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Sustainability meets innovation

An important step towards energy efficiency and climate protection has been taken at the PM4 paper machine in Pitten: the vacuum system’s existing water-ring pumps have been replaced by modern, energy-efficient turboblowers from Runtech Systems.

The impact of this modernisation measure is considerable. Thanks to the significantly reduced energy consumption, around 559 tonnes of CO₂ can be saved annually. This is roughly equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of 700 detached houses.

Furthermore, as a result of this technological change, it is now possible to completely eliminate the need for process water, which was previously required in large quantities by the water-ring vacuum pumps.

However, the project brings more than just environmental benefits. The new technology enables significantly more precise control of vacuum levels, allowing the paper machine to be operated more efficiently and process stability to be improved in the long term.

Through investments such as this, we demonstrate how technological innovation, operational excellence and sustainability go hand in hand. The project makes an important contribution to our site’s climate targets whilst simultaneously strengthening the performance of our production.