Thermomechanical Pulp Mill Energy Upgrade: New Technology Enhances Energy Efficiency to Reduce Operating Costs

This article is a case study outlining the successful implementation of a wood chip pretreatment and interstage screening project at an integrated pulp and paper mill in Longview, Washington, United States. The article will review the process changes inspired by a businesswide energy-efficiency initiative, with a focus on a thermomechanical pulp (TMP) mill and its performance improvements that resulted from the pretreatment and interstage screening initiatives. A discussion of the mill's alignment with the local utility service provider, regarding leveraging energy credits to help fund the project, will be reviewed.