Edge flutter in webs
Abstract
A persistent problem in paper machines and other webs subjected to drying air flows is edge flutter. The resulting stresses can damage the edges, initiate tears and breaks in paper machines, or spoil coatings near the edges of polymer webs. Analytical and experimental studies showed that the interaction of the web with the surrounding air is an important part of the problem, especially is there is a cross-machine flow component. This interaction has been investigated in wind tunnel tests. The results have been plotted to separate the influence of each design parameter on the incidence and severity of flutter. Semi-empirical equations have been developed to assist in the prediction of critical conditions. They should be helpful in selecting operating conditions, and avoiding either excessive or insufficient tension. A number of practical suggestions are made for managing the drying air flow in order to minimize flutter damage.
Citation
Chang, Y. B., & Moretti, P. M. (1991, May). Edge flutter in webs. Paper presented at the First International Conference on Web Handling (IWEB), Stillwater, OK.