Camas mill implements new towel rewinder

The Georgia-Pacific Camas mill recently brought online a new enMotion towel rewinder, and associated converting equipment. It represents a multi-million dollar investment.

According to a press release, enMotion is a touchless paper towel and dispensing system that reduces waste 30 percent versus standard folded towels, and contains at least 40 percent post-consumer recycled fiber. The dispensers are found in office buildings, schools, restaurants, medical facilities, retail stores and other locations.

“Our goal was to make this rewinder state-of-the-art, from both a safety and ergonomic standpoint and from a productivity standpoint,” said Operations Manager Tom Long. “Safety, ergonomics and productivity go hand-in-hand. We achieved our goal and now have one of the most ergonomically friendly and fastest converting lines in the company.”

In addition to Georgia-Pacific employees, many local companies and crafts people were involved in the process.

“With more than $5 million invested into bringing this rewinder online, this was an economic success for our local community and the Camas mill,” said Mill Manager Joe Ertolacci. “This speaks to the viability of the mill as we continue to see significant investment from Georgia-Pacific to keep the mill a competitive facility in a global marketplace.”

The Camas mill unveiled the rewinder to the community by providing a tour to the mill’s Community Advisory Panel in April. The CAP consists of representatives from the City of Camas, local school districts and businesses, and private citizens who meet every six months to discuss the mill’s overall performance and engagement with the community.

The Camas paper mill, located on Northeast Adams street in downtown, employs approximately 500 people. It is a subsidiary of Koch Industries.