International technology group ANDRITZ has secured an order from Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co., a subsidiary of Middle East Paper Co. (MEPCO) Group, to deliver a state-of-the-art tissue production line in Saudi Arabia. The project, scheduled for start-up in 2026, will not disclose its financial details.
The tissue machine, featuring a design speed of 2,200 meters per minute and a width of 5.47 meters at the reel, is set to be one of the world’s fastest and highest-capacity machines. The production line will include advanced technologies from stock preparation to the reel, ensuring low energy consumption and high product quality. A comprehensive automation and digitalization package will further enhance operational efficiency.
Adel Alfar, Director of Operations at Juthor Paper, emphasized the rationale behind the collaboration: “We partnered with ANDRITZ because they are a high-end technology provider with a focus on optimized energy consumption for high-capacity and high-quality tissue production. Their commitment to support us in achieving our targets has convinced us.”
Key technological features of the production line include:
- ShortFlow stock preparation system with double dilution to enable significant energy savings.
- Papillon refiner, designed for gentle and homogeneous fiber treatment, with easily accessible components for efficient maintenance.
- PrimeLine™ W 2200 tissue machine, equipped with the PrimePress XT Evo shoe press, a steel Yankee, and a co-generation system to achieve high dryness levels and minimal energy consumption.
- Metris Automation and Digitalization platform, including the Metris X distributed control system and Operator Training Simulator, aimed at enhancing performance and workforce readiness.
The order will be executed on an EPC (engineering, procurement, and commissioning) basis, reflecting a collaborative approach between the two companies.
Gerald Steiner, Senior Vice President of Paper & Tissue at ANDRITZ, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “High speed, high capacity, and high quality – Juthor Paper is pursuing an impressive growth strategy, and we are proud to be their chosen partner. Together, we aim to set new standards in tissue production, particularly in terms of sustainability and digitalization.”
MEPCO, one of the largest paper manufacturers in the MENA region, entered the tissue market with the establishment of Juthor Paper. This latest order underscores the ongoing collaboration between MEPCO and ANDRITZ and reaffirms their commitment to resource-efficient and innovative solutions.