The project applies basic research findings acquired with a special high shear viscometer to the forming of paper webs. Based on these results an experimental former has been constructed and is used to examine the applicability of forming at high consistency.
Preliminary results show that forming at high consistency is possible.
Further work on the development and optimization of the former, as well as in the characterization of webs formed at high consistency are underway. The first, more theoretical part focuses on basic mechanisms and phenomena, such as air removal by dissolution and diffusion, significance of capillary pressure etc. The effect of different factors, such as penetration temperature and pressure, softwood species and chip dimensions is studied. The effects of penetration aids, such as presteaming and vacuumization are also examined. A two-dimensional model describing presteaming and penetration phenomena is developed.