Manufacturer
J.M. Voith SE & Co. KG
D-89522 Heidenheim
www.voith.com  

Design
Defortec GmbH
D-72135 Dettenhausen
www.defortec.de  

The new generation of papermaking machines is used to make coated papers and cardboard – their configuration is geared towards the requirements of the respective producer. The newly developed walkway system responds to this variability by providing direct access to all the essential components of the huge machinery. Besides standardising the stair angles and the direction of ascent, the design also gives the walkways a calmer appearance. All the cables are protected inside the aluminium profiles, which become narrower towards the bottom. The bolts are either concealed or have been replaced by clamps, for instance to attach the handrails. Large glass panels on the railings accentuate the structure and present the brand.

Jury
The walkway system addresses an issue that has a huge impact on the appearance of large-scale plant – and is by no means easy for designers to resolve. Together with the identical angles, the consistent profile gives the plant a much calmer appearance and even integrates important functions into the bargain. The system’s universal usability is another attractive benefit.