To obtain a better handle on predicting the paper properties of our manufactured products we need to understand the process better. One way would be to improve the evaluation of the pulps being used. The current procedure of testing plate dried handsheets is now archaic with the new and old information available today (Setterholm, Tappi 1965, Parsons, Tappi 1972, Wahlström, Cambridge 2006, see attachment for details) we probably seem simple minded to technologists in other industries for continuing to only use this method for evaluating our pulps and furnishes. Perhaps I am unaware of what is really going on today, being retired for 20 years and essentially out of contact. On the other hand, every new pulp evaluation that claims this or that as an improvement uses plate dried handsheets!. If someone knows of other techniques being used, I would like to know about them.

I can understand there would be great difficulty in trying to change so many years of habit in this regard. Yet “we” go on using the plate dried handsheet for evaluations that we know are flawed.

For additional background, go to PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (group) and look at “Effect of Drying Shrinkage”.

This discussion posted in PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, PROCESS CONTROL AND INSTRUMENTATION ISSUES, FORMATION ISSUES--BROWN GRADES, FORMATION ISSUES--BLEACHED GRADES, and PULPING ISSUES because I believe that there is a need to understand it in different aspects of the papermaking process and the Walstrom work applies to understanding the issues.