A Milestone in Paper Manufacturing: Saica and Voith Celebrate 25 Years of PM 9 Leadership

Saica’s PM 9 in El Burgo de Ebro, delivered by Voith, turns 25.

(IN BRIEF) Voith and Saica Group are celebrating the 25th anniversary of PM 9, the high-speed containerboard production line at Saica’s El Burgo de Ebro mill in Zaragoza, Spain. Commissioned in 2000, PM 9 was groundbreaking for its time, achieving speeds up to 1,450 m/min and increasing Saica’s production capacity by 350,000 tons annually. The collaboration between the two companies has set lasting benchmarks in efficiency, performance, and product quality. Leaders from both organizations praised the partnership as a model of innovation and mutual trust. To commemorate the milestone, Voith and Saica announced a new upgrade project, planned for March 2026, to enhance the line’s efficiency and sustainability, ensuring PM 9’s continued leadership in paper production.

(PRESS RELEASE) ZARAGOZA / HEIDENHEIM, 10-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — On October 12, Voith and the Saica Group will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the PM 9 production line at Saica’s El Burgo de Ebro mill in Zaragoza, Spain. Since its start-up in 2000, PM 9 has stood as a global reference point for operational efficiency, product quality, and lightweight containerboard production, exemplifying a successful partnership that continues to push the boundaries of paper manufacturing.

When it was launched, PM 9 represented a major technological breakthrough. Designed for a basis weight range of 75–110 gsm, operating speeds of up to 1,450 m/min, and an annual capacity of 350,000 tons, it achieved performance levels previously unseen in the board and packaging sector. Over the years, the machine has not only surpassed its original design targets but has also played a key role in expanding Saica’s production capacity and setting new industry standards.

“When Saica’s board decided to invest in a new facility for lightweight corrugating medium grades, we knew the machine we needed didn’t yet exist,” said Roberto Arnaiz, Mill Manager at Saica Paper El Burgo de Ebro. “Voith supported us from the very beginning, and together we developed a system that exceeded all expectations. Even 25 years later, PM 9 remains a vital part of our operations.”

Ralf Sorg, President Projects at Voith Paper, added: “PM 9 is a true symbol of innovation and technical excellence. From its commissioning, it has enhanced Saica’s production capacity while setting new benchmarks for efficiency and quality. The enduring collaboration between Voith and Saica showcases what can be achieved through shared vision and trust.”

Since its inauguration, PM 9 has remained a cornerstone of Saica’s production line, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in lightweight containerboard and sustainable paper solutions. Its continued reliability and performance highlight the strength of the Voith–Saica partnership, built on a foundation of innovation, expertise, and long-term collaboration.

Looking Ahead: Innovation for the Next 25 Years

To mark this significant milestone, Saica and Voith are embarking on a new joint project aimed at further improving the efficiency and sustainability of the PM 9 production line. The upgrade, scheduled for March 2026, will focus on modernizing the facility with advanced technology to ensure continued operational excellence and environmental performance in the decades to come.

“Voith and Saica have made history together,” noted Sorg. “PM 9 continues to embody the spirit of progress that defines our partnership, and we look forward to shaping the next generation of sustainable paper production.”

After 25 years of continuous success, PM 9 remains not just a high-performance machine but a symbol of technological leadership and partnership in the global paper industry.