Stora Enso Packaging Boards has introduced PartnerWeb, a real-time software system that lets customers track the product order and delivery process via the Internet. Early customer acceptance of this web-based business resource planning system has encouraged the company to launch a more comprehensive version of the software in the autumn.

The Vacuum technology company Piab has been developing new vacuum conveyors. The development work is based on technology employed in the company's vacuum conveyor, C33. It was the first vacuum conveyor to satisfy the requirements of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The new conveyors, available in varying sizes, are developed to meet the same criteria and every component is approved by the USDA.

A new family comprising two high output, variable axial piston pumps for load-sensing systems is now being presented by the Swedish manufacturer Sunfab Hydraulics. The pumps are designed for demanding operations for mobile truck hydraulics.

Statoil is to replace 40 separate fire protection systems on its three platforms, Statfjord A, B and C, over a period of 2-3 years. The order is valued at approx. NOK40 million. The titanium pipes to be used in the new systems will be supplied by the Swedish company Permascand. Statoil has recently carried out tests on the materials used in fire protection equipment. They were subjected to a 'jet fire', with temperatures well in excess of 1,000°C. The titanium pipes do not appear to have suffered any adverse effects.

Optima Yellowtop 5.5 L is reported to be the first large lead/acid battery on the market to combine deep cycling with high cranking amperage.  It builds on the manufacturer's spiral-cell technology and is suitable for forestry, building and construction equipment and for distribution vehicles and other vehicles with electrically-powered accessory equipment.  Operating environments characterised by vibrations, heat, humidity and dust make harsh demands of a robust and reliable battery design.

SWE-DISH Satellite Systems has been awarded a contract from the US Department of Defense to a value of $18 Million for mobile satellite communications equipment. The products which will be supplied during a 12 months period, are to be used for transmission of video, data and voice content from anywhere in the world.

European paper merchants, Papyrus, and leading forestry product group, Stora Enso have joined forces in an initiative to create a novel concept in paper services, properties and product quality. The result is MultiArt, a paper concept designed to exceed traditional expectations in the printing world.

The international consultancy Carl Bro plans to locate an international development centre, for the study of sick buildings, in Stockholm. One of the reasons for this location is that Sweden, from an international perspective, is on the forefront of research into sick buildings. Another reason, as Tom Follin of the consultancy Carl Bro Barab suggests, is that Sweden boasts internationally recognised expertise in decontamination of affected buildings.

SWE-DISH Satellite Systems was recently named in the second annual 'Tornado Insider 100' list as one of Europe's top emerging private tech companies. SWE-DISH Satellite Systems, headquartered in Stockholm, was founded in 1994 by Per Wahlberg and Markus Selin and specializes in mobile satellite communications equipment.

Tray packaging for promoting design companies' activities is now a fast growing business for Stora Enso Consumer Boards. The new Trayforma board range is gaining popularity especially amongst European design groups including leading Finnish fashion house, Marimekko. The fashion company introduced innovative packaging solution for its classic shirt range.