Valmet Secures Order for Recovery Boiler and Ash Crystallization at Klabin’s Monte Alegre Mill

Valmet has secured a contract to supply a comprehensive recovery boiler, ash crystallization plant, and odorous gas handling system to Klabin's Monte Alegre pulp and paper mill as part of its ongoing modernization initiative. The scope of the project also encompasses advanced automation and flow control solutions, including cutting-edge optimization systems and control valves. The new equipment is slated for commissioning by the end of 2026.

Valmet has included the order in its third quarter 2024 orders received, although the specific value has not been disclosed. However, it is noted that orders of this magnitude, particularly those with an extended scope, generally exceed EUR 100 million. This order is a key component of Klabin’s substantial investment of BRL 1.7 billion (approximately EUR 285 million), dedicated to ensuring the operational continuity of its Monte Alegre mill. The investment underscores Klabin's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the mill's productivity and efficiency.

Edemilson Schroeder Pagano, General Project and Engineering Manager at Klabin, explained that the modernization project at the Monte Alegre mill is designed to enhance the mill's efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability. As Brazil's largest paperboard producer, Klabin strategically selected Valmet for this project due to its advanced technology, compatibility with the mill's recovery plants, and a well-developed plan for implementation and assembly. Pagano emphasized that Valmet's solutions align with Klabin's goals of improving operational performance while advancing sustainability objectives.

Fernando Scucuglia, Pulp & Energy Director for South America at Valmet, highlighted that the new recovery boiler and ash crystallization system represent cutting-edge technological solutions designed to enhance performance and Optimize Operational Expenditures (OPEX) for Klabin’s Monte Alegre mill. This project underscores the enduring partnership between Klabin and Valmet in advancing sustainable solutions. Scucuglia expressed Valmet's pride in contributing to this major modernization initiative.

The Valmet Recovery Boiler is equipped with advanced high-power features designed to maximize energy efficiency. It incorporates state-of-the-art safety solutions and advanced process controls to ensure optimized performance and reliable, high-performance predictability. The boiler is engineered to handle a substantial capacity of 1,950 tonnes of dry solids per day (tDS/d).

The Valmet Ash Crystallization Plant, designed for ash treatment, will efficiently process up to 140 tonnes of ash per day. As a crucial component of the mill’s chemical recovery cycle, it removes chloride and potassium from the liquor cycle, thereby minimizing corrosion and ash buildup in the boiler. This high-efficiency system ensures extended operational periods for the recovery boiler while maintaining low maintenance and operating costs. Additionally, the delivery includes Valmet's NCG solutions, which manage the collection and handling of the mill’s odorous gases.

The new equipment will feature an advanced automation scope designed to optimize performance through a robust suite of monitoring and prediction tools. This includes a boiler diagnostic camera system, an ash analyzer, and Valmet Industrial Internet applications. The comprehensive package also encompasses advanced process controls, a Recovery Boiler Optimizer, and Valmet Training Simulators. Valmet will supply 140 Neles and Jamesbury valves, including advanced globe valves with ND9000 smart positioners and Axiom on/off valve controllers, to enhance safety and reliability in the new recovery boiler system.