Guangdong, China – Guangdong Lee & Man Paper Co., Ltd. has announced a major technical upgrade project for its PM7 paper production line, with a total investment of RMB 720 million.
The project is designed to enhance product quality, improve manufacturing efficiency, and strengthen the company's ability to meet growing market demand for premium lightweight containerboard.
As demand continues to rise for high-quality containerboard—particularly premium products with lower basis weights—the company will carry out the upgrade within its existing manufacturing facility. The project represents another step in Lee & Man Paper's commitment to technological innovation and sustainable production.
Key Project Highlights
Investment
Total project investment: RMB 720 million
Production Line Upgrade
Prior to the upgrade, the Phase I production line (internally designated as PM7) produced kraft linerboard using a 6,600 mm-wide paper machine, manufacturing products with basis weights ranging from 120 to 250 g/m².
Following the upgrade, the existing paper machine and stock preparation system located in the No. 16 paper machine building will be comprehensively modernized to manufacture premium lightweight and medium-weight kraft linerboard with basis weights of 60 to 160 g/m². Product specifications and raw material usage will be optimized accordingly.
Importantly, the project will not increase production capacity. Annual capacity of the upgraded PM7 line will remain at 300,000 tonnes, while the mill's total papermaking capacity will continue at 2.1 million tonnes per year.
Enhanced Paper Machine Performance
To support the new product portfolio, the paper machine will be upgraded with:
- An increase in machine width from 6,600 mm to 7,860 mm
- Higher operating speeds to improve production efficiency
- Lower operating costs through enhanced machine performance
Advanced Stock Preparation System
The stock preparation system will also undergo a comprehensive modernization, including the installation of:
- New-generation pulpers
- Closed screening systems
- Double-disc refiners
- Supercalenders
- Advanced headboxes
- Film transfer size presses
- Other state-of-the-art papermaking equipment
The upgraded stock preparation system is expected to better preserve fiber length while producing a more uniform and refined pulp, resulting in improved paper strength properties, including higher tear resistance and burst strength.
Supporting Higher-Value Products
The PM7 modernization project reflects Guangdong Lee & Man Paper's strategic focus on responding to evolving customer requirements for premium lightweight containerboard. By combining advanced papermaking technology with optimized production efficiency, the company aims to enhance product competitiveness while maintaining its existing production capacity.
