Beyond Circularity: Pioneering sustainable paper industry drying solutions

Valmet is participating in an ambitious research project called SteamDry, which aims to revolutionize the drying process in the paper industry through Superheated Steam Drying (SSD) technology. This innovative approach targets a remarkable 60 percent reduction in energy consumption during drying, translating to energy savings of approximately 40 percent across the production line. SSD also paves the way for CO2 emission-free paper and board manufacturing, coupled with an increased use of renewable energy sources.

The long-term potential for energy savings in Europe is estimated at 127 TWh, equating to six billion euros annually for paper and board manufacturers. Beyond the paper industry, the technology is expected to benefit the chemical and wood processing industries. The project could boost the market share revenue of technology suppliers by 230–345 million euros annually in Europe, with a global energy savings potential of 870 TWh.

Exciting advantages of new drying concept

SteamDry’s SSD technology offers a paradigm shift by circulating and reheating steam in a closed loop. The system maintains temperatures above the vaporization point, resulting in lower net energy consumption and the ability to use surplus steam for other purposes within the facility. This closed-loop system not only enhances energy efficiency but also ensures product hygienization by deactivating microorganisms.

The SteamDry project emphasizes the system integration and advanced digitalization of monitoring and control systems. Through pilot-scale measurements and comparison with commercial best practices, the project aims to demonstrate the substantial improvement potential of its integrated approach to drying technology.

The SSD solution is adaptable for installation in existing infrastructure or new machines, offering a cost-effective solution with low capital and operating expenditures. This versatility opens new avenues for technology suppliers, providing substantial savings for end users.

The piloting phase of SSD will contribute to enhanced knowledge in various areas, including:

• Keeping air and steam phases separate
• Cleaning superheated steam from biobased particles
• Ensuring safe operation
• Implementing an AI-supported advanced control platform.

Working together across Europe for innovative results

The SteamDry project unites research institutes, technology developers, fiber product manufacturers, and digital technology experts across Europe to achieve ambitious common goals. The consortium aims to address technological challenges, demonstrate energy use reduction at a pilot scale, and define a pathway for the upscaling and commercialization of SSD technology.

Photo: SteamDry consortium held a meeting on June 26-27, 2024 at the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology in Vienna, Austria

“Technology development is all about cooperation. In the rapidly evolving landscape, collaboration is not only beneficial, it’s essential. In the SteamDry project, seven leading industrial partners and seven research organizations are working toward the same goal, which accelerates technology development. Together, we can turn individual strengths into collective breakthroughs, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” says Harri Kiiskinen, Principal Scientist and SteamDry project coordinator in the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd.

“Valmet is proud to contribute to this groundbreaking initiative, driving forward a greener and more efficient future for board and paper manufacturing. Our unique product and services offering is based on leading technology and a continuous drive to develop innovative solutions for improving our customers’ performance. We believe that technology plays a key role in mitigating climate change and global warming in the transition to a carbon-neutral economy,” says Kalle-Matti Romppainen, Development Manager, Board and Paper Mills in Valmet, and Valmet’s work package leader in the project. He continues:

“Valmet will contribute to various work packages such as technology development and piloting during the project, developing a business case and creating a roadmap for the full-scale implementation of SSD technology. We believe that together we can create something completely new and groundbreaking for the paper and board industry.”

The SteamDry project is coordinated by the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and is funded by the European Union. It is also a part of the Beyond Circularity ecosystem. Beyond Circularity is Valmet’s R&D program and ecosystem for transforming waste and emissions into valuable resources for sustainable growth and accelerating the green transition.

SteamDry in brief

• Project schedule: January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027 
• EU Contribution: € 9,843,168.48
• Project Coordinator: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd
• Participants: AIT Austrian Institute of Technology; VDEh-Betriebsforschungsinstitut (BFI); FEUGA; Sofidel Group; Smurfit Kappa; Ahlstrom; Piller Blowers & Compressors GmbH; Twente University; Wageningen Research; USC University of Santiago de Compostela; Metsä Group; Sappi Limited.
• Read more on SteamDry’s home page.