AFT’s global team of experts and innovative products are a good fit with paper, board, and tissue makers looking to push their refining to a higher level. Finebar technology is designed to address the specific product and process needs demanded by customers. Complimentary to AFT refiners and competitor models, Finebar plates and fillings help papermakers’ achieve greater profitability and competitiveness. How older refiners gain new life Refiner models made by other suppliers can be fine-tuned by AFT experts. Poor fiber fibrillation is a common barrier to fully achieving papermaking objectives. Finebar plates are known to improve mechanical properties, especially sheet strength.

As papermakers strive for increased efficiency, finding ways to make the best use of existing equipment has become an essential part of achieving their goals – and is an integral part of AFT’s philosophy.

As a leading producer of printing & writing grades, Arctic Paper in Kostrzyn, Poland has faced considerable change over the past decade based on the tidal wave of digital media. Despite challenging market conditions and adapting grades to perform on a wide range of new printing technologies, their business is robust thanks to the superior quality of their uncoated woodfree papers, manufactured in modern, safe and environment-friendly conditions.

AFT was awarded a contract to improve the performance and efficiency of their wet end, refining, and screening systems on PM1 – making sustainability gains at the same time.

According to Marcin Olczak, manager of PM1, “With AFT’s help, greater process cleanliness boosted PM1’s production speed and improved overall efficiency, allowing greater flexibility for grade formulations and speedy changes every day. We use fiber more efficiently, saving energy too.”

AFT’s scope of supply was comprised of a complete POM approach flow system, a new primary MaxFlow screen, basic engineering, and startup services. In addition, refining has been improved with customized Finebar® plates that provide optimum fiber development as well as longer plate life.

Flexibility as a driver of success

Adds Dominik Darski, production manager, “Being profitable requires flexibility, efficiency and close attention to customer needs. AFT’s recent efficiency improvements provide immediate and long-term sustainability solutions, including fewer chemicals in the system and less waste, so there’s less impact on the environment.”

Improved screening and stock mixing before the paper machine headbox delivered even more than anticipated, along with POM degassing that keeps air out of the system. The new Finebar refiner plates are paying off. These improvements were accomplished by working closely with the mill team to optimize old equipment.

Darski quips that every mill has its own uniqueness. “Our recent advances on PM1 are a true realization of our ambitions. Above all else, our people care for each other and are making the most of older equipment—when it’s possible. This is a shared value with AFT.”
“Now, there is more and more discussion in Europe about reusing things. And this heightened focus helps the environment, too. This philosophy also requires responsibility from the suppliers of equipment. Products must be reparable and last longer. AFT equipment is long lasting. Their Finebar plates are proof of this.”

About AFT

AFT is a global supplier specialized in stock preparation, screening, refining and paper machine approach flow systems. With over 100 years of experience, we offer expert solutions that help mills produce more while using less energy, water and chemicals. Our solutions are tailored to the customer’s furnish, their application and the end product being produced in order to optimize their return on investment. For more information, please contact us at Marketing@aft-global.com.

Sidebar 1:

AFT’s global team of experts and innovative products are a good fit with paper, board, and tissue makers looking to push their refining to a higher level.
Finebar technology is designed to address the specific product and process needs demanded by customers.
Complimentary to AFT refiners and competitor models, Finebar plates and fillings help papermakers’ achieve greater profitability and competitiveness.

Sidebar 2:

How older refiners gain new life Refiner models made by other suppliers can be fine-tuned by AFT experts. Poor fiber fibrillation is a common barrier to fully achieving papermaking objectives. Finebar plates are known to improve mechanical properties, especially sheet strength. Image sub-header: Custom-designed patters are key to achieving quality, energy, and wear life benefits.