AMS BR Star Paper Starts up New Toscotec AHEAD Tissue Line

The Vila Velha de Ródão mill was taken over by the Portucel Soporcel group at the start of this year. This expansion project involved an investment of EUR 39 million and has created 70 new direct jobs, doubling the production capacity of the plant, which is now set to increase exports by around 40% and EBITDA by 72%. 

Purchasing around 40% its supplies from local companies, the new mill has increased its factory floor space from 40,000 sq. meters to 70,000 sq. meters and is fitted with the latest environmental technologies which will allow it to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 22,000 metric tpy. With the new production line in Vila Velha de Ródão, the Portucel Soporcel group is now one of Europe's most competitive manufacturers in the tissue market 

  

Jose Miranda, head of tissue of Grupo Portucel–Soporcel, reported that the "the new TM 2 is running at an speed of 1,900 m/min. only two weeks after the startup date, producing high quality tissue."

 

The new TM 2 project included a stock preparation plant for virgin pulp, AHEAD-2.0S tissue machine with a Steel Yankee Dryer TT SYD-15FT, Milltech hood and air systems, electrification and control system, additional plants, and complete engineering and erection activities. With a daily production of 110 metric tons, AMS BR Star Paper has increased its production to better satisfy the growing market’s demand and to follow the Group’s strategic option to diversify its activity in the tissue business.

 

 

As a leading force in the international pulp and paper market, the Portucel Soporcel Group is one of Portugal's strongest brands on the world stage. In June 2013, it was honored as the "Best Company in Europe" by the European Business Awards in the category "Business of the Year." As part of its strategy of international expansion, the Goup has embarked on a new cycle of sustained growth on two fronts: by consolidating projects currently underway, and moving into new business areas. In Europe, the Group has decided to diversify into tissue paper, with the aim of establishing itself as a major player in the European market.