Metso Paper (Valmet) establishes new paper lab in Charlotte

Published Jan 17, 2001 00.00.00 +2 GMT

Metso Paper (Valmet) has established a new paper lab in its Charlotte, North Carolina facility, to help customers test and analyze their paper. The new lab is a combination of the Tapio Analyzer (profiling) work previously done in Charlotte, combined with state-of-the-art testing and analysis equipment acquired from the Beloit Rockton R&D Center following Metso Paper's (Valmet's) acquisition of Beloit's aftermarket service in 2000.

The new lab is under the direction of Mr. Dan Sze who was responsible for managing similar Beloit activities in Rockton. According to Dan, "This lab is different than those found at schools or foundations. Typically they are more focused on providing testing as a service, without the background knowledge of a specific paper grade or machine concept. We are used to working on paper and machine variability defects that specifically challenge the efficiencies of paper making systems. The lab will complement Valmet's extensive experience working on large machines including their own and those of other manufacturers."

The new lab offers companies a unique view into their pulp and papermaking efforts and in many cases serves as an extension of the mill's own testing and analysis activities. The recent spate of mergers and acquisitions has left many mills without extensive R&D facilities, so a facility like the one in Charlotte, is even more valuable.

The Metso Paper (Valmet) lab is best at troubleshooting machine problems as it combines process expertise, paper machine knowledge, and a wealth of data about machines accumulated over a 15 year period. As a result it can serve the needs of not only paper mills but also consultants, fabric companies, chemical suppliers, and small labs.

Many times mills send their own results to the lab in Charlotte, and ask the experts there to interpret or confirm those findings. The lab can work on all grades from tissue to fine paper to board grades, and is currently working to set up a system for analyzing pulp including a 'Pressability Index' or standardized pressing procedure for determining the strength and dewatering characteristics for various furnishes.

For more information call Dan Sze, (704) 587-2292. Metso Corporation was formed in 1999 with the merger of Valmet and Rauma Corporations. The resulting company, Metso, was divided into three major business areas. The largest area was "fiber and paper" and was renamed "Valmet" following the reorganization. Recently Metso has decided to rename all its business areas using the Metso name. As such, Valmet will become "Metso Paper", effective February 1, 2001.

Metso Paper (Valmet) is the world's leading supplier of systems and services for the pulp and paper industry including wood handling; pulping; stock prep; paper, board and tissuemaking; finishing; air systems; and automation.