#Germany #Valmet #Mercer Stendal #Ash Crystallizer #Arneburg

Valmet's New Ash Crystallization Plant at Mercer Stendal

Valmet Oyj has made a significant stride towards sustainability by securing a contract to supply a new ash crystallization plant for the Mercer Stendal pulp mill located in Arneburg, Germany. Scheduled for operational startup in the last quarter of 2027, this development marks a pivotal investment in the mill's long-term strategy to decrease emissions while improving production performance.

The Mercer Stendal mill, which has been operational since 2004, has continually prioritized enhancements in both efficiency and sustainability. Dr. Martin Zenker, the mill's manager, highlighted that this new facility aligns with their enduring philosophy focused on responsible business practices. The plant's introduction is expected to facilitate an improvement in the mill's operational and environmental metrics dramatically.

Objectives of the Ash Crystallization Plant

The primary goal of introducing the ash crystallization system is to enhance the mill's chemical circulation process by recovering valuable sodium salts and eliminating non-process elements like chloride and potassium. These improvements will significantly reduce issues of plugging and corrosion within the mill's recovery boiler, thus extending maintenance intervals to potentially 24 months or more.

By diminishing the necessity for make-up chemicals and decreasing maintenance disruptions, the new plant is anticipated to lower overall operational costs. Moreover, this initiative will contribute to Valmet's broader commitment to promoting circularity and resource efficiency in the industry.

Technical Specifications and Operational Integration

The Valmet Ash Crystallizer will be designed to process up to 140 tonnes of ash per day. The comprehensive delivery package includes not only the ash crystallization unit but also essential components such as electrical and instrumentation systems, steel structures, and the necessary installation services. Furthermore, an expansion of the existing mill-wide Valmet DNA automation management system will enable seamless integration with current operations.

This initiative underscores the growing trend toward upgrading existing mills with modern technologies that contribute to sustainability without necessitating the construction of entirely new facilities. Claus Jensen-Holm, Director of White Liquor and Evaporation at Valmet, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Mercer, emphasizing the collaborative effort to discover lasting solutions that optimize the mill’s functionality.

Mercer International Group

Mercer Stendal is part of the North American Mercer International Group, which boasts operations across Germany, Canada, and the United States. The Stendal site is recognized as one of Europe's most advanced pulp processing facilities, embracing a biorefinery concept that maximizes the use of wood for producing not only pulp and bioenergy but also various biochemicals, including tall oil, turpentine, and methanol. The mill currently operates at an impressive capacity of 740,000 tonnes of kraft pulp annually, supported by a biomass power plant with a substantial output of 148 megawatts.

As momentum towards sustainability continues to grow within the forestry and pulp industries, the introduction of Valmet's ash crystallization plant at Mercer Stendal represents a proactive approach to environmental responsibility. This collaboration not only aims to enhance production efficiency but also contributes to reducing emissions and aligning with global sustainability goals. By integrating innovative technology into established systems, companies like Valmet and Mercer are paving the way for a more resource-efficient future in the pulp and paper industry.