The €60 million transformation of Alfeld Mill's PM 2 has concluded on schedule with the quality said to be "exceeding expectations". The "fastest MG machine for one-side-coated paper in the world", it will produce 135,000 tonnes/year at 1,200m/min, or 72km/hour.
The state-of-the-art inline machine is producing one-side coated speciality papers. using a new, 135 tonne MG cylinder 6.5m in diameter. The rebuild also included installation of a new head box with dilution system and pre-dryer section as a single-tier arrangement.
"The entire project was completed in an extremely short time frame," says mill director Dr Stefan Karrer. "We have already received very positive customer feedback on the high quality achieved."
The new papermaking machine is said to deliver a very smooth top-side surface, greater dimension stability and lower penetration of pigments. This improves the overall quality of the grades, enhancing their converting capabilities.
Rosemarie Asquino, sales & marketing director, speciality papers Sappi Fine Paper Europe, remarks: "Among the first grades to be produced by the new machine were Fusion, Parade Prima, Algro Finess and Algro Sol. We have been able to achieve remarkable print results, top dimensional stability and excellent flatness, which we know will help our customers achieve high quality results. The higher capacity guarantees customers paper availability in the future."
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