A paper machine is an industrial machine which is used in the pulp and paper industry
to create paper in large quantities at high speed. Modern paper-making machines are based on the principles of the Fourdrinier Machine, which uses a moving woven mesh to create a continuous paper web by filtering out the fibres held in a paper stock and producing a continuously moving wet mat of fibre. This is dried in the machine to produce a strong paper web.
A Fourdrinier paper machine
Model of a Fourdrinier continuous paper making machine at Frogmore Paper Mill
A worker inspecting wet, bleached wood pulp on an old-fashioned Hollander pulper or "beater".
Ultrasonic foil installed under the wire on a paper machine
Bryan Donkin FRS FRAS developed the first paper making machine and created the world's first commercial canning factory. These were the basis for large industries that continue to flourish today. Bryan Donkin was involved with Thomas Telford's Caledonian Canal, Marc and Isambard Brunel's Thames Tunnel, and Charles Babbage's computer. He was an advisor to the government and held in high esteem by his peers.
A model of a Fairbairn Pattern Beam Engine of circa 1860 as built by Bryan Donkin & Co.
The Donkin family vault in Nunhead Cemetery