Valmet DNAe now operational in Schoellershammer PM5
German board producer Schoellershammer GmbH has achieved a significant milestone in the migration of its PM5 board machine to Valmet DNAe Distributed Control System (DCS). The first phase of the project, which involved replacing the stock preparation automation, has been completed with a successful process startup. The project now progresses to its second phase, concentrating on the migration of machine controls and drive controls.
“We were convinced by the advantages of the new Valmet DNAe and decided to replace our previous automation system. The system migration was done on schedule within a very short time frame in April 2025. Our expectations were met, and we are really satisfied with the results,” says Armin Vetter, Technical Managing Director, Schoellershammer GmbH
“The flexibility of Valmet DNAe in connecting with our existing mill assets has been a significant advantage. We have integrated the system into our IT infrastructure, including the virtual cluster and networks. The robust cybersecurity requirements were successfully met,” he adds
“We were convinced by the advantages of the new Valmet DNAe and decided to replace our previous automation system. The system migration was done on schedule within a very short time frame in April 2025. We are really satisfied with the results.”
Armin Vetter
Technical Managing Director
Schoellershammer GmbH
A key goal of the collaboration between Schoellershammer and Valmet was to maximize mill uptime throughout the DCS migration. Following the successful commissioning of Valmet DNAe and the upgraded control applications in stock preparation, efforts are now directed towards optimizing the mass handling department to unlock the mill's full potential. Simultaneously, the project's second phase focuses on migrating the machine and drive controls.
“We were particularly impressed by the unified configuration environment's clean interface and efficiency. Handling the integrated editors is straightforward, and the shift from complex programming to parameterization greatly simplifies the automation of maintenance tasks. These advancements further strengthen our confidence in this future-proof investment,” says Klaus Hüppeler, Senior Electrical Engineer, Schoellershammer GmbH
“The start-up of the world's first board machine running on Valmet DNAe marks a significant milestone for this next-generation automation system. This project clearly demonstrates the value and efficiency gains achievable with Valmet DNAe," says Samuli Lehtonen, Director, Pulp & Paper Control Systems, Automation Solutions, Valmet.
About Schoellershammer
Schoellershammer GmbH, headquartered in Düren, Germany, is a leading independent manufacturer of high-quality paper products. With a rich history dating back to 1784, the family-owned company combines tradition with modern technology to produce containerboard for the corrugated packaging industry. Schoellershammer is committed to delivering reliable quality, fostering innovation, and operating sustainably.
Text: Ralf Salonen
