ABB to upgrade PM3 automation and drives systems at DS Smith Kemsley mill in England

ZURICH, Switzerland, Jan. 25, 2012 (Press Release) - ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, recently won an extensive order to upgrade automation at DS Smith Paper Ltd's Kemsley Mill in Sittingbourne, Kent, England. The new systems will help the mill produce a greater diversity of high quality paper products.

The order includes an upgrade of the mill's PM3 automation and drives systems, including a new Quality Control System (QCS), upgraded and expanded Distributed Control System (DCS) and upgraded and expanded Drive System, as well as a new Web Imaging Solution (WIS). All of the systems will be integrated with the existing System 800xA.

The mill's Advant QCS will be upgraded to an 800xA with two new Network Platforms and an Air Water Spray. The drives upgrade includes new ACS800 drives and AC800M Controllers. One of the existing DCS Advant Controllers will be upgraded to an AC800M and integrated into the system.

The new QCS will help improve product quality on the PM3, while it increases production and reduces costs. ABB's System 800xA DCS will provide a solid platform for the mill's integrated process operation. The upgraded ABB drives will deliver fast start ups and benefits over the equipment lifecycle that include increased productivity, improved quality and energy savings, while the new WIS will give the mill a state-of-the-art tool for identifying web defects and managing visual uniformity.

The Kemsley Mill is rebuilding its PM3 so it can produce highest quality linerboard and white-top liner grades.

The new systems will be ready for start-up in June 2012.