11 Oct. 2021. AFT start-up a new POM® approach flow system at Stora Enso Oulu on the recently converted and commissioned board machine 7. The machine is now producing a high quality kraftliner called AvantForte™ by Stora Enso in both brown and white top. The kraftliner product has three layers of fiber to feature the strongest in the Stora Enso kraftliner portfolio, an essential element for e-commerce and food packaging.

The new wet end from AFT includes a complete POM approach flow system for all 3 layers including headbox screening, POMix stock processors to feed the paper machine, POMp degassers for air removal, a POMlock drop leg and a cleaning system. Basic engineering and mill site services were included as part of AFT’s offerings.

Compared to traditional systems with silos and tanks, the compact POM system runs efficiently with less water, energy and few web breaks. This is helping to enhance the environmental performance of board machine 7, while providing fast grade changes, process stability and sheet cleanliness. Despite challenges from the pandemic, installation and start-up of the POM system were completed on time, helping the overall machine conversion and environmental projects to proceed ahead of plan.

“AFT is proud to have been selected for this project following similar successful installations at other Stora Enso mills”, says Timo Koivisto, Vice President – Process and Equipment Solutions. “We strive to deliver innovative technologies that help our customers produce high quality products in a sustainable way.”