Paper Machine Sheet Threading Troubleshooting

Each time a paper or board machine is started up after a shutdown, and following wet end sheet breaks, it is necessary to rethread the sheet from the forming section to the reel. After dry end sheet breaks, the sheet must be re-threaded to the reel.

Sheet threading is typically accomplished by threading a “tail” (a narrow section of the sheet) along the front or tending side, and then widening the tail out to the full sheet. In many cases, this is done twice – the “wet end tail” is used to thread the machine to the end of the dryers, and a second “dry end tail” is used to thread the sheet to the reel. The goal of all threading systems is the same, to thread the machine quickly with minimal operator involvement.

Quick and efficient sheet threading helps maximize production and minimizes the creation of broke, which is why it is so important to take action to keep threading equipment functioning well at all times. This course describes some of the more common sheet threading issues and their causes, and provides some practical solutions and troubleshooting best practices.