Regular quality control system upgrades keep measurements reliable
Nov 22, 2024
Sappi Kirkniemi Mill in Finland produces 750,000 t/a of Galerie papers for heatset web offset printing serving the high-volume print market. The coated mechanical papers are used for creating high-quality catalogues, brochures, and publications around the world. The mill uses the Valmet IQ Quality Control System (QCS) for monitoring and optimizing end-product quality. The system includes seven intelligent scanners, precise measurements, and advanced control applications. Valmet’s lifecycle services help to ensure the reliability of the Valmet IQ Quality Control System and Valmet DNA Distributed Control System (DCS).
Marko Nora, Maintenance Engineer, Sappi Kirkniemi and Sauli Seikkula, Manager, Paper Solutions Services, Valmet
Thanks to over ten years of good cooperation from both teams, Valmet understands our needs well, and we know what Valmet has to offer us. We work together on the automation system and quality control system (QCS), for which there has been a long-standing maintenance agreement. I’ve been satisfied and received fast support.
Marko Nora, Maintenance Engineer at Sappi Kirkniemi.
Each year, Sappi’s and Valmet’s teams review a lifecycle plan that helps to visualize the lifecycle of the equipment base.
“The lifecycle plan allows me to identify maintenance needs and better manage costs. Having visibility several years ahead enables us to spread investments over multiple years, avoiding surprises. It also ensures we stay on the upgrade path of the equipment.”
“In the latest upgrade, we received more measurements and automation for color adjustments. When the QCS and DCS come from the same supplier, they work together more seamlessly,” says Marko Nora.
Summary
| Location | Lohja, Finland |
| Goals of regular upgrades |
Maximize production line runnability by ensuring usability, and keep the system within lifecycle support |
| Solution |
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| Benefits of regular upgrades |
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