Funded by the CleanBC Industrial Incentive Program, PE Tech embarked on a study for a BC pulp mill exploring the feasibility of reducing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in their lime kilns. The study centred around the potential installation of a flash dryer on their largest and most efficient kiln, aiming to boost operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
The PE Tech feasibility report offers an in-depth analysis of the project; detailing the current operational costs and carbon emissions of the existing lime kilns, and comparing these to a projected model with a flash dryer. The three lime kilns at this site are primarily fired by natural gas and capable of utilizing fuel oil, placing them among the largest contributors to the mill's GHG emissions.
Vendor assessment predicted a 17.5% increase in capacity for the largest kiln with a flash dryer installed. This improvement would allow for prioritized use of the other kilns, effectively diminishing the reliance on the least efficient kiln from 6% to a mere 0.2% of total annual production. This shift represents a significant reduction in fossil fuel use and GHG emissions.
Furthermore, the study confirms that installing a flash dryer would compensate for any production losses incurred by switching the fuel source from natural gas to wood fines in the two smaller kilns. Despite a 5% capacity reduction due to the lower heating value of wood, the overall plant capacity is expected to see a net gain.
Although this technology is relatively new in North America, its successful implementation in mills across Europe, Asia, and South America is promising.
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About PE Tech
Specializing in the pulp & paper and wood fibre industries, we offer a unique blend of technical expertise and environmental leadership. Our mission is to empower industrial operations with sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking solutions.