SPAIN –   Finsa, a leading Spanish manufacturer of MDF panels for flooring, walls and furniture, has taken a new step in improving the environmental performance of its operations. The company has installed a Valmet Steam Separator C at its Ourense plant, where a Valmet M48 defibrator has been in operation since 1994.

According to the company, the steam separation technology aligns with Finsa’s strategy to enhance energy recovery and optimize operating costs. “After several previous upgrades to the Valmet equipment at the plant, we analyzed this new steam separation technology and considered it compatible with our energy recovery and cost-optimization plan,” said José Manuel Nogueira Gonzales, Project Manager at Finsa Ourense.

Valmet highlighted the strong collaboration between the companies. “Mutual commitment to continuous improvement leads to the best results and optimal performance of the production line throughout its lifecycle,” said Ramón Muñoz Siscart, Product Sales Manager at Valmet. “We are always eager to introduce solutions that support our customers in reaching their environmental targets.”

Installed in early 2025, the Valmet Steam Separator C is designed to recover steam directly from the blow line between the defibrator and the dryer. The recovered steam can then be reused in pre-steaming or other low-pressure applications, reducing the need for fresh steam.

Finsa reports immediate results. “We are saving between 1 and 1.5 tons of fresh steam per hour. Using less steam means lower energy consumption and therefore reduced CO₂ emissions,” Nogueira Gonzales said.

Valmet emphasizes that the new separator is a cost-efficient and easy-to-install solution. “As Finsa’s example shows, even simple upgrades can deliver strong environmental benefits with short payback times,” said Liam Ahern, Global Product Manager for Mechanical Pulping and Fiberboard at Valmet.