Dynamic simulation and control of a paper machine wet end

A good simulation model for paper machines can be used to identify deficiencies in the design, bottlenecks during operation, and regions of poor control. It also allows users to test their hypotheses and innovations without potentially causing major upsets and reducing throughput. In this work, a dynamic model of the wet end system has been developed using the IDEAS^TM platform, describing the distribution of fines, fillers and fibres throughout the system. The model was then tested at steady state with mill data for the low‐ash and high‐ash production grades, and the results show that over 70% of the predicted values had only 5% deviation. The dynamic simulation was also used to show that the retention aid controller would react in the wrong direction due to changes in the wire pit consistency and the stock ratio would cause major changes in stream compositions and consistencies of the wet end.