February 10, 2014
Valmet will rebuild a paper machine at the Gratkorn mill of Sappi Austria Produktions GmbH in Austria. Valmet’s large rebuild delivery will include the modernization of all the main sections of the paper machine and targets to improve end product quality. The rebuilt production line will start-up during the last quarter of 2014.
The value of the order will not be disclosed. The value of paper machine rebuilds depends on the scope of the delivery. This kind of line level rebuild 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,” says Max Oberhumer, Mill Director at Sappi Gratkorn Mill.
The modernization of the 9.25-m-wide (wire) PM 11 consists of headbox modification, gap former rebuild as well as press section and drying section rebuild. 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 give possibilities to widen the end product basis weight range.
Sappi Gratkorn Mill in Gratkorn, Austria is part of Sappi Fine Paper Europe. Annually it produces 950,000 tons of high quality double and triple coated papers, which are used for premium quality publications all over the world. 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.