Södra, Sweden, this week reported that it has not been possible to reach a sales solution for its mill in Tofte, Sweden, despite much effort, and that the company has now decided to close the mill. Production at Tofte will cease in August. A total of 280 staff members at the mill will be affected.

"We have spent more than six months trying to sell the Tofte mill at commercial terms. We have been in touch with a large number of stakeholders during this time. Despite our efforts, however, we are unfortunately forced to conclude that it has not been possible to reach a sales solution," says Gunilla Saltin, president of Södra Cell.

Södra's decision is based on long-term difficulties with achieving profitability at the Tofte mill. The company said that it has not been possible to turn the tide despite extensive measures being implemented. A process began in late 2012 with a view to finding a buyer. However, the discussions held have proven fruitless, hence the reason for this decision.

The mill at Tofte was purchased by Södra in 2000. Its production capacity totals 400,000 metric tpy of chemical paper pulp.

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UPM Raflatac, Finland, is planning to reduce labelstock production capacity in Europe, South Africa, and Australia to secure cost competitiveness and profitability in low-growth markets. The planned actions are estimated to result in annual cost savings of about EUR 12 million starting at the beginning of 2014.

According to the plan, the labelstock factory in Martigny, Switzerland, the coating operations in Melbourne, Australia and Durban, South Africa, as well as the slitting and distribution terminal in Johannesburg, South Africa, would be closed. In addition, working time and shift changes and reductions are planned in France, Spain, and the U.K. The product range, service,and deliveries offered to customers will not be impacted by these plans.

If all plans are implemented, the estimated total impact would be a maximum of 170 positions in the affected countries.

Decisions will be taken after consultation and negotiations with employees in the relevant countries. Most of the restructuring is estimated to be complete by the end of this year.

"The economy in Western Europe has been weak for a long time and we don't expect the situation to improve in the foreseeable future. Simultaneously, the demands of our customers for cost-efficient labeling solutions continue to increase all over the world. To secure our customers' and our own profitability in the long run, we need to ensure that our manufacturing operations continue to be the most cost competitive in the industry. Unfortunately, the planned restructuring would also mean that we will lose a significant number of dedicated employees," said Jussi Vanhanen, president of UPM Engineered Materials.

"We will continue investing in growing markets in line with our strategy," Vanhanen continued. "In the past couple of years, we have strongly enhanced our service and operations network in Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Capacity adjustments are taking place in areas where the demand situation is not in line with our production capacity."

In the third quarter of this year, UPM will book a EUR 3 million write-off in fixed assets and make a provision for restructuring costs for EUR 11 million. The actions are not expected to impact the sales of the Label Business Area.

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According to new research results of the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, lignocellulosic biomass can be used in the production of high-quality biofuels for the price of less than one euro per liter. A new technology developed in Finland allows the transfer of more than half the energy of wood raw materials to the end-product. The technology is considered ready for the construction of a commercial-scale production plant in Europe.

VTT has assessed the techno-economics of the production of renewable liquid transportation fuels from forest residues. The case studies focused on the production of four biofuels using a method based on pressurised fluidized-bed gasification. The fuels studied were methanol, dimethyl ether (DME), Fischer-Tropsch liquids, and synthetic gasoline.

The results show that the production of renewable biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass, mainly bark and forestry residues, could achieve an energy efficiency of 50% – 67%, depending on the end-product and process conditions. Should the thermal energy produced as a by-product be exploited for district heat or industrial steam, for example, the overall efficiency from biomass to saleable energy products could reach 74%–80%.

Based on the case studies, the research scientists estimated that, once commercialized, the technology can be used to produce liquid transportation fuel at the cost of EUR 58–78/MWh. Converted into gasoline-equivalent price per liter, the estimated production cost would be EUR 0.5–0.7 per liter. The price of renewable solutions would thus be on a level with the current pre-tax price of fossil transportation fuels, and cheaper than existing imported biofuels.

Each case study design was based on a BTL plant with 300 MW capacity, the equivalent of a large district heating power plant. A biorefinery of this size could produce liquid transportation fuel for about 150,000 cars. The EU has set a target of 10% renewable energy content for the transportation sector by 2020. For Finland, the target is 20%.

After long-term development work, the technical functionality of the production process was verified through extensive testing at VTT test rigs as well as industrial piloting in Finland and in the U.S. The technology is now ready for its first commercial-scale demonstration. However, the first wave of these ground-breaking production plants requires significant public venture capital investment, for which planning has consequently been initiated at both Finnish and EU levels.

According to the research results, the best efficiency and lowest production costs were achieved in the production of biomethanol. The risks related to the commercialization of the synthesis technology were also estimated to be lower with the biomethanol production plant compared with the other options.

Methanol is an alcohol fuel that can be used in modern cars at maximum 3 vol-% content in combination with petrol or, as with ethanol, in high concentrations in FlexFuel cars designed for this purpose. Methanol can also be further converted to synthetic gasoline or used as renewable raw material in the manufacture of various chemicals and biomaterials.

More information is available online.

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Orient Paper Inc., Baoding, China, a producer and distributor of paper products in North China, including tissue products, reports that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has completed an investigation of the company and does not intend to recommend any enforcement action. The SEC began an informal inquiry regarding Orient Paper in December 2010.

Chairman and CEO Zhenyong Liu said that the company is "very happy to put this matter behind us as we continue to expand our business in the North China region to ride on the growth opportunities presented by the rising urbanization in the country." Zhenyong said that the company is building its new tissue paper mill as planned to tap into the unmet market needs of the region, and is also ramping up its new corrugating medium paper production line.

Orient Paper uses recycled paper as its primary raw material to produce three types of paper products— household/tissue paper that the company is currently expanding into, packaging paper (corrugating medium), and printing and specialty papers including offset printing paper and digital photo papers.

With production operations based in Baoding in North China's Hebei Province, the company is located strategically close to the Beijing and Tianjin region, home to a growing base of industrial and manufacturing activities and one of the largest markets for paper products consumption in the country. Orient Paper's production facilities are controlled and operated by its wholly owned subsidiary Shengde Holdings, Inc., which in turn controls and operates Baoding Shengde Paper Co., Ltd., and Hebei Baoding Orient Paper Milling Co. for manufacturing digital photo, printing, and packaging paper.

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Greif, Inc, Delaware, Ohio, USA, reports that it has joined the Peace One Day Corporate Coalition. With manufacturing and sales operations in more than 50 countries, Greif is asking its nearly 14,000 employees to join in the observation of Peace Day on September 21, and commit to the theme "Who Will You Make Peace With."

"Peace One Day aligns with Greif's corporate responsibility ethic," said Greif President and CEO David Fischer. "When armies put down their guns on September 21, children can be vaccinated. When violence stops for a day, women can collect water in water-stressed regions without fear of attack. When people can promote and practice peace for just one day, they can learn that peace is possible—and can one day become a way of life. With peace, people can flourish, societies can thrive, and business can prosper. Where there is peace, there will be commerce...and where there is commerce, there will be customers of Greif.

"We invite all like-minded and visionary companies to join us in the Peace One Day Corporate Coalition," Fischer continued. "Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people around the world."

Founded in 1999 by filmmaker Jeremy Gilley, the non-profit organization Peace One Day drove the initiative that led to the unanimous adoption by the United Nations member states of an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence on September 21–Peace Day.

A report supported by McKinsey & Company estimated that 280 million people were aware of Peace Day 2012, with approximately 5.6 million people behaving more peacefully as a result. The number of people aware of Peace Day in 2013 is expected to double.

Peace Day has also been proved as a window of opportunity for humanitarian organizations to focus their ongoing life-saving activities within a global context, most notably in Afghanistan, where 4.5 million children have been immunized against polio due to Peace Day agreements since 2007.

Peace One Day has launched a series of Peace Day coalitions and runs a number of campaigns to further awareness and engagement on Peace Day. More information is available online.

Greif produces corrugated, reconditioned, and multiwall containers and containerboard, as well as steel, plastic, fiber, flexible, and intermediate packaging, and provides filling, packaging, industrial packaging reconditioning, and land management consulting services for a wide range of industries. Greif also manages timber properties in North America.

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This fall, TAPPI is providing a unique opportunity for North American suppliers to exhibit at the 2013 China International Paper Technology Exhibition and Conference (CIPTE). This is the largest pulp and paper exhibit in China, and will be held September 23-25, 2013.

TAPPI has held several 9 m2 booths for exhibitors from North America. The exhibit cost is less than $1,500. Please reply this week or the booth space will be released.

More information is available online.

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Below is the latest listing of job openings in the TAPPI Career Center. The current listing includes job openings for a variety of positions including process improvement engineer, reliability manager, project manager, mill manager, account manager, and power and recovery superintendent. Current, specific job openings at companies and locations in the TAPPI Career Center include:

Employer	Title	Location
AMEC	Project Manager	Tucker, Ga.
Boise Inc.	Power & Recovery Superintendent	Jackson, Ala.
Boise Inc.	J1 Paper Machine Engineer V-Sr.	Jackson, Ala.
Boise Inc.	Mill Manager	Wallula, Wash.
Clark Nexsen	Sr. Project Manager (Heavy Industrial)	Macon, Ga.
Confidential	Sr. Development Engineer	New Hampshire
OASIS Alignment Services	Account Manager	Pensacola, Fla.
Rand-Whitney Containerboard	Reliability Manager	Montville, Conn.
Webex Inc.	Process Improvement Engineer	Neenah, Wis.

More information about these jobs is available online.

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Typically, microbiological control on machines producing recycled packaging has been cost prohibitive and difficult to achieve. Not only does the incoming recycled fiber contain high levels of contaminants, these machines tend to recycle large volumes of water, providing an environment that is well suited for microbial growth.

Additionally, incoming recycled fiber contains high levels of starch—a great food source for microorganisms. Strong oxidizers and organic biocides were the norm for microbiological control on such machines; however, these treatment options have significant drawbacks. Strong oxidizers are quickly consumed by system demand, while large amounts of organic biocides are required to maintain control, which makes for an expensive program. Poor microbiological control is costly too, as it can result in lost production, off-quality product, and odor issues.

Biofilm Penetration
Ashland's Spectrum™ XD3899 microbiocide has proved to be very effective at controlling microbiological activity in recycled packaging (it is the most widely used microbiological control program in the paper industry). As a mild oxidizer, it specifically reacts with microorganisms and is not consumed by the high demand common to recycled packaging systems. Not only is the XD3899 microbiocide effective against free-floating bacteria, but it is also capable of penetrating and eliminating biofilm.

The Poor with Poor Control
A significant problem associated with poor microbiological control in recycled packaging is lost production due to sheet breaks caused by biofilm in the wet end. With strong oxidizers and organic biocides, large amounts of biocide are required to maintain clean surfaces. However, because the XD3899 microbiocide is able to penetrate existing biofilm, an intermittent feed strategy can prevent large buildups at a significantly reduced cost.

Another recurrent issue among recycled packaging machines that have closed water systems is odor. Odor is the result of anaerobic bacteria producing volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Anaerobic bacteria thrive in low oxygen environments such as sludge and biofilm layers in chests. The XD3899 microbiocide not only kills these anaerobic bacteria but also eliminates the areas of buildup that allows them to reproduce. The microbiocide has proved itself repeatedly against strong oxidizers, such as ClO2 and sodium hypochlorite, at improved VFA control in recycled packaging systems.

Eliminating Headbox Deposition
A Southern U.S. recycled packaging machine was suffering from downtime associated with microbiological deposition in the headbox. Frequently, these headbox deposits would break loose and cause sheet breaks. Additionally, the mill had to shut down every five days to clean the headbox. Emergency boil-outs also contributed to downtime on the machine.

An intermittent feed of the XD3899 microbiocide to the thin stock loop reduced the downtime associated with microbiological depositions by more than 90%. The downtime from sheet breaks was reduced by more than 400 min. per month, while the downtime from headbox cleanings and boil-outs was reduced by more than 600 min. per month. The need for boil-outs on the machine was eliminated. The mill's return on investment with the XD3899 program was more than 900%.

Improving VFA Control
A U.S. linerboard machine with a furnish of 100% recycled OCC and a 100% closed water system had lost a large customer due to its inability to control VFAs during the hot summer months. The VFA levels were so high that they caused odor issues in the sheet. The existing ClO2 and carbamate program was incapable of controlling microbiological activity below the threshold that resulted in odor issues.

An XD3899 program was implemented and fed to the white water system five times per day at an equal cost to the previous program. The following benefits were noted by the mill:

• Significant reductions in VFA levels and elimination of customer complaints
• A 25% reduction in conductivity
• ORP values moved from negative to positive
• pH gains of 0.5 points or more throughout the process
• A reduction in biofilm on the machine, resulting in reduced breaks and production records.

The XD3899 program not only eliminated the mill's odor control problems, but also enabled it to increase productivity and reduce conductivity. The following photos show the headbox before the XD3899 program (left) and after the program (right).

About the Author
Erin Taylor is Applications Specialist-Microbiological Control, Ashland Inc. She can be contacted by email

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CEPI (Confederation of European Paper Industries), Brussels, Belgium, this week released its latest European pulp and paper industry statistics, which give a clear picture of the performance of the industry in 2012. These key statistics include data about production, consumption, and the trade of pulp, paper, and raw materials, as well as data concerning energy, environment, and social affairs. The statistics show that European pulp and paper production in 2012 continued to be affected by the economic slowdown that began in mid-2011.

Notably, performance of the European pulp and paper industry remains above other energy-intensive sectors in Europe. The industry is looking for a healthier supply and demand balance and is modernizing its industrial base to remain competitive. The overall output performance of all CEPI member countries during 2012 was similar to that of other major traditional paper producing world regions, such as the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. Only China and Brazil performed better.

CEPI members produced 92.1 million metric tons of paper and board in 2012, which represents a decrease of 1.6% over 2011. The pre-crisis production in 2008 totaled 97.9 million metric tons. Pulp production fell by 1.0% while the output of market pulp increased by 4.3%. Exports of paper and board outside of Europe showed an increase by 5.3% while imports fell by 9.7% compared with 2011. The overall consumption of paper and board in CEPI fell by 3.8% last year. In comparison, the overall GDP in Europe decreased by 0.3% in 2012, but it will recover in 2014 with a 1.4% increase (source: Eurostat – EU27).

A pdf of the statistics is available on CEPI's website, or statistics can be obtained via email. More detailed statistical information is available to non-CEPI members by subscription. A full report can be ordered by contacting Ariane Crèvecoeur, +32 (0)2 62749 35, or Erik Kilby.

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Total U.S. printing and writing (P&W) paper shipments in May were down 7% compared with May 2012, with total inventory levels increasing 1% from April, according to the AF&PA (Washington, D.C., USA) May 2013 Printing-Writing Paper Report. Additional key findings include:

• May shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) papers decreased 2% compared with May 2012, with year-to-date CFS shipments up less than 1% compared with 2012. Imports of CFS papers increased 22% in April compared with the same period last year.
• Uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments decreased 5% year-over-year in May. For the year, shipments are down 4% in 2013. Imports of UFS in April increased 26% compared with April 2012.
• May uncoated mechanical (UM) paper shipments decreased 11% compared with May 2012, with year-over-year imports through April up 5%.
• Coated mechanical (CM) shipments in May decreased 13% compared with May 2012. Shipments of CM are down 12% for the year, with imports through April up 14%.

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Domtar Corp., Montreal, Que., Canada, this past week dramatically increased its Personal Care segment's footprint and product range with the completion of the acquisition of Associated Hygienic Products (AHP) from DSG International, pursuant to a definitive agreement announced on May 28. AHP is the largest supplier of store brand infant diapers in the U.S., with manufacturing facilities in Delaware, Ohio, and Waco, Texas, along with administrative offices and a distribution center in Duluth, Ga.

The acquired business will be presented as part of the Personal Care reportable segment in Domtar's financial statements.

Domtar designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes a wide variety of fiber-based products including communication papers, specialty and packaging papers, and adult incontinence products as well as baby diapers.

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Double A, Thailand, reports that it has entered the dissolving pulp market in response to significant growth in the market and the global demand in many enterprises. Double A has invested $ 6.1 million to upgrade its pulp production line in Thailand to supply the world's textile industry with high quality and sustainable raw material from KHAN-NA, the company's sustainable fiber sourcing program that also improves rice farmer's income. p>The growing demand for high-purity cellulose, also known as dissolving pulp, is attributed to the consistent growth of regenerated cellulose fiber production, largely initiated by an increasing demand in China and other Asian countries, according to Double A.. In 2012, global demand for dissolving pulp, a viable alternative for cotton, has reached 6 million tons, the company notes, adding that the favorable trend is expected to continue in the next two years with an annual growth rate of 9%. Global demand is projected at 6.9 million tons in 2014.

Dissolving pulp, a bleached wood pulp with a high cellulose content of more than 90%, is a key material used to manufacture viscose staple fiber (VSF) or rayon. More than 80% of the world's dissolving pulp is converted to viscose rayon fiber, which is used in dresses, jackets, suits, socks, neckties, and other garments.

Asia, specifically China, will continue to be the world's biggest market for dissolving pulp as a viable substitute for cotton with special applications in rayon fiber for textile industry. This is due to the limited domestic supply of fiber, increased production of garments, and the short supply of cotton, Double A says.

China is the world's largest production base of viscose fiber, Double A continues. In 2012, it notes, 60% of the world's total viscose fiber output was produced by China. With production expected to grow by 10%, demand for dissolving pulp will also rise, making China a key market for Double A.

Double A's $6.1 million investment will be used to upgrade its pulp production line in Thailand using modern technology from Finland. The machine will commence commercial production at the beginning of 2014 with 175,000 tons annual capacity. The first 100,000 tons of production will be exported to China.

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Fortress Paper Ltd., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, this week issued an update of operations at its Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill in Thurso, Qué., Canada. During the second quarter, the turbine component of the cogeneration project was successfully synchronized to the power grid on more than one occasion and has operated up to 4 megawatts without incident. The turbine will continue to undergo a series of additional tests by the manufacturer.

Due to an unexpected mechanical failure of the high pressure water pump and the backup pump, the cogeneration project will not be completed by the end of the second quarter as previously anticipated. The company is currently implementing multiple solutions to resolve this issue as quickly as possible and is working closely with the supplier, who has undertaken a comprehensive review of the water pump.

As the current water pump supplier expects the water pump to be operational in mid-July, the company anticipates its cogeneration facility producing power before the end of July. However, to mitigate the potential risk of further delays caused by the current water pump repair not being resolved by such date, the company has ordered another pump from another supplier, which should be delivered in approximately 10 weeks and require approximately one week to install. The company will proceed with the mandatory 100 hour grid test upon the installation of the repaired or replaced water pump.

Chadwick Wasilenkoff, chairman and CEO of Fortress Paper, noted that "while this further delay in the startup of the cogeneration facility is frustrating, we remain confident that in the near term this pump will be repaired or replaced. Once the cogeneration facility is operational, we will see production costs at the mill improve towards our originally targeted cost structure."

Fortress Paper operates internationally in two business segments—dissolving pulp and security paper products. The company operates its dissolving pulp business at the Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill in Canada, which is also in the process of expanding into the renewable energy generation sector with the construction of a cogeneration facility. The company also is seeking to expand its dissolving pulp capacity with the recent acquisition of Fortress Global Cellulose Mill at Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Qué., which the company is evaluating to convert into a dissolving pulp mill and re-start the cogeneration facility.

The company operates its security paper products business at the Landqart Mill in Switzerland, where it produces banknote, passport, visa, and other brand protection and security papers, and at its high security production and research facility in Canada, where it manufactures optically variable thin film material.

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Kimberly-Clark, Dallas, Texas, USA, has concluded the handover of its Reisholz tissue manufacturing mill and its German rolled tissue brands, including Hakle® Dry Toilet Tissue, Dick & Durstig and Servus, to palero invest, a Luxembourg-based small cap private equity fund advised by palero capital GmbH. The sale, part of K-C's on-going Global Tissue Restructuring plan, was initially announced in November 2012.

A key priority throughout the sale process has been to ensure the future of the mill, K-C noted. Palero intends to continue to operate the mill as a going concern. The existing team will lead the future stand-alone business and manufacture and market branded as well as private label products for existing and new customers.

Kimberly-Clark will continue to use the Hakle® brand name for its Moist Bath Tissue brand in Germany for a period of time, after which the product will switch to another brand name. Furthermore, K-C will continue to use the Hakle® brand across both rolled and moist toilet tissue in Austria and Switzerland.

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Lincoln Paper and Tissue, Lincoln, Maine, USA, has signed a contract with local natural gas supplier Bangor Gas that will provide pipeline gas to the mill operations. Pipeline service to the mill will commence in late 2014 and will provide clean natural gas for tissue drying and the lime kiln process.

Lincoln Paper and Tissue has taken many steps over the years to improve its energy and environmental performance, the company notes. Some of the most recent include a project done in conjunction with Massachusetts based Xpress Natural Gas (XNG) that converted tissue drying hoods from No. 2 fuel oil to liquefied natural gas in February 2012. This August, the company will take the next step by converting the tissue hoods and lime kiln to compressed natural gas (CNG), also with XNG. This step will eliminate nearly all oil usage for process purposes.

Keith Van Scotter, CEO of Lincoln Paper and Tissue, said that "we worked very hard with Bangor Gas to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement and we want to thank them for their diligence and commitment in getting the deal completed. The pipeline will also form the foundation for natural gas supply to the Lincoln area," he continued, "We also want to thank Xpress Natural Gas for the excellent support that they provided us during the three year transition from high cost oil to lower cost pipeline natural gas."

Natural gas in the U.S. is the most economical fuel for industrial uses and heating, and supply to Lincoln Paper and Tissue will improve the competitive situation for the mill.

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Mercer International Inc., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, this week announced that, after conducting a comprehensive assessment, its Celgar mill near Castlegar in British Columbia, Canada, intends to reduce its workforce to improve its competitiveness with other pulp producers. The planned reduction will affect both hourly and salaried employees. The workforce reduction is expected to involve approximately 85 employees over the next five years, with the majority of employees to be affected over the next 12 months.

This action is being taken to substantially reduce fixed costs by bringing personnel levels more in line with other mills operating safely and productively around the world, Mercer notes. "It is essential for the long term viability and sustainability of the Celgar mill that it maintains a competitive cost structure compared to other producers in the face of ever increasing costs and other challenges. A competitive cost structure is also essential to attract the necessary investment capital required to continue to modernize the mill and participate in growing bio-economy opportunities," says Mercer's President and CEO Jimmy Lee.

The Celgar mill will continue to operate with an annual capacity of approximately 520,000 air-dried metric tons of market northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK) pulp and plans to employ approximately 370 employees when the workforce reduction is completed at the end of 2017.

Celgar will take appropriate measures to assist employees affected by the workforce restructuring in accordance with applicable agreements, policies, and legislation, and offer early retirement incentives for senior employees, the company says.

Mercer operates three modern NBSK pulp mills in Germany and Canada with a consolidated annual production capacity of approximately 1.5 million metric tons and currently employs approximately 1,500 people.

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Metsä Fibre, Finland, has started up the world's largest single polysulfide cooking line's at its Joutseno mill in Finland. Technology for the preparation of polysulfide, and the digester modifications to enable production of the improved softwood pulp, were supplied by international technology Group Andritz, Graz, Austria.

According to Joutseno Mill Manager Risto Joronen, who was also the director for this development project with Andritz, the use of polysulfide cooking liquor enables the mill to improve certain pulp qualities that benefits papermakers. One of those benefits is a reduction in specific energy to refine the pulp, resulting in lower operating costs for papermakers. There are also some enhancements to the fiber bonding due to the retention of certain hemicellulose materials in the pulp.

The Joutseno mill is also increasing its fiber yield, which makes the investment economically beneficial. As a result, the mill is able to reduce the loading of its recovery boiler, which allows it to improve production capacity.

The polysulfide process modifies conventional white cooking liquor to "orange liquor" (named due to the characteristic color of the modified liquor) by oxidizing sodium sulfide in the liquor to polysulfide. The plant provided by Andritz is based on the proven MOXY process (white liquor sulfide-to-polysulfide conversion) already installed in several mills around the world. The Joutseno mill is by far the largest single unit in operation worldwide.

Andritz also modified Joutseno's cooking plant to optimize the new process.

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Tissue producer Von Drehle Corp., Hickory, N.C., USA, says that its Natchez, Miss., plant will be the company's only "all-under-one-roof" facility. The operation will have pulp converting and tissue paper manufacturing capabilities, the company's only plant to have both, according to a report this past week by the Natchez Democrat. Reportedly, the mill has already started producing pulp and hopes to be converting tissue products by the end of this year.

Von Drehle announced in January of this year that it would locate manufacturing facilities in Natchez, on the site of the former Mississippi River Pulp mill it just acquired. Mississippi River had closed its doors in November 2012. Von Drehle said at that time that it expected to create at least 100 new jobs at the site in Natchez. The facility currently has some 30 employees, and prior to the Mississippi River shutdown had about 80. A company spokesperson stated in the Natchez Democrat article that Von Drehle has already started producing pulp products.

The company will soon install converting equipment, the newspaper report said, to produce the final products. The equipment will take parent rolls, up to 92 in. in diameter, and roll them to make a log on a core. The rolls then will go down an assembly line where they are cut and eventually packaged and sold.

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Neenah Paper, Alpharetta, Ga., USA, has signed an exclusive partnership agreement with Gruppo Cordenons, the Italian maker of high quality fine papers, to market and distribute all of Cordenons papers in the U.S. and Canada. The papers will continue to be manufactured by Gruppo Cordenons at its two paper mills in Italy—the Cordenons Mill, a state of the art facility, and at the Scurelle paper mill, both in Northern Italy. The papers will be available to Neenah distributors beginning September 3.

"Neenah has an unwavering commitment to providing designers with unique product options to set their work apart," said Julie Schertell, president of Fine Paper. "Cordenons papers are known for their exemplary quality, thick and heavy cover weights, and artisanal color palettes. Brands like Stardream, Plike, and Canaletto are specified by designers for projects that require a unique and premium image. This collection is a natural complement to our existing portfolio of fine papers."

"We are very pleased to announce this partnership," said Ferruccio Gilberti, owner and president, Gruppo Cordenons. "The affiliation with Neenah Paper will enable Gruppo Cordenons to more fully extend the reach and availability of our fine papers in this key region of the world. Neenah continues to find new and creative ways to grow in existing and new market segments. The alignment of our premium image and high quality brands make this partnership a perfect fit for both companies."

Schertell noted that this agreement follows several successful strategic partnerships by Neenah Paper to fuel its growth and share. "We are committed to our partners and understand, appreciate, and respect the longstanding tradition of craftsmanship and quality. These are brands that underline that paper can be both beautiful and functional, will continue to drive value in the marketplace, and will thrive as part of the Neenah Paper family," she said.

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NewPage Corp., Miamisburg, Ohio, USA, and Omya, Cincinnati, Ohio, have entered into a long-term supply agreement to build a precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) plant at the NewPage Escanaba, Mich., paper mill site. The plant will create seven new jobs.

The Escanaba mill currently purchases PCC from another supplier. With the PCC plant on-site, the mill will save on transportation costs. Lime needed for the PCC manufacturing process will be purchased from the Upper Peninsula. The environment also benefits from the on-site plant. Currently, CO2 produced by the mill is emitted into the air and considered waste. The on-site plant will use CO2 generated by the Escanaba mill in the process, reducing the environmental impact.

"We're very pleased to announce the creation of this PCC plant at the Escanaba mill," said NewPage SVP of Operations Mark Lukacs. "This plant is a step toward helping us achieve our long-term vision. The creation of this plant deepens our relationship with our strategic partner, Omya."

Escanaba Mill Manager Roger Rouleau said, "By locating the plant here at the Escanaba mill, it's not only mutually beneficial for Omya and NewPage, the improved economics and job creation help support the local economy."

Tony Colak, CEO for Omya Region Americas said, "We are very excited to build and operate this new PCC plant for NewPage Escanaba. Most importantly, we are pleased to be a strategic supplier and partner with NewPage. The close collaboration between Omya and NewPage has resulted in this long-term commitment."

NewPage produces printing and specialty papers in North America with $3.1 billion in net sales for 2012. The company owns paper mills in Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, with a total annual production capacity of approximately 3.5 million tons of paper. NewPage's portfolio of paper products includes coated, supercalendered, and specialty papers.

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The SCA Ortviken mill near Sundsvall, Sweden, has ordered from ABB, Zurich, Switzerland, a System 800xA automation solution for its new biofuel plant for handling and grinding pellets and combustion of wood powder in two biomass boilers, including equipment for cleaning flue gases. The new plant will also be able to deliver district heating to the local utility, Sundsvalls Energi AB.

The automation solution from ABB will control and monitor the entire plant, including the safety systems. Existing wood, pulp, and energy systems will be utilized and integrated with ABB's System 800xA automation. The system will handle a complex process with very high security requirements. The control includes two existing boilers rebuilt for the new type of fuel, new fuel handling, and integration with adjacent process sections.

By adding new features such as fuel handling and burner control to the existing system, operators will be working in a familiar environment that ensures a safe and smooth transition. Parts of the existing system will also be upgraded to 800xA. Commissioning is planned for June (already occurred) and October 2013.

SCA's investments in the Ortviken mill will contribute to increased district heating deliveries based on renewable fuels to Sundsvalls Energi's district heating network from the plants in Östrand and Ortviken. The initiative involves a reduction in oil consumption of 25,000 cubic meters of oil per year, which leads to reduced carbon emissions.

Ortviken's paper mill produces coated printing paper, LWC, and newsprint paper on four machines. The raw material is fresh spruce pulp wood, mainly from SCA's own forests in northern Sweden. The paper production capacity is 880,000 metric tpy.

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SCG Paper, Bangkok, Thailand, has ordered two large automation packages from Metso, Finland, to be installed on Siam Kraft PM 16 – a new OptiConcept M machine from Metso at the Ban Pong mill in Ratchaburi, Thailand, and for the upgrade of TUPI PM 9 at the Wangsala mill in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The goal of the automation packages is to increase production capacity and modernize the existing control systems.

Both automation packages include Metso's automation system with continuous condition monitoring of field instruments, quality control systems, and Neles® and Jamesbury® valves for on-off and control applications. All valves are equipped with pneumatic cylinder actuators and intelligent positioners or limit switches. The upgrade delivery for TUPI PM 9 at the Wangsala mill also includes consistency measurement.

The scalable Metso DNA automation system adapts to diverse industry needs, from single machine controls to entire plant-wide automation and information management systems. It enables plants to integrate all operations into a single plant-wide or even corporate-wide entity, enabling easy access to information for comparing and combining process data. Operators only need to know one system, and customers also benefit from having a single source for global system support, updates, and spare parts.

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Södra, Sweden, this week reported that it will apply for an environmental license to extend production at Södra Cell Värö in Sweden. The company plans to increase production capacity from the current 425 000 metric tpy to 700 000 metric tpy.

"Södra Cell is currently a leading player in the field of market paper pulp production, and this is a position that we want to retain and develop. This is why we have decided to apply for an environmental license to expand our pulp mill in Värö," said Lars Idermark, CEO and group president of Södra. "We are currently working on reviewing our group strategy, and we expect this work to be complete in early 2014. Expansion of Södra Cell Värö is one of the measures that can reinforce our position and create sustainable profitability. This expansion will result in more efficient production and also pave the way for a long-term, profitable market for our members' wood raw materials."

Gunilla Saltin, CEO of Södra Cell, noted that "our pulp mill in Värö offers plenty of potential for expansion. This expansion will allow us to develop still further the range of high-quality softwood products that we offer to our customers. Our aim going forward remains to be the first choice for our customers. Värö currently supplies high-quality pulp to a number of different customer segments, and this is something that we want to develop and underpin, As well as increasing pulp production, this investment means that the plant can be made even more energy-efficient. Södra Cell Värö is already independent of fossil fuels during normal operation."

A final decision on the investment may be made once the licensing process has advanced far enough for what is known as a commencement permit to be issued.

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UPM and Metso, both based in Finland, have agreed to continue their mill maintenance outsourcing agreement at the UPM Plattling mill in Bavaria, Germany. Metso will provide maintenance systems and procedures and be responsible for optimizing maintenance costs and developing technical availability at the mill. The agreement, covering three paper production lines, became effective July 1. The value of the agreement was not disclosed.

Metso has been responsible for the mill maintenance of Plattling mill's paper machine No. 1 since 2007 and of paper machines No. 10 and No. 11 since 2011. The new multiyear agreement will cover mill maintenance operations for these three paper production lines.

Metso's mill maintenance model optimizes the use of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Metso's streamlined reliability centered maintenance (Applied RCM), and condition-based maintenance. The model ensures the highest possible equipment efficiency and cost optimization.

The UPM Plattling mill produces 780,000 metric tpy of lightweight coated and supercalendered papers.

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Irving Place Capital, New York, N.Y., USA, and funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, Los Angeles, Calif., have agreed to sell their ownership interests in Chesapeake, Nottingham, U.K., to The Carlyle Group, Washington. D.C. Chesapeake is a global supplier of specialty paperboard packaging, including folding cartons, leaflets, and labels, for the pharmaceutical, confectionary, and premium drinks markets. Founded in 1918, Chesapeake serves a customer base from 38 sites located throughout the U.K., continental Europe, the U.S., and Asia.

Irving Place Capital and Oaktree Capital completed the acquisition and recapitalization of Chesapeake in May 2009, supporting the transition from a publicly traded entity listed in the U.S. to a private, independent company domiciled in Europe. Since then, Chesapeake executed on a long-term strategic and operational plan that included a significant capital investment program designed to expand capacity and enhance manufacturing capabilities. In addition, Chesapeake completed three add-on acquisitions during this period, further strengthening its technical capabilities and geographic presence.

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Madison Dearborn Partners, Chicago, Ill., USA, has agreed to buy Multi Packaging Solutions (MPS), New York, N.Y., a supplier of print-based specialty packaging, from New York-based Irving Place Capital. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Multi Packaging Solutions is a manufacturer of printed folding cartons, labels, and inserts for customers in the healthcare, consumer, and media end markets. MPS has experienced significant growth since Irving Place Capital's initial investment and now operates 16 manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and Europe, with approximately 2,600 employees worldwide.

"In 2005 we backed entrepreneur Marc Shore with the shared vision of creating a packaging company that didn't exist in the marketplace," said Phil Carpenter, a senior managing director at Irving Place Capital. "Over the past eight years, Marc and the MPS management team have seized that opportunity, completing seven add-on acquisitions, entering new end markets, and investing aggressively to establish a global business to reach new customers. We have enjoyed supporting the team in building MPS and extend our best wishes for their continued success."

Marc Shore, CEO of MPS, said that the growth his company has achieved over the last eight years "would not have been possible without the support of our customers, employees, and Irving Place Capital. We are excited to partner with Madison Dearborn Partners to capitalize on the significant opportunities available to expand and develop our business. MDP has substantial experience in the packaging industry and our new partnership will allow us to accelerate growth while continuing to provide high-quality products and outstanding service to our global customers."

MPS is a manufacturer of print-based specialty packaging for the healthcare, consumer, and media end markets. It has 16 manufacturing locations in the U.S. and Europe.

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PT Suparma, Surabaya, Indonesia, has ordered from Andritz, Graz, Austria, a new FibreFlow drum pulper for the rebuild of its existing wastepaper pulping system. Startup is scheduled for the end of this year.

The ANDRITZ FibreFlow drum pulper slushes and separates coarse contaminants for all kinds of recovered paper, providing high production capacity and better fiber yield. The unit for PT Suparma will have a capacity of 350 metric tpd based on a mix of 80% LOCC (local old corrugated containers) and 20% AOCC (American old corrugated containers). ANDRITZ's scope of supply also includes engineering, erection supervision, startup, training, and a spare and wear parts package.

PT Suparma supplies paperboard and laminated wrapping kraft and tissue paper for the Asian market, also exporting to Australia and Africa. The company produces 190,000 metric tpy of paper.

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At the event IT'S Tissue that was held in Lucca, Italy, June 22 to 30, Fabio Perini S.p.A., Italy, introduced its new MILE 7.2, which the company says "will revolutionize the way to conceive the roll." The new line proposes an integrated system solution with the new Casmatic packaging machine mod. A6T in line with the bundler mod. CMB202 and LA02 by Langhammer.

The new MILE 7.2 has been designed for those who want to differentiate their products and preserve the characteristics of the tissue during the process of transformation in every detail and produce "glue-free" rolls.

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Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) reports that the paper industry can save approximately 10% of its energy use by deploying a new heat pump concept that makes the process of paper manufacturing more sustainable and more affordable. ECN, the largest energy research institute in the Netherlands, and Bronswerk Heat Transfer, global supplier of heat transfer solutions, signed a license agreement for selling the concept on the market. The innovative concept upgrades industrial waste heat to higher temperatures so it can be reused in the process.

The temperature of most industrial waste heat is too low to be reused, ECN explains. Therefore, heat pumps upgrade the temperature to higher levels. The application developed by ECN offers an economically viable method to upgrade the temperature of waste heat to such levels that it can be reused in the industrial process, resulting in significant energy savings.

"Thanks to ECN's concept, reusing waste heat has come within reach for multiple industrial applications. With this technique, the paper industry can make a giant leap towards a more sustainable and efficient production process," Robert Kleiburg, COO of ECN, noted.

According to Sjaak Remmerswaal, President of Bronswerk Heat Transfer, a more sustainable industry must be economically viable. "If we can earn back our sustainable technologies by energy savings and lower costs, we increase the incentive to make the switch. We are very optimistic about the market prospects of this system," Remmerswaal said.

The concept is considered innovative because of the much higher temperatures that can be achieved. By using a natural refrigerant, the heat pump within this system can upgrade the temperature of the waste heat from 60o-140o C to produce steam, which is much higher compared with common heat pump systems.

ECN and Bronswerk, together with packaging specialist SmurfitKappa and air conditioning and refrigeration technology specialist IBK, are testing the concept on a small scale (200 kW) at SmurfitKappa Roermond Paper. "This innovation fits perfectly with our ambition to halve the energy consumption in the whole chain," Henk Hoevers, VP of Technology at SmurfitKappa, pointed out.

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The Newark Group, Cranford, N.J., USA, this week announced a 5% price increase for all converting products, including: tubes, cores, chipboard roll heads, chipboard sheets, laminated paperboard sheets, floor protection, panels, spines, game boards and packaging offerings. This increase will be effective with all orders shipped on or after Monday, July 22.

"While continuous improvement in our processes is an ongoing effort, escalating external costs make this price change necessary." said Paul Spitale, VP of Sales, Newark Converting Divisions.

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Nippon Paper Industries, Japan, has announced a price hike for woodfree colored paper in the domestic market to all of its agencies. The increase, the exact amount which was not specified, will be effective with all orders shipped on or after August 21.

While the business environment of woodfree colored paper has been worsened by the prolonged downturn in domestic demand and its market price has been falling, there has been an upward trend in the price of raw materials and fuels, and rapid depreciation of Japanese yen, the company notes. Nippon adds that although the company has struggled to reduce costs, the negative impact from these environmental changes cannot be absorbed only by its own efforts. For these reasons, the company decided to raise the price to a sustainable level.

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Process Filtration Inc., Nashua, N.H., USA, a vertically integrated manufacturer and supplier of process filtration products and services, has appointed Steven Pearl as VP of Quality Management. In this newly created position, Pearl will be responsible for quality systems, new product validation, design control in development of new products, and product quality assessments.

Pearl has more than 25 years of experience in developing and validating high quality membrane based products for use by Biopharmaceutical manufacturers. His previous positions include VP of R&D at both Millipore and Pall Life Sciences. He has managed large R & D groups developing products under ISO 9001 Design control and disciplined Stage-Gate development processes.

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Thiele Kaolin Co., Sandersville, Ga., USA, this week announced that Steve Humphries has joined the company as Mid-Atlantic regional sales manager. In this role, Humphries will support Thiele's domestic customers across 12 states in the U.S. from South Carolina to Pennsylvania, and as far west as Kentucky. Humphries succeeds David Hickman, who will be retiring at the end of 2013.

Humphries has 23 years of experience in the kaolin industry, most recently with Kemira Chemicals where he was sales manager over the White Pigments customer market. Humphries is an alumnus of Georgia College and State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

Thiele adds that Tom Bennett has also joined the company as a sales and marketing associate. Bennett is a recent graduate of Georgia Southern University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. In this position, Bennett will provide marketing support to Thiele's global sales team and will work with internal and external stakeholders to develop tailored products that will provide value to Thiele customers.

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TAPPI is providing a unique opportunity for North American suppliers to exhibit at the 2013 China International Paper Technology Exhibition and Conference (CIPTE). This pulp and paper exhibit, the largest in China, will be held September 23-25. 

TAPPI has held several 9 sq. meter booths for exhibitors from North America. The exhibit costs less than $1,500. Please reply this week or our booth space will be released. 

More information is available 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.

Your opportunity to attend the highly reputable
Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) Course
 is coming July 15-19, at the TAPPI Training Facility in metro Atlanta, Ga., USA.

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.

COSS curriculum is updated every year for the highest integrity of accuracy because safety rules and OSHA standards are often changing. The cost of this nationally-known program is minimal if you compare it with the potential cost of even one accident.
This course is designed for all job levels so that anyone can become a leader in safety management on the job. COSS instructors are Authorized OSHA Outreach Trainers, a highly complex level of commitment - meaning these trainers are passionate about safety.  You'll learn from the best in the profession. This 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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Alabama Southern will host a one-day-only Operator Training Conference & Workshop. This complimentary event, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in conjunction with NPT2, will help HR professional and mill leaders add value to their existing operator training programs and provide practical advice on how to create a more competitive and better trained workforce.

Date: Friday, July 18
Location: Alabama Southern, Thomasville, Ala.
Time: 8:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m  CST

Discover new tools, learn best practices, and better equip your operator workforce. For more details or to register for the event, please contact Martha Wynn by email or by phone at 334.637.3194.

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This Online Piping System Fundamentals Course offered in six, two-hour sessions supplies anyone working on piping systems the practical knowledge and troubleshooting skills needed to perform job tasks better than ever before.

Who benefits?

This is a course for anyone, including junior engineers, as well as a good refresher course for senior engineers. It also helps operations and maintenance supervisors, design and process engineers, and operators and maintenance personnel better understand how piping systems operate.

What do we cover?
 
 Session 1 (July 9)-Completed: Course Introduction/Piping System Terminology and Units
 Session 2 (July 11): Centrifugal Pumps
 Session 3 (July 16): Tanks/Processes and Process Equipment
 Session 4 (July 18): Pipes/Valves & Fittings
 Session 5 (July 23): Control Valves/Process Measurement and Control
 Session 6 (July 25): The Total Piping System

Webinars are held from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. (EST).

What You Get 

CRANE's Technical Paper No. 410:  A copy of the most current CRANE Technical Paper No. 410 (TP410) US Version, the quintessential guide for to understanding the flow of fluid through valves, pipes, and fittings, enabling you to select the correct equipment for your piping system.

Piping System Fundamentals: The Complete Guide to Gaining a Clear Picture of Your Piping System US Version is an extensive look at the main conditions effecting the operation of a piping system, describing the interaction between of pumps, compressors, pipelines, control valves, and other components.

Comprehensive Course Workbook: To maximize the value of your learning experience during and after the training course, your extensive course manual has been designed with many useful guidelines and key points of information covered in the course. You will find this manual to be an excellent resource for retrieving concepts taught during the seminar and applying them back on the job.

1.2 Continuing Education Credits: 1.2 Continuing Educational Units (CEU) or 12 Professional Development Hours will be awarded to course participants.

Course Certificate: At the conclusion of the training course, you will be awarded an attractive certificate of completion with course content description included for confirmation of your continued education credits.

Once you register, a confirmation will be sent to you along with an additional web session invitation closer to the start of the class.

If you have any questions, call Fluid Fundamentals at 800-786-8545 or send an email.

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TAPPI is an official media partner of the NPIRI 2013 Printing Ink Technology Course, July 14-19, at the Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wis., USA. 

This means huge savings for TAPPI members now eligible to register at NPIRI member prices to attend the only course in the industry that covers:

• Where, how, and why raw materials are used
• Formulation, testing, and application of printing inks linked to raw material characteristics
• First hand exposure to printing presses (offset, flexo and digital).

 Register online today.

2013 NPIRI Printing Ink Technology Course Preview:

The Printing Ink Technology Course is one of the joint efforts presented by ink companies and Technical Associate Members (TAMs) through NPIR. It is intended to provide a platform that encourages a common understanding of fundamentals, and from that, a more effective working relationship with your suppliers and customers.

The course will provide comprehensive, in-depth yet flexible coverage of the subject matter and is intended for those involved in the technical and sales side of the ink industry. The course is designed to bring new employees up to speed quickly, as well as provide more experienced employees the fundamental understanding necessary to improve, update, and expand their skill sets.

View the 2013 syllabus for all the technical topics that will be covered.

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Your business can potentially save millions implementing improvements to paper machine performance and reliability.

The TAPPI Improving Paper Machine Performance Course, August 20-22, in Peachtree Corners (Metro Atlanta), Ga., USA., will allow students to see real world examples of paper mills that have made major improvements in overall efficiency by implementing many small improvements across their operation.
 
Jim Atkins will lead you through a real mill improvement project and show you how you can do the same thing in your mill. Dick Reese will show you how to make big savings in energy costs by correcting problems that often require little or no capital expenditures. Chuck Klass will teach you how to evaluate size press and coating operations to get the most out of what you have. And Ken Hill will give you the tools you need to evaluate and benchmark dryer systems, so you can correct problems and dry more paper.

This is an advanced level course. Students who complete this course will know everything required to save their company millions of dollars through paper machine performance improvements.

Learn more about this course.
 
Register by July 20 for the best rates.

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Over 40 members of the TAPPI Corbotec Committee attended the annual summer meeting hosted by KapStone Paper Mill in North Charleston, SC., USA. on June 19-20.

Bruce Hoffman, KapStone Charleston's Vice President of Mill System Operations, kicked off the annual summer meeting by welcoming the group and giving some interesting history of the facility. A TAPPI business review and update followed, including a report on the status of test methods as well as upcoming TAPPI Corrugated webinars, courses and conferences. Judy Lazaro with AIB International addressed the group in regards to "Understanding the GSFI Audit". Her presentation was followed by "blue card" discussions. Blue cards are questions or problems that have been sent in prior to the meeting from plants across the country. The committee members discuss these issues and work through solutions which are sent out as part of the meeting minutes. After lunch, a presentation was given by Ken Atkinson and Steve Gidman from Fortress Technology on "Metal Detection in Paper", and the day concluded with a tour of the Irvin Family Winery and Firefly Bottling Company with a reception hosted by TAPPI at the Grill on the Edge.

Day two began with an overview of the KapStone Mill given by Frank Lowry, Technical Sales Service Manager of KapStone and a member of Corbotec. The group then enjoyed a guided tour. After lunch, two additional presentations were given. Paul Capozzi of Deublin talked to the group about "Steam Joints and Siphons for Corrugating" and Ron Buckhold of KadantJohnson presented "ThermoMax™ Steam and Condensate Control Systems". These presentations were followed by additional blue card Q&A's.

The 2014 summer meeting will be hosted by KadantJohnson in Three Rivers, MI. The Corbotec Committee will also meet in conjunction with CorrExpo in Indianapolis, IN. October 7-9. If you would like additional information on becoming a member of this active corrugated committee, please contact one of the officers listed below or Kristi Ledbetter at 770-209-7319 or kledbetter@tappi.org.

Chair – Neal Reidenbach, Packaging Corporation of America
Vice-chair – Peter Snyder, Harper/Love Adhesives
Secretary – Glenn Rogers, Pratt Industries

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IEEE Spectrum author and noted researcher Dr. Andrew Steckl will provide the opening presentation at the upcoming Building Electronics on Paper Workshop, August 6-7 at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI., USA. Based at the University of Cincinnati, Dr. Steckl revealed the following in the IEEE magazine about paper as a substrate for displays and microfluidic systems:

• With the right set of additives and manufacturing processes, paper can take on a seemingly endless range of properties. It can be made hydrophilic or hydrophobic, porous or watertight, opaque or nearly transparent, delicate or strong, coarse or about as smooth as glass.

• It is possible to fabricate reliable pixels on coated paper with switching times as short as 10 milliseconds - nearly suitable for video. Paper-based displays using electrowetting might be ideal for smart labels on packages that could, for example, show videos about how the product is to be used, or for displays containing vital information for soldiers in the field—that can be rapidly destroyed if necessary.

• Researchers are now trying to develop a general class of paper-based microfluidic systems that can be adapted to make a variety of different tests, for such tasks as monitoring liver function or diagnosing tuberculosis. If done right, these tests could be compact, self-contained, and extremely affordable.

Join Dr. Steckl and subject matter experts from the Kellogg Company, DuPont Electronics, Rutgers University, and others will share results of their research and product development at the FlexTech Workshop, co-hosted by Western Michigan University (WMU). Workshop sponsors include FujiFilm Dimatix and Paper360.

See the full agenda on the event website.

Paper 360° is the media sponsor and TAPPI members receive a substantial registration discount. Use the discount code: PAPER360. Register today.

Prior to the workshop, registrants will benefit from a 1/2 day of hands-on demos at WMU's Center for the Advancement of Printed Electronics, which features labs dedicated to inkjet, screen, rotogravure, and flexographic printing.

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Nominations for the major TAPPI 2014 awards are due by August 1. 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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The 2014 PLACE Technical Program Team is actively seeking technical presentations, panels, tutorials, roundtables, and case studies from the packaging and academic community to be presented at this year's conference. Interested in being a session chair or know someone who would be a great presenter? Extended abstracts will be accepted anytime before August 1. Space is limited so submit now! Final papers will be due on or before March 17, 2014.  

View the list of suggested topics and an extended abstract example.  
 
The 2014 PLACE Conference is the premier North American event for the flexible packaging industry and will have something for the whole supply chain, including suppliers, converters, extruders, retailers, and brand owners.

Join us for this comprehensive event with more targeted content, topic variety, and program ideas than ever before. This event will use traditional content delivery methods like primers/tutorials, panel discussions, and interactive content delivery methods.

Submission Deadline is August 1, 2013.
 
 Feel free to contact Kristi Ledbetter if you have any additional questions.
 
 Kristi Ledbetter
 Converting Division Manager
 TAPPI
 15 Technology Parkway South
 Peachtree Corners, GA  30092
 Phone:  770-209-7319
 Fax:  770-446-6947

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Winding Machines and Measurements
Item Number: 0102B068

Non-member: $229 / Non-member Sale: $160
Member: $154 / Member Sale: $108

Winding Machines: Mechanics and Measurements is the definitive book on the science of winding written by noted experts Dr. David Roisum and Dr. J.K. Good. This three-part book (with supplemental CD-ROM) describes the various classes and arrangements of winding machinery commonly found in the web industries including discussion of controls and defects; describes how roll stresses and roll defects can be predicted by mathematical models and what factors are important; and discusses almost every method for measuring and evaluating wound roll quality. The book describes how and why many wound roll defects occur. In more than a few cases, it even describes when defects occur based on winding models that have matured to the point of trustworthy application. In these cases, we have science at its best, a predictive tool.

A CD with an easy-to-run winding model is included with every book. However, one need not be a scientist to appreciate and use this text. Much of it is written in everyday language describing the machines we work with, the defects we see, and the many measures of roll quality. It is a book that most plants with a winding department would want to have.

Dictionary of Paper, Fifth Edition
Item Number: 0102B058
 
Non-member: $112 / Non-member Sale: $78
Member: $75/Member Sale: $53

An essential reference tool for everyone in the industry, this dictionary defines more than 5,300 terms commonly used in the pulp and paper industry. The dictionary was revised and updated by a team of industry experts led by Michael Kouris, TAPPI JOURNAL Editor Emeritus. The 5th edition of The Dictionary of Paper is the most comprehensive dictionary ever published by TAPPI.

Film Extrusion Manual, Second Edition
Item Number: 0101R313

Non-member: $205 / Non-member Sale: $144
Member: $137 / Member Sale: $96

The Film Extrusion Manual, Second Edition focuses on the technology and science of polymer film extrusion. The material in this book's 42 chapters can be used to learn the basics of applied extrusion theory, as well as provide troubleshooting guidelines and solutions to many common problems encountered in the fabrication of thermoplastic films.

This book can be used as a stand-alone training resource for all levels of professional and operations personnel working in the plastics film industry, including plastic film manufacturing, converting, equipment suppliers, and polymer suppliers.

The Coating Processes
Item Number: 0102B057

Non-member: $155/Non-member Sale: $109
Member: $103/Member Sale: $72

This book covers fundamentals and practical applications of paper coating. The book is divided into eight chapters that outline the process of making coated paper, the preparation, application and drying, and treatment of the dried coated surface. Each chapter is written by an expert in the particular subject area covered. This book is an excellent resource for both businesses and universities.


View the TAPPI catalog (PDF) to see more from the bookstore.

Order online from the TAPPI Press website.

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The Lake States TAPPI golf outing will be held this year at the Mid-Vallee Country Club in De Pere, Wis., USA, on Tuesday, August 13. An afternoon shotgun scramble golf outing is planned with dinner to follow. Prizes will be awarded and individual pin events will be held.

Those submitting registration with their fee, postmarked by August 9, will be assigned holes on a first-come, first-serve basis. Later registrations will be assigned as space is available. Foursome sponsors and all singles will be notified of their hole assignment at the course on the day of the event.

Prizes and donations will be awarded after dinner. In the past, various suppliers to the paper industry have been generous in donating raffle prizes. These types of donations will be appreciated again this year. Recognition will be provided during the after-dinner for those who have been so generous. Please make sure the raffle items identify your company. Events include:

• 50-50 Raffle
• Putting Contest
• Hole Contest
• Hole in One Contest
• and Door Prizes!

This special event benefits scholarships for local TAPPI and PIMA programs!

Register now online.

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The 2013 TAPPI Linerboard/Medium Manufacture Course, August 13-15 at the TAPPI Training Room, in Peachtree Corners, Ga., USA, is designed to help increase your understanding of linerboard and medium performance properties and manufacturing to improve corrugated box performance and runnability.

This intermediate-level course is ideal for process engineers and operators in linerboard and medium manufacturing facilities and converting plants with a more intermediate background. For those participants who require an overview background on pulp and papermaking technology, there will be an optional one day Introduction to P&P on Monday afternoon, August 12, prior to the beginning of the main course on Tuesday. This supplemental session is intended for corrugators, new P&P mill and supplier personnel, and those without exposure to pulp and paper operations.

If you are looking to increase your understanding of linerboard and medium performance properties and how they are achieved, build your confidence in interacting more knowledgeably within the mill with suppliers and with corrugators, and improve manufacturing operations to produce a more competitive product, then this course is for you.

There are only 25 seats are available for this course. Register now to reserve your spot.

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DuPont and Kellogg's are among the featured companies presenting at FlexTech Alliance's upcoming workshop "Building Electronics on Paper – Why, How & Who" on August 6-7 at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich., USA. This 1.5-day combination of demonstrations, presentations, and networking features industry and academic experts explaining the dynamics of printing electronic circuitry on paper. See the full list of speakers.

Paper 360° is the media sponsor and TAPPI members receive a substantial registration discount. Toward the end of the registration process, enter this code PAPER360 in the "Discount Code" field and click "Apply" to receive the $149 workshop price.
 
Valuable market insights will be presented, including a keynote from Kellogg's Corporation on smart packaging, while DuPont will explain its experience with printed electronic materials. Other presentations include paper as a novel platform, paper–based touch pads, thermal printing, and paper-based printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Registrants will benefit from the ½ day of hands-on demos at WMU's Center for the Advancement of Printed Electronics (CAPE), which features labs dedicated to inkjet, screen, rotogravure, and flexographic printing. DuPont, Mitsubishi Inks, NovaCentrix, and WMU will provide experts to conduct the demos and explain fabrication methods.

 By attending this workshop, registrants will learn:

• Why paper is an important substrate for printed electronics
• What applications are of interest to end users
• Challenges in developing and accepting new printed electronics technology
• Recent advancements in corporate and university labs that are enabling printed electronics on papers in all of its forms.

Click here for registration and workshop details.

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As TAPPI is getting ready to celebrate its 100th Year Anniversary in 2015, we were wondering how much industry expertise we have in this great group of professionals.

So, we decided to post a discussion question on our TAPPI Social Media outlets. We asked, "How many years of paper and/or packaging experience do you have?"
 
Who knew such a simple question would have such an impressive response.

With more than 7,000 TAPPI members, all over the world, we have counted 650-plus years of industry experience! And that's just counting the first 30 people who have responded. Now you probably can't find that anywhere else . So why don't you join us?

From those "born" into the industry to third generation professionals. From paper to packaging, to sustainability, environment, tissue, converters, and consulting. This TAPPI network has something for everyone.
 
Become a part of this unique community of paper and packaging professionals, and add your expertise to our group, and network with others to learn something new.

Visit our website to learn more today!

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The soon-to-be-published, "Production and Applications of Cellulose Nanomaterials" is the latest TAPPI Press product to broaden the industry knowledge regarding who is researching nano technologies as well as leads on successful applications.

Anyone working in the nanomaterials field, or needing to understand the production and standards of the field, will want to add this volume to their reference material. Cellulose nano-crystals and cellulose nano-fibrils have been known for 20-50 years, but recent research suggesting very high strength properties and other unique physical properties have generated extensive interest in these materials.

 
Pre-order your copy today and save!

This new book will include:

• A collection of two to three page summaries on recently completed and on-going research with these high strength materials
• A list of who's-who of research as well as leads on successful applications
• Topics on subjects such as production and modification, composites, other applications, modeling, and standards.
• Special feature: Actual cellulose nanocrystals included within the overcoat varnish of the cover.
  
  
  Pre-order Price:
  Member: $149
  Nonmember: $149
  
  After July 15:
  Member: $189
  Nonmember: $259
  
  Product code: 0101R332

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Make plans to attend the 2013 Building Sciences Committee Fall Meeting September 18-20.

The Building Sciences Committee has designed a strong technical program for production managers and engineers to provide firsthand knowledge to improve their fiberglass mat process with practical production-targeted papers.

This year's program will include papers on: Process Variation Reduction, Glass Sizing Basics; Burner Safety and Efficiency; Biological Treatment Case Study, Operator and Mechanical Training to Enhance Operational Effectiveness; IT Systems to Manage Roll Goods and Reduce Waste.

We are pleased that Tim Worms of 3M will return by popular demand to present his updated Roofing Market Overview and Forecast.

The meeting will be held at The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort in Marco Island, Fla. USA. TAPPI has negotiated a very economical room rate of $109.00 per night per guest. This rate is good for TAPPI members for stays of any length from Wednesday, September 18, through Sunday, September 22. Group dinners Wednesday and Thursday evenings will provide opportunities to meet other manufacturing personnel and suppliers, and their cost is included in the cost of the meeting. These will be excellent networking opportunities.

Thursday's afternoon recreational activity (also included in the registration price) is a choice of golf, coastal fishing, or an afternoon at the spa. Non-registered spouses and guests are welcome to participate in the activities and dinners for the following costs: $60 per dinner and $95 for golf, fishing, or the spa treatment. They do not have to pay the conference registration fee.

Click here for additional meeting information.

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Paper Machine Wet Press Manual, Fourth Edition
Edited by: Richard A. Reese

Paper Machine Wet Press Manual provides an introduction to wet pressing technology in the paper industry and includes information on practical press section considerations on paper machines. The book provides an overview of press section equipment and key factors in optimizing press section performance. In addition, checklists are included to evaluate press section performance.

The book will be particularly useful to paper company personnel including paper machine superintendents, foremen, paper machine operators, process engineers, etc. Employees of suppliers to the paper industry involved in supplying press section equipment and evaluating press section performance will also find the book beneficial. The Paper Machine Wet Press Manual, Fourth Edition is a project of the Water Removal Committee of TAPPI's Engineering Division.

Item Number: 0102B042 • List Price: $124 • Tappi Member: $83
                  
Starch and Starch Products for Wet End Application
By: Hans W. Maurer

Starch and Starch Products for Wet End Applications is a complement to Maurer's previous book, Starch and Starch Products in Surface Sizing and Paper Coating. His new book, Starch and Starch Products for Wet End Application, addresses issues in the preparation and application of starch and starch products for use in the wet stages of the papermaking process. This publication covers a wide range of subjects in starch utilization, ranging from the preparation of specific starch products to their use in papermaking for flocculation, retention, drainage, strength, and sizing control. Environmental issues in the use of starch and analytical procedures for starch analysis and charge characterization are also addressed.

Item Number: 0101R319 • List Price: $185 • Tappi Member: $125
       
    E-BOOKS COMING SOON
      
Roll and Web Defect Terminology - E-Book
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.

Paper Machine Quality Control Systems - Volume 1: Measurement Systems and Product Variability - E-Book
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 processes, 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. This book was written by the Quality Control Systems Education Common Interest Group of the Process Control Division.  
      
    COMING SOON IN PRINT   
      
Production and Applications of Cellulose Nanomaterials
By: Alan W. Rudie, USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory,
Michael A. Postek, National Institute of Standards and Technology,
Robert J. Moon, USDA Frost Service, Forest Products Laboratory,
Michael A. Bilodeau, University of Maine

Cellulose nanocrystals and cellulose nanofibrils have been known for upwards of 50 years, but recent research suggesting very high strength properties and other unique physical properties have generated extensive interest in these materials. The book will be a collection of summaries on recently completed and on-going research with these high strength materials. This book will highlight cutting-edge research as well as leads on successful applications. Topics will include: production and modification, composites, other applications, modeling, and standards.

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The 2013 TAPPI PEERS Conference, September 15-18, in Green Bay, Wis., USA, has announced the detailed technical program focusing on sustainable manufacturing and other pressing business and technical questions faced by pulp and paper companies as they manage raw materials, assets, regulatory requirements, and production assets.  Register now and save.

In addition to the peer-reviewed technical program, Keynote Speaker Robert Feeser, SVP of Packaging with MWV, will share his insights on the day-to-day challenges he faces as he oversees the company's primary mill-based manufacturing businesses in the U.S. and Brazil. PEERS will also offer exclusive networking opportunities and insight into new technologies that can help you optimize your mill operations.  

For 2013, PEERS will be co-located with the 10th Research Forum on Recycling and the International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for you to expand your learning, networking, and resources by attending all three events.  

Learn more about the TAPPI PEERS Conference.

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The corrugated packaging and converting industry is heading for Indianapolis, Ind., USA, October 7-9, 2013, for TAPPI CorrExpo 2013. The JW Marriott is the waypoint where ideas turn into innovation. Join your colleagues to take advantage of highly-sought-after speakers, seminars, workshops, exhibits, and programs you don't want to miss:

• There will be two keynote presentations - Bob Chapman, CEO and chairman of Barry-Wehmiller, and Alexander Toeldte, president and CEO of Boise Inc.
• Extensive networking and sales opportunities on the sold-out exhibit floor
• Training and insight from the best in the industry
• A cutting-edge technology showcase exhibit of innovative trends and design
• Opportunity for one-on-one meetings with top-level attendees
• Problem solving with industry experts
• Numerous special events, including a welcome reception, golf tournament, gala at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and spouse/guest program
• Eye-opener sessions tackling timely topics affecting box plants today, with plenty of time for questions and interaction with the speakers
• Complimentary workshops on Wednesday afternoon for all registered exhibit visitors.

View the full program to see what's in store for you this October.

Register today.

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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.

The sponsorship prospectus can be downloaded online.

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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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