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5.2_Suarez.M.pdf

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Three-dimensional visualization and characterization of paper machine felts and their relationship to their properties and dewatering performance, TAPPI Journal July 2021

ABSTRACT: Polymeric felts are commonly used in the papermaking process on the paper machine wet end, in the press section, and in the dryer section. They provide an important function during paper manufacturing, including as a carrier or support; as a filter media assisting with water removal on the paper machine; in retention of fibers, fines, and fillers; and in some applications, such as tissue and towel, to impart key structural features to the web. These felts can have highly interwoven complex internal structures comprised of machine direction and cross-machine direction yarns of varying sizes and chemical compositions. Here, we present a non-intrusive three-dimensional (3D) image visualization method using advanced X-ray computed tomography (XRCT). This method was used to characterize the complex 3D felt structure and determine the water removal characteristics of some commonly used paper machine felts. The structural features analyzed include porosity; specific pore-yarn interfacial surface area; 3D pore size distribution; 3D fiber or yarn-size distribution; and their variations through the thickness direction. The top, middle, and bottom layers of the felt have very different structures to assist with water removal and impart paper properties. The size distribution of the yarns, as well as the pores in the different layers of the felt, are also inherently different. These structural features were non-intrusively quantified. In addition, variation in the structural characteristics through the thickness of the felts and its potential role in papermaking is explored. In addition to the 3D structural characteristics, permeability characteristics and water removal characteristics, including rewetting of select felt samples, have also been experimentally determined. It is interesting to observe the relationship between key structural features and permeability and water removal characteristics. These relationships can provide additional insights into press felt design, as well as ways to improve product properties and the dewatering efficiency and productivity of the paper machine.

2017 Herman L. Joachim Distinguished Service Award

Tom Rodencal Named Recipient of TAPPI’s 2017 Herman L. Joachim Distinguished Service Award Renowned honor recognizes ongoing Association contributions ATLANTA, March 13, 2017 – TAPPI is pleased to

2024 Nano Call for Presentations 10.10.pdf

TAPPI Nano 2024 Opens Registration

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5.2_Suarez.M.pdf

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Become a TAPPI Speaker and/or Author Become a TAPPI Speaker and/or Author You are our Knowledge Source. Do you have valuable knowledge about the pulp, paper, packaging, tissue or converting

Deadlines Loom for Pulp and Paper Safety Leaders

It’s not too late to submit an award nomination and get a discount off registration for PPSA 2022.