Over The Wire

Weekly Spotlight

Vision 2020: Charting the Future of Canada's Forest Products Industry

The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC), Ottawa, Ont., Canada, this past week unveiled a new industry-led vision that outlines where the forest industry sees itself by the year 2020. Through its accompanying goals, the vision will challenge companies, governments, and other partners to find innovative ways to further transform the sector to reach its potential.

Under the brand of "Canada's Natural Advantage," the FPAC vision states that "by 2020, the Canadian forest products industry will power Canada's new economy by being green, innovative, and open to the world. It is a place to grow and prosper."

Vision 2020 sets out three ambitious goals for the sector:

Products. Generate an additional $20 billion in economic activity from new innovations and growing markets
Performance. Deliver a further 35% improvement in the sector's environmental footprint
People. Renew the workforce with at least 60,000 new recruits including women, aboriginals, and immigrants.

"Canada's forest products industry has already made significant progress in becoming more competitive, in tackling new markets, in developing innovative new bio-products from wood fiber, and in greening our operations," says FPAC President and CEO Catherine Cobden. "However we do not intend to rest on our laurels. This vision will inspire us to go even further to ensure a vibrant path for the industry in the years ahead."

Joe Oliver, minister of Natural Resources, noted that "the Government of Canada is proud of the unprecedented investments we have made in the evolution of Canada's forest industry and applaud the industry for its ongoing transformation. Our Government supports the development of new, innovative products and technologies, and growing markets so that Canada's forest sector will continue to be on a strong footing into the future."

Jim Lopez, president and CEO of Tembec Inc. and chairman of the board at FPAC, added that "through commitment to innovation in our businesses, sustainability, performance, and markets, we are an industry on the move. We are determined to continue to work with partners including government so that our vision becomes a reality and Canada's leadership position in a highly competitive global marketplace is assured."

Richard Garneau, president and CEO of Resolute Forest Products, explained that "Vision 2020 outlines three key areas for future success—people, products, and environmental performance—and is consistent with where the industry is going to ensure profitability and sustainability. Vision 2020 demonstrates the dynamic direction of the forest sector and its future contribution to the economy and job creation in Canada and its rural communities."

FPAC will be taking its vision and challenge across Canada and expects to report back with concrete suggestions on reaching its three goals later this year.

FPAC provides a voice for Canada's wood, pulp, and paper producers nationally and internationally in government, trade, and environmental affairs. The $57-billion-a-year forest products industry represents 2% of Canada's GDP and is one of Canada's largest employers operating in hundreds of communities and providing 230,000 direct jobs across the country.

Voith Paper "Gearing up" for Changes in Global Paper Markets

Voith Paper, Heidenheim, Germany, this week reported that it is "gearing up" for structural changes in its markets. These changes, the company noted, are being necessitated by the accelerated decline of graphic paper machines due to increasing digitalization and the rise of a new market segment for medium-size board and packaging machines (especially in Asia).

Voith points out that the ongoing digitalization of everyday life through tablets like the iPad and the ensuing changes in consumer behavior is faster than expected, having a negative impact on the demand for so-called graphic papers. As a result, it has experienced a noticeable slowdown in business this fiscal year and a deterioration of its medium to long-term perspectives for graphic paper machines.

However, Voith added, the demand for paper machines will continue to grow in the medium and long term, especially in Asia. But these countries are increasingly asking for medium-size plants, particularly for board and packaging papers, which are less investment-intensive. "In this newly arising segment, Voith has to fight for a market share against stiff competition from local suppliers. Due to the ensuing cost pressure, these machines are already largely produced locally. The fast-growing demand in this new segment therefore results in a lower share in value creation and sales in and from Europe," Voith explained.

The company said it is adapting to these developments with a comprehensive catalogue of measures. The German and Austrian Voith Paper locations, which mainly develop, design, and produce large plants with high investment costs, are particularly affected by the market changes and are to be streamlined. Wherever it appears feasible to amalgamate and pool production and engineering capacities from several locations, to adapt the resources in the German-speaking area to the new market situation.

In the course of this reorganization, personnel measures will be inevitable, Voith continued. "It is envisaged to cut a total of about 710 jobs in Germany and Austria in all areas—in the administration and also in the production departments. The intended staff reductions will hit the Voith Paper locations at Heidenheim (about 280 jobs), Ravensburg (about 300 jobs), Krefeld (about 55 jobs), and St. Pölten (about 70 jobs).

Wherever feasible, the affected employees will be offered alternative jobs within the company. Beyond that, social options such as early retirement or transfer companies are to be used.

Dr. Hans-Peter Sollinger, CEO of Voith Paper, said that "the paper market will continue to be an attractive market for Voith with good growth perspectives, which we will utilize in a profitable way. At the same time, the market conditions are about to undergo a radical change. Worldwide, graphic papers experienced an irreversible decline in demand, while other areas, such as board and packaging or tissue papers, are significantly growing. We are able to utilize the solid position of our company to actively adapt to these developments. With the planned measures that have just been introduced, we will secure our leading position as a partner in the paper industry, as well as retain our competitiveness and profitability in a changing market environment."

Engineering, Production, Safety, Management Specialists Needed

Below is the latest listing of job openings in the TAPPI Career Center. The current listing includes a variety of engineering, production, maintenance, technical, safety, and management positions in the U.S. pulp and paper industry. Current, specific job openings at companies and locations in the TAPPI Career Center include:

Employer	Title	City
BASF, The Chemical Co.	Tech Spec. (Paper/Board Coating)	Charlotte, N.C.
Catalyst Paper	Reliability Engineers	Powell River/Crofton, B.C.
Herty Adv. Materials Dev. Ctr.	President and CEO	Savannah, Ga.
Longview Fibre	Electrical Engineers	Longview, Wash.
Orange Co. Container Group	Maintenance - Paper Mill	Forney, Texas
RockTenn	Division Safety Manager	Norcross, Ga.
RockTenn - West Point, Va.	Environmental Engineer	West Point, Va.
SCA Americas	Shift Electrician	South Glens Falls, N.Y.

More information about these jobs is available online.

Pulp & Paper

Burgo Ardennes Orders Bleach Line Optimization Package from Metso

Burgo Ardennes, Belgium, has ordered a bleaching line optimization solution from Metso, Finland, for its mill at Virton, Belgium. In its process to replace its aging Kappa analyzer, Burgo Ardennes, an integrated producer of hardwood kraft pulp and woodfree coated paper, made the decision to invest in a global optimization solution for its bleaching line.

This new solution will stabilize the pulping process, leading to optimization of the bleach plant and a decrease in chemicals consumption, reducing the mill's environmental impact. Another benefit will be stabilization of the end product's brightness together with on-spec production, thus allowing the mill to maximize profitability of its pulping line.

Metso's delivery will include the Metso Bleaching Optimizer with its sensors and analyzers such as the Metso Kappa Analyzer for kappa and brightness measurements. New samplers will be added and new in-line sensors such as the Metso Brightness Measurement will be installed for continuous brightness measurements, along with a Metso Filtrate Sampler for pH measurements. This full solution will be installed in the bleached fiber line. The first part of the project will be completed this summer and the second part will be completed this fall.

Burgo Ardennes is part of the Italian Burgo Group established in January 2007 and one of the world's top producers of coated papers. Burgo Group has 13 mills and, 20 production lines, with an output of 2.7 million metric tpy of graphic paper. The group also produces and sells pulp and energy, with volumes that complement its core business.

Buckeye Earns Forestry Certifications

Buckeye Technologies Inc., Memphis, Tenn., USA, reports that Buckeye Florida has achieved forestry certifications from three internationally recognized organizations that promote responsibly managed forests: the Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC), the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI), and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

The purpose of these certifications is to ensure that companies using forest resources meet society's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Buckeye received the certifications after a rigorous year-long process of developing documents, manuals, and procedures to guide fiber procurement and track fiber chain of custody.

Howard Drew, Buckeye's VP, Wood Cellulose Manufacturing, said the certifications are an extension of the company's long-standing policy of practicing sustainable forestry. "Buckeye is committed to monitoring and reviewing its sustainable forestry programs and to continually improving and broadening the practice of sustainable forestry. These independent, third party certifications reflect our commitment to meeting customer demand for products that are derived from forest fiber that is legally harvested and well-managed."

Buckeye, a producer of specialty fibers and nonwoven materials, currently operates facilities in the U.S., Germany, and Canada.

Coldwater Acquires Doctor Blade Supplier R&E Kirwin

Coldwater Group Inc., Atlanta, Ga., USA, this week acquired R&E Kirwin Ltd. of Chesterfield, England. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

R&E Kirwin is a major supplier of doctor blades and accessories for the paper industry, with customers throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia. Coldwater's Swedish subsidiary, Coldwater Jocell AB, was already an exclusive distributor of R&E Kirwin products in Sweden and Norway as a result of its acquisition of Breba Tekniska AB in 2011.

"We are pleased to have R&E Kirwin become part of our company," Coldwater Group President David Withers said. "Doctor blades are a natural fit for our business of mechanical consumables and services to the paper industry, and this transaction builds on the experience we gained from acquiring Breba last year."

The operations of R&E Kirwin will move to Coldwater Jocell's facility near Karlstad, Sweden, in early June.

More information is available online.

IP Sets 12 Voluntary Sustainability Goals to Achieve By 2020

International Paper, Memphis, Tenn., USA, this week released its 2011 Sustainability Report showcasing the company's new suite of 12 voluntary sustainability goals. The company expects to reach a number of goals by 2020 that include:

15% improvement of energy efficiency in purchased energy use
20% absolute reduction in global GHG emissions (scope 1 and 2) associated with the production of products
15% global increase in third party certified fiber volume

In addition to these goals, IP set a host of other goals addressing issues such as fiber certification, philanthropy, safety, and water use.

"At International Paper, sustainability is more than a business practice," said Chairman and CEO John Faraci. "Environmental, social, and economic performance has been at the core of our company for more than 110 years. Stewardship of the forestland and surrounding habitat is ingrained in our company's DNA."

The report highlights IP's sustainability commitment in every aspect of the business. "At every point of the International Paper supply chain—from the design of our paper and packaging, to the people and manufacturing processes, to end-use recycling and other beneficial uses—International Paper strives for a sustainable product life cycle," Faraci added.

Sustainability highlights from 2011 include the following:

Awarded a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Climate Leadership Award
Met 71% of global paper mill energy requirements with renewable biomass
Named "Most Admired Forest and Paper Products Company" by Fortune Magazine for nine of the past ten years
Named one of Ethisphere Institute's "World's Most Ethical Companies" for the sixth consecutive year
Total Safety Incident Rate decreased to its lowest rate ever
Donated more than $11 million worldwide to charitable organizations.

David Kiser, IP's VP of Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability, said that "while our focus as a forest products company is by necessity on the environmental aspects of our operations, the coverage of our new goals is broad and includes both social and environmental dimensions of sustainability."

This report, available in print and online, achieves a B-level application of the Global Reporting Initiative's (GRI) guidelines. This represents an ongoing commitment to best practice transparent reporting.

Kruger to Reassess Viability of Corner Brook Operation

Kruger Inc., Montréal, Qué., Canada, announced that it will reassess the viability of Corner Brook Pulp and Paper's operations after one of four groups of pension plan members rejected the proposal to apply funding relief measures to its pension plan deficits. This week, Independent auditor Brian N. Hillier issued his final report showing the total number of objections received before the May 17 deadline from each group, as follows:

Pension plan for unionized employees

Active members (326)—177 objections (54.3%)
Retired members (617)—31 objections (5.0%)

Pension plan for non-unionized employees

Active members (78)—6 objections (7.7%)
Retired members (218)—7 objections (3.2%).

Under Newfoundland and Labrador legislation, for the relief measures to be applied, they cannot be opposed by more than one-third of members in each group (active and retirees). Consequently, with 54.3% of active unionized employees opposing the proposal, the relief measures cannot be applied to the unionized employees' pension plan.

The relief measures were a crucial element in the mill's strategy to improve its competitiveness and secure its future. In recent years, Kruger notes that it has gone to extraordinary lengths to support its Corner Brook operation in a very challenging market afflicted by declining demand for newsprint, increasing energy costs, and the negative effects of a strong Canadian currency on exports.

In addition to these challenges, Kruger adds, the Corner Brook Mill has to contend with other Canadian paper mills that have competitive operating costs and benefit from the additional advantage of funding relief measures for their own pension plan deficits.

The company says that it is disappointed with this outcome, especially considering the countless efforts that were put in over the last few weeks to communicate with plan members to seek their support.

Kruger is a producer of publication papers, tissue, lumber and other wood products, corrugated cartons, green and renewable energy, and wines and spirits. In Canada, the company operates facilities in Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and also has operations in the U.S.

Neenah Authorizes $10 Million Stock Repurchase Program

Neenah Paper, Alpharetta, Ga., USA, this week authorized a program that would allow the company to repurchase up to $10 million of its outstanding common stock. Purchases by the company under this program would be made from time to time in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions in accordance with the requirements of applicable law. The timing and amount of any purchases will depend on share price, market conditions, and other factors. The program does not require the company to purchase any specific number of shares and may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

"This action by our board provides us with added flexibility in how we can deploy our cash when we believe our share price is undervalued," said John O'Donnell, CEO. "Our balance sheet and ability to generate cash flow remains strong, and we continue to look for ways to invest that will deliver attractive returns for our shareholders."

The stock repurchase program is expected to be funded using cash on hand or borrowings under the company's existing revolving credit facility. As of this past March 31, Neenah Paper had approximately 16 million shares of common stock outstanding.

With manufacturing operations in the U.S. and Germany, Neenah produces premium image and performance-based products, including filtration, specialized substrates used for tapes, labels, and other products, and high-end printing papers.

Resolute Increases Ownership of Fibrek to 74.56%, Closes Offer

AbitibiBowater Inc., Montreal, Que., Canada, doing business as Resolute Forest Products reports that through last Thursday, May 17, it had taken up and accepted for payment 4,762,192 additional shares of Fibrek Inc. Together with the shares the company acquired up to and including May 14, Resolute now holds approximately 74.56% of the currently outstanding Fibrek shares.

The Resolute offer expired at 5:00 p.m. EDT on May 17. Resolute intends to carry out a second step transaction to acquire the Fibrek shares not deposited in the offer. With more than 66 2/3% of the Fibrek shares having been deposited to and taken up by Resolute under its offer, Resolute is in a position to cause a second step transaction to be approved by Fibrek's shareholders at a special meeting of shareholders to be convened and held for such purpose.

Rottneros Mill to Cease Groundwood Pulp Production, Improve CTMP

Rottneros, Stockholm, Sweden, this week reported that it will immediately begin negotiations to terminate continuous groundwood pulp production at its Rottneros Mill in Sweden. The decision was due to the rapidly declining consumption of printing paper in Europe, the company said, which has led to a dramatic reduction in demand for groundwood pulp.

Rottneros Mill has about 100 employees, 50 of whom will be given notice of termination. CTMP production at the mill will continue, and "limited investments" will be made to improve quality for customers that manufacture board, while at the same time slightly increasing capacity.

In 2011, Rottneros announced, first, an improvement program that included staff reductions and, second, the book value of fixed assets was written down at Rottneros Mill. These measures have now essentially been carried out, "but unfortunately appear to be insufficient," the company noted.

The manufacture of groundwood pulp is expected to cease this winter, but the actual date depends on the outcome of union negotiations and also agreements with customers affected. Costs during the period of notice will be recorded on an ongoing basis and the book values of the groundwood mill have already been written down to zero, which in the current situation means that there is no intention of making substantial one-off appropriations.

"It naturally feels very sad to have to conclude that the market for this product is shrinking. Thanks to raw materials and the high level of professional skills at the mill, we are producing a select and leading product in terms of quality, but this is still not enough," says Ole Terland, President of Rottneros AB. "It is of course worse for our employees who have to leave us and we are therefore attempting to make the transition as smooth as possible," Terland concluded.

"The improved preconditions for CTMP will make us a leading manufacturer in terms of quality, primarily for the board and packaging segment, which is where we see the greatest potential for customer value," says Olle Dahlin, MD of Rottneros Bruk AB. "The production line for groundwood pulp is being left where it is, as it is not out of the question that demand could return, for example owing to changes in the supply of suitable recycled fibers. This will result in an opportunity to alternate staff between the two production lines, thereby generating flexibility," Dahlin said.

The cut-backs at the groundwood mill will not affect preconditions for the production of packaging within SilviPak and likewise for the potential manufacture of "green" vehicle fuel at Rottneros Mill.

Containerboard/Packaging

Billerud Finland's Acquistion of UPM Packaging Paper Mills in Finland Approved

Billerud Finland Oy, Solna Finland, reports that regulatory authorities have approved its acquisition of UPM's packaging paper operations at Pietarsaari and Tervasaari in Finland. Billerud Finland Oy is a wholly owned subsidiary of Billerud AB. The purchase price is around EUR 130 million.

The transaction involves Billerud taking over one paper machine at Pietarsaari and one at Tervasaari. In 2011, sales amounted to around EUR 220 million (SEK 2 billion). Manufactured products are various packaging papers (sack/kraft paper) with extensive areas of use in the food, retail, construction, and other industries.

Completion of the acquisition is expected to take place during the second quarter.

"This acquisition strengthens our offering in packaging paper and provides us with a strong platform for the further development of smarter packaging solutions. Also, the acquisition sharply reduces our pulp exposure as we will purchase an annual pulp volume corresponding to around 85% of Billerud's current pulp sales volume. We also reduce our currency exposure," Per Lindberg, president and CEO of Billerud, said.

IP to Close Minden, La., Corrugated Container Plant

International Paper Co., Memphis, Tenn., USA, will close its Minden, La., container plant on July 17, affecting 60 worker jobs at the plant, according to a report this week in The Town Talk, Alexandria, La. IP assumed ownership of the plant in February with the $4.5 billion acquisition of Temple-Inland Inc. Last week, IP announced it was spending $44 million to modernize the Bogalusa, La., mill, also formerly owned by Temple-Inland, and retain more than 400 jobs.

"Following the merger with Temple-Inland, we have more capacity than our customers need in this area," Doug Strickel, region GM, said in a news release. "Other area facilities are better positioned to handle the production requirements that will be necessary as we consolidate our operations, and unfortunately, that led to the decision to close this plant."

The company will discuss plans for severance and other benefits with the local union, United Steelworkers Local 677, IP said in the release.

The plant opened in 1948 and produces 690 million sq ft of corrugated packaging each year for customers in the consumer packaging products industries.

Korsnäs Investing in Productivity Improvement at Frövi Packaging, Cartonboard Mill

Korsnäs AB, Gävle, Sweden, is investing SEK 250 million in productivity enhancing measures at its Frövi mill in Sweden. The investment is part of "an aggressive venture" in product development and sustainability for Korsnäs' premium products in the global packaging market.

Korsnäs notes that the project strengthens its offering to customers in the Liquid Packaging Board and Cartonboard segments, "bringing improved packaging solutions, more attractive printing results, and increased savings in materials."

Anders Gustafson, sales and market director, Paperboard, at Korsnäs, said that "the investment is focused on our customers and will enhance both their competitiveness, as well as that of Korsnäs. The investment will provide us with an extended product range with lower grammages, helping lessen environmental impact while allowing us to offer products with improved surface qualities, better printing results, and more efficient processes at customers' facilities."

Christer Simrén, CEO Korsnäs, added that the investment "is entirely in line with our ambitious objective to continuously develop and improve our processes and the packaging solutions we offer to the market."

People

Metsä Tissue Appoints Tilli SVP, Baking and Cooking Business

Metsä Tissue, Finland, has appointed Juha Tilli SVP, Baking & Cooking Business. Tilli reports to Mika Joukio, CEO of Metsä Tissue, and is a member of Metsä Tissue's Management Team. He previously was VP of Sales in Metsä Tissue's Away-from-Home tissue sector, responsible for the North-Eastern European region.

Metsä Tissue is a producer of baking and cooking products, including siliconized greaseproof papers and non-siliconized products, as well as related know-how under the SAGA brand and customer labels.

Maynard Named Rigid's New Financial Director

Following the untimely death of previous Financial Director Paul Coates in January of this year, Rigid Containers Ltd., Desborough, Northamptonshire, U.K., has permanently filled the position of financial director. The company this week named Lars Maynard to the position.

Maynard has held senior financial and board level positions across a range of industries since achieving FCA certification in 1995. Most recently, he was financial director of a GBP 60 million packaging manufacturer group.

Rigid is part of VPK Packaging Group, an independent European producer of recycled paper and corrugated packaging, with an annual turnover of approximately EUR 600 million. It has operating plants in the U.K., Belgium, Holland, France, Poland, and Romania.

Olsson Elected Board member at Södra

Södra, Sweden, has elected Stefan Olsson as its newest board member. Olsson has spent many years working for ABB, and has been the CEO for Nexans Sweden since 2006. He has been a Södra member since 2008.

In addition to many years of experience in senior positions in the engineering industry, Olsson has a strong interest in forests and owns a forest estate in the municipality of Tingsryd, Sweden.

Pöyry Names Tolppanen SVP of Operations

Pöyry, inland, has appointed Pasi Tolppanen SVP, Operations and a member of its Executive Committee, effective June 1. Tolppanen is currently in charge of Pöyry's Urban business in Finland. In his new role he will report to Heikki Malinen, president and CEO and will be responsible for performance improvement programs, strategic resourcing and capacity management, engineering processes and tools, as well as group-wide HSEQ. Tolppanen has a 10-year career with Pöyry. He has worked in various positions within the line organization.

A member of Pöyry's Group Executive Committee and EVP, Human Resources, Camilla Grönholm will leave Pöyry to join another company. She will carry on her duties until August 10. The process to find a successor has been started.

"We have during the past years systematically worked on developing our operational mode, key processes, and leadership. In the newly established group role, Pasi Tolppanen will ensure continuous focus on improvement of operational efficiency. Further development of our ways of working and improvement of our performance is a critical part of Pöyry's future success. We want to thank Camilla Grönholm for her six-year contribution of establishing the global HR network and developing the people processes in Pöyry, and wish her success in her next endeavors," said Heikki Malinen, president and CEO, Pöyry.

Human Rights Expert Sharma to Join Stora Enso

One of the top corporate social responsibility experts in the Nordic countries specializing in human rights issues, Parul Sharma, will join Stora Enso (Helsinki, Finland) on June 18 as VP, Global Responsibility, for the Renewable Packaging Business Area. Headed by Mats Nordlander, EVP, the Renewable Packaging business area is responsible, for example, for the company's integrated pulp and board mill investment in Guangxi, southern China.

Since 2004, Sharma has been working on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) issues and human rights strategies for Swedish companies operating in Asia. She has acted as human rights advisor to Amnesty Business Group, the European Commission, and the European Public Law Centre. Three books on human rights and economic and social rights issues written by Sharma have been published. In 2011 she was ranked as the most influential CSR expert in Sweden.

"We warmly welcome Parul Sharma to our team as she complements our current competences and can help us better understand our challenges, identify actions needed, and implement changes in our demanding investment environments, especially in Asia. Social and human rights aspects of corporate responsibility are becoming increasingly important for all global companies, and openness and transparency are key issues for obtaining licenses to operate in growth markets," Nordlander said.

Sharma joins Stora Enso from Sandvik AB, where she has worked as Global Head of CSR Auditing. She has trained and advised more than 40 Swedish companies, investors, and government agencies on how to integrate CSR practices into business operations.

Marshall Joins Cosmo Specialty Fibers BOD

Scott Marshall will join the Cosmo Specialty Fibers Board of Directors. Marshall is a former VP of Operations Support for Weyerhaeuser Co., Federal Way, Wash., USA. Specialty Fibers, an affiliate of The Gores Group, was created in 2010 to restore, restart, and operate the former Weyerhaeuser Specialty Cellulose Mill in Cosmopolis, Wash.

Cosmo Chairman Dermot Smurfit noted Marshall's reputation in the industry. "We are extremely pleased that Scott accepted our invitation to join the board and look forward to benefiting from his many years of experience in the forest industry and with our mill in particular."

Marshall spent 35 years with Weyerhaeuser and, before retiring, became very familiar with the Cosmopolis mill and its business. "I am very pleased to be able to continue my association with the mill as a board member of Cosmo Specialty Fibers," said Marshall. "Over the years, the mill acquired a worldwide reputation for product quality and service. I look forward to partnering with The Gores Group and the board to build on that success."

TAPPI News

Registration for Wet End Chemistry Course in the Home Stretch

You still have time to make your plans to attend the TAPPI Introduction to Wet End Chemistry Course June 4 - 6, 2012, at TAPPI Headquarters in Norcross, Ga., USA.

This is the only course available offering an in-depth focus on additives and what they can and can't do for your process. You'll learn about basic water chemistry, fibers and fines, starch, dry strength agents, wet strength, alum chemistry, rosin sizing, synthetic sizes, dyes, fillers, retention systems, deposit control, and the impact of recent regulatory developments.

Although seating is limited for this incredible course, a few seats remain open.

The TAPPI Introduction to Wet End Chemistry is taught by three highly respected experts in paper chemistry who will help you understand how wet end additives can differentiate your products. Bring your team up to speed on the latest technology and terminology in this important papermaking process.

View the entire curriculum planned in the Course Schedule.

TAPPI will award 1.7 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for completion of the curriculum.

2012 TAPPI Introduction to Wet-End Chemistry - June 4 - 6, 2012, Norcross, Ga. USA

2012 TAPPI/PPSA Safety Leadership Course Announced

TAPPI and the Pulp and Paper Safety Paper Association (PPSA) have announced a new course focusing on Safety Leadership and Modern Safety Management Principles. The 2012 TAPPI/PPSA Safety Leadership Course, to be held at TAPPI Headquarters, August 15 - 16, in Norcross, Ga., USA, brings the best practices in safety to the paper and packaging industry. A special focus will be placed on leadership commitment and engagement in cultivating a culture of safety excellence.

"Participants in the course will be able to understand the fundamentals of safety and safety management principles including: recordkeeping, incident investigation, safety culture, managing change safely, understanding safety behavior, risk management, and measuring performance," notes Matthew Kanneberg, RockTenn, course chairman.

The course is designed for anyone who takes on a leadership role in safety, including human resources, training, safety supervisors, team leaders, plant managers, project leaders, frontline supervisors, and safety committee participants.

A range of key topics are covered by the course, including: Safety Fundamentals / Modern Safety Management Principles; OSHA Recordkeeping and Medical Management; Incident Investigation; Safe Behavior and Choices; Safety Culture; Measuring Safety Performance; Hazard Recognition; Safety Walkthroughs, Observations and Messaging; Managing Change Safely; and Effective Safety Communication.

More information about the 2012 TAPPI/PPSA Safety Leadership Course is available online.

TAPPI PEERS Conference: Building a Sustainable Future

The 2012 TAPPI PEERS Conference, October 14 - 17 in Savannah, Ga., USA, is designed to answer the most pressing business and technical questions faced by pulp and paper companies as they manage raw materials, assets, regulatory requirements, and production assets. Learn more about the PEERS Technical Program

In addition to the in-depth, peer-reviewed technical program, keynote speaker Don Roberts, vice chairman of CIBC World Markets, will offer a global business perspective. PEERS will also offer exclusive networking opportunities and insight into new technologies that can help you optimize your mill operations.

The TAPPI PEERS Conference will be co-located with the International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for you to expand your learning, networking, and resources by attending both events.

Exhibit and Sponsorship opportunities also are available. Contact Shane Holt by email at TAPPIPEERS@naylor.com or by phone at 800.369.6220, ext. 3345.

TAPPI's International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference to be held in October

TAPPI's International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference (IBBC), October 17 - 19, 2012, in Savannah, Ga,, USA, will focus on technical advancements and commercialization of bioconversion technologies that leverage the forest products manufacturing infrastructure. Learn More about IBBC and see the entire technical program.

Keynote speakers for 2012 IBBC are:

Paul Spindler, VP of Technology at Catchlight
John B. Crowe, chairman and CEO, Buckeye Technologies Inc.

In addition, IBBC will include technical presentations, expert panels, case studies, and reports from projects that address:

Feedstock and harvesting improvements to increase yield and quality of biomass
Bioelectricity using combined heat and power (CHP)
Bioconversion technologies for wood and biomass
Production of chemicals and transportation fuels from wood and biomass
Policies and incentives for bioconversion projects.

IBBC will be co-located with the TAPPI PEERS Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for participants to expand their learning, networking, and resources by attending both events.

Exhibit and Sponsorship opportunities also are available. Contact Shane Holt by email at TAPPIPEERS@naylor.com or by phone at 800.369.6220, ext. 3345.

Wet End Chemistry now availble through TAPPI Press

Wet End Chemistry is the eleventh of 15 CD-ROMs in the Making Pulp and Paper CD-ROM Series. Through this highly interactive, self-paced CD-ROM, participants learn wet end chemistry terms, concepts, and processes.

Learning outcomes:
After completing the Wet End Chemistry CD-ROM, participants should be able to:

Understand the reasons why papermakers use wet end additives in paper
Describe commonly used functional additives
Describe commonly used process additives.

Benefits for Everyone
The series is designed for anyone who would benefit from a working knowledge of the pulping and papermaking process, including:

Paper machine operators
Process and product engineers
Sales and technical support staff
New employees
Students.

It will also be beneficial to experienced production or technical employees who need a more thorough understanding of a specific area of the operation, especially for cross-training purposes. New employees of chemical and equipment suppliers and paper industry consultants will also benefit from this series.

The complete set of all 15 Making Pulp and Paper CD-ROMs are also available.

Product code: MPP-11

Member Price: $78.00

Non-Member Price: $119.00

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TAPPI Hands-on Workshop for Pulp and Paper Basics Set for June 4 - 8

Get an overview of the entire pulping and papermaking process and run a pilot plant paper machine! It's all a first-hand experience at the TAPPI Hands-on Workshop for Pulp and Paper Basics. This course is coming up soon, June 4 - 8, 2012, at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C., USA.

The number of students in the course will be limited in size to ensure the best interaction among attendees and instructors during the workshop.

If you're wondering whether this course is right for you, it probably is! It's an essential course that teaches the basic concepts in pulp and paper manufacturing and is designed for anyone wanting to improve their role in operations.

Learn more.

Participants will receive a course notebook and CD with approximately 400 pg of reference materials.

Earn CEUs: You'll earn 3.7 continuing education credits at the completion of this June 4 - 8 course. It's a lovely time to be in North Carolina.

"Nano Science and Nano Materials: Synthesis, Manufacturing, and Industry Impacts" Now Available

Authors: Wei-Hong Zhong and Bin Li, Jo Anne Shatkin, Russell G. Maguire, Vivian T. Dang, Gwen M. Gross, and Michael C. Richey

A comprehensive account of how nanomaterials are synthesized and processed, this book presents the theory and technology of introducing nano-based materials as value-added elements into product manufacturing. The book explains the fundamentals of vapor, liquid, solid phase, and biosystem-assisted nanoparticle syntheses, with sufficient analysis of each method to permit decisions on which is most productive, energy efficient, and safe. The text then confronts the problems of scaling up from lab-based syntheses to manufacturing and demonstrates how nanomaterials on the shop floor require new protocols of quality assurance and employee and environmental protection. The book concludes with case studies of individuals who endeavored to commercialize nanotechnologies for higher-volume production.

Nano Science and Nano Materials: Synthesis, Manufacturing, and Industry Impacts.

Product code: 12NSNM

Member Price: $129.00

Non-Member Price: $149.00

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Sixteenth Annual Northeast PIMA/TAPPI Scholarship Tournament Set for June 8

Mark your calendars! The date has been set for the 16th Annual Northeast PIMA/TAPPI Scholarship Tournament. The event will be held on Friday, June 8, 2012, at the Fox Ridge Golf Club in Auburn, Maine, USA.

Please see the event flyer for additional information.

Registration is now open for this event.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Micki.Meggison@sappi.com.

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TAPPI Launches Tissue360º Magazine

TAPPI President and CEO Larry N. Montague has announced the launch of Tissue360º, a new TAPPI magazine available in both print and online formats that will cover the latest business and technology developments in the global tissue and towel industry. Initially, in 2012, Tissue360º will be published semiannually and cover the global tissue business including tissue manufacturing equipment and sytems, chemicals and applications, pulp/fiber, mill and plant operations, packaging and wrapping, and converting operations.

"Tissue manufacturing is one of the most technically innovative, dynamic, and rapidly growing segments of the global pulp and paper business, and Tissue360º will provide cutting edge editorial content on this key sector," Montague notes. "The tissue industry encompasses a wide range of common products that consumers and businesses around the world use every day. Tissue360º will keep readers up to date on new and emerging process technology developments, equipment and systems applications, and advances in the use of chemicals, all from the operating floor perspective."

Top professionals in North America will receive print and electronic versions with digital distribution to more than 5,000 international readers.

Tissue includes a broad array of paper products used in both consumer (at-home) and commercial/industrial (away-from-home) markets. Common products include bath or toilet tissue, towels, napkins, and facial tissue. Tissue products are manufactured around the world with the developed economies of North America and Europe traditionally accounting for a majority of output and consumption. However, in recent years tissue manufacturing and demand have been growing rapidly in developing economies, including major growth in China, which is now the world's second largest consumer.

TAPPI NET Division to Co-Locate 2013 NETInc Conference with PaperCon in Atlanta

The Nonwovens Engineers and Technologists Division (NET) of TAPPI will co-locate its annual Innovative Nonwovens Conference (NETInc) next year with PaperCon 2013, April 28 - May 1 in Atlanta, Ga., USA.. The NETInc technical conference is a unique event developed by engineers and technologists to cover the latest market and technical developments and innovations in the global nonwovens industry.

"Co-location of the NETInc Conference at PaperCon 2013, the pulp and paper industry's largest event and most comprehensive technical conference, will provide attendees an expanded range of options to network and learn the latest cutting edge technical content," notes TAPPI President and CEO Larry N. Montague. "The nonwovens industry is a dynamic, rapidly growing segment of our industry that encompasses a wide range of raw materials, applications, and market segments, and it employs some of the most innovative technology in the industry. We're excited about the synergy provided by having these two industry leading events located in one venue."

NETInc offers peer reviewed papers, expert speakers, and exclusive networking opportunities. A comprehensive technical program covers a wide range of products, innovative technologies, and topics including market trends, raw materials, fibers, and processing used in an array of applications including absorbent products, medical applications, building science, and many others.

TAPPI's NET Division covers the global nonwovens business and includes members and nonwovens experts from diverse markets and disciplines. It covers materials, equipment, and processes for the manufacture and use of nonwovens. The division's technical committees sponsor courses, conference sessions, roundtables, and TAPPI PRESS products, as well as networking and problem-solving opportunities.

Cost Saving Strategies in Papermaking Chemistry Handbook Now Available

Martin A. Hubbe and Kasy King

This handbook provides cost-saving strategies associated with the use of chemical additives during the manufacture of paper. Topics include:

Loss of materials (i.e. "yield" of the papermaking process)
Production rate issues
Downtime
Inefficient use of functional additives
Process-enhancing additives and their control
Strategies to reduce the amount of fibers required to make a paper product
Strategies to reduce the amount of energy to make paper.

A glossary of terms and a brief introduction to selected principles of capital budgeting are provided as appendices.

This book is ideal for paper machine process engineers/scientists, paper machine superintendents, paper mill management, chemical supplier technical staff, product development engineers, paper mill consultants, and technical staff from allied industries, e.g. process control equipment, papermaking machinery, and environmental services.

Cost Saving Strategies in Papermaking Chemistry

View the Forward and Table of Contents

Product code: 0101R325

Member Price: $150.00

Non-Member Price: $215.00

Tension Control Available from TAPPI Press

Tension Control

Kee-Huyn Shinn, Ph.D.

This volume provides a thorough study of the longitudinal dynamics and tension control of web handling systems. Critical web handling problems that can be related to improper tension control include wrinkle, slack, breakage, lateral movement, and poor roll quality. This valuable text is the only reference currently available devoted entirely to tension control.

Tension Control

View the Table of Contents

Product code: 0101R275

Member Price: $50.00

Non-Member Price: $75.00

Extrusion Coating Manual, Fourth Edition, Now Available Through TAPPI Press

The Extrusion Coating Manual, Fourth Edition is now available through TAPPI Press.

Edited by: Thomas Bezigian

This comprehensive volume details all aspects of extrusion coating. The book will be a valuable training tool for new employees and a useful reference for everyone involved in extrusion coating. It includes information on classic materials and troubleshooting techniques as well as the latest materials and machine designs available anywhere in the world today.

Completely revised and updated, the fourth edition contains the work of more than 30 well-known industry experts.

View the Table of Contents

Product code: 0102B065

Member Price: $93.00

Non-Member Price: $140.00