Mechanical Action
Industrial agitation vessels operating at fiber-to-water ratios between twelve and eighteen percent allow for the efficient separation of contaminants from paper stock without shredding them. The high-consistency hydrapulper uses a large rotor at the base of a tub to create friction between the saturated paper pieces. This friction breaks the hydrogen bonds holding the fibers together while keeping plastic films and foils in large pieces.
It reduces the power needed to clean the resulting pulp.
Fibre Liberation
Agitation in these concentrated conditions promotes a gentle rubbing action that peels the ink and coatings away from the cellulose. In a high-consistency hydrapulper, the lack of excess water means that the energy is transferred directly into the paper bundles rather than into the fluid. This method prevents the breakdown of fragile contaminants like adhesives or wet-strength resins.
Larger rejects are much easier to remove in the subsequent screening stages. Processing time is usually shorter than in low-consistency systems.
System Capability
This design enables the recycling of heavily coated boards and laminated papers. It is a standard component in mills processing liquid packaging board or office waste. Heat is often added to the tub to speed up the wetting of the fibers.
