ABB introduces new moisture sensor to improve reliability of QCS systems for the pulp and paper industry

DUNDALK, Ireland, May 17, 2010 (Press Release) - ABB, the pioneer in Quality Control Systems, introduces its new High-Performance Infrared (HPIR) moisture sensor for their QCS800xA Quality Control System (QCS). Intended as a replacement for the very popular HemiPlus moisture sensor, the HPIR is designed to improve the performance and reliability of both new and existing ABB QCS systems. It is the latest step in ABB's 50-plus year history of providing innovation to the pulp and paper industry.

With HPIR, papermakers can have more confidence in the precision of their moisture measurement. They can achieve tighter CD control, and faster start-ups and grade changes. Papermakers can shift their moisture targets closer to acceptable quality limits, saving energy and reducing fiber costs while remaining within the paper grade's quality specifications.

The increased precision comes from several technical breakthroughs in the design that significantly increase the signal-to-noise ratio and the measurement rate of the sensor. As a result, the sensor can resolve moisture streaks as narrow as 4 mm. With a measurement rate of 5000 per second, the sensor provides precision measurements, even as paper machines continue to become wider and faster.

New levels of reliability are also achieved through design simplicity. HPIR does not require liquid cooling, and it is the only moisture sensor on the market with no continuously-moving parts. The modular design allows for easy field replacement of modules, avoiding factory repairs and eliminating the need to stock a complete spare sensor.

To find out more contact your local ABB Account Manager and visit www.abb.com/pulpandpaper.