A theoretical analysis of the calendering of Ellis fluid

We present a theoretical analysis of calendering of Ellis fluid based on lubrication approximation. The equations governing the flow are nondimensionalized and solved to get closed form expressions of velocity and pressure gradient. Runge-Kutta algorithm is employed to compute the pressure distribution. The operating variables which are used in the calendering process, i.e. roll-separating force, power input to the rolls and exiting sheet thickness are calculated. The influence of the material parameters on the velocity profile, pressure gradient, pressure distribution and operating variables is shown graphically and discussed in detail.