Characterizing Refining Action in Low- Consistency Refiners by Forces on Fibres

摘要

This study has analyzed forces in the refining process and derived practical equations to quantify refining action in terms of fibre response to forces. The results illuminate several factors which have hitherto not been taken into account in characterizing refining action; for example, the role of fractional bar coverage and the importance of gap size and specific edge load. The findings also clarify why certain results are produced by refining; for example, why refining coarse fibres leads to more surface fibrillation, fines, and energy consumption than does refining of fine fibres. Lastly, the analysis sheds some light on where energy is consumed in the refining process.