LEIPA Georg Leinfelder GmbH, Germany, has contracted Voith (Germany) to comprehensively reconstruct its PM 11 to become its future PM 5, as well as a new OCC stock preparation and an extension of the DIP facility at its LEIPA plant in Schwedt, Gemany. 

PM 11 is currently producing approximately 280,000 metric tons of newsprint annually. With a wire width of 9,200 mm, the machine will be rebuilt to become one of the most modern and largest production lines for white top testliner. With an annual capacity of 450,000 metric tons, the future PM 5 will rank as the top-performing paper machine of its kind worldwide. The papers produced will feature the highest strength values and best surface characteristics.

The scope of delivery includes a new OCC stock preparation line with drum pulping for the back side of the paper and an extension of the existing deinking system for the paper surface. The paper machine rebuild will include a two-layer wire section including hybrid former, a DuoCentri NipcoFlex shoe press with SolarPress roll cover, a SpeedSizer AT, film applicator unit, the pre- and after-dryer section, Sirius reel, and the rebuild of the two DuoRoller units.

As part of the Process Line Package, Voith will design and deliver the hood and air system as well as the automation (machine, process and quality control systems). Along with assembly, Voith also will take on engineering and procurement engineering tasks, as well as training and commissioning. Additionally, a supply agreement on clothing for the paper machine to improve the overall performance has been concluded.

Upon completion of the PM 5 rebuild in Schwedt, LEIPA will have invested more than EUR 1 billion in machines, infrastructure, energy solutions, and employees. With this investment, LEIPA consolidates its benchmark position as a quality manufacturer for coated and uncoated white top testliner, becoming a one-stop-shop for first-rate quality white coated corrugated base paper with a total annual capacity of 700,000 metric tons.

LEIPA Georg Leinfelder GmbH is part of the LEIPA Group. Currently the company produces more than 1.2 million metric tons of graphic and packaging paper each year at its Schwedt and Schrobenhausen sites, based on sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes. LEIPA Group is an independent group of process technology companies in the fields of paper, packaging, green tech, and logistics. As a European player with a worldwide customer base, the family-owned LEIPA Group has achieved consolidated sales of around EUR 740 million and currently has approximately 1,700 employees. The LEIPA group of companies is currently planning investments of more than EUR 100 million.