The 350-tonne-per-day installation will integrate advanced HT-CTMP technology, evaporation, flash drying and automation, with start-up planned for Q2 2028.
ITC Limited’s Paperboards and Specialty Papers Division (ITC-PSPD) has selected Valmet as its technology partner for a new Bleached Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulp (BCTMP) production line at its Bhadrachalam mill in India.
The project will strengthen ITC’s high-quality pulp production capabilities through Valmet’s advanced High-Temperature Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulping (HT-CTMP) technology, designed to deliver improved fibre integrity, enhanced pulp properties and lower refining energy consumption.
The new installation will have a production capacity of 350 bone-dry tonnes per day (BDt/d) and include a complete BCTMP line, evaporation plant, flash drying and baling systems. The scope will also incorporate Valmet DNA distributed control system (DCS), flow control solutions and an extensive spare parts package.
Advanced Technology for Improved Efficiency
Valmet’s HT-CTMP technology operates at elevated temperatures to produce stronger, more intact fibres while improving energy efficiency during the refining process. The technology is designed to deliver high bulk and strength properties alongside high wood yield, making it suitable for various fibre-based applications, including lightweight board grades.
The BCTMP evaporation system will concentrate the spent pulping liquor for recovery boiler processing, supporting improved energy efficiency and reducing the mill’s environmental load.
The project also includes a new White Liquor Disc Filter for ITC’s recausticizing line, further strengthening the mill’s process capabilities.
Strengthening a Long-Standing Partnership
ITC and Valmet have maintained a longstanding technology partnership, dating back to the 1990s when Valmet delivered a multilayer paperboard machine to the Bhadrachalam mill.
Commenting on the project, Harinarayanan, Divisional Head, ITC Paperboards and Specialty Papers, highlighted the importance of adopting globally established technologies to improve process efficiency and achieve high-quality pulp production.
Valmet will provide integrated process technology, automation and flow control solutions, supported by its local presence in India for project execution, maintenance and lifecycle services.
The order was included in Valmet’s second-quarter 2026 orders received. While the financial value of the project has not been disclosed, the new BCTMP line is scheduled to commence operations in the second quarter of 2028.
The investment represents another step in ITC-PSPD’s efforts to enhance pulp quality, operational efficiency and the performance of its paperboard manufacturing operations.