Paraibuna Embalagens Invests R$15 Million to Modernize Operations and Expand Corrugated Packaging Capacity

Paraibuna Embalagens is investing approximately R$15 million in an industrial modernization program at its Sapucaia, Rio de Janeiro, facility, aimed at increasing productivity, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening its position in the corrugated cardboard packaging market.

The project includes the installation of a new high-performance printer manufactured by China's JS Machine, as well as upgrades to the plant’s corrugating machine. According to the company, the new JS Machine 924 printer is among the most advanced of its type operating in Latin America.

The four-color printer, equipped with a quick setup system, is expected to process between 900 and 1,100 tonnes of material per month. Paraibuna said the equipment will support growing demand for briefcase-style corrugated boxes, a segment that has seen increasing market demand.

The machine is currently being installed and is expected to become operational between June 10 and June 15. Once fully integrated, the company expects to increase production capacity for briefcase-style boxes by approximately 30%, serving customers in sectors including food, refrigeration, disposable products, and other industrial markets.

According to Clayton Rômulo da Silva, Industrial Manager of the Corrugated Packaging Unit, the investment was driven by rising demand for multi-color printed packaging with specialized finishes. The company’s existing high-capacity equipment had reached its operational limits, prompting the need for additional production capability.

The printer features technology that allows preparation of subsequent jobs while production is still underway, reducing changeover times and improving efficiency. Depending on the product specification, the machine can produce up to 21,000 boxes per hour and can manufacture two smaller box formats simultaneously.

Before selecting the equipment, Paraibuna conducted nearly a year of technical studies and supplier evaluations, including assessments of manufacturers in Europe, Japan, and China. The company reviewed approximately 50 Chinese suppliers and carried out technical visits to facilities in Brazil and Chile.

In addition to the printer investment, Paraibuna is modernizing its corrugating machine. The company is replacing a glue application system that had become a production bottleneck after line speeds increased from 250 to 300 meters per minute. The upgrade is expected to reduce waste, improve sheet quality, and support production of higher value-added packaging products.

Paraibuna said the combined investments are intended to enhance operational performance, increase production flexibility, and strengthen its competitiveness in the corrugated packaging sector.