RunPro Easy4 Web Stabilizers: New era of dryer section runnability
The dryer section remains one of the most demanding areas of a paper machine, where sheet stability directly dictates runnability, energy performance, and product quality. Even small disturbances in airflow or sheet handling can escalate into breaks, threading difficulties, or constraints in machine speed. Modern web stabilizers therefore play a central role in achieving reliable and efficient production.
Why the sheet becomes unstable
As machine speed increases, forces acting on the web grow quickly. Air is also “pumped” out of the gap where the sheet separates from the cylinder, creating a strong natural vacuum. On high speed machines, this vacuum can reach several thousand pascals. If it is stronger than the stabilizing equipment, the sheet may follow the wrong surface, causing wrinkles or breaks.
At the same time, the wet web loses more than half of its tension very quickly after the open draw between press and dryer. With so little tension left, airflow has a much bigger influence on the sheet.
High vacuum stabilization: the EasyOne principle
To solve this, Runtech developed the EasyOne concept. It places strong stabilizing vacuum exactly at the point where the sheet releases from the top dryer cylinder. A second low vacuum area follows, and then a higher vacuum zone near the vacuum roll. This vacuum profile pulls the sheet cleanly onto the felt so that operators do not need to use high draw to stabilize the web.
The result is reduced wrinkles, fewer breaks, less sheet flutter, and overall better control of the first dryer groups, especially on fast machines.
Easy4: the next generation stabilizer
RunPro Easy4 represents the latest generation of stabilizer technology designed specifically for today’s high‑speed environments. It uses the same proven high vacuum principles as EasyOne but adds important improvements. Its consumable‑free design and adjustable vacuum system allow operators to fine‑tune sheet control according to grade, speed, and moisture profiles without the limitations of fixed vacuum levels or parts that wear out. The optimized airflow concept provides strong sheet support at notably low energy input, addressing a growing industry priority in the dryer section, where every kilowatt counts.
Maintenance is equally important for long‑term performance. Easy4’s slide‑out nozzle design enables safe, fast access from outside tight dryer pockets, reducing downtime and helping mills maintain consistent operating conditions.
RunPro Easy4 also fits into a broader total concept for improving overall runnability. In early dryer groups, where the web is fragile and prone to following the upper cylinder, high‑vacuum support close to the release point minimizes sheet flutter and reduces the need for excessive draw. Managing unsupported draws, controlling pocket airflow, and stabilizing sheet transfer all contribute to fewer breaks, smoother tail threading, and higher sustainable machine speeds.
By combining efficient stabilization, adjustable vacuum control, and simplified maintenance, RunPro Easy4 strengthens sheet stability across the dryer section and supports mills in achieving higher productivity with lower energy use.
