SMART^® Technology is the world’s first system for dynamic measurement of nip performance.

Press section efficiency is largely dependent upon contact uniformity in the press nip. Yet, improper cover crowns, biased loading, uneven roll cover wear and uneven fabric wear can all cause non-uniformity— leading to costly sheet breaks, reduced paper quality, increased costs and decreased roll cover or fabric life. Traditional tools used to measure nip performance require machine downtime and data extrapolation to obtain a snapshot used to forecast operating conditions. There has never been a way to reliably monitor the response of the nip profile to changing machine conditions. Until now.

Click here for SMART Technology Brochure

Embedded sensor system

SMART Technology employs a proprietary embedded sensor system to extract data from the roll cover during machine operation. For the first time, machine operators get real-time knowledge of true operating conditions. Real-time knowledge provides the ability to make on-the-run adjustments and the power to optimize production, reduce energy consumption and control costs.

How it works

A series of sensors is embedded across the width of the roll cover, providing a continuous flow of data across the entire nip. The sensors are monitored by head-mounted electronics that rotate with the roll and transmit data wirelessly to a dedicated computer. A custom operator interface provides dynamic monitoring of the pressure profile, pressure profile standard deviation and roll speed. The system also provides a log of past nip data.

The benefits of real-time knowledge

Armed for the first time with accurate real-time knowledge of nip performance, the operator can adjust operating parameters and make corrections to the moisture profile exiting the press. The benefits can include an improved nip profile, extended cover life, reduced downtime, lower consumption of materials, reduced energy costs and early warnings of cover failures.

Years in development, SMART Technology is now field proven and providing documented results. Contact us for more information.