New Paper Machine Optimization Program Includes Online Condition Monitoring

The Press Section and Spreader Roll applications are the first offerings in the new Paper Machine Optimization program from SKF Reliability Systems.

Both modules increase the overall machine efficiency (OME) of papermaking machines, a standard performance measurement in the pulp and paper industry. To increase OME, some combination of product quality, machine speed and asset availability must be increased. Each application can help improve all three.

The Press Section application is a bundling of several SKF products and services into a configuration specifically for monitoring and increasing the reliability of the paper machine’s press section. It includes an online condition monitoring system (hardware and analysis software), a graphical user interface, standard work templates for the press section based on an on-site analysis, and decision-support modules with built-in knowledge to provide recommendations for correction when a problem occurs.

The Spreader Roll application offers paper mill operators the opportunity to monitor the condition of both the inner and outer covers of complex and very expensive spreader rolls. Mill personnel can monitor the roll while it’s operating — in any section of the paper machine, and make informed decisions regarding any actions required.

As with the Press Section application, there are decision support capabilities that inform mill personnel what the appropriate course of action is to correct a problem once it has been identified.

Both applications use a set of proven, machine-specific guidelines to enable the accurate and reliable diagnosis of machine or bearing problems and other conditions crucial to the production process. In the Spreader Roll application, for example, the program allows mill personnel to detect impending failures of this traditionally difficult-to-measure component before a catastrophic failure occurs.

SKF Reliability Systems can assist paper manufacturers who already have online condition monitoring installed on their press sections or spreader rolls to add the application components required — graphical user interface, work templates and decision-support capabilities — to turn their condition monitoring systems into asset optimization systems.

For further information, visit www.skf.ca.