Proactive motor management can help reduce operating costs in the pulp and paper industry

Abstract

With the current economic climate putting a squeeze on capital budgets, now is the time to improve the efficiency and productivity of existing motor systems. According to a study by DOE, focusing on the efficiency of motor-driven equipment could add 5 percent to the operating margins of many pulp and paper mills. This paper provides both rationale and methods for realizing potential savings through sound motor management. It promotes the use of life cycle costing as a basis for making proactive repair/replace decisions. Results of a motor management project carried out at Crown Pacific Lumber are provided as an example.