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1 200 Valmatics 4.0 control systems sold
Since its launch in 2019, the Valmatics 4.0 control system has quickly become established in sawmills around the world. More than 1,200 systems have been sold to date.
“For example, several major groups have decided to use Valmatics 4.0 in all their lumber kilns, which is having a direct, large-scale impact. More and more are seeing the benefits of making the move to 4.0,” says Robert Weithofer, Valutec’s North American sales agent.
Sawmills in the Nordic region have upgraded to Valmatics 4.0 faster than any others. Many of these are corporate groups, and we’re talking about major names: Setra, Vida, Moelven, Bergene Holm, G3, Södra, UPM, Stora Enso, Westas Group, Junnikkala, Pfeifer Group (which now owns Pölkky), Keitele Group, Metsä Fibre, Versowood and HASA Group.
In most cases, the decision is based on the bigger picture. Using the same control system in all the kilns makes it easier for the operators, while the automated drying process also frees up time. Another important reason is the fact that the system is well suited for integrating with other systems in the production chain.
“The trend is moving towards an increasingly cohesive process, where various parts of the chain share information with each other. As a result, the functions are also becoming increasingly important,” says Robert.
External factors such as high energy prices have also contributed to the acceleration of this transition. For example, Valutec has responded to the more uncertain situation on the energy market by developing functions with the aim of optimizing drying in relation to the spot prices on the electricity market.
“We also have functions designed to optimize the interaction with the boiler, which, together with the potential to optimize energy, capacity and quality at the same time, means that the bigger picture is really positive. We are continuing the work of continuously developing the system in close collaboration with the sawmills,” says Robert.
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