Improving Paper Machine Performance with Better Whitewater Heating

Originally developed by Hydro-Thermal, this application highlights how direct steam injection technology can help paper manufacturers improve temperature control, reduce maintenance, and increase production efficiency. Crane Engineering is proud to partner with Hydro-Thermal to provide innovative process heating solutions for the pulp and paper industry.

Challenge: Maintaining Consistent Whitewater Temperatures

In the paper manufacturing process, temperature control plays a critical role in maintaining product quality and efficient machine operation. Whitewater systems must provide consistent temperatures to support paper formation, machine startups, and grade changes.

For one specialty paper mill in the Midwest, frequent paper grade changes created a challenge. The mill needed to heat a 25,000-gallon fresh water tank from approximately 40°F to 130°F for use as whitewater makeup. Their existing in-tank sparging system was slow to respond, often taking more than two hours to reach the required temperature. This resulted in slower startups, off-spec paper, lost production time, and increased maintenance requirements.

Solution: Direct Steam Injection for Faster, More Reliable Heating

To address these challenges, the mill evaluated multiple heating options and selected a Hydro-Thermal Solaris® S206 in-line heater. The system provided an efficient way to heat water directly within the process line while offering precise temperature control and easy installation into the existing system.

Unlike traditional heating methods, direct steam injection transfers steam energy directly into the process fluid. This allows for rapid heat transfer, reduced energy loss, and consistent temperatures throughout the process. Hydro-Thermal’s direct steam injection technology is designed to provide reliable heating while minimizing maintenance compared to traditional sparging systems.

Results: Faster Startups and Improved Production

After installation, the mill saw measurable improvements:

• Water temperature increased approximately 20°F hotter than the previous sparging system
• The tank reached its target temperature in less than two hours
• Paper machine startup times improved during grade changes
• Reduced broke generation and lost production
• Reduced maintenance associated with the previous heating system

How Crane Engineering Supports the Pulp & Paper Industry

At Crane Engineering, we understand that every minute of downtime impacts production. Our team works with paper manufacturers to identify process challenges and recommend solutions that improve reliability, efficiency, and overall equipment performance.

Through our partnership with Hydro-Thermal, we provide engineered heating solutions designed to meet the demands of modern pulp and paper operations, from whitewater heating and felt shower applications to other critical process heating needs.

Whether you are experiencing slow startups, inconsistent temperatures, or excessive maintenance, Crane Engineering can help evaluate your system and find opportunities for improvement.

Contact Crane Engineering to learn how we can help optimize your paper machine process. Start the conversation today!