Metso's fourth generation IQ Steam Profiler design has reduced maintenance needs and opened many new application areas. For example, a recent tissue machine installation at WEPA Leuna GmbH in Germany enabled an 8% increase in production on towel grades, a reduction in electrical energy driving the drying hood fans, and improved tissue quality as an added benefit.

Continuing the trend of last few years, this year has seen significant increase in interest for Metso IQ Steam Profilers resulting record level orders.

With more than 800 meters of IQ Steam Profilers in use on paper, board, pulp and tissue machines around the world, Metso's advanced solutions are reaping handsome rewards for users. Combined with Metso's multivariable CD control technology provides significantly flat moisture profiles, which is a requirement now for almost all grades.

Replacing 1990's technology in a Swedish mill resulted in a 40% better CD moisture profile, while a Chinese producer recently ordered IQ Steam Profilers for three separate machines in the quest for improved quality and economy.

Dependable and reliable electromechanical actuators provide accurate steam flow control to heat the water in the sheet, reducing its viscosity and allowing it to drain more readily. In a well designed configuration the improved dewatering can be translated directly to steam savings and, on a dryer limited machine, increased production. The IQ Steam Profiler can provide a more uniform moisture profile and avoid the need to over dry the sheet to eliminate moisture streaks.

Metso steambox designs are compact and engineering design has eliminated many of the problems experienced with conventional constructions leading to the increased uptake in usage. "Steamboxes have become an indispensible tool on many paper machines to improve drying efficiency and cross directional moisture profiles," says Mikko Talonen, Product Manager, Metso Automation.

The IQ Steam Profiler (www.metso.com/profilers) is part of the Metso IQ quality management portfolio of solutions for paper, tissue and board machines. Using innovative solutions and cutting edge technologies provide effective quality management, resulting in better paper and printing properties with improved productivity and runnability. All Metso IQ profilers feature compact designs and advanced self-diagnostics for easier installation and maintenance.