Södra Reports Progress of Värö Mill Expansion Project
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As originally announced in early 2014, the Södra (Sweden) Board of Directors decided to invest SEK 4 billion in a significant expansion at its Södra Cell Värö mill. Once completed, the expansion will increase the mill’s annual pulp production by 425,000 to 700,000 metric tons. The project's implementation was successful in 2015, the company reports. The mill has surpassed its production plan as the new equipment has been installed.
The new barking drum was lifted into place at the chip plant early this month and the conveyor bridges that will transport the chips from chip storage facility to the continuous digester are now being installed. Pipe bridges with processing tubes will be assembled between the various sections of the plant in the industrial area.
"I'm convinced that our success is largely a result of our positive attitude and willingness to help one another. When it comes to safety, it's vital that we look out for each other so that no one gets hurt. There are a lot of people here helping us expand the plant and it is important that they feel welcome and comfortable here," said Jonas Eriksson, site manager, Södra Cell Värö.
The project will enter a final intensive phase in mid-January. In May, the entire plant will be shut down while the new machinery is connected so that production can recommence in mid-June.
While the expansion project is under way, the plant continues to produce high-quality paper pulp, and currently is more than 11,000 metric tons ahead of its production plan for 2015.