ABSTRACT
THE PAPER MACHINE In the previous chapter, we discussed the production of a pulp stock consisting of fibers, obtained mainly from wood, although other materials will also expose their fibers when subjected to appropriate treatment. The wood used can be divided into hard and soft varieties, but this division has never been specifically categorized and is mentioned now for completeness. In this section, we consider advancing the papermaking process a little further and discuss the methods used to convert the fibers into usable paper. As stated in Chapter 2, the paper manufacturing process today is confined mainly to the production of material in a continuous roll as opposed to the individual sheets that were the norm in earlier times. From our daily use of this product, we know that a variety of papers are produced today, each with particular characteristics and hence for specific use. For example, some are highly absorbent, others are translucent, and still others are greaseproof, or specifically appropriate to letter writing and are produced in a range of different colors and may even be perfumed. This very small listing of the very many different types manufactured should give a feel for the skills required in producing this huge choice. In view of the large selection available, we shall therefore have to limit our discussion to the manufacture of a basic type of paper and be aware that the variety made is the subject of variation and additions to the basic process, which in many instances involves the addition of other materials and changes in the production methods in order to impart the desired qualities to the product.
