S11: Innovative, real-time monitoring strategies improved control of microbial activity and deposit formation allowing for increased paper machine efficiency

Tuesday, November 9, 2010: 8:30 AM
Potomac Ballroom A (Key Bridge Marriott Hotel)
Laura E. Rice, Paper Research, Nalco Company, Naperville, IL
Uncontrolled microbial growth in paper manufacturing environments allows for microbial spoilage and deposit formation, which reduce manufacturing efficiency.  This results in the need for paper machines to cease operation for cleaning of machine surfaces manually or using chemical boil-outs.  In an effort to manage microbial growth, raw materials and process water are treated with biocontrol chemicals.

The performance of biocontrol chemicals is often limited by the highly variable conditions of the papermaking process due to changes in process conditions, raw materials, or seasonal variation in the microbiological quality of the raw water.  These variable factors place additional demand on the biocontrol program and can lead to performance upsets if not addressed in a timely manner.

A lack of real-time monitoring tools has limited the ability to proactively respond to process variability to prevent production upsets.  This often leads to an overuse of biocontrol chemicals in attempt to limit microbial growth and deposition under worst-case conditions.  An on-line monitor was developed to allow for real-time, continuous monitoring of microbial activity and surface deposition without the need for reagents.  Proactive monitoring ensures continuous optimization of chemical treatment programs and more efficient use of control chemicals. This new approach has allowed many mills to improve machine efficiency for extended operation between boil-outs.  This reduces demand for water, boil-out chemicals, and energy that is required to heat incoming water to process temperatures. 

NALCO and the logo are Trademarks of Nalco Company 9-10. 

 

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