Nampak Paper Mill

  • Upgrade of paper mill to accommodate new production machinery.
  • Coordination of engineering disciplines using 3D modelling.


Arup were appointed to this major paper mill expansion by manufacturer Nampak Corrugated. The improved paper mill will process over 111,000t of waste paper per annum, producing 100,000t of paper for use in corrugated cardboard boxes.

The firm’s role involved coordination of engineering teams including infrastructure, structural, architectural, ventilation and fire design, as well as mechanical and electrical disciplines. Arup was also responsible for all civil and structural design for the project.

Arup used 3D modelling for drafting the structural scope and coordinating the various disciplines. The firm also designed upgrades of the utilities in the existing plant along with bulk water and sewage reticulation systems.

The new mill building is on a green field site adjacent to the existing plant, and is a concrete structure with a ground floor at 6m above ground and a mezzanine floor at 11m.

The mill contains five overhead cranes running the length of the building. The clad steelwork roof is heavily insulated and naturally ventilated to avoid condensation dripping onto newly-made paper.

Three 10m diameter water storage tanks were required for plant water, varying in height from 14m to 18m.

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  • Nampak Paper Mill, exterior photo. Credit George Jung.Open gallery

    The improved paper mill will process over 111,000t of waste paper a year.

  • Nampak Paper Mill, front of building. Credit George Jung.Open gallery

    Arup used 3D modelling to design the structure and coordinate engineering disciplines.