Method of reducing the energy consumption at the refining/beating of cellulose-containing material by the addition of alkali to the material for neutralizing acid groups bonded to the fibre wall. According to the invention, the pH-value in the pulp suspension is measured at the refiner outlet, the alkali is added in an amount depending on the measured pH value for neutralization without excess in the beating zone or immediately before the material enters the same, in an amount of 0.05-9 kg/ton, preferably 0.5-5 kg/ton, suitably 1-4 kg/ton, calculated as NaOH.
Also granted in Sweden SE456826 (B) ― 1988-11-07 and Finland FI85036 (C) ― 1992-02-25. International application WO8706280 (A1) ― 1987-10-22, in U.S. US5007985 (A) ― 1991-04-16, in Europe EP0302075 (A1) ― 1989-02-08 and in Australia AU7304987 (A) ― 1987-11-09.