News Equipment & Systems
Irving Pulp & Paper invests $110M to upgrade Saint John woodyard

Irving Pulp & Paper has announced a $110-million project to update the woodyard in west Saint John, New Brunswick. The technological advancements will change how the site receives and stores woodchips.

Currently underway, the upgrade includes the installation of a new automated stacker reclaimer that is the tallest of its kind in the world. This technology “stacks” woodchips into one large pile, while the reclaimer function removes the woodchips from the pile to be used in the kraft pulp making process. The woodyard project, which is anticipated to reach completion in 2025, will employ an additional 150 skilled workers from 26 local contractor companies.

The company states that this automated machinery will improve safety at the site while enhancing quality and reliability.

“This capital investment strengthens our commitment to the local community and bolsters economic stability,” said Mark Mosher, vice-president of the Pulp & Paper Division. “Since the project began, we’ve not only employed local contractors but also greatly improved the safety of our employees and reliability of the mill that will meet the needs of our customers for generations to come.”

The site of Irving Pulp & Paper (Union Point), has been used for mill operations since the 1800s. Irving Pulp & Paper has received many capital investments over the years, most recently to add a new $300 million state-of-the-art pulp dryer.