Steinbeis Papier's recycled paper mill in Glückstadt, Germany, achieves 37% energy savings, as well as stable results regarding degree of whiteness, dirt specks, fiber loss following upgrade to Voith LowEnergyFlotation technology in late 2012

Debra Garcia

HEIDENHEIM, Germany , June 7, 2013 (press release) – At Steinbeis Papier GmbH in Glückstadt, Germany, the existing AP3 primary flotation system was upgraded to Voith LowEnergyFlotation (LEF) Technology at the end of 2012. Thanks to the rebuild, energy savings of 37% could be achieved at the flotation pumps, while flotation quality remained constant regarding the degree of whiteness, dirt specks and fiber loss.

In the course of the rebuild to LEF technology, the flotation cell injectors and the flotation pumps were improved in terms of hydrodynamics and dimensioned for optimum efficiency. The existing injectors were replaced by LEF injectors, and the flotation pumps were equipped with new LEF impellers. Contractually agreed measurements of the energy consumption before and after the rebuild confirmed the energy savings promised by Voith, which was also documented in a report.

The rebuild is part of an extensive, ambitious energy efficiency program of Steinbeis Papier GmbH. "As a sustainable company in the recycled paper industry, we want to take full advantage of all production possibilities to reduce energy consumption," says Dr. Michael Hunold, Production Manager at Steinbeis Papier GmbH.

Voith Paper is a division of the Voith Group and the leading partner to and pioneer in the paper industry. Through constant innovations, Voith Paper is optimizing the paper manufacturing process, focusing on developing resource-saving products to reduce the use of energy, water, and fibers.

Voith sets standards in the markets energy, oil & gas, paper, raw materials and transportation & automotive. Founded in 1867, Voith employs almost 42,000 people, generates € 5.7 billion in sales, operates in about 50 countries around the world and is today one of the biggest family-owned companies in Europe.

IndustryIntel editor's note: Steinbeis Paper, which is a business of Rosenheim, Germany-based Steinbeis Holding GMBH, has annual production capacity of 266,277 tonnes, of which 56% is magazine paper and 44% is office paper, according to the company's website.

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