PAPER TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL 2026, The next decade of paper converting: Automation, AI and flexibility. Carlos Muriel, Sales & Marketing Director, Pasaban S.A.

PAPERTECHNOLOGYINTERNATIONAL
Image 8: CL-165 Sheeter: Modular design for a
cost-efective solution.
As Muriel explains: “What we are seeing is a transition
from reactive operation to controlled and optimized processes. The
machine becomes a tool that supports the operator, rather than
depending entirely on their experience.”
These developments are not limited to high-end installations.
As technology evolves, many of these capabilities are becoming
more accessible, allowing a wider range of converters to bene昀椀t
from intelligent systems.
Sustainability and E昀椀ciency: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Sustainability has become a central topic in the paper
and board industry, in昀氀uencing not only material choices but also
production processes and investment decisions.
In this context, automation and arti昀椀cial intelligence play
a crucial role. While their primary objective is often to improve
e昀椀ciency, they also contribute directly to reducing environmental
impact.
For example, optimized cutting strategies in sheeting
processes can signi昀椀cantly reduce trim waste, improving material
utilization. Similarly, more precise control of winding parameters
can reduce the number of defective reels, minimizing waste and
reprocessing.
Energy ef昀椀ciency is another important aspect. By
optimizing machine operation and reducing unnecessary stops
and adjustments, advanced automation systems help lower energy
consumption. AI-driven optimization can further enhance this by
identifying the most ef昀椀cient operating conditions.
At the same time, the ability to process a
wider range of materials—including recycled and
lightweight substrates—supports the industry’s
transition towards more sustainable products.
Muriel highlights this connection: “Ef昀椀ciency
and sustainability are closely linked. By improving
our processes and reducing waste, we are not only
increasing competitiveness but also contributing to
a more sustainable industry.”
This alignment between operational
performance and environmental responsibility is
becoming a key factor in decision-making across
the sector.
Pasaban’s Vision: Partnering for the Future
At Pasaban, we have spent decades
developing high-precision sheeters and winders
for a wide range of applications, including paper,
board, banknote and security paper and pulp. This
experience has given us a deep understanding of our
customers’ needs and the challenges they face.
Today, our focus is on supporting our
customers in their transition towards more intelligent,
昀氀exible, and sustainable operations. Our machines
are designed with open architectures, advanced automation, and
user-friendly interfaces, ensuring high performance, minimum waste
and ease of integration.
We are also actively exploring the integration of AI and
advanced analytics into our systems, with the aim of providing new
tools for process optimization and decision-making.
Muriel summarizes this approach: “Our role is not only to
provide machines, but to support our customers in their evolution.
“We aim to be a long-term partner, helping them adapt to a changing
environment and remain competitive”
Conclusion: From Machines to Intelligent Ecosystems
The next decade will rede昀椀ne the paper and board
converting industry.
Automation will evolve towards greater autonomy. Arti昀椀cial
intelligence will transform data into knowledge. Flexibility will
become a fundamental requirement.
However, the real transformation will come from the
integration of these elements into intelligent, connected ecosystems.
For mills, converters and packagers, this represents
both a challenge and an opportunity. Those who embrace this
transformation will be better positioned to compete in an increasingly
complex and demanding market.
As Muriel concludes: “The future of converting is not only
about producing more—it is about producing smarter, with greater
adaptability and a deeper understanding of the process. That is
where the real value lies.
Image 9: High precision manufacturing
processes.
37

Paperturn flipbook viewer