along with a number of add-on modules (refer to separate information concerning modules), for:
· shives
· freeness
· brightness
· NIR (near infra-red)
· measurement of fibre blend conditions
· kink
· vessel cells

Originally, our L&W STFI Fibermaster was an accurate research and development instrument. When the industry showed interest in using this technology online, extensive development work began. Both hardware and software have been redesigned in order to produce an industrial system with the maximum possible availability. One important function is the self-cleaning measuring cell that never gets blocked, even if it is exposed to disruption. Having samplers located along the entire process chain means that the process can be followed up at frequent intervals and that deviations are quickly detected.

When manufacturing bleached chemical pulp, purchasers have demanded that the suppliers must perform better and more frequent testing of pulp before delivery. In some cases, suppliers (aiming to lead the market) have themselves taken the initiative to improve product testing. More frequent testing requires a reduction in the cost per test; otherwise the overall cost would be far too high. This can be resolved by a higher level of automation, which is possible with the new technology that is offered by the L&W STFI Fibermaster. Yet another reason for frequent testing is the possibility of monitoring the process more closely, thereby gaining long-term customer confidence with fewer complaints. One way for a pulp mill to apply this control is when changing the pulp blend. The Blend program package helps to ensure quality when changing over.

Using flexible fibres produces paper with better strength characteristics. Measurements have shown that fibre from spring growth is more flexible than fibre from that grown in the summer. Unique to the L&W STFI Fibermaster is its capability of measuring fibre flexibility. In order to do this, the form factor is measured an extra time with a high flow in the measuring cell. It is possible to set four different rates of flow in the L&W STFI Fibermaster. Flexibility is defined as the difference in form factor between high and low (normal) flows through the measuring cell. Spring growth fibres, which are wider than summer growth fibres, have thinner walls and tend to collapse. Therefore, they are more prone to bending. Relatively straight fibres are needed to perform this measurement.