Distribution unit in an inlet box for a dewatering press

Abstract

A distribution unit for adding a fiber suspension to an inlet space in a dewatering press is disclosed. The distribution unit comprises a distribution housing, which forms at least one distribution slit intended to be connected to the inlet space of the dewatering press, and at least one inlet member for adding the fiber suspension to the distribution slit. The distribution housing is provided with at least one opening to the distribution slit and a matching hatch for sealing the opening. The hatch is hinged to the distribution housing so that it is pivotable relative to the distribution housing between a first position and a second position. An inlet box is also disclosed comprising a number of the distribution units.

1 - 8 . (canceled) 
   
   
       9 . A distribution unit for adding a fiber suspension to an inlet space in a dewatering press, said distribution unit comprising a distribution housing forming at least one distribution slit intended to be connected to said inlet space and at least one inlet member for providing said fiber suspension to said at least one distribution slit, whereby said fiber suspension can pass through said at least one distribution slit while spreading therein, said distribution housing further including at least one opening into said at least one distribution slit and a hatch for sealing said at least one opening, said hatch hinged to said distribution housing whereby said hatch is pivotable with respect to said distribution housing between a first position in which said hatch seals said at least one opening and a second position in which said hatch exposes said at least opening, and pressure means for allowing said hatch to be moved at least partially towards said second position based upon the pressure in said at least one distribution slit exceeding a predetermined pressure value. 
   
   
       10 . The distribution unit according to  claim 9  wherein said pressure means comprises at least one hydraulic cylinder for moving said hatch between said first and second positions. 
   
   
       11 . The distribution unit according to  claim 10  wherein said predetermined pressure value in said at least one hydraulic cylinder is adapted to substantially correspond to the load created by the maximum allowed pressure in said at least one distribution slit. 
   
   
       12 . The distribution unit according to  claim 10  wherein said at least one hydraulic cylinder includes a pressure limiting device. 
   
   
       13 . An inlet box for adding a fiber suspension to an inlet space of a dewatering press comprising at least one distribution unit according to  claim 9 . 
   
   
       14 . The inlet box according to  claim 13  comprising a plurality of said distribution units, a common inlet pipe for feeding said fiber suspension to said inlet members and said distribution slits in said plurality of distribution units, and including a pressure sensor arranged in said common inlet pipe. 
   
   
       15 . A twin-wire press for dewatering a fiber suspension comprising a plurality of lower rolls, an endless lower wire around said plurality of lower rolls, a plurality of upper rolls, an endless upper wire around said plurality of upper rolls, and an inlet box according to claim  5 .