In the prior articles ( Article 1, Article 2) we showed the impact of automation in a single theoretical paper machine. To demonstrate the cumulative impact for North America, this article will use actual domestic production numbers. Using TAPPI TIP 0404-47 “Paper machine performance guidelines”,
In the last article, we saw that in the hypothetical case presented, there was a significant Environmental-Social-Governance (ESG) benefit to automation of refining to freeness targets. Below are comparisons made in Seeq to show this difference in hourly energy use: We see that Freeness control
In prior articles, we explained the economic benefits of controlling freeness in the stock refining operation. There are additional benefits beyond the economic considerations. Environmental-Social-Governance (ESG) considerations are a growing concern in today’s business environment. Solutions that reduce the emission of carbon dioxide are in
In prior articles, we stated the potential economic benefits of measurement and automation of freeness. However, to avoid hyperbolic estimates that overpromise and under-deliver, rigorous analytical techniques exist that can provide reasonable expectations of benefits. Some of those techniques are explained in the references at
Our previous article showed dramatic economic incentives for online freeness measurement. So with the impressive numbers in that article, why invest more money in automation? It is practically impossible to monitor every sensor every second and adjust every actuator at the same frequency. That is
In this Part 1 of our Automating Refining series, we discuss the benefits of measuring freeness. Measuring freeness is one of the mills’ most essential tools to assess stock preparation and paper machine operation. But the information from traditional freeness lab testing is unsuitable for
The approach to refining furnish in the stock preparation area of a paper mill has remained the same for decades. Paper machines churn out millions of tons of paper every year, but it is difficult for mill managers to know precisely what refiners in the
