Dynamic Simulation of Retention and Formation Processes of a Pilot Paper Machine

In an effort to develop control strategies for the wet-end of paper machines, dynamic models for retention and formation processes have been developed. The retention process, including headbox total and filler consistencies, white water total and filler consistencies, the basis weight and the ash content of paper, can be modeled from first-principles (mass balances). To include the effect of wet-end chemistry variables, first-pass retention was included as a parameter dependent on operating conditions. In addition, dynamics of formation was simulated by developing an empirical model of formation and coupling with the dynamic models for the retention process. A series of experiments were performed using a pilot paper machine. The experimental results and the model predictions showed relatively good agreement.