Paper Mill Cut Steam per Ton from 2.6 → 2.2
15%
Steam Saved
↑↑↑
Production
In the dryer section of a paper machine, individual drum dryers were originally controlled by valves. Steam demand was high & product speed limited. A retrofit replaced these valves with baelz 590 controlled steam ejectors, targeting better drying quality & lower steam use.
The Challenge
The dryer group ran with 15 barg Steam supply with valve control.
This approach left a relatively thick steam condensate layer on the drum interior, limiting heat transfer & production speed while locking in a high steam consumption per ton of paper.
Baseline was 2.6 t steam/ton.
The mill replaced the control valves with baelz 590 Jetomats.
After the changeover, operating set points stabilized at
Suction = 6 barg
Supply = 6.5 barg
The Thermocompressor increased internal steam velocity, thinned the condensate film & distributed heat more uniformly across the drums—classic benefits of a well-tuned Steam Variable Nozzle Area Thermocompressor working principle.
The Solution
The Results
Steam Saving ≈ 15% (per end customer).
Specific Steam use improved from
2.6 t/ton → 2.2 t/ton of paper.Increased production speed & reduced steam consumption thanks to higher average internal steam velocity & a thinner condensate layer.
Why This Works
Controlled Steam Thermocompressor:
motive steam expands through a Variable Nozzle, entrains lower-pressure vapor, then the mixture is compressed in the diffuser to the desired pressure.
Correct thermocompressor design & nozzle design boost heat transfer inside the dryer cans by reducing film thickness & stabilizing pressure—delivering tangible saving energy outcomes without adding moving parts to the steam equipment.
Takeaway
For lines constrained by drying limits or high steam use, upgrading to Variable Steam Thermocompressors (e.g., baelz 590) can unlock quick wins:
lower steam per ton
Better heat transfer
Higher machine speed.
When paired with good steam & condensate housekeeping (e.g., steam separator, flash steam routing, condensate & flash steam recovery system / heat recovery system), mills can compound savings across the dryer section.
Plants exploring alternatives may also look at Jetomat, steam jet thermocompressor, thermo vapour recompressor, & related heat transfer solutions
Project Details
Location: Guangdong Province, China
Technology: baelz 590 controlled steam ejectors
Industry: Paper
Company: Corrugated Cardboard Manufacturers