2026 Paper Drying and Process Optimization Seminar

Papermaking is part art, part science, and part knowing the right people who can help. Join industry experts and discover ways to improve energy utilization at the Kadant Johnson Optimization Seminar.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how to improve drying rates and uniformity

• Discover how to improve operational efficiencies

• Explore leading-edge concepts to maximize paper machine productivity

• Develop a step-by-step approach to find opportunities for saving energy

Who Should Attend

Mill Managers, Process Engineers, Production Managers, Technology Directors, Superintendents, Operations Vice Presidents, Directors, Managers, and those with an interest in energy utilization in paper drying.

Benefits of Attending This Seminar:

• Learn about the latest advances in drying and energy conservation

• Understand how to apply new technologies to generate maximum return

• Learn how a steam and condensate system operates in practice

• Look inside a running dryer and see how it impacts the drying process

• Network with other industry leaders

Agenda

Various process optimization experts and industry leaders will share best-in-class practices on multiple topics. These include detailed case studies focused on energy-driven rebuilds that improved mill performance and profitability.

Tuesday, June 2, 2026 (8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

• Steam Fundamentals

• How Paper is Dried

• Condensate Behavior

• Steam System Hardware

Wednesday, June 3, 2026 (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

• How Individual Systems Components Work

• How Components Combine to Provide Control

• Dryer Studies

• Identifying Issues Through Inspections

Thursday, June 4, 2026 (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

• Optimizing Dryer Hardware Life

• Optional Breakout Sessions

• Hands-on Maintenance -or- Dryer Controls

Recommended Hotel Accommodations:

• Hilton Garden Inn -or- Home2 Suites by Hilton in downtown Kalamazoo

303 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, Mich. (both share the same address)

We also encourage you to click on our ROOM BLOCK LINK for a discounted rate (book before May 2 or while supplies last). Choose the specific nights you need by selecting Edit Stay, adjusting your dates, and then clicking Update.

• Alternate: Radisson Plaza Hotel across the street from the Hilton Garden Inn

Recommended Airports:

• Kalamazoo, Mich. (12 minutes to hotels)

• Grand Rapids, Mich. (50 minutes to hotels)

• South Bend, Ind. (1 hour 24 minutes to hotels)

• Detroit, Mich. (1 hour 52 minutes to hotels)

Also check out other Workshops in Three Rivers, Arts events in Three Rivers.