Papermaking

Our paper machines
The heart of paper production at Gmund

A harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, of man and machine, has always been one of the main strengths of Gmund Paper. The company operates two paper machines – one dating from the year 1883 and the other from 1980.

The old ...

The ‘old’ machine, built by A. Sigel, Germany, has been preserved in almost original condition, and as such is the oldest paper machine still in service in Europe. It processes paper pulp at a speed of 12 to 48 m/min, which enables the fibres to slowly interlock and felt. This makes the paper strong and gives it a handmade look.

As a classic fourdrinier, this machine can produce paper at widths up to 1.56 metres, in weights of 90 to a maximum of 500 g/m².

... and the new

Ludwig Kohler had the ‘new’ paper machine installed in 1980, to give the company greater flexibility in sizes and grammages. It is fitted with a new process-control system governing weight, colour and moisture content and the latest control technology. In 2007 a new-style, modern vacuum head box has been installed and it is now one of the most flexible fine-paper machine in the world. The new machine increased production capacity significantly at Gmund Paper and opened up the way for more new products and sales cooperations.

People and quality

When it comes to quality control, Gmund Paper relies not only on the innovative online photo-optic sensors in its ultra-modern Jagenberg sheeter, but also on the trained eyes and hands of experienced, long-standing employees. Over the decades these people have developed a rare feeling for paper, and that is something no machine can substitute.

Quality has a long-standing tradition at Gmund. The company is proud of its collection of embossing calenders, one of the most extensive anywhere. These calenders are the tools used to achieve the unique variety of surface qualities produced at Gmund Paper.

Strong papermaking traditions are also seen in the many natural materials included in the pulp mix in the fourdrinier, which form the basis for many unusual paper varieties, such as Bier Paper, based on beer, and The Naturals collection.