Voith Paper's Single Press Pilot Paper Machine Sets Record

Heidenheim, Germany, 23 March 2007 -- In a pilot trial, wood-free paper was produced operating a single NipcoFlex press at the Voith Paper Technology Center (PTC) in Heidenheim, Germany, at a record-breaking speed of 2092 m/min. This speed for the production of wood-free uncoated copy paper is approximately 300 m/min faster than the current world record, which was obtained using a press with more than one press nip.

The strength values and surface characteristics of the paper samples obtained were in the normal range. The ash content was 15%.

This trial was successful due to the interaction between several innovative factors at the PTC. The modular design of the VPM 6 allowed the single NipcoFlex press to be used in an infrastructure completely corresponding to that used in practice, from headbox to reel, and to study the machine's performance capabilities.

A press felt developed by Voith Paper Fabrics especially for the single NipcoFlex was combined and used with an overall clothing concept designed for high drainage and drying performance. Through this, the press load and the clothing could be coordinated with the requirements for extremely high production speeds.

Voith Paper is a division of Voith and one of the leading partners to the paper industry. Through steady innovations Voith Paper optimizes the paper production process. Founded on January 1, 1867, Voith has a current workforce of approximately 34,000, sales of EUR 3.7 billion, and more than 250 locations worldwide. It is one of the largest family-owned enterprises in Europe.