More steam in the boiler

Print Solutions

Paper manufacturer Reflex, based in Düren, Germany is again increasing its machine throughput, two months ahead of schedule. The overhauled PM4 papermachine has been running in four shift mode since November 2015, and now, the current three shift PM 1 and PM3 machines will alternate with each other, in the new simultaneous operation.

‘In view of the difficult market environment in the paper industry, the decision to increase productivity by commencing parallel operation of two papermachines ahead of schedule is an unusual one, for Reflex too. However, the way the company has been developing so far serves to confirm the multi-pillar strategy that we have set ourselves, comprising the diversification of our products and brands,’ said Hariolf Koeder, CEO of Reflex.

Before the four shift operation of two papermachines could proceed, it was necessary to install an energy generation plant, which was inaugurated at Reflex in mid-March 2016. The independent, resource friendly steam generator supplies up to 15 tonnes per hour, which optimally covers the company's energy requirements, while also providing spare capacity for future production expansion.

The PM 4 is used exclusively for the production of transparent papers, including the 'Spectral' and 'glama' brands.

Label papers and opaque papers for graphic and artistic purposes are produced with the PM3; these can be made upon request with watermarks and felt marks. The general brands include Zeta, Gohrsmühle, da capo and durex.

Technical papers for special applications, for example the base paper for 'Elephanthide' and crepe papers, are produced on the PM1.

Since it was restructured around 14 months ago, Reflex has increased its personnel by about 50%. The converting, paper production and sales department have all taken on new members with industry experience. Moreover, in September 2016, five new trainees will be starting their careers at the company in the fields of paper technology, electronics for industrial engineering and mechatronics.