DS Smith commissions Voith to rebuild PM 4 at Viana to increase production capacity and efficiency

DS Smith, a leading global manufacturer of sustainable containerboard and specialty papers, has commissioned Voith to rebuild its PM 4 at the company’s Viana site in Northern Portugal. Producing around of 400,000 tons of kraftliner and high-performance top kraftliner per year, the mill is a market leader in Southern Europe. The extensive rebuild will increase production and improve overall efficiency. Production will expand to around 428,000 tons per year with a machine design speed of 1,100 m/min. The start-up of the project is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2023.

The rebuild scope includes modifications to the forming section to increase capacity and performance of the paper machine. The press section will be completely renewed, including installation of a Tandem NipcoFlex press that will significantly increase the dry content after press and reduce specific steam consumption.

The transfer between press and dryer sections will be modified with state-of-the-art web transfer and tail threading technology to provide the best runability for lightweight grades. In addition, smaller modifications and upgrades in the stock preparation and approach flow line are planned.
Finally, the scope of delivery includes a comprehensive fabrics package for the PM 4 start-up and subsequent supply, as well as spare parts.