APP’s PM 6 - China’s first high-speed MG specialty paper machine for low basis weight grades
Voith successfully started up PM 6, China’s first high-speed MG specialty paper machine for low basis weight grades, at APP’s Jindong Dagang mill in Zhenjiang. Completed two months ahead of schedule, the project marks a milestone for China’s specialty paper industry and strengthens APP’s global production capabilities for premium functional paper grades.
PM 6 features a reel width of 4,970 mm and a process design speed of 1,200 m/min. The machine is designed to produce high-quality thermal base paper and MG paper grades in a basis weight range of 20-60 g/m², with an annual production capacity of 120,000 tons. The new line will help meet growing market demand for premium specialty paper products.
For PM 6, Voith delivered a fully integrated production line including the proven BlueLine stock preparation system and XcelLine paper machine, covering the complete process from stock preparation and approach flow systems through to winding and rewinding.
Start-up achieved ahead of schedule
PM 6 launched two months ahead of schedule thanks to technical optimization and close collaboration between the APP and Voith project teams.
Li Yunsheng, CEO of APP Specialty & Graphic Paper, said: “The successful start-up of PM 6 is another strong example of the long-term partnership between APP and Voith. The new production line strengthens our supply capability and product quality for thermal paper and high-end MG grades, enabling us to better serve growing market demand.”
Carlos Lin, SVP Order Execution & Operations at Voith Paper Asia, added: “The successful start-up of PM 6 demonstrates what can be achieved through close teamwork, strong execution and shared commitment. We thank APP for its trust and look forward to supporting efficient, reliable and sustainable operations over the long term.”
Efficient and stable production performance
Demand for thermal paper and functional specialty grades continues to grow, while customer expectations for surface quality, smoothness and runnability are increasing. PM 6 is designed to combine high productivity with stable operations and consistently high product quality.
The stock preparation system features an IntensaPulper combined with efficient cleaning and refining technologies, enabling optimized fiber processing while reducing energy consumption. The advanced approach flow system minimizes air content and provides stable stock delivery to the paper machine. Equipped with dilution water control technology, the MasterJet Pro headbox delivers uniform cross-direction basis weight profiles and excellent formation.
The forming section combines a Fourdrinier former with DuoFormer D II for efficient dewatering and excellent formation. A Tandem NipcoFlex shoe press increases dryness while maintaining bulk properties.
In the dryer section, end section and finishing, TopDuoRun and CombiDuoRun drying technologies ensure efficient and stable drying performance. The SpeedSizer and EcoCal Soft calender further optimize surface properties. MasterReel and VariFlex NG Winder systems provide reliable roll quality while reducing production losses.
Long-standing partnership driving innovation
The partnership between Voith and APP dates back to 1998. Since then, Voith has supplied multiple paper machines and finishing projects to APP mills, including Dagang PM 1/2/3, Guangxi BM 1, Hainan PM 2, and the APP GEP TML 1. Several of these installations have set industry benchmarks. For example, Dagang PM 3 achieved a worldwide operating speed record of 1,810 m/min, while the TML 1 reached market-ready product quality during its first trial production.
With growing demand for premium specialty grades such as thermal papers and functional papers, PM 6 will strengthen APP’s competitive position in the specialty paper market while setting a new benchmark for advanced MG specialty paper production worldwide.