The particleboard expansion, with a scheduled start-up of 4Q this year, will grow production by 60 million ft2 (¾” basis or 100,000 cubic meters) annually through increased dryer capacity. This project will also improve the plants flexibility to source a broader range of raw material in response to regional changes in the wood supply mix.
To complement the panel expansion, Arauco is also investing in a next generation fast-cycle press for TFL production, which is also slated to start in 4Q. The new installation will add to the three existing fast-cycle TFL presses in the region. The new line will further equip the particleboard and MDF site with a state-of-the-art press featuring higher throughput, faster change-over capabilities, higher pressure for deep textures and paper alignment technology for registered emboss designs.
“These capacity and value-add investments translate into improved product sourcing options for our customers, and in turn, generate additional long-term jobs for this manufacturing complex and the Bennettsville community at large,” stated Mike Reardon, Regional Manufacturing Director.
