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Koehler Paper Relies on Voith for Expansion of Paper Machine 5 in Oberkirch, Germany

After a successful first rebuild stage of PM 5 in Oberkirch – with the installation of the Voith SpeedSizer film press and contactless qDryPro Compact high-performance drying system – specialty paper manufacturer Koehler Paper has confirmed its confidence in Voith. Koehler has selected the full-line supplier to deliver the second modernization stage, focusing on the much-proven NipcoFlex shoe press.

“We have a long-standing, successful business relationship with Koehler,” says Thorsten Heidt, Senior Sales Manager at Voith. “Just recently, Koehler was able to achieve a world speed record with the new PM 8 line at the Kehl location thanks to our successful cooperation and continuous optimization. We are very pleased that Koehler has again opted for our leading technologies and that our solution convinced in all points.”

“For the second rebuild stage, we are again relying on Voith to achieve an optimum production result,” says Hartmut Felsch, plant manager at Koehler’s Oberkirch site. “In Voith, we have found a strong and reliable partner with the highest quality standards for all areas of paper production.”

With the installation of the NipcoFlex shoe press in the existing press section, the dry content after the press is significantly increased. As a result, large amounts of steam can be saved in the dryer section for drying the paper web. The rebuild thus helps save energy and reduce CO2 emissions in the plant. In addition, the higher dry content increases line speed and production capacity. At the same time, work safety and operability are improved when changing the felt with the aid of the cantilever framing for the pick-up felt.

The rebuild is a tailor-made solution and addresses the limited space available, especially on the drive side of the machine. As part of the rebuild, the transfer process from the press to the dryer section is optimized and a draw reduction is achieved to significantly increase efficiency. The press roll uses a TerraSpeed Trend Supreme ceramic coating, which is also utilized on other Koehler Paper machines. This guarantees optimized sheet release with long running times and a high level of cleanliness. The order is complemented by the proven QualiFlex shoe press sleeves and a start-up set for all press felts.