ATLANTA, Ga. – The 2013 TAPPI Introduction to Kraft Pulping and Bleaching Course is an in-depth review of the kraft pulping and bleaching process that will result in a better understanding of the whole process. The two-day course, August 5-6, 2013 at the TAPPI Training Facility in Metro Atlanta, Georgia, USA is ideal for anyone new to kraft pulping such as process engineers and operators. Course instructor Dr. Michael Kocurek is one of the world’s most recognized pulp and paper industry educators and a familiar face among thousands of professionals and students within the pulp and paper industry.  He has taught Kraft Pulping and Bleaching to students, and still teaches mill versions of Kraft Pulping and Bleaching, utilizing more than 40 years of experience in this role.  He also continues as the sole instructor in the TAPPI Introduction to Pulp and Paper Technology course, which he has taught since 1974.  The TAPPI Kraft Pulping and Bleaching course is an expanded, enhanced version of the kraft mill operations material.

"This is the kind of course that offers a view of the entire puzzle, so to speak, rather than a detailed focus on one or two operations.  There are few if any other courses that combine this field of focus into one," says Kocurek.  “This is an ideal course for anyone who wants to better understand kraft pulping and bleaching operations and processes, pulp grades and products, and what they can do to enhance their own job performance.”

The TAPPI Introduction to Kraft Pulping and Bleaching course is ideal for anyone new to the kraft pulping process, particularly process engineers and operators.  The curriculum is designed to help participants:  Expand overall understanding of kraft pulp mill operations and increase their ability to improve operations  Heighten awareness of how one part of the process affects other operations on a broader scale  Demonstrate the effect of processes on kraft pulp quality  Build confidence for effective interaction among experienced process engineers and operators  Troubleshoot product quality problems  Understand and define kraft pulp mill processes, equipment, operating variables, and terminology  Extend awareness of the complex environmental challenges associated with kraft pulp production

Topics covered include: wood and fiber; wood chips for pulping; white liquor preparation; kraft pulping, digesters and technology; kraft chemical reactions; pulp processing (oxygen delignification, fiberizing, washing, cleaning and screening); brown stock washing, overview of bleaching and specific processes; pulp mill environmental overview; pulp mill biorefinery.

The course schedule details the specific training offered.  Registration for the TAPPI Introduction to Kraft Pulping and Bleaching course will close out at 25 registrants.  The early-bird registration discount ends July 5, 2013.