Patent ID: 6553593
Filing Date: 2003-04-29
Classification: D21C,D21D

Abstract:
A method of treating a slurry of compressible comminuted cellulosic fibrous material, having a permeability that varies as it is compressed, in a non-circular cross-section annulus treatment zone, comprising:(a) introducing a flow of the slurry having a consistency of between about 8-15% into the treatment zone to form a bed of slurry having a first side and a second side, and a width; (b) passing the slurry through the substantially atmospheric pressure treatment zone; (c) in the treatment zone introducing a treatment liquid into the bed at the first side thereof so that the liquid passes from the first side through to the second side thereof; (d) removing at least some of the liquid from the second side of the bed; and wherein (a)-(d) are practiced so that the slurry has a consistency at all times throughout the treatment zone of between about 8-18%; and wherein (b) is practiced substantially without disrupting the flow of slurry.