neXformer - the core of ANDRITZ wetlaid technology

Integrated wetlaid formation with distribution, headbox, inclined wire section, and dewatering box.

The neXformer is the core component of all wetlaid lines. Fibers are formed to fabric on an inclined wire. Be it the one-layer or multi-layer neXformer, we provide the right configuration tailored to your needs.

Wet forming

As the heart of a wetlaid production line, the neXformer is particularly crucial to the process. For wetlaid nonwovens with controlled porosity, the inclined formation path is essential for fibers to settle consecutively. Fibers of up to 18 mm in length (in some cases even longer) can be used. Our in-depth knowledge in wet-laying processes, together with years of expertise in the paper industry guarantee the most competent solution just for you.

The dispersion from stock preparation and a large volume of water are pumped from the white water tank through a special connecting pipe in the distribution system into the headbox. The fibers settle on the wire under uniform pressure and optimal flow conditions to disperse and form a web. The material is then transferred allowing most of the water to be recycled into the white water tank in a cost-effective loop.

Thanks to the low-density dispersion, each individual fiber flows almost unhindered before settling onto the other fibers on the wire. This results in a homogeneous product with controlled fiber formation and porosity.

For medium capacity ANDRITZ offers also the Wetlaid aXcess former with various adavantages regarding flexibilty and handling. See the flyer for more details: Wetlaid neXformer aXcess

ANDRITZ neXformer in operation

Multi-layer headbox

A multi-layer headbox is available as a special option for two or more layers of dispersion - the advantage being that fibers from different materials or blends are layered without any need for auxiliaries.In this way, fibers from different sources can be deposited layer by layer. This causes the fibers in the different layers to mingle with one another, with the result that both layers are entangled without requiring any auxiliaries. Typical end uses for a double headbox are tea bags (synthetic and cellulose fibers) and filter materials (micro glass and cellulose fibers).

Fan pump

ANDRITZ is a main supplier for pumps used in paper and wetlaid nonwovens production. The fan pump charges the dispersion to the distribution system. Double suction pumps with low pulsation (two-pass pumps) are used as fan pumps. Capacities up to approx. 7,000 kW power and approx. 20,000 m³/h are possible.