Interview with Mr. Snehes Dasgupta, Founder & CEO of Paper Machine Clothing Centre.
We work closely with global machine manufacturers to ensure our clients’s forming fabrics deliver optimal performance and extended life. Continuous improvement is at the core of everything we do.
Paper Desk : What was the founding vision behind PMC Centre’s entry into the paper machine clothing segment ?
Snehes Dasgupta : PMC Centre was founded with the vision to bridge the critical knowledge gap in Paper Machine Clothing (PMC) technology, especially in the areas of manufacturing and application for Forming, Felt, and Dryer fabrics. With over 35 years of industry experience, we observed that while many companies focus on fabric production and sales, there was a lack of independent, expert guidance for both new and existing PMC manufacturers as well as paper mills. Our sole purpose is to provide unbiased, technology-driven consultancy —helping clients select the right fabric, optimize machine performance, and troubleshoot issues for maximum efficiency and quality.
PD : Can you share a key challenge PMC faced during its early days and how it helped shape the company’s direction?
SD : The primary challenge was establishing the value of an independent consultancy in an industry traditionally dominated by product suppliers. By focusing exclusively on technology and not selling any fabric, we built trust as a neutral advisor. This unique positioning allowed us to work closely with both manufacturers and paper mills, offering solutions tailored to their specific needs.
PD : PMC offers specialized forming, pressing, and dryer fabrics. Can you share some recent technological upgrades in your fabric manufacturing process?
SD : As a consultancy, we do not manufacture fabrics ourselves. However, we play a crucial role in guiding PMC manufacturers to adapt to evolving market demands. For instance, after the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant shift in the types of paper being produced. Prior to the pandemic, there was a steady demand for printing and writing papers, but postpandemic, the industry saw a surge in production of packaging grades, tissue papers, and specialty hygiene papers, driven by the boom in ecommerce and heightened hygiene awareness. We assist manufacturers in understanding these market shifts and recommend technological upgrades—such as changes in fabric design and selection—to meet new performance requirements for these emerging paper grades.
PD : How does PMC ensure precision, durability, and consistency across different grades of paper machine clothing?
SD : At PMC Centre, we recognize that every paper machine and paper grade presents unique operational challenges and requirements. To ensure precision, durability, and consistency, we provide tailor-made solutions for each client, customizing our guidance and recommendations based on the specific needs of their machine and the type of paper being produced. Our Approach: Individual Assessment: We begin by thoroughly assessing each paper machine’s configuration, operational parameters, and the specific grade of paper to be manufactured Customized Recommendations: Based on this assessment, we recommend the optimal fabric type, design, and technical specifications to maximize efficiency, durability, and consistency. Continuous Support: We work closely with our clients to monitor fabric performance and provide troubleshooting and optimization support throughout the fabric’s lifecycle.
Examples of Tailor-Made Solutions :
- Writing & Printing Papers: These grades require forming fabrics that deliver excellent sheet, formation, high smoothness, and dimensional stability. We recommend fine-mesh, multi-layer forming fabrics with high fiber support to achieve the required surface quality and printability.
- Kraft & Packaging Grades: Kraft paper and packaging boards demand robust, wear-resistant fabrics with high drainage capacity and strength. Here, we suggest sturdy, multi-layer forming fabrics and felts designed to withstand heavy loads and abrasive conditions, ensuring sheet strength and production efficiency.
- Specialty & Tissue Mills: Tissue and specialty paper production require fabrics that balance softness, absorbency, and strength. For these applications, we advise on ultra-open forming fabrics and soft, highly permeable felts to optimize water removal, enhance softness, and maintain consistent product quality.
By offering these tailor-made solutions, we help mills achieve optimal results—whether the goal is superior print quality, enhanced packaging strength, or specialty product performance. This individualized approach ensures that each client benefits from improved efficiency, extended fabric life, and consistent product quality across all paper grades.
PD : Could you share any recent advancements or upgrades in your fabric design or manufacturing processes?
SD : The demand for finer SSB (Sheet Support Binder) forming fabrics has notably increased, especially for high-speed paper machines, as mills seek better formation and higher operational efficiency. Additionally, in board mills and packaging paper production, there is a growing preference for robust multi-layer forming fabrics and high permeability dryer fabrics to enhance drainage and sheet strength. For specialty applications, we also advise on the adoption of tailored felt designs and advanced seam technologies to improve runnability and reduce downtime.
PD : How does PMC stay aligned with the evolving needs of Indian and global paper manufacturers?
SD : We maintain ongoing engagement with paper mills and PMC manufacturers worldwide, monitoring industry trends and technological advancements. Our consultancy services are continuously updated to address new challenges in fabric selection product and machine wise and process optimization.
PD : Are you seeing any major shifts in demand patterns for machine clothing across domestic vs export markets?
SD : Yes, we are observing notable shifts in demand patterns for machine clothing both within India and globally, and these trends vary across different regions:
Indian Market : In India, there has been a significant increase in demand for packaging grades, kraft paper, and board grades, driven by the rapid growth of e commerce, food delivery, and FMCG sectors. The domestic market is also seeing a gradual shift towards higher-speed machines and improved quality requirements, which calls for advanced forming fabrics and more durable felts. Tissue and specialty grades are also on the rise, reflecting changing consumer preferences post-optimized pandemic.
Asian Market : Across Asia, especially in countries like China, Indonesia, and Vietnam, the focus remains on high-volume production of packaging and board grades, but there is also a growing emphasis on quality and efficiency. Many mills are upgrading to modern machines, increasing the demand for technically advanced and tailormade fabrics.
European Market : Europe continues to lead in specialty and high-value paper grades, including graphical, security, and specialty packaging papers. There is a strong emphasis on sustainability, energy efficiency, and product innovation. As a result, European mills are demanding fabrics with advanced designs, longer life, and lower environmental impact.
North & South American Markets : In North America, the market is mature, with a strong focus on packaging, tissue, and specialty grades. There is a trend towards lightweight packaging and recycled content, which requires fabrics that can handle variable furnish and maintain consistent performance. South America, particularly Brazil, is seeing growth in both packaging and tissue segments, with investments in new machines and upgrades.
Africa & Middle East : These regions are emerging markets with increasing investments in new paper mills, especially for packaging and tissue grades. The demand here is for reliable, cost-effective solutions that can support both new and older machine technologies. Globally, the common trend is a shift towards packaging and tissue grades, higher machine speeds, and a demand for more specialized, durable, and efficient fabrics. As a consultancy, PMC Centre helps manufacturers and mills across all these regions adapt to these changing patterns by providing guidance on fabric selection, design upgrades, and troubleshooting tailored to the specific needs of each market and paper grade.
PD : What kind of customer-driven innovations has PMC implemented in recent years?
SD : Our innovations are focused on providing tailored consultancy solutions, including:
- Comprehensive guidance for new PMC manufacturers on setting up forming fabric production.
- Diagnostic services and troubleshooting for paper mills to resolve fabric-related issues.
- Customized training programs for client teams on the latest application technologies.
In addition, we have introduced quality and process improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma methodology for existing manufacturers. This structured approach not only enhances product quality and operational efficiency but also enables more effective handling of customer complaints. By fostering a collaborative, data-driven problem-solving culture, we help clients move beyond the traditional blame game that often hinders progress in the industry. Ultimately, bridging the technology gap itself is a major innovation PMC CENTRE brings to both paper mills and fabric manufacturers. By acting as a neutral, technology-driven advisor, we are uniquely positioned to facilitate knowledge transfer, drive continuous improvement, and advance the industry as a whole.
PD : From a business strategy point of view, how do you manage cost efficiency without compromising product performance?
SD : We help our clients achieve cost-efficiency by recommending optimal fabric selection and process improvements, reducing downtime, and enhancing machine performance. Our independent advice ensures that clients receive the most effective solutions without commercial bias.
PD : What business strategies have helped PMC maintain steady growth in a competitive industry landscape?
SD : Our growth is driven by:
- Specialization in forming fabric technology and application.
- Maintaining neutrality by not selling any products, only offering consultancy.
- Building long-term relationships through trust, expertise, and measurable results.
PD : How is PMC contributing to India’s adoption of modern technology in the pulp and paper machinery segment?
SD : PMC Centre acts as a technology partner, guiding mills and manufacturers in adopting the latest advancements in fabric technology and application. We assist in technology transfer, process optimization, and troubleshooting to help clients achieve global standards.
PD : What trends are you seeing in Indian manufacturing with respect to digitalization, automation, or
Industry 4.0, and how is PMC aligning with them?
SD : We observe increasing adoption of digital monitoring and automation in Indian paper mills. PMC Centre supports this transition by advising on the integration of smart fabric technologies and digital tools for real time performance tracking and predictive maintenance.
PD : How important is indigenous R&D in strengthening India’s global standing in technical textile manufacturing?
SD : Indigenous R&D is vital for innovation and self-reliance. We encourage and support our clients in developing local R&D capabilities, particularly in forming fabric technology, to enhance quality and competitiveness globally.
PD : What is your outlook for India’s pulp and paper sector in the next decade, particularly in terms of demand for advanced fabrics?
SD : The demand for advanced fabrics, especially forming fabrics, is expected to grow significantly as the industry modernizes and adopts higher standards of quality and sustainability. Our role will be to ensure mills and manufacturers are equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices.
PD : How is PMC preparing to scale its capabilities to meet future domestic and international demand?
SD : We are expanding our consultancy network, investing in continuous learning, and collaborating with global experts to offer the most up-to-date solutions for our clients.