the die 60 by the extruder 50 (step S305), and the raw materials are extruded from the die 60 into a sheet (step S306).

[0097] As shown in Figure 3, a second liquid raw material may be added to the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 (step S304). In order for the raw material to be extruded in the extruder 50, the raw material needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is such that it can be extruded in the extruder 50, it becomes highly viscous, making it difficult to handle the raw material outside the extruder 50 (for example, transporting it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50). Therefore, when a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material in the extruder 50, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder 50, so the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the high viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50.

[0098] This second liquid raw material may contain water. In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0099] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 3, the powdered raw material preferably includes tobacco, a binder, and an additive. In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material in step S302, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. The additive may also include one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder, etc.), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdered flavorings. The inclusion of additives in the powdered raw material can increase the strength of the tobacco sheet or impart flavor.

[0100] In the second step (step S302), the tobacco, binder, and additive may be placed separately into the mixer 40 and mixed with the first liquid raw material. In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw material can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0101] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 3, the first liquid raw material preferably includes an aerosol source, water, and an additive. In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material in step S302, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. By including a liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material, a flavor can be imparted to the tobacco sheet.

[0102] The manufacturing method shown in Figure 3 may also include, instead of steps S305-S306, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S302) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages using three sets of rolling rollers (i.e., six rolling rollers). Furthermore, the manufacturing method shown in Figure 3 may also include, instead of steps S305-S306, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S302) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet by passing them between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages by passing them between each of four horizontally adjacent rolling rollers.

[0103] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer 40, an extruder 50, and a die 60 according to the third embodiment. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet according to the third embodiment, first, water and a binder are placed in the mixer 40 and mixed to swell the binder (first step: step S401). Subsequently, after the first step, a first liquid raw material and a powdered raw material containing at least tobacco are placed in the mixer 40 and mixed with the swollen binder (second step: step S402). This produces the raw material for a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet. This tobacco may be tobacco leaves of any shape, but it is preferably tobacco particles classified in the classification apparatus 30 shown in Figure 1.

[0104] The raw materials mixed in the second step are formed into a pressure-molded sheet (molding step). Specifically, the raw materials mixed in the second step are supplied to the extruder 50 (step S403). Since this raw material may be highly viscous, it can be supplied to the extruder 50 by a conveyor such as a belt conveyor. The raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into a sheet by the extruder 50. According to the manufacturing method shown in Figure 4, the binder is mixed with water beforehand and swells, creating a binder function for the binder, before being mixed with the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material, thereby increasing the viscosity of the raw materials. As a result, the handling of the raw materials is made easier, and the raw materials are easier to extrude in the extruder 50. In addition, since the viscosity of the raw materials is increased, the strength of the tobacco sheet can be improved. Specifically, the raw materials supplied to the extruder 50 are extruded into the die 60 by the extruder 50 (step S405), and the raw materials are extruded from the die 60 into a sheet (step S406).

[0105] As shown in Figure 4, a second liquid raw material may be added to the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 (step S404). In order for the raw material to be extruded in the extruder 50, the raw material needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is such that it can be extruded in the extruder 50, it becomes highly viscous, making it difficult to handle the raw material outside the extruder 50 (for example, transporting it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50). Therefore, when a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material in the extruder 50, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder 50, so the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the high viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50.

[0106] This second liquid raw material may contain water. In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0107] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 4, the powdered raw material preferably includes tobacco and additives. In this case, by mixing the powdered raw material and the first liquid raw material in step S402, a tobacco raw material with increased viscosity due to the binder can be produced. The additive may also include one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, pulp, cellulose (crystallized cellulose or cellulose powder, etc.), calcium carbonate, menthol, and powdered flavorings. The inclusion of additives in the powdered raw material can increase the strength of the tobacco sheet or impart flavor.

[0108] In the second step (step S402), the tobacco and additives may be placed separately into the mixer 40 and mixed with the swollen binder. In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with the swollen binder, clumping of the powdered raw materials can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0109] In the manufacturing method shown in Figure 4, the first liquid raw material preferably includes an aerosol source and an additive. In this case, by mixing the swollen binder, powdered raw material, and the first liquid raw material in step S402, a tobacco raw material with increased aerosol generation can be produced. The aerosol source may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerin and propylene glycol. The additive may also include, for example, a liquid flavoring. The inclusion of a liquid flavoring in the liquid raw material allows for the imparting of flavor to the tobacco sheet.

[0110] In the second step (step S402), the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material may be placed separately into the mixer 40 and mixed with the swollen binder. This allows the raw materials to be mixed more uniformly because the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material are mixed separately. Furthermore, in this case, it is preferable to place the first liquid raw material into the mixer 40 before the powdered raw material in the second step (step S402) and mix it with the swollen binder. This prevents the powdered raw material from clumping and allows the raw materials to be mixed more uniformly because the powdered raw material is added to and mixed with the swollen binder and liquid raw material.

[0111] The manufacturing method shown in Figure 4 may also include, instead of steps S405-S406, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S402) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages using three sets of rolling rollers (i.e., six rolling rollers). Furthermore, the manufacturing method shown in Figure 4 may also include, instead of steps S405-S406, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S402) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet by passing them between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages by passing them between each of four horizontally adjacent rolling rollers.

[0112] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet using a mixer 40, an extruder 50, and a die 60 according to the fourth embodiment. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted pressure-molded tobacco sheet according to the fourth embodiment, first, a powdered raw material containing at least tobacco and a first liquid raw material are placed in the mixer 40 and mixed (mixing step: step S501). This tobacco may be tobacco leaves of any shape, but it is preferable that it be tobacco particles classified in the classification device 30 shown in Figure 1. Subsequently, the raw materials mixed in the mixing step are supplied to the extruder 50 (step S502). Since this raw material may be highly viscous, it can be supplied to the extruder 50 by a conveyor such as a belt conveyor.

[0113] In the fourth embodiment, a second liquid raw material is added to the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 (step S503). The raw material extruded from the extruder 50 is formed into a pressure-molded sheet (molding process). Specifically, the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 is extruded into a sheet. More specifically, the raw material supplied to the extruder 50 is extruded by the extruder 50 into the die 60 (step S504), and the raw material is extruded from the die 60 into a sheet (step S505).

[0114] As described above, in order for the raw material to be extruded by the extruder 50, the raw material needs to have a moisture content suitable for the extrusion process. On the other hand, if the moisture content of the raw material is such that it can be extruded by the extruder 50, it is highly viscous, making it difficult to handle the raw material outside the extruder 50 (for example, transporting it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50). Therefore, according to the fourth embodiment, the moisture content of the raw material can be adjusted in the extruder 50, so that the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the high viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50.

[0115] The second liquid raw material in step S503 may contain water. In this case, the amount of the first liquid raw material mixed in the mixer 40 can be reduced. As a result, the viscosity of the raw material in the mixer 40 can be suppressed, making it easier to handle the raw material when supplying it from the mixer 40 to the extruder 50. The second liquid raw material may contain one or more selected from the group consisting of water, glycerin, propylene glycol, binder solution, and liquid fragrance.

[0116] The mixing step (step S501) may include a first step of mixing two or more powdered raw materials in a mixer 40, and a second step of mixing a first liquid raw material with the powdered raw materials after the first step. In this case, since two or more powdered raw materials are mixed in the first step before they are mixed with the first liquid raw material, the powdered raw materials can be thoroughly mixed. In this second step, a first liquid raw material formed by pre-mixing an aerosol source, water, and additives may be placed in the mixer 40. In this case, since the aerosol source, water, and additives contained in the first liquid raw material are pre-mixed, the powdered raw materials and the first liquid raw material can be mixed more uniformly.

[0117] Alternatively, the mixing step (step S501) may include a first step of putting the first liquid raw material into the mixer 40, and a second step of putting the powdered raw material into the mixer 40 after the first step and mixing it with the first liquid raw material. In this case, since the powdered raw material is mixed with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw material can be suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly. In this second step, tobacco, binder, and additives may each be put into the mixer 40 separately and mixed with the first liquid raw material. In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with the first liquid raw material, clumping of the powdered raw material can be further suppressed, and the raw materials can be mixed more uniformly.

[0118] Alternatively, the mixing step (step S501) may include a first step of mixing water and a binder in a mixer 40 to swell the binder, and a second step of mixing the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material in the mixer 40 after the first step with the swollen binder. In this case, since the binder is mixed with water beforehand and swollen, and the binder function of the binder is established, it is possible to increase the viscosity of the raw materials. As a result, the raw materials become easier to extrude in the extruder 50. Also, since the viscosity of the raw materials increases, the strength of the tobacco sheet can be improved. In this second step, tobacco and additives may be placed in the mixer 40 separately and mixed with the swollen binder. In this case, since each powdered raw material is mixed separately with the swollen binder, it is possible to further suppress clumping of the powdered raw material and mix the raw materials more uniformly.

[0119] Furthermore, in this second step, the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material may be placed in the mixer 40 separately and mixed with the swollen binder. This allows the raw materials to be mixed more uniformly because the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material are mixed separately. In this case, the second step may include placing the first liquid raw material in the mixer 40 before the powdered raw material and mixing it with the swollen binder. This prevents the powdered raw material from clumping and allows the raw materials to be mixed more uniformly because the powdered raw material is added to and mixed with the swollen binder and the first liquid raw material.

[0120] The manufacturing method shown in Figure 5 may also include, instead of steps S504-S505, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S502) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages using three sets of rolling rollers (i.e., six rolling rollers). Furthermore, the manufacturing method shown in Figure 5 may also include, instead of steps S504-S505, a step of extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step (step S502) using an extruder 50, and a step of forming the raw materials extruded from the extruder 50 into a sheet by passing them between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers. More specifically, the raw materials may be formed into a sheet in stages by passing them between each of four horizontally adjacent rolling rollers.

[0121] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims, specification, and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly described in the specification and drawings is within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention as long as it achieves the function and effect of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 40: Mixer 50: Extruder 60: Die

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet, The first step involves mixing water and a binder in a mixer to cause the binder to swell, Following the first step, a second step is performed in which the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material containing at least tobacco are placed in a mixer and mixed with the swollen binder, The process involves supplying the raw materials mixed in the second step to an extruder, A step of adding a second liquid raw material to the raw material supplied to the extruder, A molding step in which the raw materials mixed in the above second step are formed into a pressure-molded sheet, It has, The method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet comprises a binder solution as the second liquid raw material.

2. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 1, The aforementioned powdered raw material is a method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, comprising tobacco and additives.

3. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 2, The second step is a method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, comprising placing the tobacco and the additive separately into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

4. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 1, The first liquid raw material comprises an aerosol source and an additive, and is a method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet.

5. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 1, A method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, comprising the second step of separately placing the first liquid raw material and the powdered raw material into a mixer and mixing them with the swollen binder.

6. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 5, A method for producing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, comprising the second step of putting the first liquid raw material into a mixer before the powdered raw material and mixing it with the swollen binder.

7. In the method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet as described in claim 1, The molding process described above is: The process involves extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step into a die using an extruder, A method for manufacturing a reconstituted tobacco sheet, comprising the step of extruding the raw material from the die into a sheet.

8. In the method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet as described in claim 1, The molding process described above is: The process involves extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, A method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet, comprising the step of forming the raw material extruded from the extruder into a sheet shape using at least one pair of rolling rollers facing each other in the vertical direction.

9. In a method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The molding process described above is: The process involves extruding the raw materials mixed in the second step using an extruder, A method for manufacturing a reconstructed pressure-molded tobacco sheet, comprising the step of forming a sheet by passing the raw material extruded from the extruder between two or more horizontally adjacent rolling rollers.

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