ABSTRACT
Paper machine fabrics' design, properties and applications have tremendous effects on paper properties and papermaking process. Proper fabrics can increase productivity, decrease paper machine downtime and increase the bottom line. A basic overview of the paper machine would be helpful for understanding the application of paper machine clothing. There are three main sections in a typical paper machine: forming section, press section and dryer section. Among the three types of paper machine clothing, forming fabrics are probably the most critical to design. There are basically three types of forming fabric design: single layer, two layers and three layers. Design and manufacturing of forming fabrics require careful engineering. The chapter describes major steps in manufacturing of forming fabrics. Different paper grades require different forming fabric designs. When selecting a fabric design for a specific application, the paper and paper machine parameters need to be considered.
