Pulp digesters, which are central to the pulping process and crucial for production, treat raw materials, typically wood chips, with chemicals to separate fibres and create pulp. From the perspective of the paper mill, costly bearing failures that degrade paper quality and halt production

are among the most prevalent concerns. Online Predictive maintenance, focusing on real-time monitoring and evaluation, plays a pivotal role in reducing the effects of severe operating conditions on the machinery.

The core of pulp and paper production lies in sturdy and often challenging industrial settings. From the initial pulping stages to the final paper manufacturing processes, machinery operates under conditions marked by high temperatures, corrosive chemicals, and abrasive materials. The harsh nature of these environments significantly threatens the durability and efficiency of equipment, requiring a maintenance strategy that can pre-emptively tackle issues before they worsen.

The variety of equipment within pulp and paper mills introduces an extra layer of complexity to maintenance considerations. From the large paper machines that convert pulp into sheets to the complex system of conveyors and rollers that enable material movement, each piece of equipment has its unique specifications, failure modes, and maintenance needs.