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Solenis implements autonomous chemistry control at tissue mill

Solenis is working with a North American tissue maker to deliver continuous process improvement with autonomous chemistry control through its secure artificial intelligence (AI) platform.

Developed with ProcessMiner, an AI platform, Solenis’ OPTIX Applied Intelligence adaptive analytics system learns complex variable relationships in pulp and paper manufacturing processes and yields a digital measure of product quality.

Deployed at St. Croix Tissue in Baileyville, Maine, the mill was able to control its strength chemistry autonomously to ensure optimal chemical feed and adhere to target parameters using a closed-loop controller in conjunction with OPTIX quality parameter predictions.

“OPTIX has shown that it can reasonably predict different lab-tested parameters,” says Devin Rose, technical manager at St. Croix Tissue, in a statement.

“We’ve used this prediction in a closed-loop controller and successfully reduced variation in the final product. As a result, we’re excited about the value of this program.”

Launched by Solenis in early 2019, the OPTIX platform is operational in nine paper mills throughout North America and Europe, with additional deployments in progress.

AI-powered predictive analytics of key quality parameters allows for on-the-fly process improvement, real-time process insights and continuous chemical control, which the company says can lead to improved target adherence, improved product quality and substantial cost savings.