Projects implemented by FreshWind Oy for Multian Saha Oy:
Dust suppression in the sorting area, 2014
Chamber kiln humidification system, 2014
Humidification for the chamber kiln extension, 2017
In 2014, FreshWind Oy installed a dust suppression system in the sorting area and a humidification system in the chamber kiln at Multian Saha. In 2017, the sawmill expanded its chamber kiln, and FreshWind was also selected to implement the humidification system for the new extension.
Multian Saha Oy
Multian Saha Oy is a family-owned company founded in 1952, focused on producing high-quality sawn timber tailored to customer needs. The raw material used is top-grade spruce from Central Finland, and the production capacity is 55,000 m³ per year. Multian Saha prioritizes environmental responsibility in both wood sourcing and production and holds a PEFC certificate as proof of this commitment.
The sawmill utilizes the latest technologies. Multian Saha’s primary market area is Europe, and they also offer custom dimensions, lengths, grades, and moisture levels according to customer requirements. The company’s vision is to be an even more service-oriented and customer-focused, reliable partner that continuously evolves instead of standing still.
Initial situation and system selection for dust suppression
The collaboration between FreshWind Oy and Multian Saha Oy began in 2014 when there was a need for dust suppression. CEO Heikki Nuoranne recalls: “I think it all started with the dust suppression needs in the sorting area.” He continues, “There was noticeable dust in the sorting area that employees reacted to sensitively. We started thinking about how to proceed, and dust suppression became the answer.”
Nuoranne remembers how the decision to choose the FreshWind system came about: “We already had a shared history with Kalevi Riipinen. He had told me about the FreshWind system and explained what it could offer for sawmills.” When the need for dust suppression arose, Nuoranne contacted FreshWind Oy.
He emphasizes that prior cooperation alone wasn’t the deciding factor: “FreshWind’s reference projects were important to us and had a big influence.” FreshWind systems are installed and in use at many Finnish sawmills. “That was valuable information for us,” adds Nuoranne.
Cost-effective humidification for the new chamber kiln
Following the dust suppression project, FreshWind designed and implemented a humidification system for the chamber kiln in 2014. This system was in use for about three years when the chamber kiln was expanded in 2017. The new section also needed a humidification system, which FreshWind delivered. The system was implemented cost-effectively by leveraging components from the existing FreshWind system with only minimal modifications.
“FreshWind didn’t throw in the towel and say it couldn’t be done”
Multian Saha’s goal for the extended chamber kiln was to ensure the sprayed water would be preheated. Since no suitable heat exchanger could be found on the market, FreshWind proposed its own solution. “FreshWind dimensioned and calculated the heat exchanger requirements,” explains Nuoranne. He was satisfied with the outcome and added, “FreshWind didn’t throw in the towel and say it couldn’t be done.”
Collaboration between Multian Saha and FreshWind
The cooperation between Multian Saha and FreshWind went smoothly. “Communication during the projects was clear, and all the necessary information was provided along the way,” says Nuoranne. He mentions that during the delivery and installation of the latest chamber humidification system, compatibility between the pump and frequency converter slightly affected the schedule. “However, FreshWind handled the situation and got the humidification system working as expected,” he adds.
FreshWind system in 2018
“Basically everything works well, and our maintenance manager handles any issues if they arise,” says Nuoranne. He continues, “The system works as it should. Ideally, you won’t have to hear about it once it’s been installed and configured.” He concludes, “If someone asked who provided the system, I’d definitely say who it came from.”
