ATLANTA, Ga. – TAPPI’s 2013 Paper Machine Operations Course provides in-depth training on paper machine operations that will bring both mill technicians and suppliers up to speed on this all important area of mill operations. The three-day course, May 21-23, 2013 in Peachtree Corners (Metro Atlanta), Georgia, covers the key machinery, how they affect paper properties, and provides the tools needed to troubleshoot operational problems. 

"This course is ideal for engineers, operators and other technical people who need a better understanding of paper machine operations including each major unit operation such as forming, pressing and drying," notes Scott Springmier, Manager, Pulp and Paper for TAPPI. “In addition to learning about how key mechanical components function attendees also learn how they affect paper quality and properties. In turn, this provides the knowledge base required to troubleshoot operational problems and improve product quality.” 

The course is designed for anyone that is involved with paper machine operations or training staff working in this area. New engineers with a strong technical background but lacking paper machine operational knowledge as well as operators and vendor service technicians will benefit from this course. 

Instructors focus this 3-day interactive course on providing an understanding of overall paper machine operations and improving operations and product quality. It covers the design and operation of the paper machine and support systems and teaches attendees to recognize why things happen as opposed to how they happen. Attendees will learn to improve paper machine efficiency and product quality based on a new understanding of the overall operation.

Topics covered include: wood fiber & paper structure; stock prep; stock approach system design; headbox design and operation; fourdrinier and twin-wire forming; forming fabric design; pressing fundamentals; vacuum systems; press clothing; dryer fabrics; drying, steam and condensate systems;  paper machine problem solving. 

The course is taught by respected experts in paper machine operations. Jim Atkins, Course Chair, is a consultant with Atkins Inc. He worked in research and the paper machine diagnostic group at International Paper before joining James River where he held several positions including Mill Manager at the Milford, NJ mill. He was also President of A&F Corporation. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina

Ellen Gibbs, Technical Director for Americas Press Fabrics, has a B.S. in Chemistry and M.S. in Education from Boston University. She spent most of her career with Albany in Press Fabric Applications. Kevin Kroon is currently Product Manager, Fine Paper Publication Grades, with Albany International. Kevin has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. He previously held several positions at the Kimberly, Wisconsin, mill including Paper Machine Superintendent. Richard Smith, Product Manager-Dryer Fabrics for Albany International has 37 years of experience in the paper machine clothing industry. He holds a textile management degree from Tri-County Technical College.  For more information visit the Course Website.