VPK goes with Valmet containerboard system

Finland-based Valmet Oyj says it has been selected by France-based VPK to equip a paper machine grade conversion rebuild at VPK’s Alizay mill in France. Startup of the rebuilt line has been scheduled for the end of 2022.

The project, announced in October, calls for a paper machine that currently produces fine paper grades to be rebuilt to produce recycled-content lightweight containerboard grades. VPK says the project supports its plans “for long-term sustainable development in circular economy.

“We have excellent relations with VPK Group from earlier projects, for example Blue Paper's grade conversion rebuild in France,” says Markus Laitila, director of large projects at Valmet. “I felt we were able to adapt well to the customer’s needs in this project as well: as the machine in question is familiar to us, we were able to offer proven and reliable technical solutions that fulfilled the requirements cost-efficiently.”

Valmet’s grade conversion delivery will include a flow system, modifications to the headbox, a shoe and blade technology upgrade in the forming section and a new OptiPress Center press section to improve drying and runnability, says the technology provider.

The drying section will be updated and the delivery also will include “an extensive air systems upgrade [and] improvements in the automation system, including machine control systems, sectional drive control systems, quality management systems, process control systems and a paper machine clothing package,” says Valmet.

The board machine will produce fluting and testliner grades at up to 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) per minute with an annual capacity of 450,000 metric tons.

Belgium-based VPK Group acquired the Alizay mill in Normandy, France, from the Double A company in June of this year. VPK Group produces recycled-content paper, corrugated cardboard packaging, solid board packaging and cores. The company has three paper mills, nine corrugated box plants and one core winding plant in France.