Refining element

1. A refining element for use in a refining apparatus for the refining of lignocellulosic fibrous material between a pair of refining members including a first refining member comprising an inner rotary refining member including an inner radial surface and an outwardly facing conical surface angularly disposed with respect to said inner radial surface and a second refining member comprising an outer stationary refining member including an inner radial surface and an inwardly facing conical surface angularly disposed with respect to said inner radial surface mounted in juxtaposition with said first refining member whereby said conical surfaces face either other and define a refining gap therebetween for refining said lignocellulosic fibrous material, said refining element adapted for mounting on said inwardly facing conical surface and including a plurality of bars and intermediate grooves, said plurality of bars extending along said refining gap including a pair of side surfaces and an upper surface, said upper surface forming an acute angle with at least one of said pair of side surfaces.

2. The refining element of claim 1 wherein said acute angle is between about 50° and 90°.

3. The refining element of claim 2 wherein said acute angle is between about 60° and 90°.

4. The refining element of claim 3 wherein said acute angle is between about 70° and 80°.

5. The refining element of claim 1 wherein said at least one of said pair of side surfaces includes at least about one-third portion of the total height of said plurality of said bars.

6. The refining element of claim 1 wherein said upper surface forms said acute angle with both of said pair of side surfaces.