Sofidel, Italy, announced this past week that it will startup two new Valmet (Finland) Advantage NTT 200 machines at its new mill under construction in Circleville, Ohio, USA, in the third quarter of 2018. The announcement was made by Sofidel CEO Luigi during a presentation at the Tissue Seminar during the RISI North American Conference in San Diego, Calif., USA. 

During the presentation Lazzareschi  briefly recalled some of the milestones in the history of the Group, and then outlined what are to be the key elements in Sofidel's growth strategy in the U.S.s.

The Advantage NTT 200 machine is designed to produce both conventional and textured tissue grades. The technology will enable Sofidel to significantly increase its production capacity and further enhance the quality of its product offering, while improving overall energy efficiency.

With a 5.5 meter width, a speed of 2,000 m/min, and a production capacity of 70,000 metric tpy each, the two machines will become operational at two different points in time—the first by Q1 2018, and the second within Q3 of the same year.

"With the implementation of the two new Valmet NTT machines, we will increase our production capacity in the U.S. significantly. This is a necessary and vital step in our growth strategy,a d the decision also is consistent with Sofidel's unwavering focus on the most innovative and high-performance technologies" Lazzareschi said.

"Our fruitful relationship with Sofidel goes back many years and covers 11 conventional tissue machine installations. We are now excited to continue our journey together and are convinced that the Advantage NTT technology is the key to the future, which will help Sofidel succeed in the premium market segment" added Jan Erikson, VP sales, Valmet.