Dragload Analysis : A Unique Method of Improving Paper Machine Efficiency and Reducing Operating Costs, 1997 Papermakers Conference Proceedings

Dragload may possibly be one of the least understood and least utilized tools for improving paper machine efficiency and reducing operating costs. The bottom line, however, is that "the person that makes a sheet of paper at a given speed at the lowest dragload wins the papermaking battle”. Minimizing dragload has tremendous benefits on improving forming fabric life, reducing energy costs and, in some cases, improving sheet quality.

This article introduces a unique method to calculate total and component dragload. The ease and flexibility of this method enables one to optimize and troubleshoot the opportunities for dragload reduction. The article discusses the basic concept of dragload, the development of the component dragload equation, some of the costs benefits associated with dragload reduction, and finally examples of typical applications using this dragload analysis method. The examples below are taken from studies performed on various corrugated medium, linerboard and kraft bag machines; however, any grade of paper may be studied.