Abstract
An experimental method using a novel design to characterize the air flow and water removal during vacuum dewatering in paper manufacturing is discussed. The experimental setup involves the intermittent application of vacuum, similar to commercial systems, using a rotating disk with slot opening arrangement. The system is capable of commercially realistic residence times of the order of milliseconds. The intermittent application of vacuum simulates vacuum dewatering on commercial paper machines. The air flow rate is calculated from changes in pressure and temperature in the vacuum tank underneath the sample. The role and importance of air flow during vacuum dewatering is studied by accurately measuring the air flow, properly taking into account the leaks during vacuum dewatering. The method described here provides for the first time accurate air flow and water removal data during vacuum dewatering. Methods of analysis of the experimental data are also presented. This information can be used to better understand the water removal process as well the role and importance of air flow during vacuum dewatering.
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