• Swedish pulp producer reports increased process stability and resource efficiency with ABB technology
• Building on prior successful implementations, Södra Cell is set to integrate ABB’s advanced process control (APC) solution into the bleaching process at its Mörrum mill.
• Data-driven decision-making and process optimization remain central to Södra Cell’s commitment to high-quality production.

ABB, a global leader in automation and electrification, strengthens its partnership with Södra Cell, Sweden’s largest forest-owner association and a prominent pulp producer. As part of this collaboration, ABB will deploy its APC technology at the Mörrum mill, reinforcing the company’s strategy of enhancing efficiency, digitalization, and operational excellence.

This project follows previous successes, where ABB solutions optimized bleaching and digester processes at Södra Cell’s Mönsterås mill and improved bleaching operations at the Värö mill. At Mörrum, ABB will enhance the existing ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system (DCS) by introducing APC to one of the two production lines, aiming to replicate the stability and efficiency gains achieved at other sites.

Södra Cell operates some of the most advanced pulp mills globally and remains committed to sustainability, including reducing emissions in line with the 2015 Paris Agreement.

“We are excited to collaborate once again with ABB on another APC implementation,” said Marie Boman, Project Manager at Södra Cell. “Our experience with previous APC projects, coupled with our deep understanding of the Mörrum mill’s processes and ABB’s expertise, positions us for success. A key driver of past achievements was the strong cooperation between project teams and process operators, and I look forward to leading this new initiative.”

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ABB will work closely with Södra Cell’s experts throughout the project. The scope includes operational analysis, model development and validation, integration with the control system, and training before system handover. Commissioning is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

“We value our partnership with Södra Cell and the operational improvements we have delivered to enhance their competitiveness,” said Martin Björnmalm, Local Business Line Manager, Pulp & Paper, ABB Process Industries. “Securing a third mill project underscores our commitment to helping customers achieve superior performance.”

Integrating APC with ABB Ability™ System 800xA® will enable fully automated operations and predictive capabilities, allowing Södra Cell to optimize bleaching processes using real-time data. This initiative aligns with ABB’s efforts to enhance customer profitability, efficiency, and workplace conditions through technological advancements.

The Mörrum mill is expected to benefit from a more stable and optimized bleaching process, reducing brightness variations and chemical consumption while improving overall efficiency.

Specializing in premium paper pulp and dissolving pulp for textiles and other applications, including the unique OnceMore® recycling process, Södra Cell’s Mörrum mill plays a crucial role in sustainable pulp production. With an annual output of 300,000 tonnes of softwood paper pulp and 170,000 tonnes of hardwood dissolving pulp, the mill prioritizes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and environmental best practices, supported by a workforce of 350 skilled employees.

ABB continues to drive innovation in electrification and automation, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency. By leveraging its expertise in digitalization and engineering, ABB enables industries to enhance performance while improving productivity and sustainability. ABB’s philosophy of ‘Engineered to Outrun’ highlights its commitment to delivering competitive advantages for customers worldwide.

With a history spanning over 140 years and a workforce of more than 110,000 employees, ABB is publicly listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).

ABB’s Process Automation division specializes in automating, electrifying, and digitalizing industrial operations across essential sectors—from energy and water supply to material processing and transportation. With a team of approximately 20,000 professionals, ABB Process Automation supports industries in achieving leaner, cleaner, and more efficient operations.

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