Saica Containerboard’s PM 11 successfully came on stream with the record-breaking start-up speed of 1,105 m/min. Photo: [4]

Containerboard UK Ltd The Metso-supplied complete containerboard [5] production line, PM 11, for Saica Containerboard UK Ltd., successfully came on stream on January 15, 2012 at Partington, near Manchester in the United Kingdom, reports Metso [6]. The record-breaking start-up speed was 1,105 m/min with a basis weight of 95 g/m2.

Three days later, on January 18, the first sellable paper reels were produced and tested, leaving the mill and reaching the first customers shortly afterwards.

Francisco Carilla, Industrial Projects Director, Saica, and Federico Asensio, Deputy Managing Director, Saica Paper, are both very satisfied with the Metso teams of all project stages:“In commercial proposals, design, construction, start-up and maintenance activities the Metso teams’ efforts responded to our requirements, taking into consideration our papermakers’ technical advice and previous projects experiences.”

“We are sure the high level of cooperation achieved between Saica and Metso will create significant added value for the further optimization of the production line. This will allow Saica to deliver high-quality lightweight containerboard paper to our customers setting the standard for these grades in the UK and in Europe.”

The new 8.2-m-wide PM 11 has an annual production capacity of approximately 400,000 tonnes of lightweight testliner and fluting grades in the basis weight range of 75 to 125 g/m2, out of 100% recycled raw material. The design speed is 1,700 m/min.

Metso’s delivery included a complete OptiConcept board making line from headbox to reel with an approach flow system, pulpers, air systems, press section clothing as well as a high-capacity WinDrum Pro winder.

A comprehensive Metso DNA automation package comprised process, machine and quality controls as well as machine condition monitoring. A Metso DNA process control system was also supplied for the mill’s new heat and power station and effluent treatment plant.

Metso Mill Service will have full responsibility for the mill maintenance operations as well as for maintenance management of continuous improvement programs for the OCC stock preparation system, board production line, power stations and wastewater treatment plant at the Partington mill.

Saica Containerboard UK Ltd., is a subsidiary of SAICA, a privately owned Spanish company and a world leader in the production of corrugated containerboard from recovered paper. The company currently employs over 8,000 people in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Ireland and the UK. SAICA has an annual turnover of EUR 1.8 billion.