Speed Up Study

Global supplier of publication paper Norske Skog planned to increase production capacity at its Tasman mill by increasing the speed of two paper machines (PM2 and PM3) by 28,000 tonnes annually, to 315,000 tonnes at 88% efficiency.

Having extensive experience in production upgrade design, Beca AMEC was commissioned to undertake the feasibility study. After studying the operations, Beca AMEC worked with NS Tasman and equipment vendor, Voith, to design upgrades and modifications and prepare a capital cost estimate. This was approved by the Norske Skog board in June 2004.

Based on the study, the forming board and single foil elements for both PM2 and PM3 were replaced for optimum table arrangement and paper quality. With these changes and with higher machine speed, the headboxes could be run at the designed range for better results. Dryer sections 1 and 2 were changed to single tier and breaker stacks were filled.

The key work at the PM2 press section was to shorten the open draw by changing the geometry, and to increase press nips by replacing the centre granite roll and third press granite roll with new ceramic rolls. A hydraulic loading system was also installed. The third press granite roll in PM3 was replaced with a new ceramic roll, and a new high-resolution steam box installed to improve efficiency and speed.

The upgrades were successfully implemented during 2005 and 2006, and the client shut down the No.1 paper machine after the upgrade project was completed.

Client: Norske Skog Tasman.

Project Team: Tony Johnson, Business Director - Forest Industries, Australia.