ABB agreed with Guangxi Jianhui Paper Co., Ltd. on June 22 to supply a paper-machine drive system for the company’s PM8 production line as part of its integrated forestry-pulp-paper project in Guangxi, China. Scheduled for commissioning in 4Q26, the new line is expected to become Asia’s largest extensible bag paper production line.

The PM8 line presently under construction has been designed to combine efficiency with intelligent and energy-efficient technologies. ABB’s scope includes its PMC800 paper machine drive control system, ACS880 multi-drives and low-voltage AC motors, together with engineering support, installation guidance and commissioning services. ABB’s drive system was selected based on its ability to support stable, high-performance operation, while reducing maintenance complexity and lifecycle costs.

The supplied solution includes ABB’s Direct Torque Control (DTC) technology, enabling precise motor control and performance under dynamic and low-speed operating conditions. The drive system is also designed with simplified cabinet structures to support easier maintenance and improved serviceability.

“This project demonstrates how advanced electrification and automation technologies can help paper producers improve productivity, energy efficiency and operational reliability,” says Wilson Monteiro, global business line manager for pulp, paper and fiber in ABB’s Process Industries division. “We’re pleased to support Guangxi Jianhui in building a modern, intelligent production line that strengthens its competitiveness in the high-end packaging paper market.”

To enhance long-term operational reliability, PM8 will use fiber-optic communication technology and dedicated maintenance networks to reduce the risk of downtime caused by electromagnetic interference. Original du/dt filters are also included to help extend motor insulation lifetime and minimize shaft currents.

The system has been designed to meet stringent industrial safety requirements, including Performance Level e (PL e) safety functions. ABB’s paper industry-specific control software will give operators an intuitive user interface and preconfigured process libraries to simplify operation, reduce training requirements, and support stable production performance.

“ABB combines strong technology expertise with deep understanding of the pulp and paper industry,” adds Ran Hu, deputy GM at Guangxi Jianhui Paper. “PM8 is an important milestone in our development strategy, and ABB’s solutions will help us build a highly efficient, intelligent and future-ready production line.”

In fact, Guangxi Jianhui plans to further expand the site with four additional high-standard paper machine production lines in the future. The successful implementation of PM8 is expected to create a strong foundation for continued collaboration between the two companies.

Consequently, this project is reported to be a further step in the cooperation between ABB and Guangxi Jianhui, which previously included other ABB drive technologies, as the company expands production capacity to meet growing demand for high-end packaging paper products.

As a key production base of Jianhui Group, Guangxi Jianhui’s integrated forestry-pulp-paper project is a major industrial development in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Launched in October 2023, the project plans to deliver annual pulp and paper production capacity of 3.672 million metric tons. Two packaging paper production lines are already operating at the site.