Metso and Kemira have made a three-year research and development partnership agreement, by which Kemira will handle the chemical control of Metso's pilot paper machines. The aim is to combine Metso's leading competence in paper and board machine processes, automation and technology with Kemira's know-how in water and fibre chemistry to produce optimal overall solutions for pulp and paper industry customers.
"Ever closer collaboration is needed in the pulp and paper industry cluster. This relates to paper machine, equipment and manufacturing clothing, overall chemical solutions and strong investment into research and development. Ultimately, impulses for renewal come from consumers, to whose needs the cluster's printing houses and graphic designers are very sensitive," explains Kemira's EVP of R&D and Technology Johan Grön, evaluating the chain of cooperation.
For paper and board manufacturing to work towards ever-increasing cost-effectiveness, quality, energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, the solutions must be based on high technology which covers fully integrated chemistry. Comprehensive chemistry management ensures high-end product quality and process efficiency. Such solutions secure and improve the financial performance of the industry.
The paper industry is striving to achieve even more closed white water systems, which emphasises the need for efficient water management. The chemistry management in the manufacturing process comprises, among others, chemistry to regulate retention, anti-foaming, water treatment, deposit prevention, wet strength and dry strength, as well as sizing, colorants and optical brighteners.
