This new GHC2 rotor builds upon the success of the over 1,800 GHC rotors already in operation by replacing the standard rotor elements with a new, patent-pending PowerWave design. PowerWave has a unique waveform surface on its leading edge which accelerates the pulp suspension. This strengthens the suction pulse and creates “micro-vortices” which keep the screen cylinder's apertures clean to improve throughput and runnability.

According to Mathieu Hamelin, AFT’s Product Manager for Rotors, mill-documented performance of the GHC2 rotor shows a capacity increase up to 20% compared to the standard GHC rotor.  “When capacity is not an issue and energy savings are more important, the power consumption of the GHC2 can be lowered by 30% compared to the GHC simply by reducing the tip speed,” Hamelin says.  “When compared to conventional rotors from other manufacturers, energy savings up to 60% may be possible.”

The GHC2 rotor has been rigorously tested in mill trials after a thorough proof-of-concept in Aikawa’s Test Facility in Japan.