IBS Technology Enables Raw Material Optimization: Demand for Long Fiber Pulp Reduced by 8%

IBS Paper Performance Group, the technology leader in paper machine optimization, has successfully implemented a significant shift in raw material composition for a leading producer of Kraft papers. On a Fourdrinier machine producing Kraft papers from short and long fiber pulp, targeted technological measures enabled the share of long fiber pulp to be reduced by over 8% and replaced with in-house short fiber pulp – while maintaining consistent product quality. The implemented project leads to annual savings of €1.7 million and achieved a Return on Investment (ROI) in just a few months.

Key to the successful change in raw material composition was the installation of the automatically adjustable iTABLE® formation zone from IBS. This innovative system allows for precise control of dewatering and stock activity in the initial formation zone of the wire section. The flexibility of the iTABLE® was crucial to manage the changed requirements resulting from the higher proportion of short fiber pulp, ensuring optimal sheet formation and the required paper quality.

In addition to the iTABLE® implementation, the project included a detailed audit for the optimization of the entire wire section. Based on the findings, the dewatering capacity in the low-vacuum area was specifically expanded, and the automatic vacuum control system was enhanced. These combined measures created the necessary conditions for the efficient processing of the modified furnish and contributed significantly to the overall success.