Name of the Project
Project Vulindlela.
Location
Umkomaas, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Client
Sappi.
Project Description
Sappi proposes to expand capacity and undertake various continuous improvement initiatives and upgrade projects at the Saiccor mill – collectively known as Project Vulindlela.
Vulindlela will increase the mill’s production from 780 000 t/y to 890 000 t/y of dissolving wood pulp. The projects will include a new evaporator, recovery boiler and screening and washing plant, as well as upgrades to bleach plant and pulp machines, improved recovery circuits and additional magnesium digesters.
Potential Job Creation
The projects are expected to create employment opportunities for locals through construction, companies, and business prospects for entrepreneurs from the local communities around the mill. During peak construction, there will be between 2 500 and 2 800 contractors working on site.
Value
The capacity expansion project will cost an estimated R2.7-billion and the various continuous improvement initiatives and upgrade projects an estimated R5-billion.
Duration
Not stated.
Latest Developments
None stated.
Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.
On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
Sappi group corporate affairs head André Oberholzer, tel +27 11 407 8044 or email Andre.Oberholzer@sappi.com.