DS Smith taps Voith to rebuild PM 4 at Viana mill in Portugal to increase production capacity, improve efficiency, with start-up set for Q4; rebuild will increase kraftliner production to around 428,000 tons/year, with machine design speed of 1,100 m/min

June 5, 2023 (press release) –

• Voith will rebuild the PM 4 with state-of-the-art technology
• Project aims to increase production capacity and improve overall efficiency
• Start-up is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2023

DEOCRISTE, Portugal. DS Smith, a leading global manufacturer of sustainable containerboard and specialty papers, has commissioned Voith to rebuild its PM 4 at the company’s Viana site in Northern Portugal. Producing around of 400,000 tons of kraftliner and high-performance top kraftliner per year, the mill is a market leader in Southern Europe. The extensive rebuild will increase production and improve overall efficiency. Production will expand to around 428,000 tons per year with a machine design speed of 1,100 m/min. The start-up of the project is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2023.

The rebuild scope includes modifications to the forming section to increase capacity and performance of the paper machine. The press section will be completely renewed, including installation of a Tandem NipcoFlex press that will significantly increase the dry content after press and reduce specific steam consumption.

The transfer between press and dryer sections will be modified with state-of-the-art web transfer and tail threading technology to provide the best runability for lightweight grades. In addition, smaller modifications and upgrades in the stock preparation and approach flow line are planned.
Finally, the scope of delivery includes a comprehensive fabrics package for the PM 4 start-up and subsequent supply, as well as spare parts.

DS Smith is a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based packaging worldwide, supported by recycling and papermaking operations. It plays a central role in the value chain across sectors including e-commerce, fastmoving consumer goods and industrials.

Through its purpose of “Redefining Packaging for a Changing World” and its Now and Next sustainability strategy, DS Smith is committed to leading the transition to the circular economy, while delivering more circular solutions for its customers and wider society – replacing problem plastics, taking carbon out of supply chains and providing innovative recycling solutions. Its bespoke box-to-box in 14 days model, design capabilities and innovation strategy sit at the heart of this response.

Headquartered in London and a member of the FTSE 100, DS Smith operates in 34 countries employing around 30,000 people and is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Its history can be traced back to the box-making businesses started in the 1940s by the Smith family.

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