Sappi North America, Valmet Celebrate Successful Start-Up of Rebuilt Paper Machine 2

Summary

Aug. 21, 2025 – In May 2025, Sappi North America and Valmet celebrated the successful start-up of the rebuilt paper machine 2 (PM2) at the Somerset paper manufacturing facility in Skowhegan, Maine, USA. The machine produced its first roll of solid bleached sulphate (SBS) board, marking a key milestone in Sappi’s strategic transition to packaging grades.
 
While optimization work continues, the early production of commercial-grade board highlights the strength of the partnership and the progress achieved through close collaboration.
 
“Valmet has once again shown deep technical knowledge and strong project execution,” said Kirk Ross, VP Manufacturing at Sappi North America. “Their ability to adapt to complex requirements and global supply chain challenges helped us move this project forward. We’re pleased to see commercial-grade product coming off the line as commissioning progresses.”
 
"Following the success of Project Balance, the PM1 rebuild project in 2018, we did it again with Project Elevate. The sustainable conversion of PM 2 has transformed it into a modern state-of-the-art board machine. This achievement is a testament to excellent collaboration and incredible teamwork. We are grateful to the entire Somerset team, our valuable partners, and all the Valmeteers involved for their hard work on a complex project,” added Tuomo Rämö, project manager, Valmet.
 

Technical information about the delivery

Valmet’s delivery included a rebuild of the wet end with a new OptiPress Linear press section, modifications and extension of the dryer section, and a new finishing section. The finishing section was equipped with the OptiSizer Film size press, two OptiCoat Roll coating heads, OptiDry Coat air dryers, OptiCalender Hard calender, OptiReel Linear reel, and the OptiWin Belt winder. In addition, the mill will benefit from Valmet Industrial Internet and Automation Solutions, including a new Quality Measurement System, web monitoring and inspection systems and Valmet DNA process controls.
 

Forward momentum

The start-up of PM2 represents a key step in Sappi and Valmet’s shared commitment to sustainable, high-quality packaging. The machine will continue ramping up in the coming months, supported by continued collaboration between operations, engineering, and technology teams at both organizations.

About Valmet

Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. With our automation systems and flow control solutions we serve an even wider base of process industries. Our 17,500 professionals around the world work close to our customers and are committed to moving our customers’ performance forward–every day.

The company has more than 220 years of industrial history and a strong track record in continuous improvement and renewal. In 2022, a major milestone was achieved when the flow control company Neles was merged into Valmet. Valmet’s net sales in 2022 were approximately EUR 5.1 billion.