SteamDry was represented at the 19th Netherlands Process Technology Symposium (NPS 19), taking place from October 8-9, 2024, at Forum Groningen in Groningen, the Netherlands. The symposium is a leading event for academic and industrial advancements in chemical engineering and sustainable technologies.
Our partner, Felipe de Oliveira, a PhD candidate at the University of Twente’s Sustainable Process Technology group, presented the design of a separation system for a closed-loop superheated steam drying (SHSD) process in the paper industry and won the Best Poster Award among 58 participants. This project is a key part of the SteamDry project, which aims to revolutionize energy efficiency in industrial drying processes.
Presentation Overview:
“Design of a Separation System for the Closed-Loop Superheated Steam Drying Process in the Paper Industry“
Felipe de Oliveira, Edwin Zondervan, Marcel Meinders
(University of Twente and Wageningen University & Research)
The paper industry is one of the most energy-intensive sectors, with drying accounting for nearly 70% of total energy consumption. The SHSD process being researched has the potential to reduce energy use by 70% and cut CO2 emissions by 88% compared to traditional air drying methods. However, contaminants like dust and non-condensable gases pose challenges that need to be addressed to maintain an efficient, closed-loop system.
The University of Twente’s role in the SteamDry project is to design a model-based separation system that ensures high-quality steam recovery. This involves the development of dynamic models that will optimize the separation equipment’s performance and ultimately contribute to creating a digital twin for real-time process control.
     
We connected with experts from academia, industry, and government at NPS 19 to further discussions on how SHSD can contribute to a more sustainable future in industrial processes. Join us in exploring innovative solutions that bridge sustainable process and product technology!
It was a pleasure to see you in Groningen!