Stora Enso chooses ABB’s sectional drive systems for a packaging line conversion in Finland

Stora Enso, a leading global provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials and wooden constructions, has selected ABB for supplying sectional drive systems for their Oulu mill in Northern Finland, where their former paper line will be converted into a consumer board line for folding box board and coated unbleached kraft.

In 2021, when Stora Enso converted their first machine from paper to kraftliner at the Oulu site, ABB supplied a comprehensive drive system package. Now, with the second line conversion the total annual capacity across the site will increase by 750,000 metric tons, reaching 1,200,000 metric tons of board once the new machine comes online.

The scope of supply for the new project includes liquid and air cooled ACS880 Multidrives and motors for the board production line, the PMC800 Drive Control System – based on ABB's latest automation technology – and a machine directive-compliant Safety PLC solution for the sectional drives system.

“We’re excited to be supporting the Oulu mill on such an important project, one that also aligns closely to the company’s sustainability commitments,” said Niko Lahtinen, Paper Machine Drives Business Driver, Process Industries, ABB. “Our earlier experience with Stora Enso – particularly around drive systems and drive controls – coupled with our consultative expertise are a good starting point for the project. We are thrilled with the trust and value Stora Enso has placed in our approach and solutions.”

Production on the new converted machine is estimated to start during 2025.