French paper manufacturer Gascogne Papier is to install a new production line for Machine Glazed (MG) papers at its mill in Mimizan, France, with the machine’s web width of 6.8m making it the widest MG paper machine in the world, according to supplier Andritz.
Scheduled to begin production in 2025, Andritz’s PrimeLine MG machine will replace three of the Mimizan mill’s four paper machines. Gascogne Papier said the main purpose was to establish a multi-grade production line that is capable of producing more than 80 different grades of ribbed and unribbed paper. The new machine will have a design speed of 1300m/min, and produce basis weights from 25 to 120gsm, based on 100% softwood unbleached kraft pulp. Andritz added that the system’s 125,000 tonnes per year capacity will set a new industry benchmark for uncoated MG papers.
Dominique Coutière, CEO of Gascogne Papier, said the investment was a big milestone for the company, adding, ‘The selection of the right partner is a decisive success criterion. The experience and references in the MG sector as well as the customer-orientated approach of Andritz convinced us. We are really looking forward to a great partnership.’
Andritz VP for Paper and Board Gerald Steiner added that the involvement and commitment of Gascogne Papier, together with its ‘high level of requirement regarding quality, performance, energy and environmental efficiency make this investment a unique and challenging project’.
A key aspect of the new machine will be its PrimeDry Steel Yankee dryer – the world’s largest at a diameter of 26ft (7.9m), which Andritz said will enable energy-efficient drying while providing ‘excellent’ surface properties such as gloss and dimensional stability.
Gascogne Papier is a specialist in natural MG Kraft paper, serving a range of markets including packaging printers and converters.
