Overview
The Screw Press is a manually operated dewatering and pressing unit designed for effective removal of excess water from freshly formed handmade paper sheets. It is an essential post-forming equipment used after sheet formation on the Auto Vat / Deckle & Frame System, ensuring uniform consolidation, compaction, and improved sheet strength.
Technical Features & Construction
Frame Structure:
Constructed from heavy-duty mild steel (MS) channels and plates to provide a rigid and vibration-free working platform. The structure is engineered to withstand sustained manual pressing loads without deformation.
Pressing Platens:
Two precision-machined platens (upper & lower) made from solid MS or cast iron ensure uniform pressure distribution over the pulp sheet stack.
Size: As per deckle size (typically 24″ × 24″, 30″ × 40″, or customized)
Flatness tolerance: ±0.5 mm for uniform compression
Lead Screw Mechanism:
The press operates through a high-grade alloy steel lead screw with square / trapezoidal threading for smooth manual torque transmission.
Screw diameter: 40–65 mm (depending on model)
Thread pitch: Optimized for maximum pressure with minimal operator effort
Anti-corrosive coating for longer life
Hand Wheel Operation:
A large MS or CI hand wheel is mounted on the top of the screw for effortless manual rotation.
Wheel diameter typically 450–600 mm for better torque application
Operational Function
Handmade sheets, stacked between muslin cloth layers or felt, are placed on the lower platen.
As the hand wheel is rotated, downward pressure is transmitted via the lead screw to the upper platen.
This pressure expels water from the sheets and enhances sheet density, bonding, and finish.
Ideal for small-scale and cottage industry handmade paper units.
Performance & Capacity
Pressing Pressure: 3–5 tons (manual operation), depending on model
Typical De-watering Efficiency: Reduces sheet moisture from approx. 80% to 40–50%
Sheet Capacity: 50–150 sheets per batch (depending on GSM & sheet size)
Additional Technical Specifications
Base Plate:
Thick MS base to prevent bending under load
Guiding System:
Heavy guide rods or side supports ensure vertical alignment of platens
Finish:
Industrial-grade powder coating to avoid corrosion and enhance durability
Safety Features:
Anti-slip hand wheel grip
Mechanical stopper to prevent over-compression
Applications
Handmade paper sheet pressing and dewatering
Pressing after couching operation
Suitable for cotton rag pulp, agricultural fibre pulp, and recycled paper pulp sheets
