AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REMOVING FLUID FROM A FIBROUS WEB

摘要

An apparatus and method is disclosed for removing fluid from a fibrous web (W). The apparatus (10) includes a press member (12) and a blanket (14) which cooperates with the press member (12) for defining therebetween an elongate pressing section (16) such that the web (W) is pressed between the press member (12) and the blanket (14) during passage through the pressing section (16). An elongate shoe (18) urges the blanket (14) towards the press member (12) such that when the web (W) passes through the pressing section (16), fluid is removed from the web (W). A heater (22) is disposed adjacent to the press member (12) for transferring heat to the web (W) such that when the web (W) passes through the press section (16), the web (W) is subjected for an extended period to increased pressure and temperature so that water vapor generated within the pressing section (16) during passage through the pressing section (16) forces the fluid in the liquid phase away from the web. The press member (12) defines a pressing surface (24) which is porous so that delamination of the web is inhibited.