Bar force measurement in low consistency refining: the effect of plate pattern
Abstract The effect of plate pattern on forces applied to pulp fibers by refiner bars in low consistency refining is investigated in an AIKAWA 16-inch single-disc refiner. These forces are measured using a custom-built piezoelectric sensor. Trials are conducted using SPF softwood thermomechanical pulp, northern bleached softwood kraft pulp, and aspen hardwood thermomechanical pulp at 3.3 to 3.6 % consistency at rotational speeds of 1200 and 1400 rpm. The pulp is sampled at regular intervals, and the length-weighted fiber length, freeness, tear index, and tensile index are measured for each sample. The results show that the plate with higher bar edge length results in lower mean peak normal and shear forces. The mean peak normal and shear forces at the onset of fiber cutting depend on rotational speed, pulp furnish and plate pattern, and these parameters are lower for a plate pattern with higher bar edge length. In addition, the mean coefficient of friction is a function of plate gap, pulp furnish, and plate pattern. The plate having higher bar edge length results in higher mean coefficient of friction.