On-Machine Sensors to Measure Paper Mechanical Properties

Abstract

The measurement of the velocity of ultrasound provides a nondestructive means to characterize the elastic stiffness properties of paper. The objective of this project is to develop sensors capable of measuring the velocity of ultrasound in the thickness and in-plane directions of moving paper webs. On-machine measurements would allow continuous monitoring of product quality as well as provide data for controlling the papermaking process. Transducers mounted in fluid-filled wheels are used to make thickness direction, ZD, ultrasound velocity measurements on paper webs moving in the nip between two such wheels. Comparisons of the arrival times of echo and transmitted pulses with and without the paper web in the nip provide a measure of the transit time and caliper. Bimorph transducers mounted in an aluminum cylinder are used for in-plane machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD) in-plane measurements.