Valmet, a global supplier of technologies and automation services for the pulp and paper industry, is set to deliver a winder rebuild for VPK Paper Normandie in Alizay, France.  

This upgrade is aimed at enhancing the operational reliability and capacity of the winder, as well as improving safety.  

The rebuild will feature a handling solution for a mother reel and empty spool, a new slitting area with automatic trim positioning and edge trim cutting, alongside installation services.  

The order was recorded in Valmet’s second-quarter (Q2) orders received, with the delivery scheduled for Q4 2024.  

The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. 

Valmet EMEA Area mill sales manager Kevin Liegeois said: “The paper machine in Alizay was restarted in 2023 after a grade conversion delivered by Valmet. We are happy to continue the cooperation with VPK by delivering a winder rebuild that will make the winder easier and safer to operate.”  

VPK Paper Normandie annually produces approximately 450,000 tonnes of recycled paper for corrugated board.  

The Alizay site also features a water treatment plant and a wood pellet production unit.  

VPK Paper Normandie is part of VPK Group, which boasts a turnover of €2bn ($2.23bn), employs approximately 7,000 staff, and operates 70 sites throughout Europe. 

VPK Paper Normandie mill manager Jamila Derraz said: “The rebuild will increase the automation level of our winder, hence providing an opportunity to further optimise our winding process and increase the capacity of our production line.

“We are looking forward to cooperating with Valmet and the delivery later this year, as the winder rebuild is an important step towards reaching our production and safety targets.”  

Earlier this month, Valmet announced the opening of a new service centre in Beihai, China.