PMC Selection Basics

Choosing the right paper machine clothing doesn't have to be complicated. Answer these 5 key questions before placing your order, and you'll be on the right track.

Question 1: What Paper Grade Are You Producing?

Different paper grades demand different fabric characteristics:

Grade	Forming Fabric	Press Felt	Dryer Fabric
Tissue (14-40 gsm)	Fine mesh (70-95), high FSI (>170), SSB	Light grammage (1100-1400), fine surface	Anti-static spiral, 300-500 CFM
Fine Paper (40-120 gsm)	Medium mesh (50-70), FSI >150, SSB/3-layer	Medium grammage (1300-1600), smooth surface	Flat yarn, 400-650 CFM
Packaging (80-200 gsm)	Coarse mesh (35-55), high CFM (400-650)	Heavy grammage (1400-1700), high void	Flat yarn, 500-800 CFM
Kraft (80-300 gsm)	Wear-resistant, 450-700 CFM	Heavy-duty, anti-compaction	Flat yarn HR-PET, 450-700 CFM

Question 2: What Is Your Machine Speed?

Speed	Forming Recommendation	Dryer Recommendation
<300 m/min	Single or double layer	Spiral or flat yarn
300-600 m/min	Double layer	Flat yarn
>600 m/min	Triple layer or SSB	Flat yarn HR-PET

Question 3: What Is Your Furnish Composition?

• Virgin fiber (0-20% recycled): Standard PET fabrics are sufficient
• Mixed (20-60% recycled): Add PA yarns in wear zones for abrasion resistance
• High recycled (>60%): Maximum PA reinforcement, consider SSB structure

Question 4: What Are Your Performance Goals?

Prioritize your goals to guide selection:

• Longer life: Choose higher grammage, PA-reinforced, or SSB structure
• Better drainage: Choose higher CFM within grade-appropriate range
• Better formation: Choose higher FSI, finer mesh
• Lower cost per ton: Consider TCO, not just purchase price

Question 5: What Are Your Machine Specifications?

Information needed for accurate quoting:

• Machine manufacturer and model
• Width (mm) and maximum speed (m/min)
• Section configuration (forming/press/dryer)
• Current fabric type and performance

Selection Checklist

Download our complete Fabric Selection Checklist for your next order.

Next Steps

• 📖 Learn about PMC Fundamentals Series
• 🏭 Explore our product lines
• 📞 Contact an engineer for a free machine assessment