In a recent interview with Wood & Panel, Lars Eklund, CEO of Sunds Fibertech, discussed the company’s strategic acquisitions of Advanced Cyclone Systems (ACS) and LÜBKE GmbH, enhancing their emission control capabilities. These acquisitions complement Sunds Fibertech’s mission to “Boost your plant” by integrating leading cyclone technology and advanced filter systems. Eklund also highlighted innovations like the EVOfuge 360 steam recovery system and the IRIS resin injection system, driving sustainability and energy efficiency in the panelboard industry and shared insights into Sunds Fibertech’s growing presence in South America and future innovations.
WPE: Sunds Fibertech recently acquired Advanced Cyclone Systems (ACS) and LÜBKE GmbH. How do these acquisitions enhance your emission control capabilities and align with your “Boost your plant” mission?
Lars Eklund: These acquisitions are a strategic step in strengthening our “Boost your plant” mission by expanding our portfolio within the critical field of emission control. ACS brings world-leading expertise in cyclone technology, while LÜBKE is recognised for its advanced filter systems. By integrating these technologies with our deep process know-how, we offer a unique and comprehensive approach to emission reduction.
For example, when managing dryer exhaust emissions, we begin by optimising the dryer itself to reduce energy consumption and minimise emissions of dust and formaldehyde. Where needed, we complement this with ACS cyclones to clean the flue gas, followed by our own AirCleanMAX scrubber for further removal of dust and formaldehyde. This integrated solution ensures high performance and cost efficiency, helping our customers meet the most stringent emission standards – fully aligned with our commitment to boosting plant performance.
WPE: Can you elaborate on the advancements of the EVOfuge 360 steam recovery system and the IRIS resin injection system? What impact do these technologies have on energy efficiency and resin utilization?
Lars Eklund: Our EVOfuge 360 steam recovery system and IRIS resin injection system are designed to significantly improve energy efficiency and resin utilisation in panelboard production. The EVOfuge system recovers up to 30% of the steam generated in the blowline, which is then reused to preheat the wood chips. This not only reduces overall steam consumption but also lowers CO₂ emissions by minimising the need for biomass combustion.
The IRIS system is a first-of-its-kind innovation that injects resin from the centre of the blowline. This approach ensures more precise distribution, reduces resin consumption, and dramatically lowers maintenance requirements. Together, these technologies contribute to more sustainable and cost-effective production processes – fully aligned with our commitment to boosting plant performance.
WPE: With the installation of the world’s largest EVOfuge system in Brazil, how does Sunds Fibertech plan to expand its presence in South America and other emerging markets?
Lars Eklund: The installation of the world’s largest EVOfuge system in Brazil marks a major milestone for us. While the installation itself is not directly tied to our expansion strategy, it reinforces our position as a trusted technology partner in the region. We already have an office in Concepción, Chile, and two offices in Brazil following the acquisition of ACS. To further strengthen our global presence, we are now preparing to open our next office in the Atlanta area, North America.
WPE: Sonae Arauco has adopted your new cleaning system for recycled MDF and HDF. How does this system contribute to sustainability in panelboard production?
Lars Eklund: Recycling MDF and HDF is an emerging technology driven by both sustainability goals and the anticipated scarcity of raw materials. Large-scale recycling has long been a challenge due to impurities and laminated surfaces, which make the fibres difficult to reuse. Our cleaning system addresses this by enabling highly efficient purification of recycled fibres, making them suitable for reuse in a wide range of applications.
By allowing recycled fibres to be reintroduced into the production of new fibreboard, we help reduce waste, conserve resources, and support circular production models. We’ve already secured two projects based on this technology, with installations scheduled to begin in Q4 and Q1 2026 – a clear step forward in sustainable panelboard manufacturing.
WPE: Following the acquisition of the KüstersPress and ContiPress service business from Siempelkamp, how does Sunds Fibertech plan to integrate and support these technologies for existing customers?
Lars Eklund: The acquisition of Küsters technology from Siempelkamp was a strategic step that strengthened our position as a full-range press service provider. It complements our long-standing expertise in Multi Opening Presses and expands our capabilities to include continuous press solutions.
To support our customers, we have established a dedicated technology centre in Willich, Germany, staffed with experienced specialists focused on maintaining and developing Küsters technology. At LIGNA this year, we showcased ten new rebuild concepts, highlighting the latest advancements and modernisation packages available to our customers.
The Willich centre also includes in-house chain production, a renovation workshop, and a logistics hub – all designed to ensure fast, reliable service and long-term support for Küsters and ContiPress installations worldwide.
WPE: Looking ahead, what are Sunds Fibertech’s key priorities and innovations in the pipeline to further support the panelboard industry’s evolution?
Lars Eklund: Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen and expand our product portfolio to support the evolving needs of the panelboard industry. While we are recognised for our technological leadership in MDF, we are now placing increased focus on particle board and OSB – both in emission control and core process equipment.
This development will be driven by a strong commitment to R&D and innovation, as well as through strategic partnerships and the integration of technology-leading companies into the Sunds Fibertech Group. Our goal is to deliver smarter, more sustainable solutions that help our customers boost performance, reduce environmental impact, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
