Slew bearing replacement restores wood chip handling at Domtar mill

6 May 2026

Domtar’s Ashdown Mill in Arkansas, USA, is one of the world’s largest producers of fluff pulp. A critical component of the mill’s wood chip handling process is a Bruks stacker reclaimer. When the machine required a major slew bearing replacement after many years of service, Domtar turned to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Bruks Siwertell, to support the project and help ensure a timely return to operation. 

Customer need

Domtar is a leading manufacturer of forest-based products, producing pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood for global markets. Since opening in 1968, the mill in Ashdown, Arkansas has expanded significantly and today operates as a large-scale fluff pulp production facility. 

To maintain productivity, the mill relies on continuous, high-throughput material handling. A Bruks stacker reclaimer, delivered in 2012, plays a central role in managing softwood chips with a total storage capacity of approximately 40,000 metric tons (4.0 million ft³).  After more than a decade of operation, the machine’s 4.14-meter (163-inch) slew bearing approached the end of its service life. 

Domtar required a complete bearing replacement, including inspection and replacement of associated worn components, to be completed during a defined 12-week outage window covering removal, overhaul, and recommissioning. Because the equipment is integral to mill operations, schedule adherence and execution quality were critical considerations.

Our solution

As the original equipment manufacturer, Bruks Siwertell provided engineering expertise and access to OEM-designed components tailored to the existing installation.

A replacement slew bearing engineered to original design specifications was supplied. Based on inspection findings and customer planning, the base ring was also replaced to address wear identified during the overhaul. Using OEM components helped support compatibility with the existing structure and operating conditions. 

Bruks Siwertell delivered the project as a coordinated service scope, including engineering support, parts supply, installation oversight, quality checks, and recommissioning activities. All work was completed within the planned outage period, allowing the stacker reclaimer to be returned to service and reintegrated with the mill’s conveyor system. 

Result

Following recommissioning, the stacker reclaimer returned to normal operation, supporting Domtar’s material handling requirements. The project helped extend the service life of the equipment and maintain operational continuity at the Ashdown Mill. 

Domtar has since elected to support the system through ongoing mechanical inspections as part of its maintenance strategy, reinforcing a continued service collaboration with Bruks Siwertell.