Finland's Powerflute completes PM revamp

BRUSSELS, May 16, 2008 (RISI) - Powerflute has wrapped up a rebuild of the sole machine at its Savon Sellu mill, located near Kuopio, in Finland. The unit came back online on May 13 following the overhaul.

The project cost Euro 5 million ($7.7 million) and included a new dilution controlled headbox and an upgrade of the plant's short circulation system, supplied by Vaahto.

The scheme was aimed at improving the quality of semi-chemical fluting produced on the machine, to enhance runnability on customers' corrugators. A spokesman said the first results are very encouraging.

Productivity will also increase, but the PM's 300,000 tonne/yr capacity will only be marginally affected.