Email Jim at jthompson@taii.com
Listen to this column in your favorite format
iTunes or MP3
The evening of 17 May 18 found me in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, having dinner with my dear friend, George W. Mead and his wife, Susan.
As we wrap up energy trends month, I got to thinking--George was the last Chairman of Consolidated Paper before it was sold to Stora Enso. George's ancestor, J. D. Witter, was one of the founders of the company back when it was called Consolidated Water Power and Paper Company (circa 1901-1902).
In those days, it was common for pulp and paper mills to produce electricity for sale as well as manufacturing paper. Some of this still goes on, but I think we should look to the future and I'll suggest these combined activities may become even more prevalent in the future.
I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that Tesla is one of the most popular automobiles in Norway and electric vehicles account for 29% of all autos in that country.
Electric airplanes are now under serious development. SAE International has a committee working on standards for electric airplanes (my wife, Laura, is one of the staff professionals leading this effort). Electric airplanes will become a reality when the density of energy in batteries equals that in jet fuel--that is the only measurable goal needed to make them possible.
****
Jim Thompson is back again...with a new book on a taboo subject: the personalities in the pulp & paper industry. Jim has written in the past on many subjects based on his four plus decades in the worldwide pulp and paper industry. This new book is packed full of information valuable to the senior member of the industry as well as the recent entrant. A must for every pulp and paper library.
****
In the meantime, large electric drones are already starting to make inroads into the work done by small fossil fuel helicopters.
Electric cars (except for hybrids to a certain extent) and electric airplanes do not generate energy, they need an energy supply just like their fossil fuel cousins do now.
Electric cars, electric airplanes--where are they going to get all the energy they need? Pulp and paper mills have been generating electricity for as long as electricity has been commercially available. Co-generation is a natural symbiotic relationship between paper mills and power plants. Pulp mills can generate surplus energy compared to what they require to operate.
The future just may be more co-operation, co-siting of electrical generation facilities and pulp and paper assets. If the land and air transportation industries demand more electricity in the future, it is going to have to come from somewhere. Hydroelectric is near capacity and where it does not exist there is resistance to installing it. Fossil fuels are certainly out of favor. Wind and solar cannot fill the gap. Renewable energy available at pulp and paper mills, coupled with advanced pollution control systems could be a viable answer. Suddenly a pulp and paper asset has another product stream, electricity, to sell. Even in times going back a half century or more, pulp and paper mills sold electricity to offsite consumers. Doing more of this in the future makes sense.
The new biomills, being built in places like Finland, will offer such side stream products, as well. These mills are looking not at pulp and paper as final products, but rather how can we maximize the value of cellulose? This is upside down, and progressive, thinking as compared to what we have been doing in the past.
Consolidated Power and Paper just may be the path to the future for humankind.
For safety this week, electricity looks so benign until it is loosed from its sheath. Inspect cables and extension cords regularly.
Be safe and we will talk next week.
****
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
* We are looking for a Production Shift Team Leader to maintain high standards, plus ensure safety policies and regulations for a company located close to Chicago's Midway Airport. If you are experienced team leader who has a four-year degree in an engineering/technical field (paper science degree preferred, and experience in recycled linerboard or corrugating medium paper mills is a plus), we are looking for someone like you! If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* A family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company in Illinois is looking for an experienced Maintenance Technician to maintain production and quality by ensuring operation of machinery and mechanical equipment. Relocation and other perks are available to the right candidate who is committed to working third shift. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* Are you an experienced Maintenance Mechanic and would like to work for a family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company that invests in the best equipment and technology? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* A leading company in the corrugated solutions packaging business is looking for a experienced Electrician. The right candidate will possess the following skills: electrical; hydraulic; automatic drives (basic component machines 122 to 440 volts). If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* An expanding company is looking for a Corporate Industrial Electro-Mechanical Engineer near Allentown, PA. Relocation is available. Do you have a storied list of unique electrical and mechanical engineering skills you're ready to take to the next level? Do you envision yourself in a corporate-level leadership role that your experience finally merits? And do you relish any opportunity to troubleshoot and solve real-time problems, all while designing and installing new services and systems that will not only ensure safety, but also turn a potentially hazardous work environment into a continuously thriving one? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* An expanding company is looking for hands-on Electro Mechanical Maintenance Techs in Conyers, Georgia. Preference will be given to candidates with higher education and additional certificates or training. You must be able to work any shift. Pay is negotiable with excellent perks and benefits. Relocation assistance is available to the right candidate. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
* We are a large automation company that has a line of consistency transmitters, sample valves and sheet break detectors that are marketed through a rep. network. We are seeking someone with a strong background in consistency control to facilitate start-ups, provide troubleshooting and technical advice. The individual should have experience in all major types of consistency measurement technologies (blade, rotary, microwave and optical). Knowledge of sheet break detection technology is desirable as well. Willingness to travel to paper production facilities across the US is a must. Travel & Living Expenses to be reimbursed along with an agreed upon daily per diem rate. For more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.
________
Other interesting stories:
|
