GRELLINGEN, Switzerland,
April 22, 2009
(Press Release) -
In view of the coverage being given to the topic of climate change in the media, many companies are following the present trend and are discovering the subject of ecology more and more for themselves. Ziegler Paper Mill, on the other hand, has been focussing its attentions on environmentally friendly methods of production for a good while now. Instead of seeking short-term profit, the Swiss manufacturer of fine papers has opted for sustainable production. In the energy-intensive paper industry, this is undoubtedly an attitude that points the way forward for the future. Measures to improve the ecological balance sheet are therefore being pursued consistently on an on-going basis - even in the difficulties currently being experienced in the market. Further investments aimed at improving energy efficiency have been definitely planned for 2009.
Already, Ziegler Paper Mill has reduced its CO2 output by 10% over the reference year of 1990 and has managed to do so while doubling its production volume over the same period! This has been rewarded by the Swiss government in the form of exemption from its CO2 levy. This significant increase in efficiency was made possible by a variety of measures affecting a broad range of areas in the manufacturing process. Steam and electricity, for instance, are generated by an ultra-modern gas turbine/waste heat boiler, which makes it possible to achieve a 90% degree of efficiency. Over and above this, the paper machine is designed to ensure the highest possible level of thermal insulation and heat recovery, which leads to a steep reduction in the amount of energy required. State-of-the-art pulp milling equipment for preparing fibrous material, a reduction in downtime during production and minimising waste are further building blocks in the overall concept of environmentally friendly paper manufacturing.
The latest project to increase energy efficiency still further is the use of residual heat from waste vapours from the steam boiler. In the course of 2009, the boiler is to be converted in such a way as to recuperate some of the waste heat from the exhaust vapours by means of a heat exchanger. The energy thus gained will then be used to heat water to around 60 °C, which will be used primarily instead of cold water in the press section. This will lead to an increase in draining efficiency which in turn will bring about a reduction in demand for steam and thus for gas, too. A reduction in specific gas requirements of around 3% is expected. Based on production volume for 2008, this would mean a saving of approx. 4600 MWh, which is the equivalent of the average gas consumption of 200 single-family homes.
The large number of different measures that have been implemented demonstrates that Ziegler Paper Mill is correct in looking on itself as a pioneer in the realm of environmental protection and is going to develop its efforts in this respect still further. The manufacturer of premium-grade specialty papers is thus ideally equipped to face the future and continues to pursue its environmental goals with undiminished zeal.
