Trim Optimization: Enhancing efficiency in the paper industry, Max Rüber, Head of Sales, Pulp, Paper & Fibre, Tietoevry Industry

PAPERTECHNOLOGYINTERNATIONAL
Optimization: Enhancing Trim Efficiency in the Paper Industry
Max Rüber, Head of Sales, Pulp, Paper & Fibre, Tietoevry Industry
INTRODUCTION:
In an industry where margins are tight, sustainability is paramount, and customer demands evolve rapidly, one of the paper
industry’s biggest opportunities lies in optimizing production processes. One area that continues to present opportunities for improvement
is trim optimization — the process of reducing material waste during the cutting phase of paper production. As companies strive for
efficiency and sustainability, advancements in trim optimization software, after a time of standstill, have emerged as a crucial tool for staying competitive.
The Challenges of Trim Optimization
Trim optimization involves cutting large parent rolls of
paper into smaller rolls or sheets to meet customer specifications.
While this sounds straightforward, the complexity arises from
the myriad of constraints, such as varying customer demands,
machine limitations, and the need to minimize waste. But that is
not all – during and after the actual production, optimization needs
to take into account real events, quality and incidents to ensure
overall trim efficiency. Poor optimization can lead to over- and
underruns, increased material waste, higher operational costs, and
longer machine running times, all of which impact profitability and
environmental performance.
Traditional trim optimization methods often fall short in
addressing these challenges comprehensively. Rigid algorithms and
limited computational power have historically constrained the ability
of older systems to deliver truly optimal solutions. As a result, many
mills find themselves grappling with excessive trim waste, inefficient
machine utilization, and suboptimal resource use.
The Role of Advanced Algorithms and Solvers
Recent technological advancements have significantly
improved the potential of trim optimization solutions. By integrating
more sophisticated algorithms and leveraging commercial solvers,
modern software can tackle complex datasets with higher accuracy
and speed. These improvements allow for:
• Reduction in the Number of Patterns: Simplifying the
cutting process by reducing the number of unique
cutting patterns helps streamline operations and
improve machine setup ef昀椀ciency.
• Wider Average Converting Roll Widths: Utilizing
broader roll widths reduces machine running times and
enhances throughput on sheeters, winders and other
downstream converting machines.
• Minimized Waste: Even a small reduction in trim waste
can translate into signi昀椀cant savings in raw materials
and associated costs, including transportation and
energy use.
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