Multifluid macroscopic approach to drying in papermaking

Abstract

Drying process represents one of the main energy-consuming stages for a broad variety of manufacturers. However, despite its significant impact on energy efficiency, most implementations at manufacturing level do not operate within the optimal conditions. This work investigates the interplay among different parameters involved into the paper-drying process. To do so, we analyze both experimental and numerical results. The theoretical approach couples a non-isothermal flow, along with the heat transfer and transport of different fluids participating. Our results, experimental and numerical, show a good agreement according to the characteristic drying time scale. The results thus enable to estimate the impact of different mechanisms into drying process. Keywords: paper-drying process; free water; bound water; papermaking.