Valmet ViscoNip press with Black Belt R sets a new record at Softys Caieiras

The consistent performance of Valmet Black Belt R continues to deliver strong results for tissue producers across Latin America. Developed for highly demanding applications, the technology supports operational efficiency, process stability and longer running cycles. A clear example is the recent 600-day service-life record achieved at Softys Caieiras in Brazil.

Softys, a CMPC Group company, is one of Latin America’s leading manufacturers of tissue and personal care products, with a strong focus on operational excellence, quality and continuous improvement. Against this backdrop, the Caieiras mill set a new production milestone by combining high-performance technology with close, collaborative technical support.

A competitor machine upgraded with Valmet technology

Installed on a competitor’s tissue machine—upgraded with a Valmet ViscoNip press concept, operating at 90 kN/m, and Valmet Black Belt R—the belt delivered high dimensional stability and consistent performance throughout the entire running period, even under demanding operating conditions. This enabled the mill to keep machine speed within expected parameters and ensure uniform production without compromising final product quality.

A key factor behind the result was the monthly technical follow-up by Valmet’s Paper Machine Clothing (PMC) team, including periodic analyses and measurements with Valmet BeltScan technology. This advanced monitoring enabled continuous assessment of belt condition and early anticipation of potential performance deviations. Measurements confirmed press dryness above 45%, and that the dryness level remained consistently high throughout the belt’s full running time on TM11—supporting efficient performance from both an energy and productivity standpoint.

This record is the result of consistent, disciplined and highly collaborative work."

According to Alex do Santos, Mill Manager at Softys Caieiras, the achievement reflects the team’s ability to overcome challenges, innovate and continuously raise performance levels. “This record is the result of consistent, disciplined and highly collaborative work. It reinforces the importance of operational excellence, process standardization and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. More than a technical achievement, it highlights the commitment of the people involved, who worked with an ongoing focus on safety, quality and productivity,” he said.

Black Belt technology and technical support -  a winning combination

The Softys Caieiras case highlights the value of Valmet Black Belt R as a high-performance solution for tissue machines operating under demanding conditions. The belt design provides an optimal balance of drainage, support and mechanical strength—enabling extended running cycles without loss of properties or stability. It also demonstrates the technology’s ability to deliver efficiency, durability and quality across different production environments.

Beyond the technology itself, the success is directly linked to the performance of the PMC Latam team, which brings regional experience, deep process knowledge and advanced diagnostic tools such as Valmet BeltScan. Working closely with Softys, the team not only sustained belt performance over an extended period but also helped build a data-driven approach to monitoring and continuous improvement based on technical analyses.

“The record achieved at Softys Caieiras demonstrates what can be accomplished when a high-performance technology such as Valmet Black BeltR is combined with collaborative ways of working and continuous technical support,” said Bastián Núñez, Sales Manager, PMC Latin America.