Valmet Introduces Groundbreaking 3D Fiber Technology for Eco-Friendly Packaging Production

Valmet Unveils Innovative 3D Fiber Production Line

Valmet Oyj recently announced a significant milestone in sustainable packaging production, delivering the first commercial-scale 3D Fiber molded fiber production line to Metsä Group's facility in Äänekoski, Finland. This initiative aims to revolutionize the packaging industry by providing a high-volume, eco-friendly alternative to plastic products.

With increasing global awareness surrounding plastic waste and sustainability, Metsä Group has turned to Valmet to help meet this demand. The new fiber line will enable the production of high-quality molded fiber packaging solutions that can compete with traditional plastic offerings. This initiative marks a notable advancement in the development of molded fiber technology, following years of extensive collaborative efforts between Valmet and Metsä Group.

The 3D Fiber technology is poised to be a game-changer in the market, capitalizing on its unique ability to produce lightweight yet durable products like trays, plates, and food packaging containers. This technology utilizes cellulose fibers, allowing for the direct creation of three-dimensional products from pulp, which significantly streamlines the production process by eliminating unnecessary intermediate steps.

According to Antti Valtonen, Vice President of the Muoto project at Metsä Spring, the collaboration with Valmet has reached an exhilarating new phase. "We are expanding our capabilities, engaging deeper with customers, and laying the groundwork for future growth. Demand is rising for packaging solutions that excel in performance while promoting circularity and scalability," he explains.

Juho Pyrrö, Head of 3D Fiber at Valmet, emphasizes the commercial viability and market potential of this technology. He states, "The Valmet 3D Fiber technology represents the first large-scale solution for molded fiber production on the market. It confirms the competitive edge of sustainable packaging by hastening the transition away from traditional plastic products in high-volume manufacturing. Our long-standing partnership with Metsä Group has been integral in validating this technology and fostering a mutual ambition to innovate."

The production line, set to commence operations in 2028, demonstrates a nominal capacity to produce over 100 million products annually, showcasing the scalability of this revolutionary technology. Located next to the existing demo plant, this new addition reflects their successful co-development efforts, with the demo plant already serving as a testing ground for innovative initiatives since its start in 2022.

Valmet not only aims to deliver cutting-edge technologies but also provides end-to-end solutions. Their comprehensive approach ensures that customers can efficiently process fibers and pack finished products automatically, reaping the benefits of an integrated system.

In 2025, Metsä Group achieved impressive sales figures of €5.8 billion, further illustrating the significant market influence and potential of this partnership. This collaboration between Valmet and Metsä Group heralds a new era for sustainable manufacturing processes and resource-efficient production lines aimed at addressing crucial environmental challenges.

As the world continues to gravitate towards sustainability, innovations such as Valmet's 3D Fiber technology will not only meet consumer demands but also contribute to the circular economy and environmental preservation. As such, the implications of this project extend far beyond the production line, potentially reshaping the landscape of the packaging industry as we know it today.