Full-line supplier Voith celebrated the 40th anniversary of its revolutionary NipcoFlex technology, which has proven itself in more than 700 shoe press installations worldwide since its introduction in 1984. This groundbreaking technology has permanently changed the paper industry by ensuring maximum production output and the highest quality standards.
“The introduction of NipcoFlex technology marked a turning point in paper manufacturing,” explains Dr. Michael Weiss, Chief Technology Officer at Voith Paper. “Our customers benefit from individually adjustable pressure distribution in the press nip, a very wide range of production areas and significant energy savings. The continuous development of this technology is a testament to our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability.”
NipcoFlex technology is characterized by its simple and reliable design. The high press pulse to which the paper web is exposed, combined with a long dwell time in the nip and optimal pressure gradients, ensures maximum dewatering performance and minimal re-moistening of the felts. Key features include the design of the hydrodynamic pressure shoe with upper and lower parts and an insulating layer in between. Due to its very low bending stiffness, this ensures excellent line force profiles. The hydrodynamic lubrication gap allows for a continuous and uninterrupted pressure increase, thus preventing damage caused by contact between the shell and the pressure shoe. Reliable and well-designed systems – for jacket pre-tensioning, mounting and adjustment, for example – ensure easy handling of the machine in all operating situations.
“The reliability and efficiency of NipcoFlex technology have significantly improved our production processes,” says Günter Leitgeb, Mill Manager at Smurfit Westrock Nettingsdorf. “We have been relying on NipcoFlex for more than 40 years, and it is an integral part of our production. Reliability, easy handling and top performance for over four decades.”
“With our NipcoFlex technology and the associated QualiFlex high-performance press sleeve, we offer our customers an unbeatable complete package for maximum performance,” adds Benjamin Kitze, Director Product Group Press at Voith Paper. “We are proud of our achievements over the past 40 years and look forward to continuing to play a key role in shaping the future of the paper industry.”
Voith is currently developing the next generation of shoe press technology. The focus is on energy savings, improved maintenance and increased performance of felts and covers throughout their entire life cycle. The first important step in this direction is the development of the HighPerformance Press.
The HighPerformance Press concept reflects the absolute focus on resource-saving production. An initial installation is already showing savings of over 4 percent in steam, and an upcoming reference will demonstrate similar savings. Additional features, such as a smart hydraulic unit and reduced drive power also focus on sustainable production, while overall performance and maintenance handling are continuously optimized.
The focus is not only on new installations; existing systems can also be significantly improved in terms of energy efficiency in the future using the new concepts.