APEX pumps replace PC pumps for pigment dosing at BillerudKorsnäs paper mill

BillerudKorsnäs has replaced a progressive cavity pump at its UK plant with an APEX hose pump for dosing abrasive pigment in kraft paper manufacture.

• Precise pigment volumes critical to maintain paper stock shades
• APEX pumps eliminate excessive pump downtime and maintenance

Abrasive pigment

Pigment that controls the shade of the paper stock is added at the preparation stage. “We dose very low, precise volumes as the shade is critical” explains Engineering Manager Tony Halhead. “However, the abrasive nature of the pigment was causing the stators and rotors in our Progressive Cavity (PC) pump to wear, leading to a drop in performance.”

Uptime and continuity with reliable performance

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group (WMFTG) recommended the use of a Bredel APEX hose pump. The benefit for APEX users such as BillerudKorsnäs is reduced maintenance intervals, leading to decreased cost of ownership. Operating and inventory costs are also less, as a single hose element is all that needs to be replaced.

BillerudKorsnäs installed two APEX pumps, one duty and one standby. The pumps are fixed to a mobile skid and piped with valves to speed changeover.

“Since installation the APEX pumps have been running reliably in a 24/7 operation,” says Mr Halhead. “We are now considering the replacement of other PC pumps on site with APEX models.”

APEX hose pumps