Integration of optimization to the design of pulp and paper production processes

Abstract

Adopting new methodology in a design process requires changes in organization, business process, roles, knowledge, data transfer and tools. The influence of the new methodology has to be evaluated and the costs of changes calculated before the change is possible. In pulp and paper industry the nongrowing market situation has tightened the competition that much that cutting the design costs by integrating design activities is not going to be enough. The design itself has to be improved. In this paper, an optimization method is integrated to an existing design process of pulp and paper facilities. The model of a new design process is then assessed through a case study and an interview study to ensure that the design process can be realized in the conceptual design phase of a real delivery project.