Guide rolls guide and drive the wires and felts in the wet end and dryer sections of a paper machine. While the guide rolls in both sections utilize the same types of bearings, the lubrication and sealing methods differ based on the specific application. In older paper machines, grease lubrication is typically used for the wet end, while oil lubrication is used for the dryer section. In modern paper machines, circulating oil lubrication is employed in both sections; however, due to differing operating conditions, separate circulating oil systems are required for the wet end and the dryer section.
Larger machines often operate at higher speeds. Consequently, bearings with tapered bores are mounted directly onto tapered roll journals.
1. Wet End Section
Bearings at different locations within the paper machine are subjected to varying degrees of thermal influence. In particular, during high-pressure cleaning operations, it is essential to prevent water from entering the bearing housings.
2. Dryer Section
The ambient temperature is approximately 95°C, leading to significant thermal expansion, which places high demands on lubrication. Bearing operating temperatures can reach up to 115°C.
