Paper Machine Energy Considerations, 2006 TAPPI Papermaker's Conference
Conventional papermaking requires high energy consumption. Water that is not removed by free drainage and mechanical pressing must be evaporated using steam or some other energy source. Electrical energy is required to drive the paper machine, refiners, vacuum pumps, stock and water pumps, and other equipment. In many cases there are trade-offs between minimizing energy consumption, maximizing production, and achieving good paper quality. Compromises may be necessary to achieve the best overall paper machine economics.
TAPPI conducted a paper machine energy survey in 2005 that helped establish energy use benchmarks. Guidelines for energy consumption on major grades and suggestions for reducing energy consumption are discussed in this paper. A list of references is included to assist papermakers in reducing energy consumption.
Paper Machine Energy Considerations, 2006 TAPPI Papermaker's Conference