Where energy efficiency starts with thermal innovation
Steam is the lifeblood of paper production—used to dry sheets, condition coating lines, and drive key mechanical processes. At most mills, steam production comes from natural gas or purchased power. But during a recent tour of a Southeastern kraft board mill, we saw how this facility generates 95% of its own steam, cutting both costs and emissions.
This was possible thanks to:
A biomass boiler burning bark, sludge, and pulping byproducts
High-efficiency steam recovery systems tied to the dryer section
A fully integrated condensate return loop to minimize heat loss
How It Works
Black liquor is burned in a recovery boiler to generate heat
Exhaust steam is captured for sheet drying and calender conditioning
Excess heat pre-warms process water for fiber washing and stock prep
This setup allows the mill to operate nearly independent of fossil-fuel-based steam inputs—while dramatically lowering its Scope 1 emissions.
Buyer Value
Lower carbon footprint per ton, ideal for ESG reporting
Price stability against fuel cost spikes
Alignment with corporate targets for renewable energy sourcing
Lower risk of operational disruption tied to utility failures
Ask About Steam Systems
What % of your steam is self-generated?
Are energy savings reflected in pricing models?
Do you report emissions by grade or production line?
How are energy metrics integrated into QA reporting?
Thermal Systems That Think Ahead
When steam becomes a sustainability asset—not a liability—you’re working with a mill that’s not just productive, but progressive.
