An energy-saving assessment approach for hood retrofitting in multi-cylinder dryer sections

ABSTRACT

This study presents an integrated approach to assess energy performance during hood retrofitting from a semi-closed hood to a closed hood. According to the principle of heat and mass transfer, a simulation program was established by a mathematical model and some necessary model parameters. It could be used to simulate the paper-drying process and calculate steam and power consumption during paper drying. The method was applied to a corrugated paper machine. After a fundamental field test and observation, the simulation program determined appropriate model parameters. Finally, we found a 13.2% steam consumption reduction and a 13.5% total energy consumption reduction.

KEYWORDS:

• Energy analysis
• hood retrofitting
• paper drying

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful for the valuable comments of the reviewers and editors, which improved the quality of the article. This study would not have been possible without the cooperation and assistance of Pei Zhang and the personnel at YongFa Paper Mill.