The pulp and paper industry’s historical importance to the global economy cannot be understated. However, like many traditional industries, it now faces unprecedented pressures to step into the digital age.
The imperative for digital transformation
The pulp and paper industry operates on paper-thin margins, with an operating margin of just below 10% in the second quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, mills are under constant pressure to do more with less—more production, more quality, more sustainability—while consuming fewer resources and minimizing waste. This is a tall order for any industry, but particularly so for one as resource intensive as pulp and paper. To meet these challenges, digital transformation is not just an option; it is an imperative.
However, the path toward digitalization is not without its challenges. Many mills are still in the early stages of their digital journey, grappling with the complexities of integrating new technologies into legacy systems. Others have made strides in adopting digital tools but struggle to scale these innovations across their operations. It is here that ABB’s deep expertise and digital solutions, such as ABB Ability™ Manufacturing Execution System (MES), come into play. Such technologies can be key pillars of a mill’s digitalization.
The intelligent foundation for optimization
ABB Ability™ MES for pulp and paper is purpose-built for the industry, designed to accelerate mills into the new digital age by optimizing the entire order-to-invoice process. It offers near real-time visibility, intelligent automation, and a flexible, modular design that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of any mill. These features are not just technological advancements; they represent a paradigm shift in how mills can operate, making them more agile, efficient, and responsive to market demands.
One of the key advantages of ABB Ability™ MES is the comprehensive, almost instantaneous, insight it offers into every aspect of mill operations. This means that decision-makers have access to the data they need, precisely when they need it. With this level of insight, mills can expedite decision making, enhance collaboration, and respond to issues before they escalate into costly problems.
For example, data integration allows mills to monitor production lines continuously, identifying bottlenecks or inefficiencies that could lead to downtime. This capability is particularly crucial in today’s fast-paced market, where the ability to adapt quickly can make the difference between success and failure.
Intelligent automation: driving efficiency and performance
Beyond visibility, ABB Ability™ MES also introduces intelligent automation across the value chain. By automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, mills can achieve new levels of efficiency and performance.
Consider the example of Jujo Thermal, a paper mill in Finland, which partnered with ABB to implement ABB Ability™ MES. Within just six months, Jujo Thermal saw significant reductions in production costs through improved utilization of over production, while also enhancing overall efficiency with more integrated workstreams. This is just one example of how intelligent automation can drive tangible, bottom-line results for mills.
Tailored solutions for business needs
One of the key advantages of modern digital solutions is their inherent flexibility and modularity, enabling tailored solutions to meet the specific requirements of each mill. Whether a mill is at the beginning of its digital journey, or seeking to scale existing innovations, these adaptable solutions can be configured to align with its unique operational goals.
This flexibility is particularly crucial in an industry as diverse and complex as pulp and paper. No two mills are exactly alike, and a solution that works for one may not be suitable for another. By implementing only the modules and features that are most relevant to their operations, mills can ensure they are maximizing the value and impact of their digital investments.
Ushering in a new era of operations
The pressures to modernize and innovate are intense, but there are opportunities aplenty. Looking ahead, digitalization will inevitably play a critical role in ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of the pulp and paper industry. By embarking on a journey of digital transformation, mills can unlock new levels of efficiency, performance, and sustainability. At ABB, we stand ready to partner with you on this journey, helping you to meet the challenges of today, and thrive in the digital future.
About ABB
ABB is a world leader in providing comprehensive solutions across the entire pulp and paper industry value chain, addressing everything from power to process requirements.
About the Author
Stefano Cinquina is Global Business Line Manager, Pulp and Paper,
ABB Process Industries