Manual Sheet Former with Table

A Sheet Former is a laboratory device used in the paper-making process to create sheets for testing the properties of paper or paper pulp. The manual model of the sheet former typically involves the use of a frame and a mold to form sheets simulating part of the paper-making process on a small scale.

Here’s a general overview of a Manual Sheet Former with a Table setup:

Key Components:

1. Forming Table:

   • A flat surface on which the hand sheet is made.
   • Often made of stainless steel or other non-corrosive material.
   • Has a mesh or wire cloth that supports the pulp slurry and helps form the sheet.

2. Forming Mold:

   • A rectangular or square frame, often made of metal.
   • The mold is placed onto the forming table.
   • It has a fine mesh at the bottom that allows water to drain out while retaining the pulp fibers.

3. Deckle:

   • The deckle is a removable piece that attaches to the edge of the mold to control the dimensions of the paper sheet.

4. Couching Felt:

   • A soft felt material used to transfer the sheet from the forming table to a drying surface. It helps in absorbing excess water from the sheet.

5. Vacuum System (optional):

   • Some manual models include a small vacuum pump to assist in the drainage of water from the pulp slurry.

General Process for Making Hand Sheets:

1. Prepare the Pulp Slurry:

   • Mix paper pulp with water in a container to create a slurry with the desired consistency.

2. Forming the Sheet:

   • Dip the mold into the pulp slurry, ensuring the pulp is evenly distributed.
   • Lift the mold and allow excess water to drain off.

3. Couching the Sheet:

   • Place the mold on the forming table, and remove the mold carefully, leaving the wet sheet on the table.
   • Lay a couching felt over the wet sheet and press gently to absorb excess water.

4. Drying:

   • Remove the felt and carefully transfer the wet sheet to a drying surface, such as a pressing board or hot plates.
   • Press or air-dry the sheet to remove more moisture.