EP1397587A1

EP1397587A1 - Method and device for producing a fibre strip provided with a three-dimensional surface structure

Info

Publication number: EP1397587A1
Application number: EP02758205A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Thomas Thoröe SCHERB; Harald Dos Pássaros SCHMIDT-HEBBEL; Jeffrey Herman
Original assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
Current assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
Priority date: 2001-06-20
Filing date: 2002-05-27
Publication date: 2004-03-17
Anticipated expiration: 2022-05-27
Also published as: DE50205800D1; US20040237210A1; US7291249B2; EP1626122A1; EP1626122B1; US7662260B2; DE50214542D1; ATE474085T1; DE10129613A1; BR0211023A; ATE317498T1; EP1626121A1; EP1397587B1; WO2003000002A1; US20070289159A1

Abstract

In a process to manufacture a tissue web with a three-dimensional embossed surface, the wet web (less than 35% dry matter content) is pressed by suction to the surface of a pre-embossing belt. The pre-dried web is then transferred to and pressed onto a second embossing belt where the three-dimensional structure is fixed. Also claimed is a commensurate tissue or hygiene material (12) drying and embossing assembly (10) with first (I) and second (II) de-watering and embossing zones. The web is embossed by an embossing sieve belt (14) moving around first (30) and second (24) embossing drums. The second embossing drum (22) squeezes the web (12) and embossing belt (14) against a drying cylinder (20).

Description

Method and device for producing one with a three-dimensional

Surface structure provided fibrous web

The invention relates to a method and a device for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in particular tissue or hygiene web.

The embossing of a three-dimensional structure into the surface of a paper web, in particular a tissue web, in particular of hand tissue, is known (see for example WO 99/47749, WO 01/18307). It is also known that very good paper quality can be achieved by so-called through-air drying (TAD). The disadvantage, however, is that the use of TAD dryers is very complex and correspondingly expensive.

The aim of the invention is to provide an improved method and an improved device of the type mentioned at the outset, with which a high quality of the end product can be achieved in an economical and correspondingly cost-effective manner even without the use of a larger TAD drying device. A corresponding quality should be achieved in particular with regard to the water retention capacity, the water absorption speed, the volume (bulk), etc. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in particular a tissue or hygiene web, in which the fibrous web is pressed, for example sucked, and thereby pre-embossed on an embossing tape at a dry content <35% by means of a first pressure field then, for further dewatering and drying by means of a further pressure field, is pressed again on an embossing tape in order to fix the three-dimensional surface structure and strength.

Because of this configuration, in the relevant fibrous web, i.e. in particular of the paper, tissue or hygiene web in question, produces a sustainable three-dimensional surface structure which, even after the drying process, remains in the desired manner in the web, i.e. for example in the paper. The use of a complex and correspondingly expensive TAD process is no longer necessary. Even without such a TAD drying device, it is now possible in particular to produce a sustainable surface structure, for example a tissue or hygiene web, after the forming area or forming zone.

An embossing screen or an embossing membrane is preferably used as the embossing or structure tape (“imprinting fabric”, “structured fabric”).

In general, the fibrous web is pre-embossed after the forming area. In certain cases it is advantageous if the fibrous web is formed on the embossing tape used for the pre-embossing. However, the fibrous web can also be transferred to the embossing tape used for pre-embossing.

The same embossing tape is preferably used for pre-embossing and for fixing the surface structure. In principle, however, separate embossing tapes can also be used for this.

A preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that at least three flow devices arranged one behind the other in the web running direction are used, in the area of which at least the fibrous web is exposed to a particular flow, in particular air flow, the flow directions relating to the fibrous web in the different flow devices are at least partially different or opposite to each other. In particular, a concept with at least three flow-through devices is conceivable in which the flow-through direction of at least one flow-through device, based on the web, deviates from the flow-through direction of the other flow-through device (web top / bottom).

With this concept, for example, all throughflow devices can each include a suction device. However, such a variant of the above-mentioned concept is also conceivable, in which at least one of the flow-through devices comprises a suction device and at least one air press. For example, viewed in the web running direction, a first throughflow device can be a suction device second throughflow device comprise an air press and a third throughflow device again comprises a suction device.

A respective suction device can in particular each comprise a suction roller, a suction box and / or the like.

At least one suction device is advantageously used, in which the pressure difference Δp is in a range from approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.4 bar. The temperature is preferably ≤ 220 ° C, in particular <180 ° C and preferably <150 ° C. The air flow velocity through the fibrous web is preferably less than or equal to 15 15 m / s, particularly in the case of very fine coverings. As a result, this means a significantly lower energy requirement and a significantly lower system outlay than with the conventional TAD process. The residence time of the fibrous web in the suction area is advantageously <0.5 s, in particular <0.4 s and preferably ≤ 0.3 s.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least the first pressure field is generated by means of a suction element arranged on the side of the embossing tape facing away from the fibrous web, in order to suck the fibrous web into the surface structure of the embossing tape. A so-called wet vacuum can in particular be used as the suction element.

It is also advantageous if the fibrous web is pressed gently in the further pressure field, ie preferably over a lengthened length in the web running direction. The further pressure field is preferably generated by means of a press nip. In order to press the web as gently as possible, this press nip can be produced, for example, between a drying cylinder and a counter element, the fibrous web guided through the press nip being in contact with the surface of the drying cylinder and resting on the embossing belt with its other side. A so-called Yankee cylinder can in particular be used as the drying cylinder. In particular, a shoe press unit can be used as the counter element interacting with the drying cylinder, which comprises a flexible band guided over a press shoe in the area of the press nip. A shoe press roll provided with a flexible roll jacket is preferably used as the shoe press unit.

Advantageously, a preferably soft band or fine-pored covering with a capillary effect (capillary fabric), in particular felt, provided within the loop of the embossing band is passed through the press nip which generates the further pressure field. The soft felt can, for example, be a felt with a foamed layer which, as will be explained in more detail below, contributes to the dewatering of the fibrous web due to its capillary action.

A preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that the pre-embossed fibrous web is dried on the drying cylinder or Yankee cylinder, the fibrous web is creped and / or the fibrous web is then wound up.

According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the dry content at which the fibrous web is pre-embossed is and / or the dry content at which the three-dimensional surface structure is fixed is selected in each case <35%, in particular <30% and preferably <25%. Among other things, this increases the water retention capacity and the volume sustainably, which means that even when using the end product, for example a tissue or hygiene web in question, the desired embossing is still present. In particular, the advantage of a higher water retention capacity for towel tissue (towel paper) also comes into play when the end product in question is used.

According to a preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention, a suction device is used between the suction element generating the first pressure field and the press nip generating the further pressure field, and the fibrous web is guided together with an embossing tape both over the suction device and through the press nip. It is advantageous if the suction device has a curved surface and the fibrous web and the embossing tape are guided over this curved surface. For example, a suction roller can be used as the suction device.

The felt is expediently passed through the press nip between the embossing band and the flexible band of the shoe press unit.

In certain cases it is advantageous if the felt, which is particularly soft, is also passed over the suctioned device. Since the suction effect of the suctioned device is reduced accordingly, this is preferably assigned a hood under excess pressure in order to support the negative pressure effect of the suctioned device. Further advantages result from the relatively long joint guidance of felt and embossing tape, since the capillary action of the felt is used for dewatering the fibrous web over a longer distance.

The felt can, for example, be conditioned by means of a suction device, in particular by means of a suction box, before it is brought together with the embossing tape carrying the fibrous web. Appropriate conditioning can increase the dry content of the felt and clean the felt.

The embossing tape can in particular in front of the suction device, i.e. for example, the suction roll, are guided over the suction element or the wet suction device in order to suck the fibrous web into the three-dimensional surface structure of the embossing tape and thus to imprint this structure on the tape. At the same time, the suction element in question brings with it a corresponding increase in dryness.

According to another expedient embodiment of the method according to the invention, the felt is brought together with the embossing tape carrying the fibrous web only after the suctioned device. In this case, the suction device is not wrapped in the felt, which increases the suction effect of this device and increases the dry content accordingly. The wet molding effect is retained through the gentler drainage through the so-called TissueFlex, which works in comparison to a shoe press roller with lower pressure and longer dwell time. It is also advantageous if the length of the press nip of the shoe press comprising the drying cylinder and the shoe press unit viewed in the web running direction is selected to be greater than a value of approximately 80 mm and the shoe press is designed such that a pressure profile with a maximum press pressure results over the press nip length, which is less than or equal to a value of approximately 2.5 MPa. This ensures gentle pressing, which prevents the structure created in the fibrous web, for example tissue or hygiene web, from being flattened out again.

As already mentioned, between the suction element generating the first pressure field and the press nip, for example, a suction roller can be used, which is preferably associated with a pressure hood.

According to a preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least one dewatering screen with zonally different screen permeability is used in the forming area. The drainage screen in question can in particular be provided as an external screen. A corresponding design of the method is particularly advantageous in the production of towel tissue. The screen produces a fine structure which increases the water absorption rate and, in conjunction with the embossing according to the invention, brings about an increased water retention capacity.

In certain cases it is advantageous if a former with two circulating drainage belts is used, which converge to form a material inlet gap and over a forming element such as in particular a forming roller are guided, and a dewatering sieve with zonal different sieve permeability is used as the outer band not coming into contact with the forming element and / or as the inner band. In this case, for example, an embossing band can be used as the inner band and preferably a drainage sieve with zonal different sieve permeability as the outer band. It is also possible, for example, that the fibrous web is preferably taken over by the inner band by means of an embossed band.

Wet embossing in a tissue machine provided with an embossing tape is also particularly about achieving the desired dry content. The web can be wet embossed in front of the press by means of the embossing tape, for example by means of a suction box. In order to avoid that the three-dimensional surface structure, which was pre-embossed by the wet embossing in the area of the wet suction box, is destroyed again by a brief high pressure in the press nip, as is the case with a conventional suction press roller, according to one In an advantageous practical embodiment of the method according to the invention, an embossing tape, for example embossing screen or embossing membrane, is guided through the press nip, which is structured in such a way that this embossing tape has a smaller area portion of raised or closed zones compared to the area portion of recessed zones or holes results and correspondingly a smaller area of the fibrous web is pressed in the press nip. The smaller proportion of areas in raised or closed zones gives the areas of high density for strength, while the larger proportion of areas in recessed zones or holes, which remains at least essentially unpressed, the desired water absorption capacity and the desired volume provides, as was previously only possible through complex and expensive flow-through or TAD drying.

In this case, an embossing tape can advantageously be used in which the proportion of areas in raised or closed zones is <40% and is preferably in a range from approximately 25 to approximately 30%.

An embossing tape is expediently used in which the raised zones and the recessed zones are offset by offsets, i.e. by crossing points from weft and warp threads, a sieve fabric. As already mentioned, an embossing membrane can also be used, for example, in which the raised and recessed zones result from the holes. In this case it is advantageous that 100% of the surface is pressed around the holes and that there is a higher strength.

The embossing tape in question can be guided together with the fibrous web again, for example, over a drying cylinder, in particular a Yankee cylinder. A shoe press unit can in particular be used again as the counter element interacting with the drying cylinder. The length of the press nip viewed in the direction of web travel and the pressure profile resulting from the length of the press nip can in particular be selected again as previously stated.

It has been shown that with the method according to the invention a 50% higher water absorption capacity (g H2θ / g fibers) and a 100% higher volume (cm ³ / g) with the same tensile strength when used an embossing tape can be achieved in the press nip instead of a conventional felt before crimping.

By creping the web, the water absorbency can be improved by 50%, and taking this into account, a TAD towel quality water absorbency can be achieved.

The quality of the paper results from the lower compression of the web due to the smaller proportion of the area in the raised zones, and not from a TAD dryer. The permeability of the web results from the stretching of the web into the tissue structure by means of the suction element, whereby so-called "pillows" are generated, which increase the water absorption capacity and the volume accordingly. A relatively complex and correspondingly expensive TAD dryer is therefore no longer required.

The function of the TAD drum and air flow system is to dry the web and therefore the appropriate dry content must be achieved in order to wet stamp in a conventional machine, i.e. especially a conventional tissue machine.

In order to reduce the rewetting and to maintain the desired dry content, according to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention for dewatering the web, at least one fine-pored covering with a capillary effect is used, which can be, for example, a felt or a sieve with a foamed layer , The foam coating can in particular be selected such that pores result in a range from approximately 3 to approximately 6 μm. The corresponding capillary action is therefore used for dewatering. The covering in question, for example a felt, can be provided, for example, with a special foam layer which gives the surface very narrow pores, the diameter of which can be, for example, from about 3 to about 6 μm. The air permeability of this covering is very low. The natural capillary effect is used to drain the web while it is in contact with the fabric.

A fine-pored covering, e.g. Sieve or felt with a foamed layer, together with an embossing tape and a fibrous web lying between them, are guided around a suction roller, the fine-pored covering preferably being in contact with the suction roller.

The fine-pored covering can, for example, be a suction roll with a diameter of e.g. about 2 to 3 m or more suction rolls with a smaller diameter, preferably two suction rolls with a diameter of about 2 m each, for example. The dwell time of the web in the area of the suction roll or the suction rolls should expediently be greater than approximately 0.15 s and less than approximately 0.40 s.

The suction roll in question can be subjected to a vacuum on its underside, for example, or a suction salt with an associated siphon discharge can be used. In particular with a smaller diameter, the water can also be thrown into a channel by centrifugal force, for example. Drainage using the capillary action has already been described in US Pat. No. 5,701,682. The capillary element in question is part of the suction roll here. The use of a fine-pored covering with capillary effect results in the following advantages in comparison with a roller with capillary effect:

better cleaning easier replacement cheaper cheaper water removal from the roller because the roller shell is more open than a foamed shell.

Despite the use of the capillary action for dewatering, the suction device can in particular be assigned a hood that is under overpressure in order to support the vacuum effect of the suction device.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the fibrous web for expelling water by means of gas pressure is passed together with an embossing tape at least once, preferably twice, through a pressure space which is delimited by at least four rollers arranged in parallel and into which a compressed gas is introduced. The fibrous web is preferably guided through the pressure chamber together with the embossing tape and a membrane. The basic principle of such a displacement press, in which the water in the fibrous web is displaced by air, is described for example in DE 199 46 972. According to a preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention, there is vacuum dewatering of the fibrous web in which the pressure difference (Δp) is> 0.1 bar, in particular> 0.2 bar and preferably> 0.3 bar. The pressure difference (Δp) can in particular be in a range from approximately 0.2 bar to approximately 0.4 bar. In contrast to the conventional TAD method, an open area of approximately 20% is advantageously provided.

A fine-pored covering, e.g. Sieve or felt with a foamed layer. Here, for example, such a pressure difference can prevail as before. However, the open area here is preferably very small, so that there is a very small air volume flow.

According to a preferred practical embodiment of the method according to the invention, the vacuum dewatering takes place in such a way that an air volume flow ≤ 50, in particular 20 20, in particular 5 5 and above 3 m 3, preferably <1 - (to almost zero - -). m min m min

For a corresponding "Spectra" membrane that can be used for vacuum drainage, e.g. 15 m / s measured, so a higher vacuum is required.

The device according to the invention for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in particular tissue or hygiene web, is accordingly characterized in that that the fibrous web at a dry content <35% is pressed onto an embossing tape by means of a first pressure field, for example by suction and thereby pre-embossed, and then a further measure is pressed onto an embossing tape for further dewatering and drying by means of another pressure field in order to increase the three-dimensional surface structure and strength fix.

Preferred embodiments of the device according to the invention are specified in the subclaims.

The invention can be used in particular in crescent formers, duo formers, C-wrap formers, S-wrap formers and in the production of multi-layer and multi-layer tissue.

The invention is explained below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing; in this show:

1 is a schematic partial representation of a device for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure,

2 shows a schematic partial representation of a modified embodiment of the device, in which the felt is not passed over the suction device,

Fig. 3 is a schematic partial representation of an embodiment of an apparatus for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in a dewatering device is additionally provided, in which the capillary action of a fine-pored covering such as a felt with a foamed layer is used for dewatering,

Fig. 4 is a schematic partial representation of a further embodiment of a device for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in which a dewatering device is additionally provided in which the capillary action of a fine-pored fabric such as e.g. a felt with a foamed layer is used,

5 shows a schematic partial representation of an embodiment of a device for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in which a displacement press is additionally provided,

Fig. 6 is a schematic partial representation of an embossing tape with a smaller area portion of raised zones and compared to the area portion of recessed zones

FIG. 7 shows a schematic section through a press nip through which the embossing tape shown in FIG. 6 is passed together with the fibrous web and a preferably soft felt. 1 shows a schematic partial representation of a device 10 for producing a fibrous web 12 provided with a three-dimensional surface structure (cf. also FIG. 7), which can be, in particular, a paper web and preferably a tissue or hygiene web.

The fibrous web 12 is pressed at a dry content <35% by means of a first pressure field I onto an embossed or structured belt 14, e.g. sucked, and thereby pre-embossed and then pressed again for further drainage and drying by means of a further pressure field II on the embossing tape 14 in order to fix the three-dimensional surface structure and strength. An embossing screen can in particular be provided as the embossing belt 14.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the same embossing tape 14 is provided for embossing and for fixing the surface structure.

The first pressure field I is generated by means of a suction element 16 arranged on the side of the embossing belt 14 facing away from the fibrous web 12, as a result of which the fibrous web 12 is sucked into the surface structure of the embossing belt 14. The suction element 16 can in particular be provided as a suction box or wet vacuum cleaner.

In the further pressure field II, the fibrous web 12 is preferably pressed gently, ie in particular over a lengthened length in the web running direction L. The further pressure field II can be generated in particular by means of a press nip 18, which is formed between a drying cylinder 20 and a counter element 22. The through the Pressnip 18 guided fibrous web 12 is in contact with the surface 20 'of the drying cylinder 20. The other side of it lies against the embossing belt 14.

A Yankee cylinder can in particular be provided as the drying cylinder 20.

A shoe press unit 22 is preferably provided as the counter element interacting with the drying cylinder 20, which comprises a flexible band 26 guided in the region of the press nip 18 via a press shoe 24. In the present exemplary embodiment, a shoe press roll provided with a flexible roll jacket 26 is provided as the shoe press unit 22.

This results in a press nip 18 which is elongated in the web running direction L, as a result of which a relatively gentle pressing of the fibrous web 12 is achieved.

A preferably soft band 28 or a fine-pored covering with capillary effect (capillary fabric), in particular a soft felt or a soft foam felt, can be guided through the press nip 18 within the loop of the embossing band 14. This soft band 28 or fine-pored covering thus runs between the embossing band 14 and the flexible band 26 of the shoe press unit 22.

The fibrous web 12 can be dried on the drying cylinder 20, ie for example on a Yankee cylinder. In addition, the fibrous web 12 can be creped. Finally, the web 12 can be wound up by appropriate means. As already mentioned, the dry content at which the fibrous web 12 is pre-embossed and / or the dry content at which the three-dimensional surface structure is fixed is <35% and can in particular be <30% and preferably <25%.

A suction device 30 is provided between the suction element 16 and the press nip 18, which device can in particular be a suction roller. The fibrous web 12 is guided together with the embossing tape 14 both over the suction device 30 and through the press nip 18. The fine-pored covering or in the present case e.g. the felt 28 is guided between the embossing belt 14 and the flexible belt 26 of the shoe press unit 22 through the press nip 18.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the felt 28 is not only guided through the press nip 18, but also over the suctioned device 30. Since the suction effect of the device 30 is reduced by the resistance of the felt 28, the suction device 30 can be assigned a hood under pressure to support the vacuum effect of the suction device 30.

A suction device 32, in particular a suction box or the like, can be provided for conditioning the felt 28. As can be seen from FIG. 1, this suction device 32, which is used for felt conditioning, is arranged in front of the suctioned device 30, in the area of which the felt 28 is brought together with the embossing tape 14 carrying the fibrous web 12. The suction device 32 is preferably in front (representation in solid lines) of a lower one Deflection roller 72 arranged. In principle, however, an arrangement behind this lower deflection roller 72 is also possible (broken line 32 ').

Due to the relatively long joint guidance of felt 28 and embossing tape 14, the capillary action of the felt 28 removes water from the fibrous web 12 over a longer distance. The felt 28 is conditioned beforehand by the suction device 32, as a result of which its dryness is increased and the felt is cleaned.

In front of the suctioned device 30, the embossing tape 14 is guided over the suction element 16, which, in addition to increasing the dry content, causes the fibrous web 12 to be pre-stamped. This is sucked into the three-dimensional surface structure of the embossing belt or screen 14, as a result of which the structure is impressed on the web.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2 differs from that of FIG. 1 essentially only in that the felt 28 is only brought together with the embossing tape 14 carrying the fibrous web 12 after the device 30 has been vacuumed. In this case, the suctioned device 30 is not wrapped around by the felt 28, whereby its suction effect is increased and the dry content is increased accordingly. The wet embossing effect is retained through the relatively gentle drainage of the TissueFlex, in which the pressure is lower than in a conventional shoe press.

Otherwise, this embodiment can be designed at least essentially as that according to FIG. 1. So is the suction device here 32 is preferably arranged again in front (representation in solid lines) of the lower deflection roller 72, although in principle an arrangement behind this lower deflection roller 72 is also possible (dashed representation 32 ').

Fig. 3 shows a schematic partial representation of an embodiment in which a dewatering device 34 is additionally provided, in which a fine-pored covering 36 with capillary effect is used for dewatering, which is e.g. can be a felt or a sieve with a foamed layer. A particular foam coating can in particular be selected so that pores in a range from approximately 3 to approximately 6 μm result.

In the present case, the fine-pored covering 36 is guided around a larger suction roller 38 together with an embossing tape 14 and fibrous web 12 lying therebetween, the fine-pored covering 36 preferably being in contact with the suction roller 38. The suction roller 38 wrapped in the fine-pored covering 36 can, for example, have a diameter of approximately 2 to approximately 3 m. The suction roller 38 can be subjected to a vacuum on its underside. Basically, a suction siphon can also be assigned to the suction roller 38. The relevant means are designated by "40" in FIG.

At least one dewatering screen with zonally different screen permeability can be provided in the forming area.

In the present case, a former with two circumferential drainage belts 14, 42 is provided, the inner belt 14 being used simultaneously as Embossing tape is used. The two dewatering belts 14, 42 converge to form a stock inlet gap 44 and are guided over a forming element 46, such as, in particular, a forming roller.

In the present case, the embossing band 14 is formed by the inner band of the former coming into contact with the forming element 46. The outer band 42, which does not come into contact with the forming element 46, can in particular be provided as a drainage screen with zonally different screen permeability.

The pulp suspension is introduced into the stock inlet gap 44 by means of a headbox 48. A pickup or separating element 50 is provided behind the forming element 46, by means of which the web is held on the embossing belt 14 when it is separated from the dewatering belt 42. A suction element 16 (solid representation) is again provided in front of the device 34 with capillary action, through which the fibrous web 12 is pressed onto the embossing tape 14. However, this suction element can also be arranged between the device 34 with capillary action and the suctioned device or suction roller 30 (dashed line 16 ').

Together with the fibrous web 12 and the embossing tape 14, a soft tape or a fine-pored covering with a capillary effect (capillary fabric) is again z. B. felt 28, through the press nip 18 formed between a drying cylinder 20 and a shoe press unit 22. In the present case, the soft band is again guided around the suctioned device 30 in accordance with the embodiment according to FIG. 1. As already mentioned, this soft band 28 can also be act again as a fine-pored covering with a capillary effect, for example a felt with a corresponding capillary effect (capillary feit). The felt 28 can, for example, be conditioned again via a suction device or a so-called UHLE box. The drying cylinder 20 can in particular again be a Yankee cylinder. A drying hood 52 can be assigned to this drying cylinder 20.

In the present embodiment, the dry content of the fibrous web before the dewatering device 34 with capillary action is about 10 to about 25%, in the area after this device 34 e.g. about 30 to about 40%.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 initially differs from that according to FIG. 3 in that the fibrous web 12 is taken over by the embossing belt 14 from an inner belt 54 of the former. In the present case, for example, this inner band 54 or the outer band 42 of the former can again be provided as a drainage screen with zonally different screen permeability. The two circulating dewatering belts 42, 54 converge again to form a material inlet gap 44, again being guided over a forming element 46, in particular a forming roller. By means of a headbox 48, the stock inlet gap 44 is again loaded with fiber suspension. In contrast to the embodiment according to FIG. 3, the fibrous suspension is fed from below in the present case. A pickup or separating element is again provided within the loop of the embossing belt 14, by means of which the fibrous web 12 is held on the embossing belt when it is separated from the inner belt 54 of the former.

The suction element 16 provided within the loop of the embossing belt 14 is arranged in front of the dewatering device 34 with a capillary action, although in principle an arrangement after this device 34 is also possible.

In the present case, the felt 28 is missing.

The dry content of the fibrous web in the present exemplary embodiment is approximately 10 to approximately 25% in the area of the pickup element 50, approximately 15 to approximately 30% in the area in front of the dewatering device 34 and approximately 35 to approximately 45% in the area after this device 34.

Otherwise, this embodiment can have at least essentially the same structure as the elements shown in FIG. 3. Corresponding elements are assigned the same reference numerals.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic partial representation of an embodiment of the device 10, in which a displacement press 56 is provided. In this case, the fibrous web 12 is led at least once through a pressure chamber 58 to expel water by means of gas pressure with the embossing belt 14, said pressure chamber being delimited by at least four rollers 60-66 arranged in parallel and into which a compressed gas can be introduced. The fibrous web 12 is preferably guided through the pressure chamber 58 together with the embossing tape 14 and a membrane 68. In the present case, the membrane 68 forms the inner belt of the former, which again comprises a forming element 46, such as in particular a forming roller, in the area of which the inner belt 68, which is provided as the membrane, and the outer belt 42 converge to form a material inlet gap 44, which by means of a headbox 48 with a fiber suspension is loaded.

Following the air press 56, the fibrous web 12 together with the embossing belt 14 is again guided over a suction device 30, in particular a suction roll, and through the press nip 18 formed between a drying cylinder 20, in particular a Yankee cylinder, and a shoe press unit 22. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a drying hood 52 is again assigned to the drying cylinder or Yankee cylinder 20.

In the present case, the first pressure field I, by means of which the fibrous web 12 is pressed onto the embossing tape 14 at a dry content <50% and correspondingly pre-embossed, can be generated, for example, by the air press 56.

As can be seen, for example, from FIGS. 6 and 7, the respective embossing tape 14 guided through the press nip 18, for example embossing sieve (cf. in particular the left part of FIG. 6) or embossing membrane (cf. in particular the right part of FIG. 6), be structured in such a way that for this embossing tape 14 there is a smaller area portion of raised or results in closed zones 68 and accordingly a smaller area portion of the fibrous web 12 is pressed in the press nip 18.

The proportion of the area in raised or closed zones 68 can in particular be <40% and preferably be in a range from approximately 25 to approximately 30%.

The raised zones 68 and the recessed zones can e.g. by crossing points from weft and warp threads, a sieve fabric. In the case of the press membrane shown in the right part of FIG. 6, a corresponding structuring results through the holes 74.

Fig. 6 shows a schematic partial representation of a corresponding embossing tape 14, e.g. Embossing felt or embossing membrane, with a smaller area portion of raised or closed zones 68 compared to the area portion of recessed zones or holes 74.

The thickness d of the stamping membrane shown in the right part of Fig. 6 can e.g. about 1 to about 3 mm. The open area can in particular be greater than 50% and expediently greater than 60% and preferably be in a range from approximately 70% to approximately 75%. The membrane expediently consists of a material which is resistant to the fiber chemistry. For example, it can consist of polyester.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic section through a press nip 18 through which the embossing tape 14 shown in FIG. 6 together with the fibrous web 12 and a preferably soft tape or felt 28 is carried out. This soft band 28 is in contact with the flexible band 26 of the shoe press unit, which is guided in the area of the press nip 18 via a press shoe 24, via which the desired contact pressure can be applied.

The fibrous web 12 lies against the drying cylinder 20, preferably a Yankee cylinder.

7 also shows the pressing zones 70 resulting from the raised zones 68.

The fibrous web 12 is embossed even before the nip. As can be seen from FIG. 7, it is already in contact with the embossing tape before the nip.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

Device fibrous web embossing tape suction element Pressnip drying cylinder, Yankee cylinder surface counter element, shoe press unit press shoe flexible belt, flexible roller jacket soft belt or fine-pored covering with capillary effect, soft felt-sucked device, suction roller suction device, suction roller dewatering device with capillary effect fine-pored covering with capillary effect, Felt with foamed layer, large suction roller vacuum, siphon discharge, drainage belt, fabric inlet gap, forming element, forming roller, headbox, pickup or separating element, drying hood, inner drainage screen 56 air press

58 pressure chamber

60 roller

62 roller

64 roller

66 roller

68 raised zones

70 press zones

72 deflection roller

74 holes d thickness

L web running direction

I first pressure field

II further pressure field

Claims

Patent claims

1. A method for producing a fibrous web provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in particular tissue or hygiene web, in which the fibrous web is pressed onto an embossing tape at a dry content <35% by means of a first pressure field and thereby pre-embossed and then for further dewatering and drying by means of another Pressure field is pressed again on an embossing tape in order to fix the three-dimensional surface structure and strength.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that an embossing screen is used as the embossing tape.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that an embossing membrane is used as the embossing tape.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web is pre-embossed after the forming area.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web is formed on the embossing tape used for embossing.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web is transferred to the embossing tape used for pre-embossing.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the same embossing tape is used for pre-embossing and for fixing the surface structure.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least three flow devices arranged one behind the other in the web running direction are used, in the area of which at least the fibrous web is exposed to a respective flow, in particular air flow, the flow directions relating to the fibrous web at least in the different flow devices are partially different or opposite to each other.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that all throughflow devices each comprise a suction device.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that at least one of the flow-through devices comprises a suction device and at least one air press.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that viewed in the web running direction, a first throughflow device comprises a suction device, a second throughflow device comprises an air press and a third throughflow device again comprises a suction device.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective suction device comprises a suction roller, a suction box and / or the like.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device is used in which the pressure difference (Δp) is in a range from approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.4 bar.

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that at least one suction device is used, in the area of which the temperature is <220 ° C, in particular <180 ° C and preferably <150 ° C.

15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device is used, in which the air flow rate through the fibrous web is preferably <15 m / s and in particular <8 m / s with very fine coverings.

16. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device is used in which the residence time of the fibrous web in the suction area is <0.5 s, in particular <0.4 s and preferably <0.3 s.

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the first pressure field is generated by means of a suction element arranged on the side of the embossing tape facing away from the fibrous web in order to suck the fibrous web into the surface structure of the embossing tape.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that a wet vacuum is used as the suction element.

19. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web is gentle in the further pressure field, i. E. preferably over a lengthened length in the web running direction.

20. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the further pressure field is generated by means of a press nip.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the press nip forming the further pressure field is generated between a drying cylinder and a counter element, the fibrous web guided through the press nip being in contact with the surface of the drying cylinder and with its other side on the embossing tape is applied.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that a Yankee cylinder is used as the drying cylinder.

23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that a shoe press unit is used as the counter element interacting with the drying cylinder, which comprises a flexible band guided over a press shoe in the area of the press nip.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that a shoe press roll provided with a flexible roll jacket is used as the shoe press unit.

25. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a preferably soft band (28) provided within the loop of the embossing band or fine-pored covering with a capillary effect, in particular felt, is passed through the press nip generating the further pressure field.

26. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pre-embossed fibrous web is dried on the drying cylinder, that the fibrous web is creped and / or that the fibrous web is then wound up.

27. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dry content at which the fibrous web is pre-embossed and / or the dry content at which the three-dimensional surface structure is fixed, in each case <35%, in particular <30% and preferably <25 % is selected.

28. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between the suction element generating the first pressure field and a suction device is used for the press nip generating the further pressure field and that the fibrous web is guided together with an embossing tape both over the suction device and through the press nip.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that the suctioned device has a curved surface and the fibrous web and the embossing tape are guided over this curved surface.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that a suction roller is used as the vacuumed device.

31. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt is guided through the press nip between the embossing band and the flexible band of the shoe press unit.

32. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt is also passed over the suction device.

33. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction device is under pressure Hood is assigned to support the vacuum effect of the vacuumed device.

34. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt is conditioned by means of a suction device, in particular by means of a suction box, before it is brought together with the embossing tape carrying the fibrous web.

35. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt is brought together with the embossing tape carrying the fibrous web only after the vacuumed device.

36. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of the press nip of the shoe press comprising the drying cylinder and the shoe press unit viewed in the direction of web travel is selected to be greater than a value of approximately 80 mm and the shoe press is designed such that the length of the press nip increases Pressure profile with a maximum pressing pressure that is less than or equal to a value of about 2.5 MPa.

37. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one dewatering screen with zonally different screen permeability is used in the forming area.

38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that a former with two circulating drainage belts is used, which converge to form a material inlet gap and are guided over a forming element such as, in particular, a forming roller, and that as an outer belt not coming into contact with the forming element and / or a drainage sieve with zonal different sieve permeability is used as the inner band.

39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that an embossing band is used as the inner band and preferably a dewatering sieve with zonally different sieve permeability is used as the outer band.

40. The method according to claim 39, characterized in that the fibrous web is preferably embossed by an embossing tape

Inner band is taken over.

41. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an embossing tape, for example embossing sieve or embossing membrane, is guided through the press nip, which is structured in such a way that there is a smaller area portion for this embossing tape compared to the area portion of recessed zones or holes on raised or closed zones and a smaller area of the fibrous web is pressed accordingly in the press nip.

42. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that an embossing tape is used in which the proportion of areas in raised or closed zones is <40% and is preferably in a range from approximately 25% to approximately 30%.

43. The method according to claim 41 or 42, characterized in that an embossing tape is used in which the raised zones and the recessed zones are offset by offsets, i. by crossing points from weft and warp threads, a sieve fabric.

44. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one fine-pored covering with a capillary effect is used to dewater the web.

45. The method according to claim 44, characterized in that at least one felt or sieve with a foamed layer is used to dewater the web.

46. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the foam coating is selected so that pores result in a range from about 3 to about 6 μm.

47. The method according to claim 45 or 46, characterized in that the fine-pored covering, e.g. Sieve or felt, with a foamed layer, is guided together with an embossing tape and a fibrous web in between around at least one suction roller, the fine-pored covering preferably being in contact with the suction roller.

48. The method according to any one of claims 45 to 47, characterized in that the fine-pored covering wraps around a suction roll with a diameter of approximately 2 to approximately 3 m or several suction rolls with a smaller diameter, preferably two suction rolls with a diameter of, for example, approximately 2 m each ,

49. Method according to one of claims 45 to 48, characterized in that the suction roll is subjected to a vacuum on its underside.

50. The method according to any one of claims 45 to 48, characterized in that a suction roll with an associated siphon discharge is used or the water is thrown off into a trough by centrifugal force.

51. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web for expelling water by means of gas pressure together with an embossing tape is passed at least once and preferably twice through a pressure chamber which is delimited by at least four rollers arranged in parallel and into which a compressed gas is introduced becomes.

52. The method according to claim 51, characterized in that the fibrous web together with the embossing tape and one

Membrane is passed through the pressure chamber.

53. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thickness of the embossing membrane is about 1 to about 3 mm and / or that the open area of this embossing membrane is greater than 50% and advantageously greater than 60% and preferably in a range of is about 70% to about 75%.

54. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a vacuum dewatering of the fibrous web takes place, in which the pressure difference (Δp)> 0.1 bar, in particular> 0.2 bar and preferably> 0.3 bar.

55. The method according to claim 54, characterized in that the pressure difference (Δp) is in a range from approximately 0.2 bar to approximately 0.4 bar.

56. Method according to claim 54 or 55, characterized in that a fine-pored covering, e.g. Sieve or felt with a foamed layer is used.

57. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vacuum dewatering takes place in such a way that an air volume flow <50, in particular <20, in particular <5 and preferably <1 - results. m min

58. Device (10) for producing a fibrous web (12) provided with a three-dimensional surface structure, in particular tissue or hygienic web, in which the fibrous web (12) has a dry content <35% by means of a first pressure field (I) on an embossing tape (14 ) pressed and thereby pre-embossed and then for further dewatering and drying by means of a further pressure field (II) pressed again on an embossing tape (14) in order to fix the three-dimensional surface structure and strength.

59. Apparatus according to claim 58, characterized in that an embossing screen is provided as the embossing band (14).

60. Device according to claim 58, characterized in that an embossing membrane is provided as the embossing tape (14).

61. Device according to claim 59 or 60, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is embossed according to the forming area.

62. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is formed on the embossing tape (14) used for embossing.

63. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is transferred to the embossing tape (14) used for pre-embossing.

64. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the same embossing tape (14) is provided for pre-embossing and for fixing the surface structure.

65. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least three throughflow devices (16, 38, 30) arranged one behind the other in the web running direction (L) are provided, in the region of which at least the fibrous web (12) is exposed to a respective throughflow, in particular airflow The flow directions relating to the fibrous web (12) in the different flow devices (16, 38, 30) are at least partially different or opposite to each other.

66. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that all flow-through devices (16, 38, 30) each comprise a suction device.

67. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that at least one of the flow-through devices (16, 38, 30) comprises a suction device and at least one air press.

68. Device according to claim 67, characterized in that viewed in the web running direction (L) a first throughflow device (16) comprises a suction device, a second throughflow device (38) comprises an air press and a third throughflow device (30) again comprises a suction device.

69. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective suction device comprises a suction roller, a suction box and / or the like.

70. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device (38) is provided, in which the pressure difference (Δp) is in a range from approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.4 bar.

71. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device (38) is provided, in the area of which the temperature is <220 ° C, in particular <180 ° C and preferably <150 ° C.

72. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device (38) is provided, in which the air flow rate through the fibrous web (12) is preferably <15 m / s and in particular <8m / s at very fine coverings.

73. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one suction device (38) is provided, in which the residence time of the fibrous web (12) in the suction area is <0.5 s, in particular <0.4 s and preferably <0.3 s.

74. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the first pressure field (I) is generated by means of a suction element (16) arranged on the side of the embossing belt (14) facing away from the fibrous web (12), around the fibrous web (12 ) to suck into the surface structure of the embossing tape (14).

75. Device according to claim 74, characterized in that a wet vacuum is provided as the suction element (14).

76. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is gentle in the further pressure field (II), i. E. preferably over a lengthened path in the web running direction (L).

77. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the further pressure field (II) is generated by means of a press nip (18).

78. Device according to claim 77, characterized in that the press nip (18) forming the further pressure field (II) between a drying cylinder (20) and a counter element (22) is provided, the fibrous web (12) guided through the press nip (18) being in contact with the surface (20 ') of the drying cylinder (20) and with its other side resting on the embossing tape ,

79. Device according to claim 78, characterized in that a Yankee cylinder is provided as the drying cylinder (20).

80. Apparatus according to claim 78 or 79, characterized in that a shoe press unit is provided as the counter element (22) which interacts with the drying cylinder (20) and which has a flexible band (26) guided in the region of the press nip (18) via a press shoe (24) ) includes.

81. Device according to claim 80, characterized in that a shoe press roll provided with a flexible roll jacket (26) is provided as the shoe press unit.

82. Apparatus according to claim 78 or 79, characterized in that a suction press roller with a soft coating and / or low contact pressure is provided as the counter element (22) interacting with the drying cylinder (20).

83. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a preferably soft band (28), in particular felt, provided within the loop of the embossing band (14), through which the further pressure field (II) generating press nip (18) is guided.

84. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means are provided for drying the pre-embossed fibrous web (12) on the drying cylinder (20), creping the fibrous web and / or subsequently winding up the fibrous web (12).

85. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dry content at which the fibrous web (12) is pre-embossed and / or the dry content at which the three-dimensional surface structure is fixed, in each case <35%, in particular <30% and is preferably <25%.

86. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a suction device (30) is provided between the suction element (16) generating the first pressure field (I) and the press nip (18) generating the further pressure field (II) and that Fibrous web (12) together with an embossing tape (14) is guided both over the suction device and through the press nip (18).

87. Device according to claim 86, characterized in that the suctioned device (30) has a curved surface and the fibrous web (12) and the embossing tape (14) are guided over this curved surface.

88. Device according to claim 87, characterized in that a suction roller is provided as the vacuumed device (30).

89. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt (28) is guided between the embossing band (14) and the flexible band (26) of the shoe press unit (22) through the press nip (18).

90. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt (28) is also guided over the suction device (30).

91. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction device (30) is associated with a pressurized hood to support the vacuum effect of the suction device (30).

92. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a suction device (32), in particular a suction box, is provided in order to condition the felt (28) before it is brought together with the embossing tape (14) carrying the fibrous web (12) becomes.

93. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the felt (28) is only brought together with the embossing tape (14) carrying the fibrous web (12) after the suction device (30).

94. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of the press nip (18) of the shoe press comprising the drying cylinder (20) and the shoe press unit (22) considered in the web running direction (L) is greater than a value of approximately 80 mm and the shoe press is designed in such a way that a pressure profile with a maximum pressure that is less than or equal to a value of approximately 2.5 MPa results over the length of the press nip.

95. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one dewatering sieve (42, 54) with zonally different sieve permeability is provided in the forming area.

96. Apparatus according to claim 95, characterized in that a former is provided with two circulating drainage belts (14, 42) which converge to form a material inlet gap (44) and are guided over a forming element (46), in particular a forming roller, and in that an outer belt (42) not coming into contact with the forming element (46) and / or an inner belt (54) is provided with a drainage sieve with zonal different sieve permeability.

97. Apparatus according to claim 96, characterized in that an embossing band (14) and preferably an outer band (42) is provided with a dewatering sieve with zonally different sieve permeability as the inner band.

98. Device according to claim 96, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is preferably taken over by the embossing tape from the inner tape (54).

99. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an embossing band (14), for example embossing screen or the embossing membrane, is guided through the press nip (18), which is structured in such a way that an im In comparison to the area share of recessed zones or holes, a smaller area share of raised or closed zones (68) results and accordingly in the press nip (18) is pressed into a smaller area of the fibrous web (12).

100. Apparatus according to claim 99, characterized in that an embossing tape (14) is provided in which the proportion of the area in raised or closed zones (68) is <40% and is preferably in a range from approximately 25 to approximately 30%.

101. Apparatus according to claim 99 or 100, characterized in that an embossing tape (14) is provided in which the raised zones (68) and the recessed zones are offset by offsets, i.e. by crossing points from weft and warp threads, a sieve fabric.

102. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one fine-pored covering (36) with a capillary effect, preferably a felt or sieve with a foamed layer, is provided for dewatering the web (12).

103. Device according to claim 102, characterized in that the foam coating is selected such that pores result in a range from approximately 3 to approximately 6 μm.

104. Device according to claim 102 or 103, characterized in that the fine-pored covering (36), e.g. Sieve or felt with a foamed layer, together with an embossing belt (14) and a fibrous web (12) between them, is guided around at least one suction roller (38), the fine-pored covering (36) preferably being in contact with the suction roller (38).

105. Device according to one of claims 102 to 104, characterized in that the fine-pored covering (36) comprises a suction roller (38) with a diameter of approximately 2 to approximately 3 m or several suction rollers with a smaller diameter, preferably two suction rollers with a diameter of, for example each wraps around 2 m.

106. Device according to one of claims 102 to 104, characterized in that the suction roll (38) can be acted upon by a vacuum on its underside.

107. Device according to one of claims 102 to 105, characterized in that a suction roller (38) with an associated siphon discharge is provided or the water is thrown off into a trough by centrifugal force.

108. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the fibrous web (12) for expelling water by means of gas pressure together with an embossing belt (14) is guided at least once and preferably twice through a pressure chamber (58) which is delimited by at least four rollers (60-66) arranged in parallel and into which Compressed gas can be introduced.

109. Device according to claim 108, characterized in that the fibrous web (12) is guided through the pressure chamber (58) together with the embossing tape and a membrane (68).

110. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thickness of the stamping membrane is approximately 1 to approximately 3 mm and / or that the open area of this stamping membrane is greater than 50% and advantageously greater than 60% and preferably in a range of is about 70% to about 75%.

111. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means are provided for vacuum dewatering of the fibrous web (12), in which the pressure difference (Δp)> 0.1 bar, in particular> 0.2 bar and preferably> 0 Is 3 bar.

112. Device according to claim 111, characterized in that the pressure difference (Δp) is in a range from approximately 0.2 bar to approximately 0.4 bar.

113. Device according to claim 111 or 112, characterized in that the means for vacuum dewatering comprise a fine-pored covering (36), e.g. Sieve or felt with a foamed layer.

114. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for vacuum dewatering are designed such that an air volume flow <50, in particular <20, in particular ³ <5 and preferably <1 - results. m -min