Over the Wire
TAPPI
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The Australian forest products industry had total revenues of $10,939.7 million in 2011, representing a compound annual rate of change (CARC) of -0.1% between 2007 and 2011, according to a new report by Research and Markets, Dublin, Ireland, titled Forest Products in Australia. Industry consumption volumes decreased with a CARC of -0.5% between 2007 and 2011, to reach a total of 37.5 million cubic meters in 2011.
The forest products industry considered in this study consists of industrial roundwood, sawnwood, wood panels and sheets, and wood fuels. It excludes "roundwood," i.e., trees after harvesting but before significant processing. Itt also excludes pulp, card, paper, and similar downstream products. The report notes that performance of the industry is forecast to accelerate, with an anticipated compound annual growth rates (CAGR) of 8.4% for the five-year period 2011-2016. This is expected to drive the industry to a value of $16,363.4 million by the end of 2016. ##SHARELINKS##
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Two Sides, Chicago, Ill., USA, this week announced a nationwide initiative to assist major U.S. companies in developing and implementing best practices related to environmental marketing claims for print and paper. According to Two Sides research on 94 leading companies, 50% of them are using unsubstantiated environmental claims to encourage consumers to switch to lower-cost electronic billing and services.
"The objective of our new program is to offer our expertise at no cost to U.S. corporations who currently make environmental claims about print and paper relative to online billing and communication. Our research has shown that many companies are using negative claims that are not verifiable or factual related to the environmental impacts of print and paper, and as a result do not meet best practice guidelines for environmental marketing," says Two Sides President and COO Phil Riebel. "Two Sides and our 60 member companies are committed to sharing our collective expertise on the life-cycle and environmental impacts of print and paper. Our discussions to date have been very productive and the end result has been more accurate claims that are not damaging to the paper, printing, and mailing sectors that provide more than 8 million U.S. jobs." Two Sides, which represents companies across the graphic communications supply chain, will assist companies to develop and follow best practices for environmental marketing, including the use of science-based and verifiable information. The non-profit conducted a similar, very successful campaign in the U.K. More than 80% of the U.K. companies approached—including well-known names like British Telecom, Barclaycard, Vodafone, and EON Energy—agreed to change their messaging to eliminate misleading or factually incorrect environmental claims about the use of print and paper. "The fact is, print and paper products made in the U.S. have a great environmental story to tell," Riebel says. "Paper comes from a renewable resource—trees grown in responsibly managed forests—and it's recycled more than any other commodity, including plastics, metals, and glass. The continuing demand for sustainably sourced paper gives U.S. landowners and families a financial incentive to continue managing their lands responsibly and keep them forested rather than selling them for development or other non-forest uses. Thanks in great part to the sustainable forestry practices advanced by the paper and forest products industry, the volume of growing trees in U.S. forests has increased nearly 5% over the past half century. "Many major U.S. companies have implemented credible sustainability initiatives that focus on true performance measurement and factual environmental claims," Riebel says. "However, in some cases, marketing seems to take the upper hand on science. Two Sides is committed to help change this, and our experience to date shows that we've been successful in finding mutually acceptable solutions." More information about Two Sides U.S. is available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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Tembec, Montréal, Qué., Canada, this week announced that, due to market related conditions, it will indefinitely idle its high-yield pulp mill at Chetwynd, B.C., Canada, beginning September 16. The Chetwynd mill's high-yield pulp is used in printing and writing papers, paperboard, and tissue and toweling production. Pulp produced at the Chetwynd mill is shipped primarily to Asia.
"The high-yield pulp market has continued to soften over the past year. At today's price levels, it is virtually impossible to maintain viable operations given the current cost structure of the Chetwynd mill," said Chris Black, Tembec EVP and president of the Paper and Paper Pulp Group. "This is a difficult decision that we have not taken lightly since it has an impact on employees and on the region. We will continue to monitor the market and, in due course, reassess the situation accordingly," he added. A total of 115 employees are currently employed at the Chetwynd mill, which was built in 1990. The mill has an annual production capacity of 240,000 metric tons. It was acquired by Tembec in 2002. ##SHARELINKS##
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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in late June conducted a Sustainable Nanomaterials workshop in Washington, D.C., USA. Main objectives of the workshop, which resulted from discussions between D.C.-based Agenda 2020 and DOE's Advanced Manufacturing Office (AMO), were to gather input on the current state of the art for sustainable nanomaterials, to clarify development opportunities and manufacturing challenges, and to gather feedback on the value of AMO to support these emerging technologies in a DOE-funded manufacturing demonstration facility.
Key presentations included a review of cellulosic nanomaterial opportunities to benefit the national economy by Mark Watkins, SVP-MeadWestvaco, and Phil Jones, technical marketing director at Imerys. Beth Cormier, Sappi Fine Papers VP-research and innovation, and Paul Durocher, Sappi's coated paper development director, participated, as did Gopal Goyal, International Paper's chief scientist. TAPPI Nanocellulose Division Chair Sean Ireland, Verso manager of new technologies and market ventures, spoke, as did Professor Art Ragauskas of the Institute of Paper Science and Technology at Georgia Tech. Watkins emphasized the potential for nanocellulosic materials to provide high strength, low-weight packaging and composites. Jones highlighted the importance of developing such sustainable materials to meet the rising demand and resultant materials cost pressures due to economic growth of China and other countries. Ireland stressed the need to focus on applications that hold the most promise for the forest products industry that provide sufficient business case and production volumes to be worthwhile. Cormier noted the key technology advancements that are still needed for higher-yield processes and cost. Forest Products Laboratory (FPL) Director Ted Wegner said that FPL, "as part of the U.S. Forest Service, is pleased to see this effort by the DOE to explore the potential for sustainably producing 21st-century materials from our nation's abundant forest resources. Production of wood-based nanomaterials will directly contribute to healthy and productive forests that will not only help sustain our forest resources but also create and protect rural jobs. The combined support of the government and the industry in a public/private partnership is the best way to develop these possibilities." ##SHARELINKS##
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Below is the latest listing of job openings in the TAPPI Career Center. The current listing includes job openings from development managers, to account managers, technical specialists, process-reliability-electrical-development engineers, and maintenance superintendent in the North American pulp and paper industry. Current, specific job openings at companies and locations in the TAPPI Career Center include:
More information about these jobs is available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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Wood costs for many European pulp mills have fallen during the past six months as the pulp market has weakened, according to the Wood Resources Quarterly (WRQ), Seattle, Wash., USA. In the Nordic countries, pulp log and wood chip prices have fallen 11%-15% from last spring. Despite the price decline, Europe continues to have some of the highest wood fiber costs in the world, WRQ notes.
Wood fiber costs for pulp mills fell in practically all major markets of Europe in the 1Q/12 because of weaker pulp markets in late 2011 and early 2012, WRQ reports. Last year, wood costs in many countries on the continent, including Sweden, Norway, France, Austria, Germany, and Spain, reached record highs, but in all of those markets, prices for pulp log and wood chips are now substantially lower, WRQ emphasizes. The financial instability in many economies in Europe is contributing to the increased uncertainty about the near future demand for pulp and paper on the continent and weakening pulp markets, so many pulp mills are trying to cut production costs to stay profitable. Wood fiber costs have fallen more than other cost (energy, labor, and chemicals) the past six months. Nevertheless, wood costs are still by far the highest cost component when manufacturing pulp, ranging between 55% and 70% of total production costs for the major producers in Europe, according to Fisher International. Because of the weaker pulp markets, many pulp mills in France and Germany reduced operating rates, resulting in lower demand for pulp logs last winter, WRQ says. This not only interrupted the almost two-year trend of price increases, but actually contributed to a fall in prices, back to levels previously seen last summer, it adds. With the euro weakening against the U.S. dollar, wood prices in dollar terms have declined even more dramatically than in the local currency. In Northern Europe, pulp log prices have fallen between 11% and 15% from last spring, depending on country and species. It has been difficult to be a forest owner in Sweden the past year, as prices have declined for both saw logs and pulp logs. In parts of Sweden, it is not likely that pulp log prices will decline much further as they are now reaching the same levels as those for energy logs, WRQ points out. Eucalyptus log prices in Spain have been on a steady decline for almost a year and the major fiber consumers have lowered the price they pay to landowners practically every month so far this year, according to WRQ. In U.S. dollar terms, the average cost for eucalyptus logs has declined by 21% since its all-time-high in the 2Q/11, WRQ reports. Despite the recent decline in pulpwood and wood chip price, pulp mills in Europe still have higher wood costs than many of their competitors around the world, WRQ concludes. ##SHARELINKS##
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The downward trend in the bleached softwood pulp market appears to be continuing this month, according to EUWID, Germany. Following price reductions for NBSK (northern bleached softwood kraft) pulp in June, due to ample supply and weakening demand, European pulp converters are now calling for additional discounts, EUWID notes.
Pointing out that only "a few" of its sources believe that price levels for NBSK quoted in June can be maintained in July, EUWID says that in Italy there have already been transactions at cheaper prices than in June. The pressure there, as usual in times of a buyer's market, was particularly distinct and low-priced offers were readily available as the spot market was growing. Market observers, EUWID adds, are expecting to see massive market-related stoppages in the paper industry in July and August, such as those already experienced or announced in the woodfree coated paper sector. "It is being assumed that this will increase the surplus supply that already exists in softwood pulp," it says. Manufacturers of printing and writing paper, EUWID explains, are arguing that their own situation is poor. The start of summer is said to be looking slacker than ever before and even small orders are being accepted at bottom prices to ensure adequate volumes. ##SHARELINKS##
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The AV Group, a Canadian subsidiary of Aditya Birla Group, India, is reportedly the successful bidder for Terrace Bay Pulp, with a high bid of $300 million. The AV Group current operates the AV Nackawic and AV Atholville dissolving mills in New Brunswick,, Canada, exporting production to rayon producers in Asia.
The AV Group will convert the Terrace Bay Pulp mill to also produce rayon grade dissolving pulp for export. Reportedly, Birla will invest more than $250 million over the next two years, converting the facility to produce rayon fiber. In the meantime, the mill will restart and produce and sell paper grade pulp, bringing some of the mill's 275 employees back to work by October. ##SHARELINKS##
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Buckeye Technologies Inc., Memphis, Tenn., USA, reports that its Florida wood cellulose manufacturing facility has returned to full operation. Both of the plant's paper machines were damaged when a steam drum failure occurred on June 17. The specialty pulp line returned to production on June 23. The fluff pulp line began its startup on July 4, as previously targeted.
As of late last week, production on the fluff pulp line was operating within normal ranges and the mill reports to be producing fluff pulp per its ISO 9001:2008 quality standards. Returning the fluff pulp line to operation will allow the company to fully optimize the product mix on the specialty line. The root cause of the drum failure was identified by the failure analysis team and preventive actions have been taken on both lines to prevent reoccurrence. Buckeye Chairman and CEO John Crowe noted that "having this event behind us in less than three weeks is an amazing demonstration of the flexibility and teamwork of the Buckeye organization. It is in times like this when you see the strength and character of your organization and appreciate the valuable partnerships that we have with our contractors and suppliers who have put forth the extraordinary effort to return the plant to full operation." Buckeye currently operates facilities in the U.S., Germany, and Canada. Its products are sold worldwide to makers of consumer and industrial goods. ##SHARELINKS##
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The European Commission this past week approved SCA's (Sweden) acquisition of Georgia-Pacific's (USA) European tissue business. The purchase price totals EUR 1.32 billion on a debt free basis. The operations have approximately 4,700 employees.
G-P's European tissue business, including 15 plants located in seven countries and the well-known Lotus brand, will be transferred to SCA's ownership in connection with the closing of the deal expected to occur on July 20. EU's clearance requires divestment of G-P's consumer tissue business in the U.K. including production capacity, G-P's Benelux consumer tissue branded business under the Lotus brand, and some of G-P's and SCA's retailer branded business in Scandinavia, including production capacity. ##SHARELINKS##
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NewPage Corp., Miamisburg, Ohio, USA, this past week said that has been engaged in a series of discussions with its various constituents, including first lien note holders, second lien note holders, and the Unsecured Creditors' Committee, in an effort to finalize a consensual Chapter 11 plan. Information relating to these discussions has been posted on the NewPage restructuring website.
During these discussions, an ad hoc group of second lien note holders presented to an ad hoc group of first lien note holders an unsolicited proposal to combine NewPage and Verso Paper Corp. (Verso). After thoroughly evaluating this proposal, NewPage determined that the combination posed significant downside risks to its stakeholders, employees, and business. NewPage has also been advised that the first lien note holder group did not support the proposal. Accordingly, NewPage does not anticipate further discussions regarding this proposal. NewPage is a producer of printing and specialty papers in North America with $3.5 billion in net sales in 2011. The company operates paper mills in Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, with a total annual production capacity of some 3.5 million tons of paper. The company's product portfolio includes coated, specialty, supercalendered, and uncoated papers. ##SHARELINKS##
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Palm Paper, King's Lynn, U.K., reports that last Friday (July 6) its Lynn PM 7 produced the one millionth metric ton of newsprint. The company notes that this is a remarkable achievement and a milestone that has been reached far earlier than expected at machine startup on Aug. 21, 2009. To mark the occasion, rolls produced for pressrooms throughout the U.K. will be labeled with special, gold "one millionth tonne" labels.
Voith Paper, Germany, manufacturer of Lynn PM 7, routinely measures the respective learning curves of newsprint machines during their first two years of production, and Lynn PM 7 achieved the very best ever learning curve status in the world of newsprint, it reports. Lynn PM 7 has been running very stable at a constant speed of 1,875 m/min (equivalent to 75 mph), which is only 25 m/min behind the most efficient newsprint machine in the world. In addition to the standard newsprint grades Palm Paper supplies to all national and most regional publishers, it has been developing a new grade marketed under the trade name of Palm Top. The product is being supplied to the heatset and gravure printing sectors and is used for the printing of magazines and commercial fliers and brochures.
To accomplish the current level of performance, Palm notes that it employs a production team that performs at the highest possible level due to the substantial commitment the company makes in training all employees "to be motivated and strive for excellence." Currently Palm has 21 full time or part time apprentices. They will be fully qualified and able to assume papermaking roles within the mill by the time the two millionth metric ton on Lynn PM 7 finds it way to the winders. Palm Paper is a division within the Papierfabrik Palm Group. ##SHARELINKS##
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International Paper Co., Memphis, Tenn., USA, this past week started fluff pulp production at its Franklin, Va., mill, with 200 employees, according to a report by the Richmond Times-Dispatch newspaper. The mill employed some 1,100 people when it was closed in 2010. In May 2011, IP announced that it would reopen part of the plant to make fluff pulp used in disposable diapers and hygiene products. The mill had previously produced printing and writing papers.
IP reportedly invested about $90 million to repurpose the Franklin mill to fluff pulp. Once in full operation, the mill is expected to produce approximately 840 tpd of fluff pulp, most of which the company expects to export. About 85% of the 200 employees now working at the mill had been employed there before it was closed, the newspaper noted. As reported by the Richmond Times-Dispatch, IP is using about one-third of the mill space, which covers a total of about 250 acres as part of a 3,500-acre complex. The company also continues to use its power generation facility and its wood yard. The company has said it is seeking tenants to use other parts of the plant. ##SHARELINKS##
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 SCA Graphic Laakirchen AG, Laakirchen, Austria, reports that its PM 10 has successfully started up after a Metso-supplied press section rebuild. The main goal of the modernization was to increase production and decrease energy consumption.
"Our target was to increase sheet dryness after the third press for increased speed. We also wanted to reduce the draw and specific energy consumption, and at the same time maintain the high quality level as before the rebuild," says Andreas Vogel, production manager on PM 10. Metso, Finland, rebuilt the press section with a new SymBelt shoe press. In addition, its delivery included mechanical drives for the whole press section and an automation system upgrade for the shoe press. The SymBelt shoe press significantly increases sheet dryness which, in turn, reduces steam consumption, improves machine runnability, helps reach higher speeds, and increases production. The 7.3-m-wide PM 10 produces uncoated wood-containing paper (SC-A) within a basis weight range of 45-60 gsm at a design speed of 1,600 m/min. The production capacity of PM 10 is 260,000 metric tpy. From l-r in the photo on the right are Andreas Vogel from SCA Graphic Laakirchen, Pekka Petrilä from Metso, Johann Stadlmayr from SCA Graphic Laakirchen, Antti Rintala from Metso, Thomas Breiteneder from SCA Graphic Laakirchen, and Pertti Herranen and Mauri Laurikainen from Metso in front of the rebuilt PM 10 press section. ##SHARELINKS##
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Tembec, Montréal, Qué., Canada, reports that it has entered into a $30 million loan facility with Integrated Private Debt Corp. (IPD), the private debt division of Integrated Asset Management Corp. of Toronto, Ont., Canada. The financing will be used to fund a portion of the previously announced $190 million capital project to upgrade the company's specialty cellulose mill in Temiscaming, Qué. When combined with the $75 million of project financing announced in March, the company has now attained its objective of raising $105 million of project financing.
The project involves the replacement of three old boilers with a new high-pressure boiler designed to burn waste sulfite liquor, a co-product of the specialty cellulose manufacturing process, producing green steam for use at the facility. The project also calls for the installation of a new electricity turbine that will be driven by this steam. The turbine will increase the Temiscaming facility's green electricity production capacity from its current 10 MW to 60 MW. The boiler is scheduled to startup in December 2013, followed by the turbine in May 2014. Hydro-Québec will offtake the additional green electricity produced by this turbine under a 25-year contract at $106 MW/hr, indexed with CPI, which will strengthen and stabilize Tembec's revenues through the economic cycle. Once the new equipment is in operation, Tembec expects a four-year return on investment, through new revenues from green electricity, the additional production of 5,000 metric tons of specialty cellulose, and lower costs. ##SHARELINKS##
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Zhanjiang Chenming Pulp & Paper Co. in Zhanjiang City, China, has set a woodfree uncoated machine 24-hr world speed record of 1,710 m/min. During the record run, the 11.15-m-wide Metso (Finland)-supplied PM 1 produced woodfree uncoated printing paper at a basis weight of 70 gsm.
It took the Zhanjiang Chenming PM 1 only 8 months from startup to set a world speed record. PM 1 was started up on Sept. 1, 2011. The PM 1 features Metso's papermaking and automation technology from headbox to reel, air, and chemical systems and two WinDrum Pro winders. The annual dimensional production capacity of PM 1 is close to 600,000 metric tons of woodfree uncoated printing paper. Zhanjiang Chenming is part of Shandong Chenming Paper Holdings Limited, one of the biggest paper producers in China. In 2011, the company's paper production capacity was more than 4 million tpy. It had a turnover of more than EUR 2 billion and some 17,000 employees.
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Mondi Group, South Africa, has agreed to acquire 93.4% of Nordenia International AG, Germany, from funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management and other minority shareholders for a total cash consideration of EUR 240 million. In addition, Mondi will assume EUR 398 million of debt and debt-like liabilities.
Nordenia is an international supplier of consumer packaging and hygiene components with 12 operating facilities in seven countries across Europe, North America, and Asia. Additionally, a wholly owned greenfield plant currently being constructed in China is expected to begin operating in early 2014. Based on Nordenia's EBITDA and EBIT for the year ended Dec. 31 2011 of EUR 99 million and EUR 70 million, respectively, the implied enterprise value equates to 6.6 times 2011 EBITDA, and 9.3 times 2011 EBIT. The acquisition is expected to complete in the fourth quarter of 2012, subject to customary completion conditions including the approval of certain competition authorities. The EUR 240 million cash consideration payable for the acquisition will be funded from a new EUR 250 million two year committed bank debt facility. ##SHARELINKS##
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Rengo Co., Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan, reports that it will rebuild the linerboard machine at its consolidated subsidiary Marusan Paper Mfg. Co., Minamisoma-shi, Fukushima, Japan. As the Rengo Group's production center for containerboard in the Tohoku region, Marusan Paper Mfg. currently produces approximately 20,000 metric tons of containerboard per month using two paper machines—PM 6 for linerboard and PM 7 for corrugating medium.
After the rebuild, involving an investment of 25 billion yen, PM 6 will have a production capacity of 500 metric tpd. Startup of the rebuilt machine is scheduled for 2014. PM 6, which was installed in 197, was damaged during the Great East Japan Earthquake, and it has become difficult to respond to recent needs for lightweight containerboard, the company says. Rengo thus decided to rebuild PM 6 "to ensure Marusan Paper Mfg.'s continued growth, to serve the current needs of the market, and to further improve product quality while striving to conserve energy and resources." The rebuild will enhance the Rengo Group's containerboard supply system in the Eastern Japan region. It is also aimed at improving mid- and long-term performance by further strengthening the integrated production system from containerboard to corrugated packaging. Marusan Paper Mfg. was forced to suspend operations for about three months immediately after the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 2011 due to damage and the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. However, operations are currently proceeding as before, the company notes. Rengo believes that the rebuild of PM 6 will contribute significantly to the region's reconstruction and revitalization through continuous industrial promotion in the company's local region of Minamisoma-shi and Fukushima, and by ensuring stable employment. The rebuild is eligible for the company relocation support subsidy for industrial recovery in Fukushima. ##SHARELINKS##
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 Twin Rivers Paper Co., South Portland, Maine, USA, a producer of lightweight specialty packaging, label, and publishing papers, reports that it has strengthened its commitment to sustainable packaging with the release of Acadia Natural, a compostable and recyclable paper made from unbleached pulp. This product design offers a natural substrate for packaging applications such as fast-food sandwich wraps, French fry and carry-out bags, and basket liners.
FDA-compliant for direct and indirect food contact, Acadia Natural is designed for Quick Serve Restaurant (QSR), food service, and retail food applications, where high performance and sustainability are essential. For oil and grease resistance, the new paper is available in an Acadia Natural OGR version. The company notes that both products provide excellent printability, runnability, and convertability to packaging applications. Twin Rivers has operations in Maine and New Brunswick, Canada. ##SHARELINKS##
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UPM, Helsinki, Finland, has begun negotiations with VPK Packaging Group NV, Belgium, and Klingele Papierwerke, Germany, through their newly created joint venture company, for the sale of assets and part of the land at the UPM Stracel paper mill site in Strasbourg, France. VPK and Klingele have made an offer on the acquisition of assets from UPM. According to the plan, UPM would retain part of the Stracel real estate in its possession for potential future production of advanced biofuels.
VPK and Klingele plan to convert the Stracel mill, which produces 280,000 metric tpy of coated magazine papers and specialty newsprint, into a recycled fiber-based containerboard unit, involving an investment of some EUR 100 million. Planned production capacity of the mill would be approximately 300 000 metric tpy of fluting and testliner between 80 and 130 gsm, on a 8.40 m wide machine. The conversion from current magazine paper production would require a considerable investment by the two buying companies. The new converted mill would create 140 jobs. The transaction is subject to completion of the employee information and consultation process on the planned closure of Stracel and the social plan implemented by UPM at such occasion, which the contemplated transaction is a part of, due to the 130 job offers it is to provide to former UPM employees. This process will be launched shortly and is expected to be completed during the second half of 2012. On Aug. 31, 2011, UPM announced the completion of a comprehensive review of the long term competitiveness of its publication paper mills. As a part of the review, UPM announced its intent to sell or otherwise exit the UPM Stracel paper mill. Since then, UPM has been working closely with the political, administrative, and economic stakeholders to find the best possible solutions for the site and the employees. "UPM has been conducting an active search for a buyer that could engage in a serious and credible project for the industrial restructuring of the Stracel site. The plan at hand provides a good opportunity for a new future for Stracel and would create a significant number of job opportunities on the site," said Jyrki Ovaska, president of UPM Paper Business Group. If UPM accepts the offer that has been submitted, the conversion project could start and take approximately12 months to complete. Providing the plan proceeds, the converted mill would start production in the second half of 2013. VPK Packaging Group is an integrated European packaging group with 33 companies spread across 12 European countries, realizing sales of EUR 700 million. It has a total of 3.000 employees. Klingele is one of the leading independent producers of containerboard and packaging made of corrugated board. The company consists of one paper mill, six integrated corrugated plants, and seven converting plants in Europe and Africa, realizing sales of EUR 340 million and having a total of 1.250 employees. The total production of both respective groups, VPK and Klingele, amounts to 600.000 metric tpy of paper and 1.000.000 metric tpy of packaging. ##SHARELINKS##
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Kemira, Finland, has introduced KemFlite™, a new concept to reduce paper and board machine problems caused by deposits due to the agglomeration of hydrophobic particles. These particles typically originate from wood pitch, stickies, or binders in coated broke and have previously been difficult to detect and control.
Under certain conditions, the particles agglomerate to a larger size and eventually deposit on paper machine wet-end surfaces, wires, felts, and dryer cans. KemFlite is designed to manage the hydrophobic substances, particularly their size, before they form deposits. These tools include Kemira Flyto™, a laboratory analysis to measure the particle size, quantity, and hydrophobicity in samples taken from key points in the process, and Kemira AutoFlite™, a new on-line device that continuously provides similar information. Following a complete mill survey by Kemira's application experts, a tailor-made deposit control program can be implemented to manage the hydrophobic substances found in a mill's process waters and eliminate machine deposition. The KemFlite concept has been proven in numerous mill cases where it has improved machine runnability and reduced defects such as holes, spots, specks, and hickeys in the final paper or board product. The result for papermakers is smoother operation, decreased downtime, better cost efficiency, reduced chemical consumption, and improved finished paper and board quality. More information is available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Navy, Washington, D.C., USA, this past week announced $30 million in federal funding to match private investments in commercial-scale advanced drop-in biofuels. Drop-in biofuels can serve as direct replacements or supplements to existing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuels, without any changes to existing fuel distribution networks or engines—and have the potential to significantly reduce U.S. reliance on oil imports. DOE is also offering a total of $32 million in new investments for earlier-stage research that will continue to drive technological breakthroughs and additional cost reductions in the industry.
In his Blueprint for a Secure Energy Future released in March 2011, President Obama set a goal of reducing oil imports by one-third by 2025, increasing energy efficiency, and speeding development of biofuels and other alternatives. As part of that effort, the blueprint directed the DOE, the Navy, and the USDA to collaborate to support commercialization of drop-in biofuel substitutes for diesel and jet fuel, which led to the current Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). This FOA has a two-phased approach, with government and industry sharing in the cost. In Phase 1, applicants will submit a design package and comprehensive business plan for a commercial-scale biorefinery, identify and secure project sites, and take additional required steps spelled out in the announcement. Awardees selected to continue into Phase 2 will submit additional information for the construction or retrofit of a biorefinery. Applications are due by August 13. In addition, DOE offered new investments in earlier-stage biofuels research that complement the commercial-scale efforts announced by the Navy and USDA. These early-stage, pre-commercial investments are the latest steps in the Obama Administration's efforts to advance biofuels technologies to continue to lower costs, improve performance, and identify new effective, non-food feedstocks and processing technologies. The funding announced by DOE includes $20 million to support innovative pilot-scale and demonstration-scale biorefineries that could produce renewable biofuels that meet military specifications for jet fuel and shipboard diesel using a variety of non-food biomass feedstocks, waste-based materials, and algae. These projects may support new plant construction, retrofits on existing U.S. biorefineries, or operations at plants ready to begin production at the pilot- or pre-commercial scale. This investment will also help federal and local governments, private developers, and industry collect accurate data on the cost of producing fuels made from biomass and waste feedstocks. Applications are due August 13. Also, DOE announced $12 million to support up to eight projects focused on researching ways to develop biobased transportation fuels and products using synthetic biological processing. Synthetic biological processing offers an innovative technique to enable efficient, cost-saving conversion of non-food biomass to biofuels. These projects will develop novel biological systems that can enhance the breakdown of raw biomass feedstocks and assist in converting feedstocks into transportation fuels. The projects—which will be led by small businesses, universities, national laboratories, and industry—will seek to overcome technical and scientific barriers to cost-competitive advanced biofuels and bioproducts. More information about all of the projects is available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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International Paper Co., Memphis, Tenn., USA, this week elected Christopher E. Kubasik to its board of directors, effective July 10. Kubasik is vice chairman, president, and COO of Lockheed Martin Corp. He will become Lockheed Martin's CEO on January 1, 2013. He previously served as Lockheed Martin's EVP – Electronic Systems from September 2007 to December 2009, and as its EVP and CFO from February 2001 to August 2007.
"Chris's deep experience as a global business leader and extensive interaction with corporate boards, paired with his experience in business outside of North America, lends a valuable perspective to our board of directors. We are very pleased to have Chris join the board of directors of International Paper," said John Faraci, chairman and CEO. With the election of Kubasik and the previous election of Ilene S. Gordon (effective October 1), the size of IP's board has been increased to 11 members. ##SHARELINKS##
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SCA, Stockholm, Sweden, this week named Joséphine Edwall-Björklund its new SVP, corporate communications. Edwall-Björklund has held leading positions in communications since 1988. She currently holds the position of VP of communications at Ericsson Global Services. She has been working for Ericsson since 1991.
As head of the corporate communications staff, Edwall-Björklund will be a member of SCA's Corporate Senior Management Team, reporting to CEO Jan Johansson. She will assume her position September 15. ##SHARELINKS##
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Your employees are the backbone of the business and only as viable as their abilities and knowledge. Keep their skills strong this summer. TAPPI has prepared an entire month of training courses for nearly every facet of the industry for both beginner- and advanced-level employees. You can be confident that your employees are getting stellar instruction. Course curriculum is always developed by industry professionals with years of experience, credentials, and recognition. Presentations are never "canned" and are specific to the attendees' work.
TAPPI offers group discounts where your facility can save on course fees per person by registering three or more employees from the same location. Since 1915, the industry's leaders have turned to TAPPI to train and educate their facility's workforce. Why? Because TAPPI consistently delivers the most highly regarded resources for superior education and training for the pulp, paper, packaging, and converting industry.##SHARELINKS##
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 The 2012 TAPPI PEERS Conference, October 14-17 in Savannah, Ga., USA, has announced a detailed technical program. Five programming tracks of peer-reviewed sessions, Pulping, Engineering, Environmental, Recycling, and Sustainability, will answer the most pressing business and technical questions faced by pulp and paper companies as they manage raw materials, assets, regulatory requirements, and production assets. Register now and save. In addition to the in-depth, peer-reviewed technical program, Keynote Speaker Don Roberts, vice chairman of CIBC World Markets, will present "A Whirlwind Tour of Investment Trends and Issues in the Global Bio-Energy Space." PEERS will also offer exclusive networking opportunities and insight into new technologies that can help you optimize your mill operations. The TAPPI PEERS Conference will be co-located with the International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for you to expand your learning, networking, and resources by attending both events. See you in Savannah! ##SHARELINKS##
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Operating Excellence (OpEx) Maintenance and Reliability Seminar at PEERS This is a first-time program for the 2012 TAPPI PEERS Conference.
In addition, 2012 TAPPI PEERS Conference, October 14-17 in Savannah, Ga., features a detailed technical program. Five programming tracks of peer-reviewed sessions, Pulping, Engineering, Environmental, Recycling and Sustainability, will answer the most pressing business and technical questions faced by pulp and paper companies as they manage raw materials, assets, regulatory requirements and production assets. The TAPPI PEERS Conference will be co-located with International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for you to expand your learning, networking, and resources by attending both events. See you in Savannah! ##SHARELINKS##
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To provide more students access to its expert faculty and outstanding curriculum, the 2012 TAPPI Linerboard/Medium Manufacture Course is re-locating from the TAPPI Training Center to the Atlanta Hilton Northeast. Register online. Save even more when you register three or more. This intermediate level course, August 7-9, is designed to:
For those who require an overview background on pulp & papermaking technology, there will be an optional one-day introduction to P&P on Monday, August 6, 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. A separate registration is required for this seminar. ##SHARELINKS##
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Faculty at the TAPPI Linerboard/Medium Manufacture Course will offer more than 250 years of collective experience. Nowhere is the adage ‘Knowledge is Power' more true than the TAPPI Linerboard/Medium Manufacture Course, August 7-9 at the TAPPI Training Center in Norcorss, Ga., USA. With its expert faculty and countless opportunities to interact one-on-one with each one, this course is like having a group of consultants at your fingertips ready to help you solve the problems you encounter at your facility. You will learn from the best, including:
So that's a total of 250 years of combined experience and knowledge for attendees to draw upon, to learn from, and get answers to your problems. Register online. Remember, space is limited! Save even more when you register three or more.
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The TAPPI Introduction to Kraft Pulping and Bleaching Course is an excellent way to network and learn among peers. It's coming up soon, August 13-14, 2012 at TAPPI Headquarters in Norcross, Ga., USA. This course compiles two full weeks of material into two days of expert instruction in kraft pulp mill operations. If a formula could illustrate the content and benefit of this course, it might look like this: 1 Expert + 2 Days = Greater Ability multiplied by Improved Operations + 1.3 CEUs Join peers from companies that have taken advantage of this training:
This course is ideal for anyone new to the kraft pulping process, particularly process engineers and operators. After completing this course, you should be able to:
Click here to view the Course Schedule.
You'll be able to find out exactly all that you'll be depositing into your valuable bank of knowledge. We look forward to seeing you at TAPPI Headquarters for this course in August 2012. ##SHARELINKS##
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TAPPI and the Pulp and Paper Safety Association (PPSA) are pleased to announce their new course on workplace safety leadership and modern safety management principles, The Safety Management Leadership Course. The course will be held at TAPPI headquarters in Norcross, Ga., August 15-16. The papermaking, conversion, and paper recycling industries have traditionally suffered from high workplace accident rates. Through a concentrated industry effort, the number of workplace injuries in the paper and pulp industry between 1994 and 2010 declined at a faster rate than the national rate for all private industries. The Safety Management Leadership Course will provide managers and leaders with the best practices in safety for the paper and packaging industry that should help further reduce these workplace safety incidents. The course is designed for anyone involved in workplace safety including human resources, training, safety supervisors, team leaders, plant managers, project leaders, frontline supervisors, and safety committee participants. The course will be led by industry expert and course chair Matthew Kanneberg from RockTenn. "Participants in the course will be able to understand the fundamentals of safety and safety management principles, including recordkeeping, incident investigation, safety culture, managing change safely, understanding safety behavior, risk management, and measuring performance," Kanneberg said. Course registration is limited to 30 participants so please register today at the course website. Early registration discounts are available. ##SHARELINKS##
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The 2012 TAPPI Tissue Properties & Manufacture Course is coming to TAPPI headquarters in Norcross, Ga., USA., on August 15 -16. This two-day course is a comprehensive overview of the entire tissue manufacturing process taught by leading industry experts.
This is an introductory-intermediate level course. If you are looking for an advanced course on tissue, consider the next TAPPI Tissue Runnability Course scheduled for this November 7-9, in Neenah, Wis., USA. (see news item below). ##SHARELINKS##
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On Nov. 7-9, 2012, TAPPI will conduct its Tissue Runnability Course at Neenah, Wis., USA. This special course is being taught by technical experts in each area of the machine from wet end operations through creping and process control. The experienced, highly qualified faculty for this course will provide a thorough understanding of the entire tissue making process and current best practices in each area. The 2012 TAPPI Tissue Runnability Course is designed for process engineers, machine supervisors, and reliability professionals who have to maximize uptime and saleable production. It is also an excellent tutorial for suppliers who support tissue making customers. It will help attendees:
After successfully completing this course, attendees will specifically be able to:
TAPPI will award CEU credits to participants who attend at least 80% of the educational sessions and complete a final program evaluation. The 2012 Tissue Runnabilitry Course includes advanced process instruction. If you are looking for an introductory-intermediate tissue course, consider the upcoming 2012 Tissue Properties and Manufacturing Course at TAPPI headquarters in Norcross, Ga., USA, on August 15-16 (see news item above). Attendance for the 2012 TAPPI Tissue Runnability Course is limited, so please register today at the course website. ##SHARELINKS##
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TAPPI headquarters in Norcross, Ga., USA, will host the annual Improving Paper Machine Performance Course August 21 - 23. This course provides students the tools needed to evaluate the performance of their paper machines against industry standards and evaluate ways to improve performance and optimize efficiencies. This year the course schedule has been expanded to include an important area of operation- evaluating energy savings. Dick Reese of Dick Reese and Associates will help attendees learn how to evaluate energy consumption. Reese has completed energy evaluations on more than 125 paper and pulp machines in 56 mills. Several mills have reduced annual energy cost by $1 million-plus by implementing recommendations from the energy evaluations. After successfully completing this course, participants should be able to:
A degree in engineering or other technical field is suggested, but not required. A good working knowledge of the paper machine is recommended (this is not an introductory course). Please bring your laptop computer for this working course. If you don't have one you may share with another course participant. There is only room for 25 course participants, so please register today. For more information, please visit the course website. Early registration, travel, and lodging discounts are available. ##SHARELINKS##
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TAPPI's International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, October 17-19, 2012 in Savannah, Georgia, USA will focus on advancements and commercialization of bio-conversions that leverage the forest products manufacturing infrastructure, providing you with a deeper analysis of the technology and economics involved in commercializing bio-refineries. Learn more about IBBC and see the entire technical program. Keynote Speakers:
In addition, IBBC will include technical presentations, expert panels, case studies, and reports from projects that address:
IBBC will be co-located with the TAPPI PEERS Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for participants to expand their learning, networking and resources by attending both events. Exhibit and Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Shane Holt at 800.369.6220, ext. 3345 for more information. ##SHARELINKS##
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TAPPI's International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference, October 17-19, 2012 in Savannah, Ga., will include a tour to Herty Advanced Materials Development Center the morning of Wednesday, October 17. Chartered by the State of Georgia, Herty has leveraged its industry-proven laboratory and pilot capabilities to execute its strategic plan that includes significant emphasis in the biopower and biofuels areas. Herty's focus is on feedstock with current impact of more than $1.5 billion in alternative energy commercialization projects. Herty provides a hub location needed for rapid cost-effective development of biomass resources for energy production. Learn more about Herty and this tour. IBBC will focus on technical advancements and commercialization of bioconversion technologies that leverage the forest products manufacturing infrastructure. Learn more about IBBC and see the entire technical program. IBBC will also feature Keynote Speakers:
In addition, IBBC will include technical presentations, expert panels, case studies, and reports from projects that address:
IBBC will be co-located with the TAPPI PEERS Conference, creating a value-added opportunity for participants to expand their learning, networking and resources by attending both events. ##SHARELINKS##
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Nominations for major TAPPI 2013 awards are due by August 1, 2012. The awards that may be presented next 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, resulting in significant and demonstrable benefits to 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 Assciation 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 and shows the qualifications required and links to the nomination forms that must be completed. You may submit all nomination forms by email at standards@tappi.org, or you may fax them to the attention of the Awards Department at +1-770-446-6947, or send by mail to TAPPI, Awards Department, 15 Technology Parkway South, Suite 115, Norcross, Ga. 30092, USA. ##SHARELINKS##
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The TAPPI International Research Management Committee requests that nominations be submitted for the William H. Aiken Prize for Research and Development. The award is given for outstanding accomplishments and/or contributions that have advanced the technology of paper and related industries in the R&D field. The $500 prize is funded by an endowment from the estate of William H. Aiken, TAPPI President in 1967 - 1968, and VP of Technology for the former Union Camp Corp. at the time of his death in 1974. Dr. Aiken won the TAPPI Gold Medal, the association's highest honor, in 1971. Nominations should be sent to David Bell (DBell@TAPPI.org) TAPPI Headquarters,15 Technology Parkway South, Norcross, Ga. 30092, USA, or by fax (+1 770-446-6947). The deadline for nominations for the William H. Aiken Prize for Research and Development Award is August 1, 2012. The nomination should contain a summary of the nominee's technical achievements, impact on the industry and peers, personal data (such as education and work history), and information of other pertinent activity (such as TAPPI activities). ##SHARELINKS##
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This newly published information-packed volume provides practical, industry-focused approaches to operational issues, and includes a first-ever, complete examination of the ongoing environmental and staging changes that occurred after the discontinuation of chlorine usage in 1996. Bleaching of Pulp, 5th Edition is written to assist production engineers, supervisors, and scientists find quick solutions to today's immediate challenges in modern bleaching. The text is also designed to help both novice and seasoned professionals quickly understand a wide range of operational issues. Authors: Alan W. Rudie, Ph.D., and Peter W. Hart, Ph.D. Together they have delivered the industry's premier text on bleaching technologies. TAPPI Member Price : $155 List Price: $232 ##SHARELINKS##
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You can take the woman out of the mill, but you can never remove her love for paper and slime. Just ask microbiologist and TAPPI member Linda Robertson who, after building a highly successful and thoroughly enjoyable career in the paper industry for 30 years, retired in 2006 only to return after six short months. Linda credits the fantastic network she's built through her involvement in TAPPI as one of the driving forces behind her highly successful career, and encourages anyone – no matter at what career stage they are – to develop. "The ability to present papers and publish, as well as meeting people all over the globe, staying in touch, and presenting papers are all beneficial when you are building a career." Learn more about Linda's career by reading this month's Member Spotlight. Spotlight participants are recommended by fellow members and staff. If you would like to nominate a member just send their name (or names) to MemberSpotlight@Tappi.org. We will forward a Spotlight Questionnaire to fill out and return. We look forward to seeing you in the Spotlight! ##SHARELINKS##
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Join us on Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at the Mid-Valley Country Club in De Pere, Wis., USA. An afternoon shotgun scramble golf outing is planned with dinner to follow. Full event information and registration details are available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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Join us on Tuesday, August 28, at the Grand View Lodge, Preserve Course, in Pequot Lakes, Minn. A morning shotgun scramble golf outing is planned with lunch to follow. Please remember, your participation will help fund scholarships for Lakes States TAPPI/North Central PIMA's Scholarship programs. Prizes will be awarded along with a putting contest and a raffle. Reservation preference will be given to foursomes. Groups of two or less will be placed into foursomes pending availability. We will limit the number of participants to 128. Entries will only be accepted with full payment. For entries received after August 16, the cost is $135.00 per person. Check-in registration will begin at 8:00 am. If you have any questions about this event, please contact: Wfrawley@new.rr.com Full event information and registration details are available online. ##SHARELINKS##
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The Nonwovens Engineers and Technologists Division (NET) of TAPPI will co-locate its annual Innovative Nonwovens Conference (NETInc) next year with PaperCon 2013, April 28 - May 1 in Atlanta, Ga., USA.. The NETInc technical conference is a unique event developed by engineers and technologists to cover the latest market and technical developments and innovations in the global nonwovens industry. "Co-location of the NETInc Conference at PaperCon 2013, the pulp and paper industry's largest event and most comprehensive technical conference, will provide attendees an expanded range of options to network and learn the latest cutting edge technical content," notes TAPPI President and CEO Larry N. Montague. "The nonwovens industry is a dynamic, rapidly growing segment of our industry that encompasses a wide range of raw materials, applications, and market segments, and it employs some of the most innovative technology in the industry. We're excited about the synergy provided by having these two industry leading events located in one venue." NETInc offers peer reviewed papers, expert speakers, and exclusive networking opportunities. A comprehensive technical program covers a wide range of products, innovative technologies, and topics including market trends, raw materials, fibers, and processing used in an array of applications including absorbent products, medical applications, building science, and many others. TAPPI's NET Division covers the global nonwovens business and includes members and nonwovens experts from diverse markets and disciplines. It covers materials, equipment, and processes for the manufacture and use of nonwovens. The division's technical committees sponsor courses, conference sessions, roundtables, and TAPPI PRESS products, as well as networking and problem-solving opportunities. ##SHARELINKS##
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 This manual provides a basis for common knowledge of terms, definitions, and methods of correction of corrugated operational defects. The manual illustrates and provides causes and remedies for hundreds of defects affecting corrugated boxes. The manual is divided into four parts:
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PaperCon 2012 was held April 22 – 25, 2012, at the Sheraton New Orleans in New Orleans, La., USA.
New technology programs joining PaperCon 2012 included:
PaperCon is designed by industry professionals, bringing together CEOs, mill managers, superintendents, scientists, process engineers, and suppliers for the largest pulp and paper technical program in the world. No other event provides such a comprehensive program, networking opportunities, and exhibit among such a distinguished group of industry leaders. This CD-ROM contains more than 125 presentations and papers presented throughout the conference and is only available on this fully searchable CD-ROM. PaperCon 2012 Conference Proceedings. View Table of Contents. Product code: PAPERCD-12 Member Price: $74.00 Non-Member Price: $111.00 ##SHARELINKS##
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The 2012 conference focused on "Growing the Future"- leveraging renewable, recyclable raw materials and developing human capital to ensure value for customers, long-term sustainability for shareholders, and a future for our peers.
 Interested in nanotechnology but can't bear to wade through detailed technical reports?Individual reports on nanotechnology by research and marketing firms as well as governmental agencies are comprehensive and insightful. But they can also be tedious to read, expensive to procure, and generally unknown to non-experts interested in nanotechnology. Offering a reader-friendly and affordable alternative to these options, Nanotechnology: Health and Environmental Risks introduces risk analysis as a tool for responsible environmental decision making in nanotechnology development. The text provides examples of past, present, and future technologies that demonstrate the need for and benefits of evaluating the risks of nanotechnology. Access the most up-to-date and relevant information on the impact of Nanotechnology on our health and surroundings. The text also covers environmental impacts and exposure, followed by chapters on the state-of-the-art tools that adapt life cycle thinking into risk analysis for nanotechnology. The final chapters describe current practices for managing the hazards and risks of nanoscale materials and explore the numerous international efforts that address the risks, science, and policies of nanotechnology. Learn to recognize and overcome the risks involving nanotechnology. With full-color images and insights into the key health and environmental aspects of nanotechnology, this resource shows how risk analysis can play an important role in creating a sustainable future for nanotechnology. Product code: 11NANOENV Member Price: $42.00 Non-Member Price: $52.00 ##SHARELINKS##
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 Authors: Wei-Hong Zhong and Bin Li, Jo Anne Shatkin, Russell G. Maguire, Vivian T. Dang, Gwen M. Gross, and Michael C. RicheyA comprehensive account of how nanomaterials are synthesized and processed, this book presents the theory and technology of introducing nano-based materials as value-added elements into product manufacturing. The book explains the fundamentals of vapor, liquid, solid phase, and biosystem-assisted nanoparticle syntheses, with sufficient analysis of each method to permit decisions on which is most productive, energy efficient, and safe. The text then confronts the problems of scaling up from lab-based syntheses to manufacturing and demonstrates how nanomaterials on the shop floor require new protocols of quality assurance and employee and environmental protection. The book concludes with case studies of individuals who endeavored to commercialize nanotechnologies for higher-volume production. Nano Science and Nano Materials: Synthesis, Manufacturing, and Industry Impacts. Product code: 12NSNM Member Price: $129.00 Non-Member Price: $149.00 ##SHARELINKS##
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 Wet End Chemistry is the eleventh of 15 CD-ROMs in the Making Pulp and Paper CD-ROM Series. Through this highly interactive, self-paced CD-ROM, participants learn wet end chemistry terms, concepts, and processes.Learning outcomes After completing the Wet End Chemistry CD-ROM, participants should be able to:
The series is designed for anyone who would benefit from a working knowledge of the pulping and papermaking process, including:
The complete set of all 15 Making Pulp and Paper CD-ROMs are also available. Product code: MPP-11 Member Price: $78.00 Non-Member Price: $119.00 ##SHARELINKS##
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