RGB Color Sheet Break Detection At a Paper Machine

Sheet break detection may be demanding task, because of different application (environment) in paper machine wet end compared to dry end. Traditionally photo cells are used for web break detection since they perform satisfactorily in applications where visual contact from one side of a machine to another can be arranged and the ambient air is clean. However this is not always the situation. In many cases rolls, cylinders, wires or felts block the light path and photo cells cannot be used. Steam inside a machine also prevents the use of photo cells, especially at the press section. The air around a paper machine contains dust and oily fumes which quickly stain the cells and make detection unreliable causing false alarms or missed breaks. Photo cells require continuous attention and maintenance.