In a significant development within the paper industry, De Iuliis C & A has been awarded a new contract to revamp the paper machine at San Martino Paper Mill. This strategic project, worth several million euros, is a crucial move to modernize one of the most critical assets within the mill.
The contract involves a complete overhaul of the existing paper machine at the Broccostella (FR) mill, which has been in operation for several decades. The revamping project has been designed to extend the operating life of the machine, increase its productivity and improve the quality of the paper produced, as well as ensure greater operator safety during normal production and routine cleaning and maintenance. De Iuliis will modify the entire plant with state-of-the-art technology and advanced engineering solutions to ensure that the renovated plant meets the latest industry standards.
The renovation will include several upgrades at critical points in the plant:
1. **Advanced automation**: replacing and implementing current automation systems with more advanced equipment will enable more precise control of the papermaking process, reducing waste and improving the efficiency of the entire line.
2. **Energy efficiency improvements**: new energy-saving technologies will reduce the machine's environmental impact and related operating costs.
3. **Increased production capacity**: changes to the machine structure will allow a significant increase in production capacity, enabling the San Martino plant to meet growing market demand.
4. **Safety**: the revamping of the existing paper machine is certainly aimed at improving its productivity and efficiency, but special attention has been paid to the topic of “workplace safety.” Each part involved in the modification has been designed and will be implemented with the aim of allowing the operators to operate and be able to have the various parts of the plant under control at all times in an effective, constant manner and at a safe distance from the rotating elements. This modification will also allow, again for machine operators, to carry out targeted and effective local cleaning, all of which will benefit the efficiency of the paper machine and, above all, safety in the context in which it operates. This also applies to routine maintenance operations while the machine is stopped, all in full compliance with current safety regulations.
5. **Impact on industry**: this renovation project aims to grow San Martino Paper Mill's position in the European papermaking industry. With global demand for high-quality paper products on the rise, future changes will enable the mill to better compete on an international scale. In addition, the project confirms, again and again, De Iuliis' experience in carrying out complex modifications in the paper industry, further consolidating its position as a technical-technological reference firm in that branch of industry and its reputation as a trusted partner for customers.
6. **Environmental and economic benefits**: the project aims not only to improve production capacity, but also to promote its sustainability. Energy efficiency improvements will help achieve the plant's sustainability goals, aligning with the industry trend of aiming for increasingly environmentally friendly production methods.
7. **Timing and future prospects**: the revamping project is scheduled to begin by the end of next year, with completion expected by February 2026. Once the modification is completed, the paper machine at the San Martino Paper Mill will operate at peak efficiency for many years, ensuring its role as a cornerstone in the world of heavy papers. It is to be hoped that the success of this project will pave the way for similar initiatives elsewhere in the industry, so that De Iuliis can continue to play a central role in the modernization of other similar obsolete industrial plants.
About San Martino Paper Mill
The San Martino Paper Mill produces high-quality 400 to 1200 gsm paperboard from recycled waste paper.
Known for its significant contribution to the paper industry and with a long and rich history, the mill has continuously adapted to changes in the industry, maintaining its relevance through technological advances and modernized production processes. Always committed to sustainability, focusing on energy efficiency and environmentally responsible practices, San Martino Paper Mill has always been a major regional employer, playing an important social role in the local economy.