Abstract

Paper making is a very energy-intensive operation. In recent times, increasing interest in the environment and significant rises in energy costs have generated considerable interest in finding ways to improve the energy efficiency of paper-making. By reference to work undertaken on several full scale commercial machines, the seminar will discuss some significant progress made in this direction using multivariable Advanced Process Control (APC). A paper machine is an adventurous and complex conjunction of mechanical, chemical and electrical phenomena. It is a very multivariable process and yet it is typically controlled using traditional single loop control strategies which are not naturally suited to comprehending and compensating for the effect a number of input variables may have on each paper quality variable. Consequently, in normal operation many potentially useful control variables remain unused. Furthermore, efficient operation of a paper machine requires a control system able to optimize in real-time. APC has the capability to provide control that meets both these requirements. The seminar will explain the potential for energy saving in paper making which APC offers. Present indications are that at least a 20% reduction may be possible.