Chemical Considerations in the Production of Linerboard From OCC, 1994 Pulping Conference Proceedings
T. W. Woodward
Traditionally, the pulp and paper industry has been one of the most capital intensive industries and mills have generally operated as a low cost producer of commodity products. The mini mill concept is a trend away from this.
“Mini mill” refers more to a concept rather than a specific mill size, although they are usually in the 250-400 ton/day range. Compared to greenfield virgin fiber mills, mini mills offer lower variable costs with less overhead and lower interest through lower capital costs. Lower capital costs arise from: minimal utilities, and inexpensive site, and inexpensive design and construction. The capital costs for container board mini mills is about 40% of greenfield Kraft mills. Variable costs are minimized through low cost energy, inexpensive raw material (OCC with a blend of lower quality grades), flexible labor, and low maintenance.
Chemical Considerations in the Production of Linerboard From OCC, 1994 Pulping Conference Proceeding
