With the successful commissioning of the WLM 2 line by Ecowipes, a leading manufacturer of nonwoven wipes, and the receipt of the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC), Voith reports another project success in the field of nonwoven production. This milestone marks the pinnacle of a collaborative effort to advance sustainable production in the nonwovens industry.
The WLM 2 line, located in Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, Poland, is designed with a wire width of 3,750 mm and a design speed of 300 m/min, enabling an impressive yearly capacity of about 20,000 tons. The line produces carded/pulp (CP) wipes made from 60 percent pulp and 40 percent viscose, specifically tailored for baby wipes applications. These wipes are 100 percent plastic-free and biodegradable, meeting the rising demand for environmentally friendly hygiene products. CP wipes offer a unique blend of softness and strength, making them ideal for sensitive skin while ensuring effective cleaning.
"The successful production on the WLM 2 line is a testament to the long and trusting partnership between Ecowipes and Voith," said Artur Gałwiaczek, Head of Technology of Ecowipes. "Voith's innovative technology and our shared commitment to sustainability have allowed us to produce high-quality, biodegradable wipes efficiently. This collaboration has exceeded our expectations and sets a new standard in the industry."
A key highlight of the project is the implementation of the FloatLip Former, utilized for the first time in this application. The FloatLip Former is an innovative machine concept that offers a compact, cost-effective and space-saving solution for the production of CP wipes. It can be substituted for the traditional HydroFormer, providing a more efficient and tailored solution for Ecowipes’ specific needs.
"Working alongside Ecowipes on the WLM 2 project has been a remarkable experience," stated Oliver Crasser, Sales Manager at Voith Paper. "The implementation of the FloatLip Former on the WLM 2 demonstrates our commitment to delivering energy-efficient, space-saving and highly effective solutions. We are proud to contribute to Ecowipes' vision of sustainable production."
The collaboration between Ecowipes and Voith has been characterized by an open and pragmatic approach, leveraging the extensive experience of both parties in the nonwovens sector. This synergy has consistently enhanced line performance and availability, paving the way for future innovations in the industry.
Voith's involvement extends beyond the initial project phase, with a service contract ensuring ongoing support and optimization of the WLM 2. As both companies look to the future, this partnership promises to further drive advancements in sustainable nonwoven products.