2026-01-09
How Is a Paper Egg Tray Made?
A Step-by-Step Guide to Egg Tray Manufacturing
Paper egg trays are widely used in poultry packaging due to their low cost, shock absorption, and eco-friendly properties. They are typically produced from recycled paper through a pulp molding process. Below is a clear explanation of how paper egg trays are made, from raw materials to finished packaging.
1. Raw Materials and Pulping Process
Using Waste Paper and Cartons
Paper egg trays are mainly made from:
Waste paper
Old newspapers
Waste paper cartons
These recycled materials are first fed into a hydrapulper, where they are mixed with water and broken down into fiber pulp.
Removing Impurities with Vibrating Screens
During the pulping process, a vibrating screen system is used to remove unwanted impurities, such as:
Staples and pins
Plastic films
Labels and adhesives
Tape residues
This screening step is critical to ensure smooth mold surfaces, stable forming quality, and longer mold life.
Optional Color Dye Addition
To improve the appearance and marketability of egg trays, color dyes can be added to the pulp:
Gray, brown, yellow, or customized colors
Helps differentiate products in retail markets
Enhances visual appeal without affecting strength
2. Forming and Drying Process
Once the pulp is prepared, it is transferred to the forming machine, where vacuum suction shapes the wet egg trays on molds. After forming, the wet trays must be dried.
Automatic Drying Options
For medium to large-scale production, continuous multi-layer metal drying lines are commonly used. These systems offer:
Stable temperature control
High drying efficiency
Consistent product quality
Common Drying Energy Sources:
Natural gas
Steam
Electricity
In regions with less strict environmental regulations, drying systems may also use:
Coal
Firewood
Biomass pellets
When using coal or biomass fuel, a boiler system is usually required to supply hot air or steam.
Natural Sun Drying (Low-Cost Option)
In areas with strong sunlight and low labor costs, natural air drying can be used to save energy.
This method requires:
Dedicated drying racks
Sufficient outdoor space
Cooperation with professional rack suppliers
However, sun drying has limitations:
For this reason, sun drying is more suitable for small-scale production or low-cost markets.
3. Stacking and Packing
After drying, the finished egg trays are:
Automatically or manually stacked
Counted by set quantities
Packed for storage or shipment
Proper stacking ensures:
Easy transportation
Reduced deformation during handling
Improved logistics efficiency
Why Molded Pulp Egg Trays Are Widely Used
Paper egg trays made from recycled pulp offer several advantages:
100% recyclable and biodegradable
Good cushioning and protection
Low production cost
Suitable for automated mass production
These benefits make molded pulp egg trays a preferred packaging solution for poultry farms, egg distributors, and export markets worldwide.
The paper egg tray manufacturing process is simple, efficient, and environmentally friendly. From recycled paper pulping and impurity removal, to controlled drying and final stacking, each step plays a key role in ensuring product quality and cost efficiency.
With growing demand for sustainable packaging, paper egg trays continue to be a reliable and scalable solution for the global poultry industry.
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