SAEL completes DCS and drives upgrade on PM2 at Cartiera San Martino

SAEL has successfully completed the modernization of the PM2 paper machine at Cartiera San Martino in Italy, finalizing a major upgrade of the mill’s automation and drive systems as part of the company’s ongoing investment program aimed at improving production efficiency and reliability.

The project focused on replacing the existing line-shaft DC drive system in the wet section with a modern sectional architecture based on AC asynchronous motors. The new configuration significantly improves operational performance, automation capabilities and energy efficiency.

Implementation was carried out in two phases. The first stage, completed in May 2025, involved the upgrade of the dry section. The final phase was completed in February 2026 with the removal of the legacy line-shaft system and the conversion of the remaining DC drives.

The modernization included the construction of a new medium-voltage substation, installation of power factor correction panels, AC sectional drives and MCC panels for auxiliary motors. Two new electrical rooms were also installed to serve the wet and dry sections of the machine.

Additional work covered the integration of new press, vacuum, steam and hood systems, along with the installation of a new pope reel. All equipment and systems were pre-tested prior to installation to ensure a smooth start-up of the plant.

SAEL has been a technology partner of Cartiera San Martino for more than four decades. The newly installed system provides operators with intuitive control interfaces, advanced diagnostic tools and full integration with the plant management system. This enables direct transfer of production orders and more accurate monitoring of operating and production costs.

The completion of the PM2 upgrade represents another step forward in the mill’s modernization strategy and further consolidates the long-standing collaboration between SAEL and Cartiera San Martino.