Voith to Lead Rebuild of DS Smith’s PM 4 Paper Machine in Portugal for Enhanced Production

Voith to Lead Rebuild of DS Smith’s PM 4 Paper Machine in Portugal for Enhanced Production

(IN BRIEF) DS Smith, a global manufacturer of sustainable containerboard and specialty papers, has chosen Voith for the rebuild of its PM 4 paper machine at the Viana site in Portugal. The mill is a market leader in Southern Europe, producing 400,000 tons of kraftliner and high-performance top kraftliner annually. The extensive rebuild aims to increase production to 428,000 tons per year and improve overall efficiency. The project includes upgrades to the forming and press sections, installation of a Tandem NipcoFlex press, and modifications for lightweight grades. The rebuild is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2023 and will be supported by a fabrics package and spare parts from Voith. The collaboration highlights the commitment of both companies to sustainability and advancing the paper manufacturing industry.

(PRESS RELEASE) DEOCRISTE, Portugal, 6-Jun-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — The Voith Group, a global technology company, announces that DS Smith, a leading global manufacturer of sustainable containerboard and specialty papers, has awarded Voith the contract to rebuild its PM 4 paper machine at its Viana site in Northern Portugal. The mill, which is a market leader in Southern Europe, currently produces approximately 400,000 tons of kraftliner and high-performance top kraftliner per year. The extensive rebuild project aims to enhance production capacity and overall efficiency.

Upon completion of the rebuild, the production capacity of the mill will increase to approximately 428,000 tons per year, with a machine design speed of 1,100 m/min. The project is scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The rebuild project encompasses several key modifications. The forming section will be upgraded to enhance the capacity and performance of the paper machine. The press section will undergo a complete renewal, featuring the installation of a Tandem NipcoFlex press. This upgrade will significantly increase the dry content after the press and reduce specific steam consumption.

To ensure optimal runability for lightweight grades, the transfer between the press and dryer sections will be modified with state-of-the-art web transfer and tail threading technology. Additionally, smaller modifications and upgrades are planned for the stock preparation and approach flow line.

As part of the agreement, Voith will also provide a comprehensive fabrics package for the start-up of the PM 4 machine and subsequent supply, along with spare parts.

The collaboration between DS Smith and Voith demonstrates their shared commitment to enhancing production capabilities and driving sustainable solutions in the paper manufacturing industry.

“We are happy to realize this project together with DS Smith. Our customized solutions will lead to the desired production capacity, efficiency and quality. DS Smith benefits from Voith’s expertise, state-of-the-art technology and outstanding project efforts. The commission confirms that we, as the full-line supplier to the paper industry, are the trusted partner for rebuilds.” – Marcos Garcia de la Torre, Managing Director Voith Paper Spain.