SCA is successfully utilizing Voith’s digital and automation solutions with the aim of optimizing the production efficiency of its new XcelLine PM2. Last year, the leading full-line supplier Voith successfully commissioned the paper machine at its Obbola site. The high-performance machine produces 725,000 tons of kraftliner annually with basis weights between 100 and 200 gsm and has a design speed of 1,400 meters per minute.
«The journey for SCA and Voith together has only just begun» says Gustaf Nygren, Mill Manager Obbola at SCA. «We have a long-term partnership in place with the target of reaching the common vision of PM2 in Obbola becoming the new reference for safety, efficiency and digitalization».
To achieve its goals, SCA is using more than 10 innovative digitalization and automation solutions across the entire paper machine from the Papermaking 4.0 portfolio of Voith and its subsidiary. For example, solutions from the OnEfficiency family help increase line efficiency and stabilize product and process quality. The increased efficiency also contributes to more sustainable and resource-saving paper production. SCA also uses applications from the OnCare family to monitor productivity and take optimization measures quickly.
Machine availability is further increased by digital services such as the OnCall.Video remote maintenance service. The Voith Paper Webshop enables fast ordering of spare and wear parts as well as services. The digital portfolio is made available on Voith’s IIoT dataPARC cloud platform, which is characterized by the highest security standards.
«With the PM2, we will take our next steps in the digitalization journey. The applications provided by Voith will help us to monitor the process and make the right decisions» confirms Niclas Ahnmark, Paper Mill Manager at SCA.
SCA has also signed a long-term service agreement with Voith subsidiary BTG for process control. BTG’s Lifecycle program ensures optimal consistency accuracy and control by providing preventive maintenance services for the entire consistency sensors install base, including regular calibration and routine checks. BTG Field Service Engineers assist in the planning, implementation and coordination of the various maintenance services, maximizing machine uptime and stability while maintaining SCA’s high safety standards.
The collaboration with SCA is long-term and is particularly evident through the Efficiency Partnership. Throughout the process, the teams work closely together to ensure that the solutions are used optimally. Stephan Sicking, Vice President Sales FRS Emea at Voith Paper, explains, «as part of a digitalization roadmap, we have defined common goals and KPIs in a cross-functional team, developed a customized concept and are now providing support for successive installation and employee training. Already, the benefits from this collaborative approach are clearly demonstrated».