Cartiere Modesto Cardella, a leading corrugated board manufacturer based in Lucca, Italy, has embarked on a strategic digital transformation initiative to enhance its production capabilities. The centerpiece of this upgrade is a QCS implementation on Paper Machine 3 (PM3), utilizing ABB’s Network Platform NP1200 from the Ability™ System 800xA-based QCS portfolio, and supported by advanced data analytics powered by QCS Profile Historian. 

 

This digitalization project represents a significant step forward in the mill’s commitment to improving product quality, operational efficiency and long-term system flexibility.

Strengthening quality control

To maintain its competitive edge and meet evolving customer demands, Cartiere Modesto Cardella recognized the need to enhance its quality control infrastructure. The decision to upgrade PM3’s QCS with NP1200 and QCS Profile Historian solutions was driven by three key factors: its modern architecture, superior measurement performance and proven scalability.

 

ABB’s Network Platform NP1200 provides the foundation needed for advanced quality monitoring and positions the mill for future digital developments.

 

The upgrade was executed through close collaboration between Cartiere Modesto Cardella and ABB, ensuring a comprehensive approach from initial engineering through system startup. This methodical planning was crucial in achieving a smooth transition from the legacy system to the latest QCS, with minimal production interruption and stable operations maintained throughout the implementation process.

“Upgrading the mill’s QCS was a clear strategic choice for us. We needed a system that could deliver precise, real-time quality data while being robust enough to support our long-term growth ambitions,” said Modesto Cardella, Chairman of the Board at Cartiere Modesto Cardella.

Stability, reliability and performance

Since implementation, the upgraded system has delivered tangible benefits that directly impact operational performance. Paper Machine 3 now operates with enhanced process stability, while better predictive insights have significantly reduced unplanned downtime. Operations teams benefit from faster, data-driven decision-making capabilities that translate into consistent product quality, a competitive advantage that strengthens customer relationships and reinforces market position

 

By investing in digital transformation, Cartiere Modesto Cardella has positioned itself for continued growth while reinforcing its reputation as a quality-focused producer in the global corrugated board market.

Learn more about ABB’s solutions for the pulp and paper industry

Automation Extended

For industries looking to modernize and protect long-term investments, ABB’s Automation Extended delivers modular.

ABB Ability™ System 800xA®

System 800xA is not only a DCS (Distributed Control System) it’s also an Electrical Control System

ABB Ability™ System 800xA Simulator

Reduce the risks and the number of unplanned shutdowns, improve safety, productivity and energy savings thanks to realistic DCS simulation.

ABB Ability™ History

Data quality, security and availability for industrial applications and AI/ML analytics in an open ecosystem approach

ABB Ability™ Expert Optimizer – APC (Advanced Process Control) for pulp and paper industry

A complete Advanced Process Controls solution for the pulp industry focusing on stabilizing operations and reducing operator workload.

Learn more about ABB’s vision for a sustainable pulp and paper industry:

To outrun, outperform and outvalue. This is what we help our pulp and paper customers achieve through being tightly connected to their world for over 100 years.