MEXICO – Smurfit Kappa Mexico has awarded ABB a significant contract to modernize its Paper Machine 5 (PM5) board machine at its Cerro Gordo mill, located north of Mexico City.
This project, marking the first collaboration between the two regional companies, signifies a significant upgrade for Smurfit Kappa’s operations and underscores the importance of this milestone for the entire industry.
The modernization aims to transform PM5 into a highly efficient and productive machine. ABB will deliver its ABB Ability System 800xA distributed control system and a comprehensive system featuring advanced motors and drives.
This combination is expected to significantly increase Smurfit Kappa’s production efficiency and output, paving the way for future growth and success.
A critical factor in Smurfit Kappa’s decision to select ABB was the latter’s proven expertise in speed and tension control for paper machines.
ABB’s solution is designed to minimize downtime while ensuring optimal performance. The new technology embedded in the drives and the control system guarantees precise control and consistent paper quality.
ABB emphasized that it guarantees a system uptime of 98.5% during the first three months following the machine’s 2025 startup, resulting in a maximum downtime of just 33 hours.
ABB’s Ability System 800xA and Remote Access Platform also enable global, 24/7 customer support for Smurfit Kappa.
“Partnering with Smurfit Kappa on this momentous project will help ensure optimal equipment design, control performance, and seamless commissioning,” said Diego Navas, regional sales manager for ABB Pulp and Paper North America.
“A dedicated team of ABB specialists will work alongside our customer on the machine to deliver significant benefits, including increased production, improved efficiency, and reduced operational costs.”
Beyond equipment supply, ABB will offer comprehensive engineering and commissioning services for a smooth transition.
This collaboration positions Smurfit Kappa to not only achieve but surpass its production goals, solidifying its place in the competitive Mexican packaging market and paving the way for future growth and success.
Smurfit WestRock debuts on New York and London Stock Exchanges
In related news, Smurfit WestRock has launched its primary listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “SW,” following the recent merger between Smurfit Kappa and WestRock.
The new company also has a standard London Stock Exchange (LSE) listing under the ticker “SWR.”
Smurfit WestRock will operate in 40 countries, employ 100,000 packaging experts, and is expected to be worth roughly US$34 billion.
“Combining Smurfit Kappa and WestRock creates a world-leading sustainable packaging player, bringing together a tremendous depth of experience and expertise from both companies,” said Tony Smurfit, CEO of Smurfit WestRock.
“We believe this combination has created the ‘go-to’ leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging.”
Ken Bowles, CFO of Smurfit WestRock, added, “Smurfit Kappa and WestRock shareholders have overwhelmingly supported our combination.
“Smurfit WestRock has a unique geographic footprint and, through our industry-leading applications, an unparalleled ability to provide value for our customers.”
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