Metso chooses Outokumpu's lean duplex pipes for its pilot paper machine rebuild in Finland

ESPOO, Finland, March 10, 2010 (Press Release) - Outokumpu has introduced a new comprehensive system of duplex pipes and fittings. The products, called Outokumpu Duralite(TM) Piping System, serve customers in an increasingly wide range of applications. Metso, the major pulp and paper technology company, chose Duralite pipes in the lean duplex grade LDX 2101® to rebuild a pilot paper machine. The machine is used to develop new papermaking technologies and to test products at Metso's Paper Technology Center in Finland.

The duplex products brought Metso a major material saving compared with the conventional stainless steel material, accompanied with good corrosion resistance.

"The high strength of the duplex material translates into more lightweight process pipes, which again translate into increased cost-efficiency", says Metso Procurement Manager Jari Mäntynen.

Outokumpu's lean duplex LDX 2101® has in recent years established itself as a competitive alternative to austenitic grades in pulp and paper processes. The Duralite piping system now completes Outokumpu's product offering.

"This is the last piece of the puzzle, which completes the picture", says Jarkko Pajusalo, Outokumpu's General Manager for the Pulp and Paper Segment. "Our customers can now take full advantage of our lean duplex grade in their processes."

The introduction of Duralite piping system is in line with Outokumpu's strategy to serve end-user customers more efficiently and to grow the share of special grades. Outokumpu is the market leader in duplex grades with a global market share of close to 50 percent.