Simpson Tacoma Kraft Shuts Down Oldest Recovery Boiler

Simpson Tacoma Kraft Co. has permanently shut down its No. 3 recovery boiler, the oldest boiler at its Tacoma pulp and paper mill in Tacoma, WA. Since acquiring the pulp and paper mill in 1985, the company has committed more than $250 million in capital for ongoing production and environmental improvements.

Simpson completely shut down the recovery boiler in December 1998 when the mill reached a sustainable level of consumption of recycled fiber that no longer economically justified consuming raw wood in connection with its No. 3 recovery boiler. When Simpson announced in 1994 that it would expand its use of recycled fiber, company officials said it would eventually lead to the shut down of its oldest boiler. After the recycle project was completed in 1996 and customers accepted linerboard products with higher recycle content, the mill raised its consumption of old corrugated containers.

"We are delighted to announce that Simpson Tacoma Kraft has permanently shut down No. 3 recovery boiler. This means that the mill continues its progress in raising its environmental operating standards," said Don Johnson, plant manager. The permanent shut down of the recovery boiler results in a 64% reduction in total suspended particulates and a 68% reduction in odor-causing sulfur compounds.

Simpson Tacoma Kraft is a 1,200-ton/day pulp and paper mill, manufacturing bleached and natural kraft linerboard, shipping sack, specialty kraft papers, and market pulp. It is a subsidiary of Seattle-based Simpson Investment Co.