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What to consider when choosing pulp analysis instruments
Here’s how Fagerberg improves the everyday for the process industry.
What do you need to measure in your pulp? Pulp consistency, freeness, brightness, Kappa number and fibre length are some of the parameters that can provide valuable information about your process.
Here, we guide you through the key factors when choosing analysis instruments and provide an overview of different measurements and their applications.
1. Start with what you need to measure
Pulp consistency indicates the proportion of dry solids in a pulp suspension. Other parameters, such as freeness, ash content, brightness, Kappa number and fibre length, provide information about the properties and quality of the pulp. The measurements you need depend on your process and how the results will be used.
2. Consider the properties of your pulp
Fibre type, pulp consistency and composition all influence the measurement conditions. Variations in fillers and other components can also affect the results. The instrument must therefore be suitable for the type of pulp and the point in the process where measurement takes place.
3. Continuous analysis or sampling?
Continuous analysers monitor changes directly in the process, providing data for faster process control. Sampling and laboratory analysis are also needed to verify and calibrate the measurements. The two methods complement each other to ensure reliable results.
4. One or several measurement parameters?
In some applications, measuring pulp consistency is sufficient. In others, it can be valuable to monitor parameters such as freeness, ash content, brightness, Kappa number or fibre length at the same time. Optical multi-parameter instruments can measure several properties at a single measurement point, providing a broader basis for process control.
5. Consider installation and calibration
Sensor positioning, flow conditions and the ability to take representative samples all affect the measurement result. Optical instruments need to be calibrated against laboratory analyses of the actual pulp. Accessibility for inspection and maintenance should also be considered during installation.
6. Which type of pulp analysis is right for your application?
A brief overview of our different pulp analysis instruments.
Pulp consistency
Optical instruments continuously measure pulp consistency and are used to monitor fibre concentration in the process. Suitable for washing, screening, bleaching, refining and other stages where pulp consistency needs to be controlled.
Freeness
Provides information about the drainage properties of pulp and is used, among other things, to monitor the effects of refining. Can be measured continuously alongside pulp consistency.
Ash content
Measures the proportion of inorganic material, such as fillers, in the pulp. Used to monitor composition and help maintain consistent product quality. Can be measured continuously alongside pulp consistency.
Brightness
Used to monitor the optical properties of pulp and track changes during bleaching and other process stages where brightness is important. Can be measured continuously alongside pulp consistency.
Kappa number / Fibre length
Kappa number is used to assess the residual lignin content of pulp and monitor delignification and bleaching. Optical instruments can provide continuous measurements to support process control. Depending on the instrument, Kappa number or fibre length can be measured alongside pulp consistency.
Pulp sampling
Sampling valves allow samples to be taken directly from the process for laboratory analysis and verification. They are used, among other things, to verify and calibrate continuous measuring instruments.
The most suitable solution depends on the type of pulp, your process conditions and which properties need to be monitored.