AIE have once again been able to provide a complete design, build and installation package to help maximise the customers’ pulp drying process operational efficiency.
The press frame design which was carried out by the AIE design team, included a Finite Element Stress Analysis (FEA) which was performed in-house and then verified by an independent third party. Once the customer had approved the design, manufacture of the frames began with the production of manufacturing drawings. The fabrication team then assembled and welded the two press frames ready for stress relieving. A purpose built furnace was constructed for accurately controlling furnace temperatures up to 650°C.
After the frames were machined to the required tolerances, they were painted and then assembled in the workshop. The rolls were fitted and coupled up with all the linkages in place to allow nip impression testing to be performed and for the operators to view for suitability.
The 20 tonne assembled press frame was transported to site ready for installation by AIE during a planned maintenance shut. With the maintenance shut being a fixed length in terms of time, AIE were under pressure to remove the old press frame assembly and get the new assembly installed and aligned to the existing dewatering presses.
The new press section was installed and a final survey confirmed frame alignment and levels were within allowable tolerances and that the carden shafts were within the planned angular tolerances.
Not only did AIE have the press frame assembly installed and ready for start up well before the deadline but the whole projected was completed on budget.
