Practical energy and water management through pinch analysis for the pulp and paper industry.

In this paper we briefly describe pinch technology as a practical tool for effective energy management in the pulp and paper industry. Results indicate good steam savings. Recently pinch technology has been extended to water management. We have developed a customized methodology for the pulp and paper industry, to eliminate or reduce fresh water intake. Although the methodology is not fully developed it is a "proof of concept" that pinch principles can be applied to water related problems. The eventual combination of both thermal and water pinch will thus provide a structured and comprehensive approach for plant wide efficiency increase.