One process in pulp and paper production is the manufacture of stock – an almost dry material. Stock handling can take up to 20% of a mill''s total energy needs and must be diluted to a suitable consistency before it can be pumped. Reijo Vesala of Sulzer Pumps discusses the specialized pumps, agitators and other equipment that allows for reliable process operation and tower management in pulp and paper mills while reducing the level of energy consumed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]