Logout
Click here for Pulp & Paper Radio International
The Paperitalo Library
Free Downloads
Search
My Profile
Login
Voith SpeedSizer AT Means More Speed for Smurfit Kappa's PM 6
Comment Print

Heidenheim, Germany 15 March 2018 -- A narrow time window, a size press operating at its maximum speed and the need for greater machine efficiency were the various challenges faced by the Voith team as it tackled the upgrade of the PM 6 at Smurfit Kappa. Thanks to excellent planning beforehand, the machine was restarted without problems one day ahead of schedule.

"The startup of the new SpeedSizer has shown how expertise and dedication bring about an excellent outcome. The project simply flew by," says Jochem Meier, Manager Operations at Smurfit Kappa in Zülpich.

Smurfit Kappa wanted to achieve a higher production speed through its modernization of the PM 6 at the Zülpich mill. The company is one of the leading manufacturers of packaging in Europe. At its facility in Zülpich it produces premium quality testliner and recycled fluting in basis weights of 100 to 150 grams per square meter from 100 percent recovered paper.

Because the machine was only supposed to be shut down for a week for the conversion, detailed advance planning was absolutely essential for the success of the project. The excellent longstanding relationship between Voith and the customer facilitated this planning. For example, Voith's service team had previously carried out maintenance on the PM 6 on an ongoing basis. However, the narrow time frame was just one of the challenges.

A key aspect of the project was the puddle-type size press. Equipped with a deflection compensation roll, it allowed an optimum CD profile of the nip load (linear contact pressure) and for a long time had guaranteed the high quality of the paper. But for technical reasons, the size press limited the production speed of the PM 6 to 1,150 meters per minute. Even though the size press was one of, or perhaps even the fastest in the world, it prevented the machine from being ramped up to the 1,225 meters per minute desired by the customer.

This is why Voith recommended installing a customized SpeedSizer AT with the existing Nipco deflection compensating roll system. This application system enables excellent coating and size profiles even at high speeds. Its use increases the operating window of the PM 6 and offers Smurfit Kappa more production flexibility. The SpeedSizer ensures an increase in the solids content of up to 17 percent and reduces the moisture ingress into the paper web. This results in a higher dry content downstream of the SpeedSizer AT, which helps substantially reduce drying energy and achieves much improved paper web running properties.

Voith used a Nipco roll that was already being used in the old puddle-type size press as a deflection compensation roll. Following comprehensive reconditioning, they now also ensure optimum CD profiles and consequently high paper quality in the new machine as well. The re-use of the previous rolls reduced the costs of the upgrade.

The new SpeedSizer AT plays a major role in reducing the energy consumption of the PM 6. Immediately, a 15 percent reduction in steam consumption could be achieved. The specific energy figures are of course also improved as a result of the higher production rate. A good startup is extremely helpful, because the completely closed water circuit at SK Zülpich Papier has to be evaporated again after a week of shutdown.

The use of the new UniFilm T applicator roll cover, which is very wear-resistant, ensures good metering rod service life and more efficient production. In the PM 6 they run for more than 400 hours, well above the average for comparable machines.

About Voith Paper

Voith Paper is a Group Division of Voith and the leading partner and pioneer in the paper industry. Through constant innovations, Voith Paper is optimizing the paper manufacturing process, focusing on developing resource-conserving products to reduce the use of energy, water and fibers. Furthermore, Voith Paper offers a broad service portfolio for all sections of the paper manufacturing process.

About Voith

Voith is a global technology group. With its wide range of systems, products, services and digital applications, Voith sets standards in the markets for energy, oil & gas, paper, raw materials and transport & automotive. Founded in 1867, Voith today has more than 19,000 employees and earns 4.2 billion euros in sales. It has locations in over 60 countries and is one of the largest family-owned companies in Europe.

****

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

A family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company in Illinois is looking for an experienced Maintenance Technician to maintain production and quality by ensuring operation of machinery and mechanical equipment. Relocation and other perks are available to the right candidate who is committed to working third shift. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

Are you an experienced Maintenance Mechanic and would like to work for a family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company that invests in the best equipment and technology? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

A leading company in the corrugated solutions packaging business is looking for a experienced Electrician. The right candidate will possess the following skills: electrical; hydraulic; automatic drives (basic component machines 122 to 440 bolts). If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* An expanding company is looking for a Corporate Industrial Electro-Mechanical Engineer near Allentown, PA. Relocation is available. Do you have a storied list of unique electrical and mechanical engineering skills you're ready to take to the next level? Do you envision yourself in a corporate-level leadership role that your experience finally merits? And do you relish any opportunity to troubleshoot and solve real-time problems, all while designing and installing new services and systems that will not only ensure safety, but also turn a potentially hazardous work environment into a continuously thriving one? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* An expanding company is looking for hands-on Electro Mechanical Maintenance Techs in Conyers, Georgia. Preference will be given to candidates with higher education and additional certificates or training. You must be able to work any shift. Pay is negotiable with excellent perks and benefits. Relocation assistance is available to the right candidate. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* Working as a Consultant? Looking for some additional challenges with a flexible scheduling? Have a background in Consistency Control? This may be just the opportunity you are looking for: A large multi-national automation company seeks an expert in paper mill consistency technology. This individual will facilitate application support and start-ups in the paper mill environment. In addition, the ability to provide troubleshooting and technical advice and support is strongly desired. The individual should have an understanding of rotary, blade, microwave and optical consistency and the application of these devices in the paper mill. The company sells and maintains a line of consistency transmitters, sample valves and sheet break detectors. These products are marketed in the US through a rep. network. Knowledge of sheet break detection technology is also desirable. Individual must be willing to travel to paper production facilities across the US. Travel & Living Expenses to be reimbursed along with an agreed upon daily per diem rate. For more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

****

Jim Thompson is back again...with a new book on a taboo subject: the personalities in the pulp & paper industry. Jim has written in the past on many subjects based on his four plus decades in the worldwide pulp and paper industry. This new book is packed full of information valuable to the senior member of the industry as well as the recent entrant. A must for every pulp and paper library.

 


Powered by Bondware
News Publishing Software

The browser you are using is outdated!

You may not be getting all you can out of your browsing experience
and may be open to security risks!

Consider upgrading to the latest version of your browser or choose on below: