Economic activity in the U.S. manufacturing sector expanded in March for the fourth consecutive month, and the overall economy grew for the 46th consecutive month, according to the nation's supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report On Business. The report was issued this week by Bradley J. Holcomb, chair of the Institute for Supply Management Manufacturing Business Survey Committee, Tempe, Ariz., USA.

The PMI registered 51.3%, a decrease of 2.9 percentage points from February's reading of 54.2%, indicating expansion in manufacturing for the fourth consecutive month, but at a slower rate. Both the New Orders and Production Indexes reflected growth in March compared with February, although at slower rates, registering 51.4% and 52.2%, respectively. The Employment Index registered 54.2%, an increase of 1.6 percentage points compared with February's reading of 52.6%. The Prices Index decreased 7 percentage points to 54.5, and the list of commodities up in price reflected far fewer items than in February. In addition, the Backlog of Orders, Exports, and Imports Indexes all grew in March.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 14 reported growth in March in the following order: Wood Products; Furniture & Related Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances and Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Paper Products; Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Computer and Electronic Products; Transportation Equipment; Printing and Related Support Activities; Primary Metals; and Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products. The three industries reporting contraction in March are: Petroleum and Coal Products; Chemical Products; and Machinery.

The 12 industries reporting growth in new orders in March (in order) are: Wood Products; Furniture and Related Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Transportation Equipment; Plastics and Rubber Products; Machinery; Paper Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances and Components; and Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products. The two industries reporting a decrease in new orders during March are: Petroleum and Coal Products; and Primary Metals.

The 13 industries reporting growth in production during the month of March (in order) are: Wood Products; Paper Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Plastics and Rubber Products; Computer and Electronic Products; Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products; Furniture and Related Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances and Components; Transportation Equipment; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products. The two industries reporting a decrease in production in March are: Machinery; and Chemical Products.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 10 reported growth in employment in March in the following order: Plastics and Rubber Products; Furniture and Related Products; Wood Products; Printing and Related Support Activities; Electrical Equipment, Appliances, and Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer and Electronic Products; Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products; and Machinery. The three industries reporting a decrease in employment in March are: Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; and Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products.

The seven industries reporting higher inventories in March (in order) are: Plastics and Rubber Products; Wood Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances, and Components; Petroleum and Coal Products; Paper Products; Transportation Equipment; and Fabricated Metal Products. The seven industries reporting decreases in inventories in March (in order) are: Primary Metals; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Computer and Electronic Products; Machinery; Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products; Chemical Products; and Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 10 reported paying increased prices during the month of March in the following order: Textile Mills; Petroleum and Coal Products; Plastics and Rubber Products; Wood Products; Furniture and Related Products; Paper Products; Printing and Related Support Activities; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; and Electrical Equipment, Appliances, and Components. The six industries reporting paying lower prices during March (in order) are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Computer and Electronic Products; Machinery; Transportation Equipment; Fabricated Metal Products; and Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products.

The eight industries reporting increased order backlogs in March (in order) are: Apparel, Leather, and Allied Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Furniture and Related Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances and Components; and Machinery. The seven industries reporting decreases in order backlogs during March (in order) are: Plastics and Rubber Products; Transportation Equipment; Paper Products; Computer and Electronic Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; and Petroleum and Coal Products.

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Significant capacity expansion plans in South America are set to add 20 - 30 million metric tons of chemical pulp to the global forest, paper, and packaging (FP&P) market by 2020, according to the 2013 Global forest, paper, and packaging trend watch: A changing landscape: South America's influence on global markets report released this week by the Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu (DTTL) Global Manufacturing Industry group, New York, N.Y., USA. The report highlights the growing influence of South America on the global FP&P industry as an emerging consumer base as the region's reliance on paper imports to satisfy growing demand is expected to continue. It also forecasts that South America, with its current investments into state-of-the-art production facilities, could also stake a competitive position in global markets.

"The planned expansions of chemical pulp will likely have a profound impact on the global market and will likely influence strategic investments by producers over the coming years," said John Dixon, Global Forest, Paper, and Packaging Sector Leader, DTTL. "For example, certain European FP&P companies have already made significant investments in South America. The new technology and more efficient processes in the state-of-the-art mills serve as a competitive advantage to companies in the region."

According to the report, 7 – 8 million metric tons from five South American producers are expected to be available in 2014, targeted mainly for the export market. "With overall global demand light, South America's export competitiveness might be tied to its most significant trading partner, China, in the years to come as China remains the largest global consumer of chemical pulp," said Dixon.

The report concludes that open markets, renewed European and North American consumption, and meeting forecasted Chinese demand are needed to support longer-term growth for the global FP&P industry. Additionally, it discusses South America's potential to emerge as a significant force in the industry, driving other regions to take notice and adapt accordingly.

"The global FP&P companies that have made strategic investments in emerging markets such as those in South America will likely have a competitive advantage as the industry continues to evolve in the future," adds Dixon.

More information about this report is available online.

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Sappi Fine Paper North America (SFPNA), Boston, Mass., USA, has donated $100,000 over the course of four years to the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation, Orono, Maine, to establish an endowed scholarship fund for engineers. The Sappi Scholarship Fund is a Leadership Gift to the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation's $2 million fundraising campaign, which begins this year.

Sappi's gift is made in recognition of the long-standing relationship between the company and the University of Maine. "Our relationship to the Pulp and Paper Foundation, the College of Engineering, and University of Maine overall has just been excellent," says Mark Gardner, president and CEO, SFPNA. "The campaign offers a wonderful opportunity for our company and other businesses to partner with the University of Maine in supporting students as they pursue careers in an industry that continues to be a powerful economic engine for Maine."

SFPNA has supported the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation since its inception in 1950. The company is a member in the Foundation, supports the foundation's Consider Engineering Program, provides internship and co-op positions for undergraduate engineering students, and ultimately hires qualified University of Maine graduates.

Many former recipients of University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation scholarships are found at all levels of leadership throughout Sappi's two Maine-based mills in Skowhegan and Westbrook, and across the company in North America. These recipients continue to actively serve the University and the Pulp and Paper Foundation in numerous ways, SFPNA notes.

"We are thrilled with this gift, and with the leadership demonstrated by Sappi Fine Paper North America. This gift will allow us to support three additional students with full tuition scholarships over the next five years and beyond," said Jack Healy, executive director of the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation. "This $100,000 gift will allow us to further our mission of providing highly skilled engineers to the Pulp and Paper Industry both in Maine and throughout North America. The demand by our industry for engineers continues to be strong due to expected high retirements in the engineering area during the next 15 years."

The University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation has been an affiliate of the University of Maine since 1950. During that time more than 3,800 scholarships have been awarded to students interested in technical careers in the pulp and paper Industry. The Foundation currently supports more than 80 students with full tuition scholarships.

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Session T1 at PaperCon's Tissue360° Forum, April 29 - May 1, 2013, in Atlanta, Ga., USA, will define, dissect, and analyze the global tissue and hygienic products market, setting the stage for seven intensive technology sessions that follow over the next three days—chemistry, fiber, advanced production systems, water and energy, controls and measurement, yankee dryer, and converting developments. Sponsored by TAPPI's newest print publication, Tissue360° magazine, these eight Tissue Forum sessions provide the most comprehensive exploration of emerging market drivers and technology developments available anywhere for understanding and meeting challenges of the rapidly evolving tissue and hygienic products industry.

Leading off Session T1, Esko Uutela of RISI examines the tissue, towel, and personal hygiene products arena in North America and worldwide in term of current and projected capacities as well new and emerging trends that will shape markets into the foreseeable future. Lindsay Gervais of Pöyry Management Consulting then looks specifically at the critical fiber side of tissue and hygiene products, assessing the decline of recycled fiber quality and availability and the outlook for virgin and other fiber sources, as well as nonwovens resources that will determine the future direction of these product markets.

Uutela notes that the tissue business is booming today after recovering quickly and strongly from the 2009 recession. Globally, tissue consumption approached 32 million metric tpy in 2012 and for the first time exceeded the volume of newsprint. RISI expects the long-term growth to continue at an annual average rate of 4% or slightly above. During the past 10 years, China has been the prime motor for growth in the global paper and board industry, and so also in the tissue business, followed by Latin America, which also has shown strong expansion. In the next 10 years, large emerging markets such as Brazil, Turkey, and Russia will increasingly offer tissue companies new business opportunities.

The North American tissue market is experiencing a new investment boom this year, expected to continue through 2014, Uutela continues. This time the main driver for new projects seems to be the need for ultra and premium grade tissue, partly as a reflection of major retailers' target to upgrade their private label offerings closer to the main brands in quality, although there is a clear trend toward higher quality in the away from home sector as well. "Market growth has flattened, particularly in terms of weight as the product light-weighting trend continues. Competition does not show any signs of alleviation, and it's amazing to see how a growing number of small, independent converters have been able to forge ahead based on their niche products, flexible service, and sub-contracting orders from the big players," Uutela says.

Gervias adds that amidst a backdrop of falling demand for printing and writing paper in mature markets, a key concern for several tissue manufacturers is the availability, quality, and cost of recovered paper. "But at what point does recycled paper become uneconomical compared with other fiber options?" she asks.

In her presentation, Gervais explores the combination of falling yields and rising costs of SOP (sorted office paper) to determine a breakeven cost of manufacture when compared with a virgin fiber furnish. She examines the impacts of this key issue and takes a look at other fiber resources and their future role in tissue manufacturing.

More information about PaperCon 2013 is available online, including online registration. Additional information about the Tissue360° Forum program is also available online.

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The OpEx Maintenance and Reliability Workshop at TAPPI PaperCon 2013 in Atlanta, Ga., USA, on April 30, will include a special joint session with the Recycled Paper Trade Association (RPTA) that explores Operator Driven Reliability (ODR) from an up-close, mill case-study perspective. During this session, Christer Idhammar with IDCON examines what has been tried with ODR, who's succeeded, what's failed, and why—all based on mill case study results.

Also during the joint session, Dave Staples with SKF Reliability Systems will present a case-study implementation of an ODR system at a North American pulp and paper mill. Rounding out the joint OpEx/RPTA session, Jim Davis of Performance Consultants Associates illustrates how to effectively support ODR programs by building "The Perfect Maintenance Storeroom."

More information about PaperCon 2013 and the OpEx Maintenance and Reliability Workshop, including registration procedures, is available online. Also available online is the 2013 OpEx Workshop program.

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TAPPI's 2013 Tissue Properties and Manufacturing Course, to be held in conjunction with PaperCon 2013, covers the fundamentals of manufacturing and provides an excellent overview of this dynamic market segment. The two-day course will be held on April 27-28, 2013 in Atlanta, Ga., USA, and precedes PaperCon and the Tissue360° Forum.

"Tissue manufacturing is technically innovative and rapidly growing and the Tissue Course provides an excellent overview of manufacturing operations, equipment, and tissue sheet properties," notes Larry N. Montague, TAPPI president and CEO. "Course participants will be able to also take advantage of the Tissue360° Forum and all of the networking opportunities available during PaperCon."

This course is designed for those who desire an introductory-to-intermediate level, comprehensive, and structured course on tissue properties, and the effect of manufacturing processes on them. It provides an excellent educational compliment to the Tissue360° Forum sessions. Attendees will learn about a wide range of key topics including: tissue properties and tests; stock prep and refining; chemicals (wet end and yankee); wet end operations; TAD and yankee drying; creping; calendaring; and converting. A no-charge webinar featuring some of the course content will be held on March 6, "Tissue Manufacturing for Softness." More information about this course is available online.

The Tissue360° Forum and PaperCon 2013 feature the industry's largest technical program in addition to a number of special events, seminars, and tracks on a wide range of topics and industry segments, numerous networking opportunities, keynote presentations, and a trade show exhibit.

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The TAPPI Tissue Properties & Manufacturing Course will be held on April 27-28, 2013, in Atlanta, Ga., USA, and co-located with 2013 PaperCon and the Tissue Forum. Both the Tissue Forum and Tissue Properties & Manufacturing Course are being sponsored by TAPPI's Tissue360° magazine.

This is a great opportunity to get the most out of your conference experience. The Tissue Properties course is designed for those who desire an introductory-to-intermediate level, comprehensive, and structured course on tissue properties, and the effect of manufacturing. This course precedes the Tissue 360° Forum at PaperCon, and is an excellent educational compliment to these technical sessions.

The course will be particularly helpful to non-technical professionals, technical process engineers, operators, suppliers, converters, and marketers with 0-5 years of experience in tissue manufacturing.

More information about the Tissue Properties & Manufacturing Course is available online.

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U.S. paper and paperboard capacity declined 1.6% in 2012 but will hold essentially stable over the next three years (2013- 2015), according to the AF&PA (Washington, D.C., USA) 53rd Annual Survey of Paper, Paperboard and Pulp Capacity released this week. Paper and paperboard capacity is slated to decline 0.4% in 2013 but then rise 0.6% in 2014 and 0.2% in 2015. For the entire three-year projection period, paper and paperboard capacity is expected to rise 0.4% at an average annual rate of 0.1%.

Tissue paper and containerboard grades are slated to add capacity during the next three years, while capacities for newsprint and printing and writing paper grades are expected to decline. The survey findings indicate that boxboard capacity will hold essentially stable.

The survey reports U.S. industry capacity data for 2012 through 2015 for all major grades of paper, paperboard, and pulp, based on a comprehensive survey of all U.S. pulp and paper mills. Survey respondents represent about 90% of the U.S industry capacity.

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The paper industry in India has become more promising as the domestic demand is on the rise, according to a new report by Reportlinker.com (New York, N.Y., USA) titled India Paper Industry Forecast and Opportunities, 2017. Increasing population and literacy rate, growth in GDP, improvement in manufacturing sector and lifestyle of individuals are expected to account for the growth in the paper industry of India.

BILT and ITC are among the largest producers of paper and paperboard in India. Many of the existing players are increasing their capacity to meet the growing demand. The focus of the paper industry is now shifting towards more eco-friendly products and technology. The government of India has established rules and regulations to control the population and degradation of forests. These measures taken by the government has brought significant changes in the paper industry of India.

According to India Paper Industry Forecast & Opportunities, 2017, the paper industry in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 9.6% during 2012-2017, which will make the revenues of paper industry of India reach up to $11.83 billion by 2017. About 70% of the total installed capacity for paper production in India is owned by Gujarat, West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Kerala, Bihar, and Assam together account for about 25% of the total paper production capacity in India.

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The AF&PA (Washington, D.C., USA) this week reported that 65.1% of paper consumed in the U.S. was recovered in 2012. "Paper recovery is a success in our country because of the commitment millions of Americans make each day to recycling, whether it's at home, work, or school," said AF&PA President and CEO Donna Harman.

"Our industry's success in paper recovery is due in large part to the voluntary, market-driven product recovery system that we and so many others have fostered," said AF&PA Board Chairman and Graphic Packaging International President and CEO David Scheible. "We will continue supporting education programs and initiatives that help drive awareness to increase recovery."

The annual paper recovery rate has nearly doubled since 1990 and remains above the trend line for the industry to achieve its goal of recovering more than 70% per year by 2020.

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Saw log prices have trended downward in most major markets in Western Europe the past two years in U.S. dollar terms, but this trend was broken in the 4Q/12 when prices increased slightly, mainly due to a weakening U.S. dollar. In local currencies, log prices were practically unchanged in the 4Q/12.

The biggest price declines have been in Sweden where pine saw log prices fell more than 15% from the 4Q/10 to the 4Q/12 in both the local currency and in U.S. dollar terms. Spruce log prices have declined more than 25% during the same time period. In Finland, Germany, and Norway, prices have dropped a more modest 5%-10% over the past two years, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ), Seattle, Wash., USA. Saw log prices fell during 2012 because sawmills were cutting back production in response to the weaker demand for lumber throughout Europe.

While log prices have fallen in both U.S. dollar terms and local currencies the past two years in Northern and Central Europe, prices for saw logs in the 4Q/12 in Eastern European countries, including Estonia, Latvia, and the Czech Republic, were generally higher than in 2011. This development has mainly come as a result of the relatively strong lumber export market which kept the log markets healthy.

The only major market in Eastern Europe where log prices have fallen has been Poland. From the 2Q/11 to 4Q/12, average prices have fallen over 20% and the country has now some of the lowest conifer saw log prices in Europe, according to the WRQ.

As a consequence of slowing lumber production, log trade declined in Europe during 2012, which also had a dampening impact on log prices on the continent. Net log imports to Western Europe fell from more than 14 million cubic meters in 2011 to an estimated 10.8 million cubic meters in 2012. Much of the declines in imports were those from Russia and the Baltic States.

Saw log prices might be close to the bottom in the 1Q/13, and they are likely to remain at these levels as long as the European demand for lumber continues to be weak. Despite the recent price declines, current price levels are higher than the 10-year average in all major markets throughout Europe.

More information is available online.

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Blue Paper has ordered from Metso, Finland, a grade conversion rebuild of the paper machine at its mill in Strasbourg, France. The goal of the rebuild is to produce packaging materials on a paper machine that previously produced lightweight coated (LWC) paper, "a grade that is suffering from a drastic decline in demand," the company notes. Startup of the rebuilt machine is scheduled for the last quarter of this year.

"This delivery is an example of the much called-for innovative approach to the structural change the paper industry is facing. By retrofitting the existing printing paper machine with a few new key components, Metso is able to provide the customer and the Strasbourg papermaking community with a solution that enables continuation of industrial operations on-site," says Markus Laitila, VP of Paper Mills business unit, Metso.

Metso's delivery will include headbox and forming area modernizations and modernization of the press, dryer, and sizing sections and reel. Metso will also modify the air systems and automation systems.

The original paper machine has a trimmed width of 8.5 meters and produced LWC paper at a speed of 1,500 meters/min. After the grade conversion rebuild, the paper machine will have a high annual capacity with fluting and testliner grades in the basis weight range of 70-130 gsm.

Blue Paper SAS is a joint venture established by the Belgian VPK Packaging Group NV and the German Klingele Papierwerke. VPK Packaging Group NV is an integrated packaging group with 33 companies across 12 European countries. Klingele, a German family-owned company, is one of the leading independent producers of containerboard and packaging made of corrugated board. The company consists of one paper mill, six integrated corrugated plants, and seven converting plants in Europe and Africa. Klingele and VPK have a combined corrugated packaging production of more than 1 million metric tpy and a paper production of 600,000 metric tpy.

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Neenah Paper, Alpharetta, Ga., USA, this week launched The Beauty of Letterpress website that celebrates letterpress printing and its creators with the first virtual, community-based gallery of modern letterpress samples and resources. The Beauty of Letterpress Gallery presents letterpress work from notable letterpress printers, designers, and artisans from around the country including Rohner Letterpress, Studio on Fire, Two Paperdolls, and Mama's Sauce. The site features selections from a new curator each month. Letterpress history, context, educational information, community connections, and a list of letterpress printers round out the site.

Letterpress printing continues its renaissance in the digital age because of its extraordinary beauty and tactility, Neenah notes. "When art or type is pressed into sumptuous paper, it creates a physical impression that simply begs to be touched," said Tom Wright, senior director of advertising and design for Neenah Paper. "We believe the extraordinary, communicative power of letterpress printing and the community of people who make it happen deserve a special place—The Beauty of Letterpress celebrates and honors the modernity of this 500-year old craft."

While developing this virtual letterpress home for the 21st century, the creators could not help but consider the physical move of Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum, the landmark institution preserving the rich history and assets of letterpress dating to the birth of letterpress in the 15th century. The Beauty of Letterpress launches with a Neenah Paper initiative to help raise $30,000 in funds for the Museum's move through matching donations and gifts of limited edition prints to designers, letterpress printers, and admirers of this craft.

The Beauty of Letterpress is a sister site to The Beauty of Engraving launched by Neenah Paper last year. Both initiatives were developed in partnership with Two Paperdolls and feature CRANE® Papers. CRANE'S LETTRA® Papers, CRANE'S CREST® Papers, and CRANE'S BOND® Papers are marketed and sold by Neenah Paper.

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Nippon Paper Industries Co., Japan, reports that it has installed a biogas manufacturing and testing plant (methane fermentation adopted) at its Kushiro Mill (Kushiro, Hokkaido) as part of an analysis and study of advanced utilization of acid hydrolysis liquids. Acid hydrolysis liquids are generated in the manufacturing process of dissolving pulp, for which Nippon Paper Industries established a production system at Kushiro Mill last October.

In methane fermentation, organic components will be converted into methane gas with the help of anaerobic bacteria. The resulting gas can be used as an alternative to heavy petroleum oil. The generated gas is defined as a carbon-neutral fuel that does not emit carbon dioxide, so its use will reduce carbon dioxide emissions if it is used in place of heavy oil. Nippon Paper Industries has already commenced methane fermentation processing of waste liquids coming from the kraft pulp manufacturing process. While applying the technology, Nippon Paper Industries will analyze the use of acid hydrolysis liquid from dissolving pulp, which will be the world's first such case if it is successful.

Acid hydrolysis liquid has a range of potential applications. The first step will be to promote resource savings with the use of methane fermentation processing, as an environmental measure. Nippon Paper Industries will consider higher-degree applications in the future.

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Sappi Fine Paper North America (SFPNA), Boston, Mass., USA, this week released its eQ Journal 005: Rethinking Recycling, distinguishing between the facts and general misconceptions surrounding recycling and the paper life cycle. In this fifth edition of the company's eQ series, the Journal sheds light on the benefits of recycling while challenging the common assumption that paper produced with a high percentage of recycled fiber is always better for the environment.

"The use of recycled fiber is not a one size fits all solution. We should examine not just what's in our paper, but take into consideration the sourcing of materials, the environmental impact of manufacturing, and understand what happens to paper as it moves through the life cycle," said Laura Thompson, Ph.D., director of sustainable development and technical marketing, SFPA. "With this latest eQ Journal, we invite our community to look at the bigger picture of recycling—the way we do at Sappi—to ensure our industry is putting recycled fiber to its best use, finding the most appropriate options that produce lower emissions and higher yield."

In fact, a study of SFPA's Somerset Mill included in the Journal revealed that adding 10% recycled content increases the product's carbon footprint by 16%, compared with the same product made with 100% virgin fiber. More details on the study findings, as well as other industry statistics comparing the carbon footprints of different pulp sources using a comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) can be found in the Journal.

In addition to revealing the trade-offs associated with recycled fiber, this fact-based publication also promotes best practices of recycling, raising awareness of practical ways consumers can reduce their environmental impact of using printed materials. As part of this edition, Sappi provides a series of custom-designed recycling logos available for download on its eQ microsite, inviting everyone—especially corporate marketers and graphic designers—to get creative about promoting the initiative to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

A PDF version of the latest eQ Journal 005: Rethinking Recycling can be downloaded online. A printed copy can also be requested via email or calling 800-882-4332.

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SCA, Stockholm, Sweden, reports that it has now completed the previously announced divestment of its Laakirchen mill in Austria. The Laakirchen mill, a producer of magazine paper, was sold to Heinzel Group. The closing follows clearance by relevant competition authorities. The initial purchase consideration is EUR 100 million with a possible maximum additional purchase price of EUR 100 million based on a two-year profit-sharing model.

SCA is a global hygiene and forest products company. The company develops and produces personal care, tissue, and forest products. It has some 36,000 employees and the company's sales in 2012 amounted to SEK 85 billion (EUR 9.8 billion).

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The tissue producer Sofidel Group, Italy, reports that after waiting for the green light from the European Commission, it has finalized the acquisition from SCA of the former Georgia-Pacific businesses that are connected with consumer brands in the U.K., Republic of Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

The acquisition, which became effective Apri1, includes: 

• Consumer brands (toilet paper and household towel) in the U.K. and Republic of Ireland markets--Thirst Pockets, Kitten Soft, Inversoft, and Nouvelle 
• The licensing for marketing other important brands in the same line of business in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxemburg—Lotus and Lotus Moltonel 
• Production capacity at the Horwich plant (a converting plant), between Liverpool and Manchester, North West England (U.K.).

The acquisitions are "a further move in Sofidel's international growth strategy," said Luigi Lazzareschi, Sofidel Group CEO. "Thanks to this acquisition," he added, "the Sofidel Group further strengthens its competitiveness in the U.K., Republic of Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, countries where the brands traditionally represent a very significant asset."

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Xerium Technologies, Raleigh, N.C., USA, a manufacturer of engineered textiles and roll covers, has announced a 350 ton global press felt production increase through a combination of the following actions:

• Equipment investments in base fabric making, card making, needling, and heat setting
• A centerpiece investment in a new, state-of-the-art DILO needle loom
• Additional production in Xerium's Asian and South American plants.

Xerium notes that it is increasing its capacity in its press felt plants in response to strong global demand from customers for its high-end surface sensitive press felts. This additional capacity will be coming on line beginning in the second quarter of this year and continuing through the fourth quarter of 2014. Xerium says it is "largely capacity constrained with regard to press felt sales growth and, therefore, somewhat hampered in terms of partnering with growing customers, growing areas of the market, and growing regions of the world."

The DILO needle loom is a special machine used in the production of high-end surface sensitive felts. These products are used on paper machines, fiber cement machines used in the production of building products, and general purpose industrial textile machines. The high-speed, high-density needling capabilities of DILO's Hyperpunch machine will expand Xerium's current platform of needling looms used to manufacture its most technologically advanced press felts. The DILO machine is on order.

The company also has reorganized its global machine clothing operations team so that it can optimize outcomes and efficiency across all regions of the world. Xerium has four new leaders in charge of these matters:

• Jürgen Hartmann – based in Germany, VP and Global Operations leader for Forming Fabrics
• Alain Cayer – based in Canada, VP and Global Operations leader for Press Felts
• Jürgen Heiss – based in Germany, director of Global Planning and Scheduling for Forming Fabrics
• Lynn Height – based in the U.S., director of Global Planning and Scheduling for Press Felts.

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Mondi, South Africa, has ordered environmental upgrades from Andritz (Graz, Austria) for its mills in Slovakia, Sweden, and the Czech Republic. The orders are part of Mondi's program to increase energy efficiency and environmental protection.

For Mondi SCP, Ružomberok, Slovakia, Andritz will deliver a High Energy Recovery Boiler (HERB). In terms of its power-to-heat ratio, the new boiler will be one of the most efficient recovery boilers in the world. It will replace an existing boiler, increase the mill's electricity production significantly, provide conditions for operation with a minimized amount of fossil fuels, and will also enable an increase of pulp production. The delivery also includes an evaporation plant retrofit. The evaporator will represent the latest technology including seven-effect heat economy, enhanced internal condensate purification, and 85% black liquor concentration. Startup of the boiler and the rebuilt evaporation plant is scheduled for the end of 2014.

At Mondi's Dynäs mill in Väja, Sweden, two existing lime kilns will be replaced by a new Andritz lime kiln. Based on its LimeFlash technology, operating costs will be reduced due to lower fuel consumption. Startup is planned for the fourth quarter of 2013.

For Mondi's Štětí, Czech Republic, mill, Andritz will build a packaging paper machine (PM 7) to produce various amounts of bleached kraft grades. PM 7 will start up in the latter part of 2014. In addition, the mill's PM 5 will receive an upgrade of its dryer section this October.

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Smurfit Kappa, Ireland, reports that it has installed a new seven-color high board line printer die cutter for its Lunata plant in Italy. Supplying major national brands, pan–European customers, and a wide range of customers worldwide, the Smurfit Kappa plant in Lunata aims to leverage its skills in print into the wider corrugated market, providing higher quality prints at a greater volume.

With this new investment, Smurfit Kappa says that it will increasingly support its customers in achieving their business objectives. Businesses will be given the opportunity to differentiate their products from competitors in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Products will be given a level of visibility never achieved in this sector, and customers will sell more with attractive and eye-catching packaging, the company notes.

The print characteristics of the new machine are top of the range with the possibility of up to seven colors and up to 60 lines per centimeter, the company says, adding that "this is the best machine of its kind currently available in Italy, and is one of a small number available in Europe."

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UPM, Finland, announced that it will cooperate for release liner recovery with the French subsidiary of Aliplast, an Italian company specializing in the collection and treatment of recovered plastic films. The partnership expands Aliplast's recycling services to polypropylene (PP) and paper-based release liners through UPM Raflatac's RafCycle® waste management concept. Aliplast now collects, sorts, and distributes all types of release liner to different recycling processes, avoiding landfill or incineration.

Large collection bags are installed by Aliplast for use by self-adhesive label end-users such as drink bottlers and companies from the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Aliplast collects the bags regularly and directs them to its two sorting centers near Strasbourg and Lyon, France. After sorting, the waste is transported to its final place of re-use.

Polypropylene liners, including UPM Raflatac's ProLiner PP30, are re-used as raw material in the manufacture of wood-plastic composite products at the UPM ProFi® factory in Bruchsal, Germany. Other wrapping films are recycled into various packaging products by Aliplast Italy.

Aliplast also collects paper-based release liners for fiber re-use. The recovered paper liners are re-pulped and de-siliconized, and the pulp is used for papermaking at UPM's paper mills.

Through the partnership with Aliplast, UPM Raflatac has extended the reach of its RafCycle concept to even more label end-users. This unique service, UPM notes, provides a sustainable solution for recycling paper and film release liners, reducing the environmental impact and bringing down waste management costs. UPM Raflatac, part of UPM's Engineered Materials business group, is one of the world's top suppliers of self-adhesive label materials.

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Gorham Paper and Tissue, Gorham, N.H., USA, has launched four category-specific paper brands: Optix™ for packaging, Helix™ for engineered, Vertix™ for converting, and Iconix™ for printing. The portfolio features close to 30 customized specialty papers available with options in weight, color, furnish, and functional properties.

"The new brands reinforce our strategy to direct our product development expertise and manufacturing flexibility to more challenging technical markets. They communicate our depth of capability, segment our offering, and simplify our extensive lineup," said Brian McAlary, VP of sales and marketing."

The Gorham specialty papers include:

• Optix: an FDA compliant line of food packaging embedded with grease resistance and wet strength ideal for wraps, bags, liners and pouches
• Helix: application-driven papers engineered with technical properties such as absorbency, machinability, fire retardance, light fastness, and extreme strength
• Vertix: versatile line of converting papers used for home and office applications such as file folders, envelopes, and desktop publishing papers
• Iconix: high-volume printing papers optimized for image reproduction and performance and used for demanding applications like trade books, corporate literature, financial statements, direct mail, and annual reports.

Gorham specialty papers are available in a basis weight range of 18 lb.–143 lb. and with furnish options (white, natural, and a variety of colors), recycled content up to 100%, and chain of custody certification to SFI, FSC, and PEFC standards.

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DeZURIK, Sartell, Minn., USA, a manufacturer of industrial and municipal valves, has appointed Bryan Burns as its new president and COO. The appointment is effective immediately.

Burns joined DeZURIK in 2010 as VP of Operations and was promoted to COO in January 2012. Previously, he was employed by the Brunswick Corp., where he was president of the Crestliner Division. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and earned his MBA from Duke University.

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Sonoco, Hartsville, S.C., USA, this week announced that M. Jack Sanders has taken over as president and CEO following his election by the company's board of directors. Sanders succeeds Harris E. DeLoach Jr., who retired as CEO after a 27-year career with the company. As announced in December, DeLoach, 68, remains Sonoco's executive chairman of the board.

"I'm extremely proud and honored to be elected to lead such a great company," said Sanders, who is only the company's eighth CEO in its 114-year history. "Sonoco was founded on creativity, hard work, a spirit of innovation, and a focus on satisfying our customers while creating value for our shareholders. We want to continue building on past successes and defining a new future for this exceptional company."

A graduate of Louisiana State University with a B.S. degree in finance, Sanders joined Sonoco in 1988 as national sales and marketing manager for the company's Reels business. In 1992, he was asked to build and lead the development of Sonoco's new Protective Packaging business as its GM and in 1998 was promoted to division VP and GM.

Sanders was elected a corporate officer and named VP, Industrial Products, North America, in 2001. He was subsequently named VP, Global Industrial Products, in January 2006 and assumed responsibility for all Industrial Converting businesses as SVP in July 2007. In 2008, Sanders was named EVP, Industrial, with global operating responsibility for all of the company's businesses serving industrial markets, including Sonoco's tubes and cores, paper, reels, protective packaging, paperboard specialties, and recycling businesses. Prior to assuming his current position, Sanders served as the EVP of Sonoco's Global Consumer businesses, where he was responsible for Rigid Paper and Closures, Rigid Plastics, Flexible Packaging, and Display and Packaging.

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Member Mike Haas is a strong proponent of education and considers his long association with TAPPI to be a key ingredient in a successful career. He says that TAPPI has always served as a "fantastic learning resource" that has consistently offered him opportunities to hone leadership skills.

But it is not just the opportunity to engage in scientific and scholarly pursuits through TAPPI that Mike says brings great personal and professional rewards. It is the chance to mentor and serve as an advocate for future leaders in the industry, and it is for this reason that he urges fellow professionals to support the pulp and paper schools in their areas. "Get involved, serve as a mentor, create excitement about careers in our industry," he says.

Mike knows personally of what he speaks. As a young student at Miami University, he says he learned first-hand "how rewarding and fun TAPPI membership could be." It was the encouragement of TAPPI members like Fellow Dick Elliott that convinced him joining TAPPI was an important cog in the wheel of professional success. He presented his first TAPPI paper at a pulping conference in Toronto and there was no looking back.

Find out more by reading this month's Member Spotlight.

Spotlight participants are recommended by fellow members and staff. If you would like to nominate a member, just send his or her name (or names) to MemberSpotlight@tappi.org. We will forward a Spotlight Questionnaire to fill out and return.

We look forward to seeing you in the Spotlight!

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The TAPPI Centennial Celebration will be a multi-year long series of outreach events and educational offerings showcasing the proud history and promising future of the global pulp, paper, packaging, and related industries. This once-in-a-lifetime event will expand public awareness, foster further connection, and provide outstanding opportunities for collaboration, growth, and investment in our future for all of those involved. Goals for the TAPPI Centennial Celebration are:

• To honor TAPPI's 100 years of connection, education, and advancement as a foundation for the sustainable success of our members, our industries, and the world we share
• To recognize the achievements of those who built our industry and to inspire those who seek to build its future
• To celebrate the contributions and innovations of the global pulp, paper, and packaging industries to human culture, commerce, health, and social advancement
• To sustain the industry and support its growth, vitality, and future through the TAPPI Foundation.

We invite you to be a part of this momentous event. The sooner you join us the more opportunities there are for recognition of your company, its products, and key innovations. Keep in mind that an early commitment allows you to spread your investment over multiple years' budgets.

For more information on sponsorship and volunteer opportunities please contact dbell@tappi.org.

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Spring is on its way (hopefully) and the Miami University Student TAPPI will welcome the sun back to Oxford by heading to the Indian Ridge Golf Club for our annual Golf Outing!

This event is the primary fundraiser for the Miami TAPPI chapter and the funds raised help to provide students the opportunity to attend various industry conferences and hold on-campus meetings throughout the year.

Over the past year, Miami's Student TAPPI has done some exciting things. We took a record number of students to North Carolina for the Student Summit and had a great time! Closer to home, we started a student run mentoring program for underclassmen. Upperclassmen are available to answer any questions, from what an internship is like to what classes to take. The future holds opportunities for more students to get involved with the opening of new positions on the executive board.

The annual golf outing is an opportunity for industry professionals and students to meet and interact in a relaxed atmosphere while helping to raise money for the student chapter. Last year's outing was very successful and we are hoping to have even better success this year.

If for whatever reason you are unable to attend but would still like to support Student TAPPI, donations would be greatly appreciated.

If you have sponsored TAPPI in previous years, we thank you greatly. If not, we hope to gain your sponsorship for this event! .

We hope to hear from you soon and see you on the green! Please see the golf outing flyer for details.

For more information please contact Sophia Singer, (513)-604-9006
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Registration is now open for the 2013 TAPPI Corrugated Press Hands-On Maintenance Workshop, May 7-8, 2013 at the Global Equipment USA Warehouse in Skokie, Ill., USA.

This unique course gives you an unprecedented opportunity to get hands-on training on how to audit converting machines. With only 18 seats available, you will have ample opportunity to get your questions answered by instructors Tom Pearce, Pearce Corrugated Consulting; John Bingham, Pamarco; Jim Wegemer, INX; Chuck Bobeldyk, Mark Maker; Randy Kesselring, MarquipWardUnited; as well as representatives from Global Equipment. The schedule for this course is packed into just two efficiently planned days so that participants get loads of skill and experience without much time away from their own operations.

Who should attend?
This intermediate-level course offers indispensable hands-on maintenance training for corrugated industry plant managers and supervisors, engineers, maintenance teams, and machine operators.

You could pour over all of the how-to manuals available and still not reatain this level and quality of working knowledge. Completing this workshop will enable you to:

• Use the basic tools to mechanically audit and troubleshoot a press
• Understand press audit procedures for process centering, better quality products, and increased productivity
• Discuss anilox roll selection, press "fingerprinting," inks and substrates, quality defects and cause(s), and scoring.
  

Register by April 8 and join TAPPI or renew your membership to receive the best rates.
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For a very short time, TAPPI is offering a 10% discount on your registration to the IDCON Reliability and Maintenance Management course taking place in Raleigh, N.C., USA, on April 22-26. This is a rare opportunity to take this exceptional course for less and to make your operations more productive and efficient. But, act on this offer now to save more than $250 with only a few seats remaining.

For this course, IDCON has taken its FOUR key seminars and combined them into ONE to give your frontline organization the kick-start needed to build and support good work processes.

Stop the wrench from getting into smoother operations. Register to secure your access to these premier training courses with IDCON.
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The launch of this successful conference series, produced by the Recycling Today and Smithers Pira, in co-operation with China TAPI, into Asia provides a unique opportunity for companies in North America, Europe, and the rest of the world to meet buyers in the Asian market.

The full program for Paper Recycling Conference Asia launching on May 30-31, 2013, has been announced. Highlights include the opening keynote address - The role of recyclables in China's Economic Resurgence, presented by Professor Wang, Ministry of Environmental Protection, China; An Overview of Macro-Economic Trends Impacting Asia's Recovered Paper Industry from Sally Sun, Deloitte China, and an exclusive One-on-One Interview with Ross Li, Lee & Man.

Save 20% on a ticket to attend by using the code CD20TAP!

Attendees will hear from other key speakers on the agenda, including; Randy Kim, Ekman Recycling; Henri Vermeulen, Smurfit Kappa Group; Niu Qingmin, Jiangsu Paper Association; Yoshimitsu Tanaka, Kaneko, and more, on recovered paper supply, infrastructure, and quality issues and challenges.

"We're excited about launching a Paper Recycling Conference in Asia, particularly as Asian demand continues to represent the major growth area for recovered paper. Since this inaugural event replicates the design of our existing events' list to attract merchants, brokers, suppliers of recovered fiber, and mills from around the globe, it's sure to represent a unique and powerful opportunity for the world's suppliers and consumers of recovered paper to meet," Jim Keefe, EVP and group publisher, Recycling Today, said.

More information about the inaugural Paper Recycling Conference is available online.



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The existence of cellulose nanocrystals and cellulose nanofibrils has been known for several decades, yet recent advances in science, particularly in the field of nanotechnology, have revealed that these materials contain unique physical properties, particularly high strength properties. Researchers have been studying how these materials can improve paper properties and will present their latest finding this June 24-27, 2013, in Stockholm, Sweden, at TAPPI's 8th Annual International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials at the KTH Royal Institute of Stockholm.

The program for this year's event has been released, and one session will focus on using cellulose nanofibers for improving retention and increasing strength in paper. Researchers from Aalto University in Finland will report on improved flocculation of both precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) and kaolin with the addition of certain cellulose nanomaterials. Researchers from Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS) in Heidenau, Germany, will report on the importance of adding fillers, celluloses, and compounding agents in the right order to achieve the best results. Researchers from VTT in Finland will report on ways to increase the strength of paper by using filler particles coated with nanoscale calcium silicate hydrate (CS) structures. 

New reports at the conference will present some exciting advances for both within the pulp and paper industry and beyond. The technical program features cellulose nanomaterials in a variety of applications, including:

• Unique and Thin-Film Composites
• Filler and Coating Applications for Different Paper Grades
• Improved Barrier Properties for Packaging Applications
• Cellulose Nanomaterials as Films and Carriers in Medical Applications
• Nanopaper and Iridescent Colored Cellulose Films.

With more than 80 technical presentations, five keynote presentations, and 50 poster presentations, this year's conference is packed with the latest applications of renewable nanomaterials.

Watch for additional updates from TAPPI on how nanotechnology, and cellulose nanomaterials in particular, can be a transformative technology for the pulp and paper industry.

The 8th Annual International Conference on Nanotechnolgy for Renewable Materials is hosted by TAPPI's International Nanotechnology Division, which strives to collectively advance the responsible and sustainable production and use of renewable nanomaterials. More information is available online. 
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Instructors for the TAPPI Introduction to Wet End Chemistry know that cost savings and quality are ultimately the balanced blend of objectives for your organization. They are focusing their three-day curriculum, June 11-13, 2013, on innovative wet end chemistry principles and foundations to help you reach higher yield, improve confidence in the use of papermaking chemicals, and to better troubleshoot.

View the Workshop Schedule to see the specific topics covered.

This introductory-to-intermediate-level course is designed for those in pulp and paper manufacturing facilities with job responsibilities, such as chemical and process engineers, mill superintendents, research and development engineers, technology and chief chemists, R&D vice presidents, process and quality control technicians, and suppliers involved with the wet end processes.

This course takes place outside of Atlanta, Ga., USA, at TAPPI headquarters and it will sell out at 25 participants. Register now to save and secure your seat.
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The Pulp and Paper Manufacturers Association (PPMA) has launched a custom career center that serves not only member companies but all companies in the pulp, paper, and allied industries. Members and nonmembers are able to post resumes and search for potential employees. PPMA members will receive a significant discount on all career center activities.

"As an association that serves the human resources side of the industry, we felt it would only be natural to provide industry professionals with a functional and helpful resource to search for qualified potential employees," said Dick Kendall, executive director of PPMA.

The career center was launched in early 2013 and is available on the PPMA website. Visit now and start using one of the newest PPMA benefits today.

PPMA is a nonprofit association comprised of executives, managers, and human resource professionals from the pulp, paper, and allied industries. For its members, PPMA serves as a primary source of information on labor settlements, current human resource functions, governmental, and related operational issues.
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The Bleaching of Pulp, Fifth Edition
By Alan W. Rudie and Peter Hart

Previous editions of The Bleaching of Pulp have provided comprehensive information on the technology used to bleach wood pulps. The 5th edition will continue this tradition as the premiere industry text on bleaching technologies but will be more focused on the modern industrial processes with less emphasis on fundamental science. New or more comprehensive sections are included on elemental chlorine free bleaching, enzymes, acid treatments for hexeneuronic acids, control of mineral scale, and multi-stage modeling as used to optimize bleaching among multiple stages.

Item Number: 0101R331 • List Price: $232 • Member Price: $155

Handbook for Pulp and Paper Technologists
(The Smook Book) Third Edition
By: Gary A. Smook

This best-selling text provides an introduction to the entire technology of pulp and paper manufacture. The book features 27 chapters covering all aspects of pulping and papermaking. Hundreds of illustrations, charts, and tables help the reader grasp the concepts being presented. The third edition features additional material on secondary fiber recovery and utilization, mechanical pulping, kraft pulping and bleaching, and papermaking. 2002. 425 pages, hard cover.

Item Number: 0202SMOOK • List Price : $75 • Member Price: $56

Troubleshooting the Papermaking Process
By: By Jerome M. Gess and Paul H. Wilson

This book takes the reader through the process of making paper, pointing out where interruptions can occur and where elements that are added to the system can cause problems in that part or subsequent parts of the papermaking process. The aim of this book is to give papermakers and those involved in the papermaking process the information required to allow them to understand how to track down and solve problems at their source rather than where the problems surface.

Item Number: 0101R298 •List Price: $161• Member Price: $106

Paper Machine Quality Control Systems - Vol. 1: Measurement Systems and Product Variability
By: Quality Control Systems Education Common Interest Group of the Process Control Division

This book describes in detail the measurement technology used in Quality Controls Systems (QCS). Individual chapters are devoted to the five most prevalent QCS measurements (basis weight, moisture, caliper, ash, and color) in the paper industry. Each of these chapters covers the physical principles involved in each measurement, sensor designs, various methods of implementation, and influence factors. A somewhat lighter coverage is given to 10 other QCS measurements that do not have such a broad installation base. Common issues that impact all sensors are explained, including how sensor performance is measured and reported, the impact of scanning process, filtering, scanner designs and construction, and sensor calibration and correlation. Statistical methods are covered in depth from discrete one-dimensional variability to multi-dimensional variability. Guidance is provided for using these statistical methods to locate the sources of variability in the paper process.

Item Number: 0101R328•List Price: $205• Member Price: $135

The Corrugated Containers Manufacturing Process
By: Jody A. Brittain, Stephen R. Perkins, and Philip G. Schnell

This comprehensive textbook describes the entire process of manufacturing corrugated containers. In addition to detailed explanations, the book also features practical troubleshooting tips, and a discussion of common problems and solutions within each major section. Seven detailed chapters cover the following topics:

• Paper and the Papermaking Process
• Steam
• Corrugating Adhesives
• Singleface Operations
• Doublebacker Process
• Combined Board
• Converting.

This textbook is designed to provide in-depth explanations and information for professionals working in all areas of the corrugated containers industry.

Item Number: 0101R281•List Price: $185•Member Price: $37

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Fact: the current economy has affected many schools' endowment funds, resulting in decreased support of student scholarships.

But here's the good news: TAPPI has a scholarship to offer. You have a chance to apply for some green (funds to pay tuition, etc.) to fund a satisfying green career. The Cullison scholarship is available for graduate and undergraduate students with an interest in the pulp, paper, converting, and packaging industries.

William L. Cullison Memorial Scholarship.

What this message means to you:

• If you're a student, here is a great way to apply for financial assistance for the 2013-2014 school year.
• The deadline for the Cullison scholarship is May 1, 2013. Mark your calendar now to allow yourself time to create an application that reflects the hard work you've been investing in your career.
• If you are affiliated with a college or university, share this with your students or other staffers who work with students. They will be glad you did!
• If you're in the industry, perhaps you know of students worthy of scholarship assistance with their education, please pass this information along.

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Register for the Tissue Properties & Manufacturing Course Today

This course is designed for those who need an introduction to tissue properties and manufacturing processes. This course precedes the Tissue360° Forum at PaperCon2013 and is an excellent educational complement to these technical sessions.

TAPPI Members Save

This is an introductory-to-intermediate course for those with 0-5 years of experience in tissue manufacturing. if you are looking for an advanced course on tissue, please consider the TAPPI Tissue Runnability Course.
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The Pulp and Paper Manufacturers Association (PPMA) has launched its first-ever Best Place to Work Award. The award is open to all companies in the forest products industry and will look not only at corporate life but also look at how employees feel about their work environments.

In conjunction with Majority Opinion Research Group, PPMA has started taking nominations for this award and will continue to accept nominations through July 1, 2013.

"This award is an exciting opportunity for PPMA to honor great companies. As an association that serves HR professionals, we know the value of the making your company a great place to work," said PPMA President Joe Thibaudeau, employee relations manager - Procter & Gamble - Green Bay, Wis., USA.

The award will be presented to the winner at the annual PPMA conference on October 23-25, 2013, in Milwaukee, Wis., USA. The winner will have the chance to speak with conference attendees about what makes his or her company the "Best Place to Work."

PPMA is a nonprofit association built around a community comprised of executives, managers, and human resource professionals from the pulp and paper industry. For its members, PPMA serves as a primary source of information on labor settlements and current human resource issues, governmenta,l and related operational issues.

To nominate your company for the Best Place to Work Award, use the online form.  Back To Top

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The Pulp and Paper Safety Association (PPSA) will host its 70th Annual Safety and Health Conference - "The Human Element of Safety," June 9-12, 2013 in Williamsburg, Va., USA.

At the conference, presenters will address how human behavior will proactively help prevent, detect, and control events before they occur. Professionals from across the country know the importance of safety and attendees will hear from 18 speakers who will show the impact of addressing the human impact on safety. The conference will feature updates from OSHA, member company case studies, and PPSA's popular legal update.

Among the confirmed speakers are representatives from MeadWestvaco, Weyerhaeuser Co., Domtar, Safe Start, International Paper, REM Safety Consulting, Michael Best & Friedrich Law Firm, Training Logic, Change Management Consulting, and BushCo.

PPSA is a non-profit, non-political, international organization, devoted to the countinuous improvement of safety throughout all aspects of the paper industry. From forest products to paper mills, to converting plants, to recycle collections centers, our membership is grouped by category to ensure a fair and appropriate basis for comparison.

Registration is currently open for this event.  More information is available online. Back To Top

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Do you have a history book gathering dust on your shelf? TAPPI's 100th year is coming soon and we are looking for donations to the TAPPI Library. Specifically, we are interested in histories of companies and mills in the paper and packaging industry (both producers and suppliers). Each donated book will have a bookplate in the front cover recognizing the donor. For more information please contact David Bell.

Please send books to:
c\o David Bell
TAPPI
15 Technology Parkway, South
Suite 115
Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092

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Nominations for the major TAPPI 2014 awards are due by August 1, 2013. The awards that may be presented in the upcoming year are:

Gunnar Nicholson Gold Medal Award - The Association's highest technical honor may be presented annually to recognize an individual or individuals for preeminent scientific and engineering achievements of proven commercial benefit to the world's pulp, paper, board, and forest products industries and the other industries that TAPPI serves.

Herman L. Joachim Distinguished Service Award - The Association's highest award for service may be presented annually to recognize leadership and service that have significantly and demonstrably contributed to the advancement of the Association.

Paul W. Magnabosco Outstanding Local Section Member Award - The highest honor for Local Sections may be presented annually to recognize an individual for outstanding leadership and exceptional service to one or more Local Sections, which have resulted in significant and demonstrable benefits to the Local Section members.

TAPPI Fellow - TAPPI Fellows are individuals who have been members of TAPPI for not less than 10 years prior to the nomination, and who have contributed meritorious service to the Association and/or the paper and related industries. Retiring members of the TAPPI Board of Directors become Fellows automatically at the end of their term.

The TAPPI Awards and Honors page has links to these awards that will show the qualifications required and links to the nomination forms that must be completed. You may submit all nomination forms by email to standards@tappi.org, or you may fax them to the attention of the awards department at +1-770-446-6947, or send them by mail to TAPPI, Awards Department, 15 Technology Parkway South, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, USA.
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PaperCon, April 27 - May 1 in Atlanta,Ga., USA, will include two focused, peer-reviewed sessions within the PIMA Management Program that examine recent developments and usage techniques in Information Technology (IT).

Session M6: "Traditional DCS and IT Converge: How to Position Yourself to Take Full Advantage of the Opportunities," chaired by Paul Stecher, SVP and CIO, RockTenn, is geared to DCS control engineers, superintendents, and IT support, and will focus on high speed network and traffic isolation approaches, security considerations, and the latest data integration techniques.

Session M8: "Using Industry Proven Software Tools to Drive Mill Efficiencies", chaired by Jim Pigott, MAJIQ, will include three presentations: "Integrating Forecasting to Costing in Dollars and Sense" presented by David Pawelke, MAJIQ; "Thoughts on Paper: Connecting the Supply Chain" presented by Jim Black, OSI Soft; and "Vertically Integrated Real-time Costing for Pulp and Paper Mills," presented by Fredric Karlsson, Enterprise Performance Solutions.

Learn more about these sessions and the PIMA Mangement Program at PaperCon.

Learn more about PaperCon 2013.
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With more than 80 technical presentations and 50 posters, the 2013 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials is packed with the latest applications of renewable nanomaterials.

The conference will take place June 24-27, 2013, at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. Register by April 29 for the best rates!

This year's conference features keynote presentations that focus on the steps needed to deploy emerging nanotechnologies into the bioeconomy. Hear from these recognized global leaders:

• "Small World, Large Impact: Driving a Materials Revolution through Nanotechnolgy" Arthur Carty, executive director and research professor in the Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, special adviser to the president on international science and technology collaboration
• "Towards High-Value Applications of Nanocellulose: A Player an Patent Landscape Approach" Katja Salmenkivi, Pöyry Management Consulting
• "Key Considerations for Successful Technology Transfer of Nanocellulose" Martha Marrapese, Keller and Heckman, USA
• "Life Cycle Considerations of Nanomaterials: Possibilities for Evaluating the Environmental Impact of Renewable Nanomaterials" David Lazarevic, Division of Environmental Strategies Research and the Divsion of Industrial Ecology, KTH
• "Nanosafety Research and Legislation in European Union: Future Activities" Tom van Teunenbroek, ministry of infrastructure and environment, The Netherlands

Sponsorship Opportunities are available.

Looking for Additional Nanotechnology Events?
Check out the TAPPI Flexible Packabing Symposium: New Technologies, preceding the ICE USA Exposition on April 8 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. Sessions include Innovations in Nanocomposites, Innovations in Barrier, and Brand Launch, Shelf Appeal, and Authentication. Learn more.

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Strengthen your understanding of the corrugating process, and linerboard and medium performance properties and manufacture with TAPPI's Linerboard Medium & Corrugated Box Manufacture Course, April 15-16, at the Holiday Inn in Neenah, Wis., USA.

With an emphasis on helping attendees improve corrugating box performance and runnability, this popular introductory to intermediate level course is ideal for process engineers and operators in linerboard and medium manufacturing facilities and corrugating and converting plants.

Instructors Michael J. Kocurek, Professor Emeritus, of Paper Science & Engineering at North Carolina State University, and Jon Porter, Senior Trainer / Process Specialist for Fosber America will address:

• The Corrugated Session (1/2 day) will cover how to achieve the strongest bond and highest quality combinerboard. You'll learn about (1) the equipment, (2) starch, (3) corrugated process technology, and (4) importance of linerboard and medium properties and runnability.
• The Properties and Testing of Liner and Medium session (1/2 day) covers the tests, what they mean, and how the properties of the board affect the tests.
• The Pulp and Paper Mill Operations session (1 day) will cover the technology of the pulp and papermaking processes, and how they affect the quality, properties, tests, and runnability of the liner and medium. 

View the proposed course schedule.

Register by March 15 to take advantage of the Early Bird registration discount. Join TAPPI or renew your membership for the best rates!
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The Introduction to Traditional and Emerging Printing Technology Course will be co-located at the 2013 PaperCon Conference, April 27-29, 2013, in Atlanta, Ga., USA.

This is an introductory course on printing methods and applications, designed for those who need to understand print quality, attend print trials, trouble shoot print problems or are generally new to printing operations. It will be taught by printing experts from TAPPI's Coating and Graphic Arts Division and is an excellent complement to the Coating Program at PaperCon.

As an added bonus, the course will include a tour of Hewlett-Packard's new state-of-the art facility where production laser and inkjet presses will be demonstrated.

Course attendees may also join the Coating and Graphic Arts Opening Session where printing visionary Frank Romano is giving the keynote address. Learn more and register online.

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Are you ready to go further, faster in your safety career? The Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) class can take you there.

The COSS Class is Unique
Not only will you learn how to read and understand the OSHA 1910 and 1926 CFRs and help your company avoid OSHA citations that cost millions of dollars, but more importantly, by learning how to work safely on a job site, you can teach your company how to lower fatalities and near misses. Almost 47% of COSS graduates responding to our survey indicate that, since taking COSS, their company's injury rate and/or OSHA recordables have decreased by as much as 25% and others attest to as much as a 100% decrease!

Request a Course Outline & Syllabus for more information.

The class also addresses the psychology of safety, the true cost of an accident, hazard recognition, how to start up a health and safety program, behavior based safety, system safety, and much more!

What Will You Receive?
Upon successfully completing the class, you will obtain your national Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) designation, your OSHA 10-hr. card of completion in construction, and your OSHA 10-hr. card of completion in general industry.

National Program Recognitions
COSS is currently one of only 37 programs in the world recongnized and accredited by the American Petroleum Institute (API). In addition, the certifying body for construction education for colleges, universties and technical/trade schools, American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), has also recongnized our program. COSS is the only non-degree program to receive this national endorsement. Lastly, COSS has been established as a mandatory course for students in the Construction Management Program at Louisiana State University.

Program Content
The program consists of 40 hr. of hands on, face-to-face learning, which is delivered by an Authorized OSHA outreach trainer in both construction and general industry. Case studies and workshops are used extensively to bring learning objectives into focus. Guest speaker from areas such as OSHA and other governmental agencies are used to enhance the learning experience. Student presentations, daily quizzes, practical reviews, and a comprehensive final exam will allow you to demonstrate your competency.

Prerequisites
The only prerequisite for the COSS class is you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. In each class, we tend to have a mix of non-experienced, first time safety persons, as well as safety professionals who have been in the safety field for 20+ years. But, we have learned that regardless of the numbers of years of experience you have in safety, everyone leaves the COSS class with a wealth of knowledge!

Visit the COSS website for FAQs, testimonials and a list of clients that have taken COSS.

Register now.

If you would like more information on the COSS program, contact Beth Gordon at 877-610-2677
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