ABB has entered into a contract with Guangxi Jianhui Paper Co., Ltd. to provide a complete paper machine drive system for their PM8 production line, part of an integrated forestry-pulp-paper initiative in Guangxi, China. Set to be commissioned in Q4 2026, the new line will represent Asia’s largest extensible bag paper production facility.
This initiative marks another phase in the collaboration between ABB and Guangxi Jianhui, building on prior implementations of ABB drive technologies, as the company scales production capacity to address increasing demand for premium packaging paper products.
As a strategic production hub for Jianhui Group, Guangxi Jianhui’s integrated forestry-pulp-paper initiative constitutes a significant industrial advancement in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Initiated in October 2023, the project aims to achieve annual pulp and paper production capacity of 3.672 million metric tons. Two packaging paper lines are already operational at the site.
The PM8 line currently under construction integrates high-efficiency production with intelligent energy-saving manufacturing technologies. ABB’s delivery scope includes the PMC800 paper machine drive control system, ACS880 multidrives, and low-voltage AC motors, along with engineering support, installation guidance, and commissioning services.
“This project illustrates how advanced electrification and automation technologies can enhance paper producers’ productivity, energy efficiency, and operational reliability,” stated Wilson Monteiro, Global Business Line Manager, Pulp, Paper and Fiber, within ABB’s Process Industries division. “We’re committed to assisting Guangxi Jianhui in establishing a modern, intelligent production line that strengthens its position in the premium packaging paper market.”
ABB’s drive system solution was chosen for its capacity to maintain stable, high-performance operations while minimizing maintenance complexity and lifecycle expenses.
The delivered solution incorporates ABB’s Direct Torque Control (DTC) technology, ensuring precise motor control and robust performance under dynamic and low-speed operating conditions. The drive system also features simplified cabinet designs to facilitate maintenance and enhance serviceability.
To ensure long-term operational stability, the PM8 system will utilize fiber-optic communication technology and dedicated maintenance networks to mitigate downtime risks from electromagnetic interference. Original du/dt filters will be installed to prolong motor insulation lifespan and reduce shaft currents.
The system meets rigorous industrial safety standards, including Performance Level e (PL e) safety protocols. ABB’s paper industry-specific control software offers operators an intuitive interface and preconfigured process libraries to streamline operations, reduce training needs, and maintain consistent production performance.
“ABB combines robust technological expertise with in-depth knowledge of the pulp and paper industry,” noted Ran Hu, Deputy General Manager at Guangxi Jianhui Paper. “The PM8 project represents a critical milestone in our strategic development, with ABB’s solutions enabling the construction of a highly efficient, intelligent, and future-ready production line.”
Guangxi Jianhui intends to expand the site with four additional high-standard paper machine lines. Successful execution of PM8 is anticipated to establish a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration between both organizations.
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