BO Paper reaches 25% energy savings in refining with Valmet Refiner Segments – Shive clean
To achieve their long-term goal of becoming the leading domestic producer of mechanical pulp, Chilean BO Paper is continuously working to enhance their pulping process efficiency at their Arapoti mill in Brazil. One of their recent initiatives includes switching to Valmet’s Refiner Segments – Shive clean, which resulted in a significant 25% reduction in energy consumption during the refining process.
Refining plays a crucial role in papermaking by enhancing sheet formation and modifying pulp fibers to produce strong and smooth paper with excellent printing properties. However, refining is highly energy-intensive, prompting pulp mills to actively seek ways to reduce energy consumption while maintaining pulp quality.
At BO Paper, the largest manufacturer of high-performance thermomechanical fiber papers in Latin America, the focus is on performance– process efficiency, sustainability, and continuous development of the staff and equipment. Therefore, it was not a surprise that BO Paper showed the green light for testing Valmet’s Shive clean refiner segments.
“The main reason for testing the Shive clean segments was to see if we could reduce energy consumption while maintaining the high quality of the fiber produced. The result was outstanding – a 25% reduction in energy consumption with the same level of refining and producing fiber that fulfills all our expectations,” says Luiz Rodrigo, TMP Production Coordinator at the Arapoti mill.
Refining process stability leads to consistency in fiber quality
Luiz Rodrigo knows Arapoti mill’s refining process inside and out. He is also familiar with Valmet’s refiner segments and appreciates their performance.
“I’m very satisfied with the performance of Valmet's refining segments and the positive impact they have on the stability of our refining process. This stability translates directly into consistent fiber quality with the expected mechanical and physical properties. I am especially pleased with the reliability of the segments and their ability to maintain the uniformity of the final product, which reinforces the overall performance of the line,” he says.
In addition to their excellent performance, Luiz Rodrigo highlights the sustainability impact of the new Shive clean refiner segments.
“Shive clean refiner segments contribute to the overall energy savings, but they also have a positive impact on the lifetime of the discs – meaning a smaller environmental impact and lower operational costs.”
Strategic partnership for enhanced performance
Over the years, BO Paper has relied on Valmet’s expertise in many of the mill’s development initiatives, leading to numerous technical adjustments for improved performance.
“Valmet has provided us with all the necessary support, utilizing data and their invaluable expertise. The latest example – introducing the Shive clean refiner segments – only reinforces the mutual commitment between us. In the future, I believe we will further develop our relationship, leading to many more innovations that help optimize our processes and achieve our goals,” Luiz Rodrigo says.
