Manufacturing
How HNB Sticks Are Made: From Granules to Cartons
By KOKEN Editorial Team · Published · 3 min read
HNB sticks are made in stages: the filling (granules or sheet) is prepared, formed into a paper-wrapped rod, joined to filter and cooling segments, cut to length, inspected, then packed into packs and cartons.
Step 1: Prepare the filling
Production begins with the filling. Tobacco or herbal material is processed into HNB granules or a cast sheet, with humectants and flavourings blended in. The filling must meet targets for moisture and consistency before it moves to rod making.
Step 2: Form the rod
The filling is fed onto a continuous strip of wrapping paper, which is closed and sealed around it to form a long rod. Filling weight is controlled so each stick contains the same amount of material.
Step 3: Add filter and cooling segments
Heated sticks usually include more than a filter. Support or cooling segments sit between the filling and the mouth end to manage draw and aerosol temperature. These segments are combined with the filled rod and joined with tipping paper.
Step 4: Cut and inspect
The assembled rod is cut into individual sticks. Inspection checks length, diameter, weight, seal quality and appearance, and rejects sticks outside tolerance. Our quality control checklist lists the checks buyers should ask about.
Step 5: Pack
Sticks are grouped into packs, wrapped and packed into cartons and shipping cases. This is where private-label artwork, health warnings and market-specific markings are applied, so packaging decisions should be agreed early. See our HNB packaging guide.
| Stage | Output | Key controls |
|---|---|---|
| Filling preparation | Granules or sheet | Moisture, particle size, flavour |
| Rod forming | Continuous filled rod | Filling weight, seal |
| Segment assembly | Rod plus filter and cooling segments | Alignment, draw resistance |
| Cutting and inspection | Individual sticks | Length, diameter, weight, appearance |
| Packing | Packs, cartons, cases | Count, artwork, markings |