Holmen Board and Paper Gains High Production Flexibility after ANDRITZ Starts up Rebuilt Paper Machine

Holmen’s paper mill in Braviken, Sweden, is now running with maximum production efficiency and flexibility after international technology group ANDRITZ successfully completed the rebuild of the paper machine (PM52).

ANDRITZ implemented its unique concept to allow for flexible production of book paper, newsprint, and containerboard based on thermo-mechanical pulp (TMP) on PM52. The machine has a wire width of 9.3m and a design and operation speed of 1,600m/min. The rebuild enables Holmen to strengthen its position in the packaging market by increasing both the quality and production capacity of containerboard grades.

Mechanical pulp-based containerboard products developed by Holmen are considered significant innovations in the paper packaging space. They offer basis weight reductions of up to 20 percent compared to traditional products combined with excellent visual appearance. High paper strength is achieved without the use of surface starch and with a very low carbon footprint.

ANDRITZ provided engineering, installation and start-up services and supplied key components for the comprehensive rebuild. Central to the project was the conversion of the former using ANDRITZ’s patented PrimeForm TW shoe blade gap forming technology, which ensures optimal MD/CD ratios, superior formation across paper grades and maximum dewatering capacity. The pulsation-free engineered impingement shoe and patented variable wrap technology are key contributors to the high flexibility of the new forming section. The new PrimeFlow AT headbox enhances jet quality, fibre dispersion and orientation. In addition, the press section was rebuilt to increase dryness, save energy and improve the runnability of the machine. The scope of supply also included a clothing package, a spare parts package, extended control systems and an automation package for enhanced efficiency.

We are very satisfied with the ANDRITZ solution, which meets our high requirements and enables us to increase production efficiency and capacity as planned. With the sophisticated new concept, we can now switch seamlessly between different paper grades. The new forming section provides a wide set of optimisation tools, and we are impressed by how forgiving the geometry adjustment is while the machine runs at full speed.

Peter Dahlén, Technical Director at Holmen Board and Paper

“This project demonstrates our commitment and ability to provide innovative, high-performance technology and full-service support that help our customers meet the demands of a dynamic market,” emphasised Gerald Steiner, Senior Vice President, Paper and Tissue at ANDRITZ.

Holmen Board and Paper produces premium paperboard and innovative paper products for a wide range of end-uses, using mainly fresh fibre from sustainably managed forests. The company operates four production facilities in Sweden and the UK.