Cogent Enhances Design and Compliance for Kadant Black Clawson Equipment Solution

Project Overview

Kadant Black Clawson, a U.S.-based manufacturer of process equipment for the pulp and paper recycling industry, engaged Cogent Industrial Technologies to support the electrical engineering and certification of its Ragger machine, which is used to remove debris from recycled fibre processing lines. The goal was to refine the unit’s design and prepare it for market launch by ensuring compliance with North American safety standards (in particular, UL508).

Over a four-month engagement, Cogent reviewed the Ragger’s electrical and control system design, performed key calculations for power, cooling, and braking energy, and guided Kadant Black Clawson through the inspection and certification process. By applying its expertise in motor control systems and industrial safety standards, Cogent helped streamline certification, improve equipment reliability, and shorten development time.

The Challenge

The project presented both design and compliance challenges. Built for outdoor operation, the Ragger equipment required a control system that would perform safely and reliably under changing environmental conditions. Meanwhile, the use of non-standard European components introduced integration challenges that are uncommon in North American systems.

Achieving certification meant ensuring that a key product could go to market safely, consistently, and on schedule. The project demanded a partner with deep knowledge of industrial control systems and certification processes who could balance technical precision with practical, real-world implementation.

Our Solution

Cogent worked closely with Kadant Black Clawson’s engineering team to review the Ragger machine’s electrical and control systems and align it with certification requirements. The team identified key improvement areas, recommended modifications, and provided supporting calculations for power, cooling, and braking performance.

Throughout the process, Cogent acted as both a technical advisor and a collaborative partner, helping the client navigate complex certification standards and communicate effectively with inspectors.  The team also helped navigate the first construction process by advising on solutions to challenges as they arose. By drawing on its experience in industrial safety and motor control systems, Cogent streamlined the approval process, reduced design uncertainty, and positioned Kadant Black Clawson to move its equipment to market faster and with greater confidence.

Results & Impact

The project achieved certification success on the first inspection, allowing Kadant Black Clawson to begin production without delay. Cogent’s involvement not only reduced development time but also improved the unit's safety, reliability, and operational readiness. Cogent continues to provide ongoing design support as Kadant Black Clawson refines the Ragger machine for future iterations.

Project highlights:
 • Achieved certification on first inspection
 • Reduced design review and development time
 • Improved reliability and safety performance
 • Strengthened product readiness for market launch

About Kadant Black Clawson

Kadant Black Clawson LLC is an industry-leading fibre processing equipment supplier that provides innovative solutions for stock pulp preparation, including wastepaper recycling, deinking, virgin fibre, and paper machine approach-flow applications. A complete papermaking equipment supplier established in 1873, Black Clawson acquired by Kadant in 1997 and now serves as the North American technology base for all Kadant stock preparation and chemical pulping products.