Valmet Kappa QC analyzer adds HexA measurement capability for eucalyptus pulp producers

Hexenuronic acid (HexA) in unbleached hardwood pulp increases the consumption of bleaching chemicals leading to higher production costs and product quality variability as well as worsening environmental performance.

HexA also consumes potassium permanganate in the Kappa number analysis which leads to an erroneous lignin content signal to automatic controls.

Valmet Kappa QC analyzer

New and unique online method for the measurement of HexA, available as an additional module working alongside the Kappa, brightness and fiber & shive properties.

Can be used with a hot A (acidification) stage prior to bleaching or a hot A-stage combined with the D0-stage in a single hot D0-(Dhot) stage.

• First Hex-A measurement installation in South- America with excellent results.
• New extremely interesting online measurement gives more information from lignin and Hex-A removal in eucalyptus pulping process.
• Now we are opening new window to trending online Hex-A content from each process stage.
• See how different eucalyptus grades demand different chemical treatment/process conditions.
• First step is optimize A-stage operation to save bleaching chemicals, after that the next step is optimize cooking conditions to prevent extra Hex-A formation.