Control systems and drives for the world’s widest paper machine in its class

ABB has been selected as a project partner for the installation of the world’s widest uncoated machine-glazed (MG) paper machine at Gascogne Papier’s kraft pulp and paper production plant in Mimizan, France.

Replacing three older machines, the facility’s PM7 will be fully integrated and standardised using the ABB Ability System 800xA distributed control system (DCS), the ABB Quality Control System (QCS) for pulp and paper, drives and motors. Advanced QCS controls will enable automatic grade changes and multivariable cross-direction. The full scope of supply includes 8000 I/O, ACS880 multi-drives and ABB’s energy-efficient SynRM IE5 motors. The package will help Gascogne Papier save on energy costs while simultaneously reducing waste by making more on-spec paper.

ABB’s technologies will be used on the new paper machine that has a web width of 6.8m and a design speed of 1,300m/min. It will be capable of producing 125,000 tons of basis weight paper per annum, between 25 and 120 grams per square meter, setting a new industry benchmark for uncoated MG papers.

“We have an established relationship with Gascogne and are delighted to continue supporting them in their mill production goals,” said Pamela Murphy, European Operations Manager for Pulp and Paper at ABB. “The project also underscores our important collaboration and the complementary technology and expertise that we will bring to Gascogne.”

ABB began deliveries early in 2023, with QCS and drives deliveries to Gascogne planned for 2024, along with commissioning of the machine.