Drainage Interactions Between the Headbox, Forming Fabric(s), Dewatering Elements, and Their Impact on the Converting Operation, 2001 Engineering / Finishing & Converting Conference Proceedings
K. R. McCumsey--This paper will outline the forces acting between the headbox, wire, and drainage elements on
the papermachine. The forming fabric will be analyzed in relation to the impact on sheet
characteristics and properties achieved in the converting operation. At the instant when the jet is
propelled out of the headbox significant interactions occur in the open air space of the Gap
Former, and as the fiber mat initially forms on the fabric surface. Forming forces acting are of a
hydraulic, gravitational, chemical, and shear stress nature that combine to influence the finished
quality of the paper. The forming surface plays a critical role as fibers are retained, or lost, in the
initial dewatering stage. What was started on the wet end of the paper machine with fabric
surface topography, rigidity, and drainage interactions has a significantly effect on the converting
operation.
Drainage Interactions Between the Headbox, Forming Fabric(s), Dewatering Elements, and Their Impact