Effect of Refiner Plate Pattern Design on Refined Fibre Size Distribution – a Time Series Study

In a multi-step batch or continuous operating process, quantitative & qualitative optimization of every single step is always aimed at. Even the smallest aberration in processing parameters affects the quality of the final product. Therefore, it is necessary to study time series quality of products delivered by every single step, so as to ensure product quality in a long run. Refining is one of the most crucial steps in fi breboard manufacturing, as it has a major impact on fibre quality and energy consumption. Refining plate pattern is key to good results, which have to be optimized based on experience or onsite testing. We tested three different refi ning plate patterns: straight bar design pattern (TYPE 1), spiral bars design pattern (TYPE 2) and bar with groove pattern (TYPE 3), and their impact on fibre size quality in a time series. Reported results include fibre size distribution of three different types of plate patterns observed for 1500 hrs and relative quantity of fine fibres observed in time series for three variants of disc type refiners. Our research showed that fibre quality within desired limits was best delivered by TYPE 2 plates; however, fibre quality also varied with time series for three of them, so different time periods of desired fibre quality were analysed.