Systematic Approach, 1999 Papermakers Conference Proceedings

Bernd Goetz, Adolf N. Geller

In order to make a reliable assessment of the issues involved here, we first of all need to make a clear, exact definition of our frame of reference and to set limits for the system under investigation. This is necessary because of the complexity of this subject, which would otherwise only allow selected aspects to be considered. The task group considered the papermaking process and the properties of the products used in papermaking and the effects of papermaking on the environment. The production of raw materials, semi-finished goods and additives and their effects on the environment are outside the scope of this study, as are their processing, application, recycling and disposal (Fig. 1). The focus of attention was placed on the paper machine itself and its equipment. The configuration of paper machines and their stock preparation and water treatment facilities varies very considerably in practice, and no two paper machines are the same. Some bold simplifications have to be made if attention is to be paid to all product groups and their variants. The scheme shown in Fig. 2 was adopted.