Andritz has successfully started up a complete neXline spunlace line for International Paper LLC Uzbek at its plant in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and has also secured an order to deliver a complete neXline wetlace line to Turkish yarn manufacturer Göliplik Şeremet Tekstil.

The new production line at International Paper LLC will enable the company to produce high-quality spunlace wipes, both under its own brand and for other converters, addressing growing demand in Uzbekistan and neighboring countries. Additionally, the project aligns with the company’s sustainability goals by reducing its carbon footprint through minimised intercontinental shipments and boosting local employment in the Tashkent area.

The neXline configuration includes the latest TT cards, making it the most powerful equipment of its kind in Central Asia. With a production capacity exceeding 10,000 tons annually, it is capable of processing both viscose and polyester fibres. The fully integrated line will enable International Paper LLC to vertically integrate its spunlace roll goods production with its existing wipes converting capacity.

Andritz has also supported International Paper LLC by providing access to financing solutions, establishing an unprecedented partnership with BPI France, the French public investment bank. This collaboration has enabled International Paper LLC to secure attractive financing through a buyer’s credit under the French export promotion scheme, as well as an advantageous financing contract with Uzbek Leasing JV.

“This new equipment will help us scale our business,” said  Zakirov Sanjar, one of the founders of International Paper LLC. “Andritz has supported us at every stage of this ambitious project, enabling us to maintain our leading position in the regional market while ensuring excellent product quality.”

Operating under the ELMA brand since 2003, International Paper LLC is one of the largest producers of sanitary and hygienic papers in Uzbekistan, as well as in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

Flushable wipes

The new neXline wetlace line to be supplied to Göliplik in Bursa, Turkey, will meanwhile enable the company to enter the nonwovens market with high-quality roll goods for flushable wipes. Made from natural, biodegradable fibres, these wipes have excellent tensile strength and dissolve quickly in sewage systems.

The line features advanced technology including stock preparation, an approach flow system, wetlaid forming, hydroentanglement and drying. Start-up is scheduled for the first half of 2027.

“By investing in this new production line for flushable wipes, we are entering a promising nonwovens market,” said Erdogan Seremet, owner and president of Göliplik. “With Andritz as a leading technology supplier at our side we are convinced that we can successfully expand our business, benefiting from Andritz expertise and continuous developments.”

Göliplik currently operates four facilities producing a wide range of blended yarns.

www.andritz.com