Exploring the TMI Büchel 73-61 Semi-Automatic Sheet Former: Features, Applications & Demonstration

Overview

The TMI Büchel 73-61 Semi-Automatic Sheet Former, Space Saver is a self-contained, floor-standing instrument that forms standardized laboratory handsheets to TAPPI T205 and ISO 5269-1. It gives quality and R&D teams a repeatable way to prepare handsheets so the physical properties of pulp can be evaluated consistently. In this video, you’ll see how the instrument is built, how its semi-automatic sequence works, and how it reduces operator influence to improve sheet-to-sheet consistency.

Key features of the 73-61 Semi-Automatic Sheet Former

• Self-contained design that fits into a space of 26 inches wide, with no counter space required
• 316 stainless steel housing for a durable, corrosion-resistant build
• Two-step semi-automatic operation: auto fill, stir, settle and drain, then auto couching
• Full PLC control of the dynamic test sequence, with user-programmable timing and pressure settings
• Adjustable level sensor and variable times and pressures for controlled, repeatable forming
• Reduced operator fatigue by removing manual handling of the couch roll and stirrer
• Option to house an internal White Water Return System

What you’ll learn in this video

• 00:00 – Introduction to the 73-61 Semi-Automatic Sheet Former
• 00:12 – Filling
• 00:33 – Agitation
• 00:52 – Settling
• 01:07 – Drainage time
• 01:28 – Couching

Understanding laboratory handsheet forming

Handsheet forming is the standard way to turn a pulp sample into a uniform test sheet so its physical properties can be measured reliably. A known quantity of disintegrated pulp is dispersed in water, drained through a wire to form a sheet, then couched, pressed and dried under controlled conditions. Because the way a sheet is made affects the results, standardized forming is what makes strength, density and related measurements comparable from one sample to the next.

TAPPI T205 describes forming handsheets at an oven-dry basis weight of 60 g/m² for the physical testing of pulp, and ISO 5269-1 is the international equivalent method. A semi-automatic sheet former runs the fill, stir, settle, drain and couch steps as a controlled sequence rather than by hand. That reduces operator influence, improves repeatability and increases sheet output – which matters most in labs producing a large number of handsheets, where consistency and throughput are both under pressure.

Typical applications

The 73-61 Semi-Automatic Sheet Former is used wherever standardized handsheets are needed to evaluate pulp and paper properties, including:

• Paper and pulp property evaluation
• Paper and pulp quality control and production labs
• Paper testing for market pulps and fiber mixtures
• Research and development into pulp furnishes, recycled fiber and hardwood/softwood blends

Technical summary

For full technical specifications, visit the product page to download the product sheet.

Speak with an expert

If you’re choosing handsheet forming equipment or building out a pulp and paper testing lab, our team can help you select the right setup for your workflow. Contact our experts today.