ANDRITZ and Norske Skog Skogn Upgrade PM1 for Dual-Mode Newsprint and NOR Book Production by 2026

ANDRITZ and Norske Skog Skogn Upgrade PM1 for Dual-Mode Newsprint and NOR Book Production by 2026

(IN BRIEF) ANDRITZ and Norske Skog Skogn will convert PM1 at the Skogn mill into a dual-mode line for newsprint and the new NOR Book grade, targeting a top-three European market position. Startup is planned for Q2 2026. The upgrade includes ANDRITZ’s PrimeRoll MHV—a hydraulically controlled, energy-efficient roll—and the digital Multi Master Control System for stable, high-quality output. Validated in Krefeld and optimized on-site, these technologies support over 140,000 t/a capacity with rapid product switching. Following Skogn’s 2024 shift to 100 percent virgin fiber and premium thermo-mechanical pulp, the mill will deliver bright, bulky book papers with low CO₂ footprints. Both Peder Lutdal and Ville Nikkanen emphasize the collaborative development of a sustainable, versatile production solution. The undisclosed-order is booked in ANDRITZ’s Q2 2025 intake.

(PRESS RELEASE) GRAZ, 1-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — ANDRITZ is teaming up with Norske Skog Skogn to equip Paper Machine 1 (PM1) with a cutting-edge technology package that will open the door to the European book paper market. This collaboration transforms the existing line into a versatile production unit capable of manufacturing both traditional newsprint and a new premium grade, NOR Book, with commissioning slated for Q2 2026.

The extensive upgrade encompasses mechanical and digital enhancements to lift annual capacity beyond 140,000 tonnes while enabling rapid switching between newsprint and book paper modes.

As the technology partner, ANDRITZ will deliver a bespoke calender rebuild featuring:

• PrimeRoll MHV: A hydraulically controlled, self-loading roll engineered for uniform paper profiles and reduced energy consumption by eliminating the need for thermal heating.
• ANDRITZ Multi Master Control System: An advanced digital automation suite that ensures operational stability, consistent product quality, and production flexibility.

Both systems underwent rigorous trials at ANDRITZ’s Paper Technology Center in Krefeld, Germany, and were refined on-site to guarantee seamless integration into PM1. Joint pre-engineering efforts have been crucial to securing peak performance in both production modes.

“The solution developed with ANDRITZ gives us the agility to align our output with market demand while upholding the highest standards of quality and sustainability,” said Peder Lutdal, Development Manager at Norske Skog Skogn. “This strategic undertaking not only strengthens our market foothold but also diversifies our portfolio as we aim to rank among Europe’s top three book paper suppliers.”

Since transitioning to 100 percent virgin fiber in 2024 and adopting high-grade thermo-mechanical pulp, the Skogn mill can now produce bright, high-bulk book paper grades. Combined with its exceptionally low CO₂ emissions, the new NOR Book line offers a greener alternative in the wood-containing book paper market.

Ville Nikkanen, Senior Sales Manager Paper & Board at ANDRITZ, added: “This project highlights the depth of our partnership with Norske Skog and our capacity to deliver tailored, high-performance solutions. The PrimeRoll MHV and Multi Master system are the technical backbone of Skogn’s flexible production strategy.”

Financial terms remain confidential; the order is recorded in ANDRITZ’s Q2 2025 order intake.

ANDRITZ GROUP
International technology group ANDRITZ provides advanced plants, equipment, services, and digital solutions for a wide range of industries, including pulp and paper, metals, hydropower, environmental, and others. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in Austria, the publicly listed group employs about 30,000 people at 280 locations in over 80 countries.

As a global leader in technology and innovation, ANDRITZ is committed to fostering progress that benefits customers, partners, employees, society, and the environment. The company’s growth is driven by sustainable solutions enabling the green transition, advanced digitalization for highest industrial performance, and comprehensive services that maximize the value of customers’ plants over their entire life cycle. ANDRITZ. FOR GROWTH THAT MATTERS.

ANDRITZ PULP & PAPER
ANDRITZ Pulp & Paper provides sustainable technology, automation, and service solutions for the production of all types of pulp, paper, board and tissue. The technologies and services focus on increased production efficiency, lower overall operating costs as well as innovative decarbonization strategies and autonomous plant operation.

The product portfolio also includes boilers for power generation, various nonwoven technologies, and panelboard (MDF) production systems. With waste-to-value recycling, shredding and energy solutions, waste and by-product streams from production are converted into valuable secondary raw materials as well as into sustainable resources for energy generation. State-of-the-art IIoT technologies as part of Metris digitalization solutions complete the comprehensive product offering.

Media Contact:

Susan Trast
HEAD OF CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
susan.trast@andritz.com

SOURCE: ANDRITZ