Södra Cell Mönsterås, which is Södra's largest paper pulp mill with annual production of 750,000 tonnes, has invested in a new wash press. Södra's decision to invest SEK 300 million in Mönsterås will lead to more efficient energy use and increased productivity at the mill.

The wash press was installed during the mill shutdown between 21 September and 4 October. It replaces the Kvaerner 2550 in the Q2 stage of the bleaching plant, which was installed in 2004 but had broken down.

"The new wash press will play an important role in our process to secure high availability, a grade of pulp that meets customer requirements and to achieve delivery reliability," said Olof Hellström, one of the project managers.

Lars Harrysson, project leader, said that the installation and commissioning were highly successful, and that the schedule was maintained throughout the project.

"Everything has worked out, and everyone has done their utmost to get the new press installed and running," said Harrysson.