The Gratkorn mill of Sappi Austria Produktions GmbH in Austria has ordered from Valmet, Finland, a major rebuild of its PM 11. The project will include modernization of all of the paper machine main sections, with the goal of improving end product quality. The rebuilt production line will startup during the last quarter of this year.

 

The value of the order has not been disclosed. However, according to Valmet, the value of paper machine rebuilds depends on the scope of the delivery. This kind of line level rebuild, it adds, is typically valued above EUR 20 million.

 

"Continuous improvement in both cost and quality is always top of mind for us. We have a strong relationship with our customers and make a point of understanding their needs; this investment will ensure that we continue to meet them," said Max Oberhumer, mill director at Sappi Gratkorn mill.

 

Modernization of the 9.25-m-wide (wire) PM 11 consists of headbox modification, gap former rebuild, as well as rebuilding of the press section and drying section. The forming section rebuild with new shoe and blade forming technology will improve the end product quality of coated woodfree paper grades. The modifications in the press section area will boost the runnability and possibly allow the end product basis weight range to be widened.

 

The Sappi Gratkorn mill in Gratkorn, Austria, is part of Sappi Fine Paper Europe. Annually it produces 950,000 metric tons of high quality double and triple coated papers that are used for premium quality publications worldwide. Gratkorn mill also produces 250,000 tons of totally chlorine free (TCF) chemical pulp. The mill employs 1,300 paper industry professionals from production to R&D. About 95% of the mill's production is exported.