Similar basis weights and high volume commodity nature allow for feasible conversion to containerboard
With European graphic paper markets continuing to struggle with overcapacity, the industry has experienced extensive machine closures. One alternative option for producers is a conversion to other products such as packaging and specialty papers. These and other findings were published today in a new study from RISI, the leading information provider for the global forest products industry.
"Due to its similar basis weights and high volume commodity nature, containerboard has been the most typical conversion product we've seen so far. However, not all machines have the same feasibility for conversion," said Ville Henttonen, lead study author and Senior Product Manager of Mill Intelligence at RISI.
"For example, wide machines have greater width options and productivity, but not necessarily flexibility. Because of this, much of our conversion potential analysis focuses on key characteristics of each paper machine such as: trim width, technical age, capacity, products, fiber furnish, energy assets, and so on," continued Henttonen.
RISI's European Containerboard Machine Conversion Study provides a detailed analysis of European graphic paper machine conversion potential and impact on containerboard markets. It is the first study available that details all current cases of converted graphic paper machines to determine feasibility by machine type.
Included in European Containerboard Machine Conversion Study:
Outlook summary of European graphic paper and containerboard markets
Analysis of potential effect of new/converted capacity on containerboard markets
Case studies of the known graphic paper machine conversions in Europe and North America
Analysis of European graphic paper capacity available for conversion
In-depth analysis of the most feasible conversion candidates
Potential investments needed for each of the most feasible conversions
Summary of alternative uses for graphic paper machines other than conversion
