Forming Fabric Tensioning and Guiding

The forming section can contain one or more fabric loops, and each loop has its own set of support rolls and cleaning showers. The purpose of a forming fabric is to dewater and support the sheet as it forms, and carry the formed sheet to the next section of the paper machine. The purpose of the tensioning and guiding systems is to keep the fabric running at the proper tension and centered on the machine. This module will discuss the purpose and operation of forming fabric tensioning and guiding systems.

•Identify typical guidelines for working around the forming section of a paper or board machine •Describe the purpose of a forming fabric •Explain how fabric tension specifications are determined •List some problems associated with improper wire tension •Identify the purpose of fabric guiding system components, including the guide palm, autoguide and manual guide •Explain the basic principle of fabric guiding