Andritz to supply biomass boiler to Graphic Packaging's Macon mill in the USA

GRAZ, Austria, Feb. 3, 2011 (Press Release) - International technology Group ANDRITZ has been awarded an order by Graphic Packaging International to supply a 350,000 lb/h (160 t/h) steam boiler using woody biomass and primary clarifier sludge as fuels for the company's mill in Macon, USA. Start-up of the boiler is scheduled for summer 2013.

ANDRITZ will supply a Bubbling Fluidized Bed (BFB) steam boiler, fuel and bottom ash handling systems, and the boiler safety system. ANDRITZ's well-proven BFB technology combines high fuel efficiency with excellent environmental performance. It is projected that the biomass boiler will effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 200,000 ton/a (180,000 metric ton/a). The new biomass boiler is expected to make the Macon mill energy self-sufficient (electrical power and steam generation), which will reduce Graphic Packaging's energy costs and dependency on fossil-fuel based alternatives. The mill expects to become a net producer of electricity.

Biomass-based electricity generation is playing an increasingly important role in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. With state-of-the-art ANDRITZ steam boilers, energy producers can produce ‘green energy' in an efficient and environmentally friendly way.