Haindl Set for Mid-2000 Startup of World's Largest LWC Machine

Haindl Papier is rapidly moving forward with plans to install the world's largest LWC paper machine at its Augsburg mill in Germany. The $91.7 million, 10.45m-(412 in.-) wide OptiConcept machine, newly ordered from Valmet Corp., has a design operating speed of 2,000 m/min. and a capacity of 400,000 m.t./yr.

Valmet will also provide engineering, automation, and air systems for the new No. 3 paper machine, which is scheduled to startup in mid-2000. OptiConcept represents Valmet's latest paper machine design evolution, offering significant advancements in operating speed, overall machine efficiencies, and product quality.

The delivery will include short circulation equipment, an OptiFlo headbox, OptiFormer forming section, OptiPress press section, SymDry dryer section, OptiSizer film transfer press, OptiLoad calender, and and OptiReel unit. It will also incorporate Damatic XDi machine controls and a Sensodec condition and runnability monitoring system.

A special feature of the new machine is simultaneous (dual side) film coating with the OptiSizer. The OptiLoad calender is also an online solution, following the OptiConcept. The paper machine's basis weight range will be 39 to 70 g/m.

Haindl is a major producer of high-quality LWC, SC and newsprint grades. With a total output of 2.3 million m.t. in 1998, the group also ranks among the key European producers by volume. The company's production units are located in Augsburg, Schongau, Walsum and Schwedt (Germany), as well as in Renkum (the Netherlands), and Steyrermuhl (Austria). The Augsburg mill currently produces SC and LWC grades on two paper machines.

The order follows Valmet's August 11 announcement of a $55 million contract to deliver the first OptiConcept paper machine to Nanping Paper Co. in China.