Operating Efficiency and Specific Energy Reduction with Grooved Pulpstones, 1994 Pulping Conference Proceedings

D. R. Widdifield, S. Wepruk, V. Gustafson, C. Jardine, W. C. Frazier, M. Stationwala, L. Broderick

Recently there has been renewed interest in the use of pulpstones with deep-grooved surfaces for the production of groundwood mechanical pulp. Early laboratory scale trials indicated a positive effect on pulpstone operating efficiency, most notably in reduced specific energy consumption but also in other aspects as well. Mill operating experience has, for the most part, confirmed those findings but in an un-quantified manner.

In 1993, Boise Cascade, Ontario Hydro and Norton joined forces in a well controlled production-scale trial at the Fort Frances, Ontario groundwood mill. The stated objective of the trail was to determine conclusively if the anticipated benefits could be corroborated and their magnitude evaluated with relationship to pulp quality.

Power measurement systems and equipment, including specific software programs, were provided, installed and monitored by Ontario Hydro. Pulp sampling and test procedures were established and overseen by PAPRICAN. Norton’s role consisted of providing engineering and technical assistance in the preparation of their pulpstones run in the trial as well as compilation and coordination of the data collected.

The paper will outline specifics of the trial, summarize the results obtained and the conclusions derived.