Absorption tester for measuring the wicking characteristics of a

Abstract

This invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining the wicking characteristics of a web, particularly a paperboard web with respect to a liquid. The apparatus comprises a web holder having an upper section, a lower section, an upper web seal attached to the upper section for sealing against a first surface of the web, a lower web seal attached to the lower section for sealing against a second surface of the web, and means for connecting the upper and lower sections together with the web disposed therebetween so the upper and lower seals sealingly engage the respective first and second surfaces of the web between the seals. The upper and lower sections define a chamber in the holder when connected together by the means for connecting so as to dispose one portion of the web in the chamber and another portion of the web external to the chamber so that the external portion of the web may be exposed to the liquid and the chamber isolated from the liquid by the sealing engagement of the seals with respect to the web. There is also provided a conduit in the holder in fluid flow communication with the chamber so that the chamber may be connected in fluid flow communication with a pressure source.