Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Finsa, a leading manufacturer of MDF panels for flooring, walls, and furniture, has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact. At their Ourense mill in northwestern Spain, Finsa has equipped its existing defibrator system with a Valmet Steam Separator C, a move that is expected to result in substantial energy savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
The Ourense mill has operated with a Valmet defibrator M48 since 1994, a machine designed to produce MDF panels. Over the years, Finsa has made various upgrades to its machinery to improve efficiency. The latest step in this direction is the installation of the Valmet Steam Separator C, which is set to enhance energy recovery and cost optimisation efforts.
Energy Savings and Environmental Benefits
The Valmet Steam Separator C is a simple yet highly effective addition to the existing defibrator system. It optimises steam usage by recovering steam from the blow line, a key component of the defibration process. The recovered steam can then be reused for applications such as pre-steaming or other low-pressure steam requirements in the production line.
Since its installation at the start of 2025, the Valmet Steam Separator C has been delivering impressive results. Finsa is now saving between 1 and 1.5 tons of fresh steam per hour. The reduction in steam demand directly correlates to a decrease in energy consumption and, consequently, a reduction in the mill’s carbon footprint. This change reflects Finsa’s ongoing commitment to enhancing sustainability in its operations.
“We are very pleased with the installation of the Valmet Steam Separator C. The system is already demonstrating excellent results, with significant steam savings and improved energy efficiency,” says Jose Manuel Nogueira Gonzales, Project Manager at Finsa Ourense. “The reduction in energy consumption not only leads to financial savings but also contributes to our long-term environmental goals.”
A Cost-Effective and Easy-to-Install Solution
One of the key benefits of the Valmet Steam Separator C is its cost efficiency. It is designed to be a straightforward addition to any existing defibrator system, requiring minimal changes to the setup. This makes it an ideal solution for companies looking to improve energy efficiency without large-scale equipment overhauls. The system’s low-maintenance design further adds to its appeal, as it reduces the need for ongoing service interventions.
“As Finsa’s example demonstrates, even simple technological solutions can have a profound impact on environmental performance,” says Liam Ahern, Global Product Manager, Mechanical Pulping and Fiberboard at Valmet. “The Valmet Steam Separator C is a highly efficient, easy-to-install product that delivers measurable results with a short payback time. This makes it an excellent option for mills looking to optimise energy use and reduce operational costs.”
The steam separator works by separating the steam from the fibre in the blow line, which is then directed to where it can be reused. The recovered steam can be applied in processes like pre-steaming or other applications where low-pressure steam is beneficial. This type of energy recovery not only cuts energy costs but also reduces the demand for fresh steam, which is often generated by burning fossil fuels.
The Role of Valmet in Finsa’s Sustainability Efforts
The collaboration between Finsa and Valmet highlights the importance of continuous improvement in industrial processes. Both companies are committed to innovation and sustainability, working together to implement solutions that support energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. As part of its ongoing efforts, Finsa has made several upgrades to its equipment over the years, focusing on technologies that offer the best balance of cost and environmental benefit.
“We are proud of our ongoing partnership with Finsa. Their commitment to improving sustainability in their operations aligns perfectly with our own values,” says Ramón Muñoz Siscart, Product Sales Manager at Valmet. “By introducing solutions like the Valmet Steam Separator C, we are helping Finsa achieve its environmental targets while improving the overall efficiency of their production line.”
Impact on the Timber and Fiberboard Industry
The installation of the Valmet Steam Separator C at Finsa’s Ourense mill is a prime example of how small innovations can lead to large-scale environmental benefits in the timber and fiberboard industry. As the sector continues to face pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, technologies like these are becoming increasingly important. The ability to recover and reuse steam not only leads to cost savings but also supports the industry’s transition towards more sustainable practices.
With the installation of this steam separator, Finsa is setting a strong example for other companies in the industry. The savings in steam and energy are not only an economic advantage but also a crucial step towards meeting global sustainability goals. As other mills follow suit, the widespread adoption of such technologies could significantly reduce the overall carbon emissions of the timber and fiberboard sector.
Looking Ahead
Finsa’s decision to install the Valmet Steam Separator C is a significant step forward in the company’s ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. As Finsa continues to innovate and invest in new technologies, the Ourense mill will remain at the forefront of sustainable production in the MDF industry.
The mill’s success with the Valmet Steam Separator C demonstrates how even simple solutions can have a profound impact on both operational efficiency and sustainability, offering a model for others in the industry to follow.
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Tags: CO2 emissions, Finsa, Finsa Ourense mill, industrial steam optimization, mdf panels, Valmet, Valmet Steam Separator C, woodworking UK
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