by: SEPCO

SEPCO’s Advanced Sealing Technology: A Breath of Fresh Air for Pulp Mills



Paper MillThe pulp and paper industry, vital for producing paper products, contributes to the emission of various toxic gases and chemicals as byproducts. These emissions can be harmful to the environment and human health. Below are the common toxic gases produced in this industry and how SEPCO can help mitigate their impact through effective sealing solutions.

Common Toxic Gases in the Pulp and Paper Industry

  1. Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): This gas is primarily released during the combustion of sulfur-containing fuels in power and recovery boilers. It can cause acid rain and respiratory problems in humans.
  2. Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ): Produced during high-temperature combustion processes, NOₓ contributes to smog formation and acid rain, and it can irritate lung tissue.
  3. Chlorine (Cl₂) and Chlorine Dioxide (ClO₂): Used in the bleaching process, these chemicals can form toxic chlorinated organic compounds. They are highly irritating and corrosive gases, posing risks to both respiratory health and the environment.
  4. Methanol (CH₃OH): A pulp mill byproduct released during the cooking process, methanol is a volatile organic compound (VOC) contributing to air pollution and smog.
  5. Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S): Known for its rotten egg smell, this gas is produced during the kraft pulping process. It is highly toxic and can be lethal in high concentrations.
  6. Particulate Matter: While not a gas, particulate matter generated in various processes can carry hazardous substances, including dioxins and furans, which are persistent environmental pollutants.

SEPCO’s Sealing Solutions

Preventing Leakage of Toxic Gases

SEPCO offers a range of sealing solutions designed to prevent the leakage of these harmful gases into the environment, enhancing workplace safety and environmental compliance. Here’s how SEPCO can help:

  1. Mechanical Seals: SEPCO designs specialized mechanical seals that are ideal for applications in harsh chemical environments, such as those found in pulp and paper mills. These seals effectively contain hazardous gases and chemicals, preventing them from escaping into the atmosphere.
  2. Gasket Materials: SEPCO provides high-quality gaskets that resist the corrosive and toxic chemicals used in the paper bleaching process. By ensuring a tight seal in joints and flanges, these gaskets minimize the release of chlorine, chlorine dioxide, and other harmful chemicals.
  3. Packing Solutions: For pumps and valves handling volatile or toxic substances, SEPCO offers packing materials engineered to withstand aggressive media. This includes packings that can seal against gases like hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide without degrading.
  4. Emission Control Technologies: SEPCO’s sealing technologies align with regulatory standards for emission control, helping facilities meet environmental regulations such as those targeting reduced VOC emissions.
  5. Custom Solutions: Understanding that each mill has different needs, SEPCO also offers custom-designed sealing solutions to address specific challenges faced by the pulp and paper industry.

Training and Support

SEPCO doesn’t just supply products; it also provides comprehensive training and support to ensure that installations are performed correctly and maintained appropriately. Proper installation and maintenance are critical to the effective long-term sealing of toxic gases.

Conclusion

By utilizing SEPCO’s sealing solutions, pulp and paper plants can significantly reduce the emission of toxic gases, thereby protecting the environment and improving air quality around their facilities. This not only helps in complying with stringent environmental standards but also safeguards the health of employees and surrounding communities.