Following the contract announced in 2025, Voith has successfully started up PM 19 at Wuzhou Specialty Paper. The paper machine is the first worldwide to operate with Voith’s DuoCentri NipcoFlex press with center belt. The solution has now moved from development to commercial operation and has already demonstrated stable production and reliable web runnability.
The new press concept enables, for the first time, closed full-width web threading from the press directly into the drying section. This eliminates the open-draw at the center roll, a long-standing weak point of conventional press designs. As a result, PM 19 benefits from faster and safer threading, fewer web breaks and reduced mechanical stress on critical components.
Addressing long-standing operational challenges
Open-draw threading in the center roll area has traditionally caused instability in high-speed paper machines. Operators often face difficult and time-consuming threading, increased risk of web breaks, nip paper jamming, premature doctor blade wear and damage to the center roll surface. In extreme cases, these effects can even lead to severe equipment failures.
The DuoCentri NipcoFlex press with center belt fundamentally re-moves these risks by keeping the web fully supported. Operational experience at PM 19 confirms clear improvements in threading reliability, overall runnability and occupational safety, while extending the lifetime of doctor blades and the center roll.
Integrated system approach ensures smooth start-up
For PM 19, Voith delivered a complete system package tailored to the specific requirements of Wuzhou Specialty Paper. The scope included one SpeedSizer, two OnQuality quality control systems, the machine control system, ProRelease Plus stabilizer, key approach flow components, start-up clothing and fabrics, as well as on-site start-up sup-port from approach flow to reel. This integrated approach enabled a smooth transition from commissioning to stable production.
“Over the years, Wuzhou Specialty Paper and Voith Paper have maintained a strong, mutually supportive partnership”, says Zhang Yanchen, deputy general manager at Wuzhou Specialty Paper Group. For PM 19, Voith once again delivered reliable, stable equipment along with professional and dedicated services, further enhancing the operational stability and production efficiency of the machine. This is perfectly aligned with Wuzhou Specialty Paper’s commitment to the principles of ‘Integrity and Craftsmanship’ as we dedicate ourselves to advancing the paper industry. We look forward to continued collaboration and future successes.”
The successful start up of PM 19 marks an important milestone in the technical collaboration between Voith and Wuzhou Specialty Paper. It also confirms the practical benefits of the DuoCentri NipcoFlex press with center belt as a future ready solution for high performance paper machines.
