Valmet, a global leader in process technologies and automation, has secured a partnership with Lecta to deliver a comprehensive fiberline technology upgrade to their combined pulp and paper mill in Zaragoza, Spain. This collaboration will not only increase the mill’s pulp production capacity but also enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve fiberline availability.
The value of the order remains undisclosed; however, it has been included in Valmet’s first quarter 2024 orders received. The delivery is scheduled to take place during Lecta’s annual shutdown in April 2025. The upgrade will encompass various aspects of the fiberline, including wood handling, cooking, brown stock screening, washing, and oxygen delignification.
The current fiberline equipment at Lecta’s Zaragoza mill, initially installed in 1975 and 1990, has served its purpose well through regular maintenance and refurbishments. However, it has now reached the end of its lifecycle. By replacing the old equipment with Valmet’s advanced technologies, Lecta aims to significantly improve process efficiency, enhance availability, and reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs.
Eduardo Ruiz Urrutia, Vice President of SEMEA Sales at Valmet, expressed satisfaction with the partnership and the selection of Valmet’s state-of-the-art wood handling, cooking, and fiberline technologies. The upgrade marks an important milestone for Valmet’s service development in the Iberian Peninsula. Valmet is committed to supporting the Zaragoza mill in achieving its productivity, competitiveness, and environmental impact reduction goals.
The scope of Valmet’s delivery includes a comprehensive technology upgrade for the fiberline. It encompasses a new log feeding system, Valmet Chip Cutter for wood handling, cooking modification with Valmet OptiBin solution and Chip Pumps, a new screening room, an additional washing stage with a Valmet TwinRoll Press, and an Oxygen Delignification stage modification.
Lecta, a prominent European manufacturer and distributor of specialty papers, operates seven mills across Spain, France, and Italy. The Zaragoza mill, with a total production capacity of 536,000 tons per year, plays a significant role in Lecta’s operations.
Valmet, with over 220 years of industrial history, continues its dedication to innovation and continuous improvement. The company’s net sales in 2023 reached approximately EUR 5.5 billion. Valmet’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki, and the company’s head office is located in Espoo, Finland.
As Valmet and Lecta join forces to upgrade the fiberline technology in Zaragoza, this partnership signifies progress towards greater efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness in the pulp and paper industry.
In addition to the information provided in the article, it is important to discuss some current market trends in the pulp and paper industry, provide forecasts, and identify key challenges and controversies associated with fiberline technology upgrades.
Current Market Trends:
1. Increasing Demand for Sustainable Products: There is a growing demand for sustainable paper and pulp products due to increasing environmental awareness. Consumers are seeking products made from renewable and responsibly sourced materials.
2. Digital Transformation: The industry is embracing digital technologies to optimize production processes and improve efficiency. Automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence are being utilized to enhance operations and reduce costs.
3. Circular Economy Initiatives: Many pulp and paper companies are actively working towards achieving a circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are reused or recycled. This includes implementing sustainable practices throughout the entire supply chain.
Forecasts:
1. Growing Demand for Packaging Materials: The demand for packaging materials, especially corrugated boards and cartons, is expected to increase due to the rise of e-commerce and a shift towards sustainable packaging solutions.
2. Focus on Specialty Papers: Specialty papers, such as those produced by Lecta, are expected to experience steady growth due to their unique characteristics and applications in sectors like packaging, labeling, and graphic arts.
3. Technological Advancements: Continuous advancements in fiberline technologies, like the ones offered by Valmet, will enable mills to improve their efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance product quality.
Key Challenges and Controversies:
1. Environmental Impact: The pulp and paper industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact, especially deforestation and water pollution. Companies are under pressure to implement sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint.
2. Raw Material Availability: As the demand for pulp and paper products increases, ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of raw materials, such as wood fiber, becomes a challenge. Companies are exploring alternative fiber sources and investing in sustainable forestry practices.
3. Cost Pressures: The industry is susceptible to fluctuations in raw material prices, energy costs, and regulatory requirements. Companies need to continuously optimize their operations to manage costs effectively.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages of the fiberline upgrade in the Zaragoza mill include:
– Increased pulp production capacity, leading to higher revenue potential.
– Enhanced operational efficiency, reducing production costs and improving overall productivity.
– Improved fiberline availability, minimizing downtime and maximizing production output.
– Reduced energy consumption and maintenance costs, contributing to sustainability goals.
Disadvantages of the fiberline upgrade may include:
– Initial investment costs associated with upgrading the equipment and implementing new technologies.
– Potential disruption during the upgrade process, affecting production in the short term.
– Adoption of new technologies may require training and adjustment periods for the mill’s workforce.
Related Links:
– Valmet Website
– Lecta Website
These links provide further information on Valmet and Lecta, their product offerings, and their involvement in the pulp and paper industry.