The inclusion of EP Turbo Blowers into Runtech’s offerings came with the acquisition of Ecopump Oy in 2008. This strategic move quickly paid dividends, securing a robust position for EP Turbo Blowers in the industry. Today, Runtech stands as a leader committed to relentless innovation and excellence. A milestone was achieved in September when the Kotka factory celebrated the production of the 1000th EP Turbo Blower, underscoring the company’s dedication to energy conservation, carbon footprint reduction and sustainable water management.
Responsive vacuum systems for dynamic paper machine environments
Operational variables such as machine speed, basis weight and the condition of felts are in constant flux. This variability renders a fixed vacuum setting suboptimal across the diverse states of production. New paper machines typically come with vacuum capacities that include broad safety margins, often leading to an excess of unused capacity during standard operation – usually between 40-60% of what was originally specified. Conventional vacuum technologies lack the flexibility needed to fine-tune vacuum levels, conserve energy and adjust to the evolving conditions of paper production. Manufacturers of new paper machines commonly err towards excessive caution, resulting in vacuum specifications that exceed the practical requirements. This conservative approach can saddle end users with inefficient systems that unnecessarily elevate energy costs. RUNTECH addresses this inefficiency by retrofitting 3 to 4-year-old systems to achieve energy savings upwards of 50% or more than 10 GWh/year. It’s essential, therefore, to clearly define the vacuum system specifications to your machine supplier to avoid the default delivery of cost-driven options that overlook total operational costs over time.
Engineered solutions for pulp & paper industry worldwide
The capacity to swiftly adapt to changing operational conditions is a hallmark of Runtech’s vacuum systems. For instance, in a press rebuild, the system may be optimized to function efficiently at far lower capacities than the OEM design points, underscoring the value of an adjustable and responsive vacuum system. Consider a double-width tissue machine with a specified vacuum capacity that accounts for various operational contingencies. In actuality, the needed capacity under stable conditions could be significantly lower, allowing for vacuum level adjustments that optimize performance and energy use. Integrating EcoFlow dewatering measurements extends benefits beyond electricity savings. It also simplifies vacuum control, improves moisture extraction, conserves water, accelerates felt conditioning, reduces felt costs, increases production and facilitates the recovery of exhaust air heat energy.
Advancements in sustainable papermaking technologies
In response to market needs, Runtech is unveiling two new turbo models. The EP350 is tailored for smaller airflows, particularly suitable for vacuum system rebuilds, utilizing reliable standard bearing technology. The EP650 AMB is set to incorporate active magnetic bearing technology. Both models come equipped with shroudless impellers, precision-engineered from a single piece of forged unique steel alloy to ensure maximal strength and dimensional stability. The innovative 3D impeller design delivers exceptional efficiency across an extensive operational range. Offering both shrouded and shroudless impellers allows Runtech to fine-tune turbo performance to specific process requirements. The precise axial force measurement provided by magnetic bearings has enabled Runtech to refine the impeller design, enhancing process efficiency further. With the integration of AMB, the Turbo Blowers boast an impressive wire-to-air efficiency exceeding 60% across a broad operating range, peaking over 70%.
AMB offers a frictionless operation, presenting a low-maintenance alternative for customers. These bearings support the rotor magnetically, eliminating any contact between moving and stationary parts, which also negates the risk of oil leakage and is highly resistant to impeller build-up due to the completely oil-free operation. Ville Lahdensuo, R&D Director at Runtech Systems asserts: “AMB technology is a significant advancement toward more sustainable papermaking, offering remarkably low total cost of ownership. The compact size and material efficiency of EP Turbo Blower technology, coupled with reduced energy consumption throughout its lifespan, make it an unparalleled solution”.
