From November 12 to 15, 2024, Albany International Mexico, in collaboration with its co-sponsors, gathered over 100 participants from Mexico, Central America, and South America for the highly anticipated Panel Tissue XII Seminar in the picturesque Mexican coastal city of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Held at The Hacienda at Krystal Grand, the event brought together experts, industry leaders, and key players from the tissue paper manufacturing sector for an in-depth exploration of the latest innovations, technologies, and best practices shaping the industry.
A rich agenda of knowledge and networking
The four-day seminar featured a comprehensive agenda that covered a wide range of topics crucial to the tissue manufacturing process. The event kicked off on Wednesday, November 13, with an opening address by Roberto Rosas from Albany International, who welcomed attendees and introduced the seminar’s objectives. The first day immediately set a high standard, starting with presentations on cutting-edge technologies, such as Anselmo Saavedra from Albany International discussing advancements in formation fabrics, and Ludovic Veyre from Kadant M-Clean leading a session on efficient cleaning methods for forming fabrics, focusing on water and energy conservation.
As the day continued, speakers explored critical areas such as vacuum systems for new and rebuilt tissue machines. Jussi Lahtinen from Runtech Systems highlighted innovative solutions in vacuum technology. Andrea Corradi from OMC Collareda followed with a presentation on designing budget-friendly tissue lines, a key consideration for companies looking to optimize production without sacrificing quality.
In the afternoon, Felix Ramón Rosales Colmenares from Nalco Water introduced attendees to intelligent Yankee dryer operations and the use of “navigator” technology for coatings. The day concluded with insights on new technologies in felts by Matt Bryer from Albany International, and sustainable production opportunities by Fernando Winckler Balen from Hergen, followed by a cocktail party and buffet dinner.
Focus on innovation and sustainability
Thursday, November 14, began with a focus on press technology, as David Bates from Albany International shared insights on improving tissue paper quality using press sleeves. The afternoon was packed with valuable information on key industry challenges. Cesar Agustín Urbina Ayala from Citriczyme addressed the importance of controlling stickies in tissue manufacturing, while Aleksi Alasalmi and Hakan Osterholm from ABB Lorentzen & Wettre explored online measurements for consistency, morphology to improve manufacturing efficiency.
Sustainability was a key theme throughout the seminar, with Gabriele Romanini from Toscotec leading a session on the strategic path to energy efficiency and sustainability in tissue manufacturing. In the evening, Orlando Arango Arias of Grupo Industrial del Parque discussed the versatility of different generations of wet strength resins and the factors influencing their application in Mexico.
The gala dinner was served on the beach in a relaxed atmosphere, and enhanced by live music performed by a high-level local band.
Wrapping up with cutting-edge innovations
The final day of the seminar, Friday, November 15, was dedicated to safety and innovation. Raul Moreno from Firefly presented on fire prevention innovations in the tissue industry, an often-overlooked but vital aspect of manufacturing operations. Luis Alberto Ramos Mayoral from Sulzer also showcased the latest advancements in water treatment plant technology.
As the seminar drew to a close, Roberto Rosas offered closing remarks, thanking participants for their contributions and engagement. The event ended on a high note with a cocktail reception, providing a final opportunity for networking and collaboration among industry professionals.
A landmark event for the tissue industry
The Panel Tissue XII seminar was a resounding success, providing valuable knowledge, fostering collaboration, and promoting sustainability in the tissue paper industry. With its diverse range of topics and expert speakers, the event has cemented itself as a leading platform for innovation and professional development in the region. The seminar was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors and partners: ABB, Firefly, Citriczyme, Grupo Industrial del Parque, Hergen, Kadant, OMC Collareda, El Papel, PaperFIRST Magazines, Nalco Water, Petrofer, Runtech Systems, Solenis, Sulzer, and Toscotec.
Participants left Puerto Vallarta not only with new insights and strategies for improving their operations but also with strengthened relationships and a renewed commitment to the future of the tissue industry.
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