Kotkamills Orders Two More Automation Technology Solutions for Finland Mill

 

Valmet, Finland, reports that it has received two additional orders for automation technology from Kotkamills Oy in Finland to complement the major order for key technology for a paper machine conversion project announced in April. The first new order includes wet end automation solutions for Kotkamills' magazine paper production line PM 2 that will be rebuilt and converted to produce packaging board. The second order includes analyzers and advanced process controls for the pulp mill.

The startup of the rebuilt paper machine with new wet end automation is scheduled for the second quarter of 2016. The pulp mill quality improvement project, with new automation solutions is ongoing. The value of the orders was not disclosed. However, typically the order value of automation system deliveries ranges from below EUR 1 million to EUR 3 million, according to Valmet.

 

 

"One automation platform, from quality, process, and machine controls to sectional drive controls, helps us get a good startup for the project and high availability after the project phase. Our existing know-how of the Valmet DNA system, common spare parts, and our service contract with Valmet provide us with many benefits. Having one supplier for the automation system, application, and field engineering of the board machine will streamline our work during the project," said Jari Mäkelä, automation project manager, Kotkamills Oy.

"Today, automation solutions are very important tools for the operators and maintenance staff in ensuring maximum line availability and efficiency. Valmet's automation system and know-how enable fully integrated machine controls from headbox to reel. We have had many successful projects with Kotkamills in the past, and this delivery further strengthens our long cooperation," noted Ari Pinjamaa, VP, Nordics, Valmet's Automation business line.

 

The automation delivery for the paper machine PM2 includes Valmet DNA machine and drive controls as well as a Valmet IQ Dilution Profiler. The latter is a profile control system for advanced positioning of the headbox valves to achieve the best possible weight profiles. All the solutions will be integrated within the Valmet DNA automation system, which is included in the order earlier announced.

The automation delivery for the pulp mill includes Valmet Continuous Cooking Optimizers for both digesters, a Valmet Kappa Analyzer, Valmet Causticizing Optimizer, and a Valmet Recovery Liquor Analyzer. All of these solutions enable the mill to improve pulp quality and provide significant economic benefits. 

Kotkamills specializes in laminating paper, matt coated bulky paper, and sawn products. It is 100% owned by Eagle Industries Oy, a company owned by MB Funds, Nordic Mezzanine, Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Co., Finnish Industry Investment, and company management. MB Funds is the majority shareholder.