Latest Developments in Dryer Fabrics (2020–2025):

Dryer fabrics have evolved significantly over the past five years, with innovations targeting heat-resistance, cleanability, single-layer performance, and new constructions that improve drying efficiency and runnability on fast machines. These advances reduce energy use, limit seam/marking defects, and extend fabric life — critical for both paper makers and fabric manufacturers.

As part of PMC Centre’s weekly series, here is a concise, fact-based overview of the latest developments.

1. Single-layer, high contact-area platforms:

Recent mono-platform dryer fabrics use engineered monofilaments to increase contact area and improve contaminant shedding, enhancing heat transfer and seam performance.

Sources:

https://www.astenjohnson.com/products/monotier-dryer-fabrics-platform/

https://www.astenjohnson.com/aj-labs/magnificent-single-layer-platform-dryer-fabric/

2. Spiral / coil constructions:

Spiral designs such as AstenJohnson’s SpiralFine offer smoother contact, controlled permeability, and reduced abrasion — making them strong alternatives to woven designs for high-speed single-tier positions.

Source: https://www.astenjohnson.com/products/spiralfine/

3. Enhanced polymers & high-temperature stability:

Suppliers have focused on heat-stable PET variants and engineered monofilaments that resist hydrolysis and chemical attack. Voith’s Magma system reflects this push toward materials that maintain permeability and dimensional stability under higher dryer temperatures.

Sources:

https://www.voith.com/corp-en/doc_22403_VP_Magma_19_vvk_VP1326_en.pdf

https://www.astenjohnson.com/products

4. Fabric lifecycle & performance-based service models

OEMs increasingly provide integrated service contracts with monitoring, tailored fabric selection, and maintenance schedules tied to energy and runnability outcomes. Valmet’s dryer fabric service agreement with Siam Kraft is one example of this industry shift.

Source: https://www.valmet.com/insights/articles/services/dryer-fabric-service-agreement-with-Siam-Kraft/

5. Advanced dryer-section cleaning systems

Improved cleaning systems (e.g., Voith CleanLine Extract360 / Extract4D) enhance contaminant removal while lowering spray pressure and fabric wear, helping mills maintain permeability and fabric life.

Sources:

https://www.voith.com/corp-en/news-room/press-releases/2025-02-18_vp_new-clean-line-extract360.html

https://www.voith.com/corp-en/news-room/press-releases/2025-01-30_vp_voiths-rebuild-measures-secure-energy-savings.html

PMC Centre provides unbiased consultancy to optimize PMC performance — independent of fabric sales.

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