|
|
|
Some of the most frequently asked questions are listed in this section. Please note that while we try to address each issue in the most general terms, actual solutions may vary depending on machine configurations and other paper-making operation parameters. For additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
|
 |
| BELT TYPE |
| Q1. Which
groove specification is right for your shoe press? |
|
In selecting the type of belt for your shoe press, refer to the table below:
For more detailed recommendation, contact us.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| GROOVED BELT |
| Q2. What are some of the advantages of Grooved Belts? |
|
We have conducted a survey on some of our customers who originally used Ichi-Flow or Ichi-Twin and later tried Ichi-Groove belts and checked the differences in dryness after shoe press section as well as other operational changes. The results were rather dramatic. In most cases, sheet dryness improved by 1.0 to 2.0% for both fine paper and board grades. Improved dryness translates to reduction in steam consumption, better sheet draw, fewer breaks. Furthermore, we have witnessed better sheet moisture profile with grooved belts.
Grooved vs. Blind Drilled Belts
Reseach has indicated that Grooved belts are superior in dewatering capacity to Blind Drilled belts. The difference is especially prominent in high-speed operations. It is hypothesized that the grooves provide unobstructed water flow from the nip point for optimum moisture flow.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| AVERAGE LIFE |
| Q3. What is the typical life of shoe press belts? |
|
ICHIKAWA has been a major supplier of shoe press belts since the onset of shoe press machines. Please see our Latest News section for the latest record-setting achievements.
Many operational parameters affect life and performance of shoe press belts, notably Machine Speed, Nip Load, Shoe Configurations (commonly referred to as "off-set" or "tilt"), and also Designs of Press Felts that are matched with shoe press belts.
MILLION NIP CYCLES (MNC): There is a direct correlation between belt life and the number of press nips a belt passes during its life. The following table shows the actual results:
HOW DO YOU DECIDE TO CHANGE BELTS:
Some of the most common indications that a belt is approaching its end of longevity are as follows:
Cracks
Cracks usually first appear on the felt (sheet) side of belts near the edges of the shoe due to the complex flexing in this area. Although cracks do not spread to the shoe side causing oil leaks in most cases, if the majority of cracks become 10cm or longer, it indicates the belt is reaching near the end of its usable life.
Poly-urethane wear
Mechanical wear on the felt side of shoe press belts is primarily caused by the bottom side of press felts which typically have rugged base fabric to withstand the high nip load of shoe presses. Thin layer of batt fiber on the bottom side of the press felt is recommended to minimize belt wear without sacrificing the permeability of press felt. Shoe side wear, on the other hand, is often caused by inadequate lubrication and contaminants within the shoe press module.
General surface conditions should be inspected on a regular basis especially for localized wear, uneven surface or any signs of resin delamination. For ICHI-FLOW resin penetrated belts, exposed base fabric as shown in the above photograph, indicates that the belt is nearing the end of its usable life. For added protection against mechanical wear, ICHI-TWIN double-side coated belt may be an excellent option. For Grooved belt, it is recommended that residual void volume be measured with silicon patty. As a rule of thumb, residual void volume must be above 50% for optimum dewatering at shoe press positions.
Dimensional instability
Dimensional instability such as wobbling or elongation in cross machine direction may indicate the belt tensile strength is deteriorating.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE |
| Q4. What kind of preventive maintenance is recommended for optimum belt life? |
|
One of the most typical reasons for the removal of shoe press belt is shoe edge cracks resulting in oil leaks. Cracks usually first appear on the both shoe edges because of multi-directional stress concentrated in this area. In order to maximize the usable life of shoe press belts, shifting of belts in cross machine direction periodically is an effective practice. Although shifting "on the fly" is possible, it is not recommended because of the potential runnability problems or damages to the belts.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| SIZE AVAILABILITY |
| Q5. What is the size limitation of Ichikawa shoe press belts? |
|
Our production capacity covers All the shoe press belt sizes currently in existence.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| DELIVERY |
| Q6. How much time is required for delivery of shoe press belts? |
|
Our standard delivery is 3.5 months after receipt of purchase order. However, thanks to our FASTER (Fabric Stock for Emergency Readiness) system, we can respond to critical situations much quickly in most cases.
|
|
| return to faq index |
| PRICE QUOTATION |
| Q7. What information is required for price quote? |
|
| Order Length and WIdth | :Specified by the paper machine builder |
| Tab/Flap specifications | :Dimension, location, any special fabrications |
| Belt Type | :Ichi-Plain, Flow, Twin, Groove |
|
|
|
|
| return to faq index |
|
|
