MODERN PAPER-MAKING

been joined, and whilst not so many years ago this was a source of worry and
trouble to everybody connected with the use of machine wires, the enormous
improvements which have been made in the construction of the seam due to
the research work expended has altered the position entirely. Perhaps no one
particular type of modern seam has any advantage over the other. Some are
welded, others soldered, but those constructed in the newest manner with the
latest available technique should be equal to the strength of the wire itself, nor
should they make any mark in the paper, or if they do it should be the very

minimum.

As a matter of interest a plan view (Fig. 55) is shown of one of the very

FIG. 55 FIG 56
[The United Wire Works Ltd.
FIGS. 55 AND 50*.—PHOTOGRAPHS OF HAND-SEWN SEAMS
Fig. 55 shows how drainage is interfered with in the old type of seam, while Kg. 56 shows a more modem sewing,
in which the drainage is much improved
early types of seams, and Fig. 56 of a little more modern seam, both hand-sewn.
Fig. 57 is a modern welded joint; Fig. 58 is a soldered joint It will be observed
that in the welded or soldered joints there is practically no obstruction to the
drainage.
There is, however, one condition which even welded or soldered joints will
not withstand, nor for that matter any wire, and that is grooving or freezing
to the suction boxes. This is a point which should be understood by every
paper-maker, foreman and machineman who wishes to get the best results,
from his wires* By the term 'grooving' is meant that each individual warp
wire as it travels across the boxes wears a channel into the top. If there are