Projects implemented by FreshWind Oy at UPM Seikku sawmill:
- Dust suppression in the sorting area, approx. 2007
- Dust suppression in the stickering area, 2014
Humidification in the drying kiln, 2015
UPM Seikku Sawmill
UPM Seikku sawmill produces high-quality spruce timber from certified Nordic raw material, primarily sourced from forests in Western Finland. The sawmill has undergone several modernizations and utilizes the latest sawmill industry technologies. (www.upmtimber.com)
Located in Pori, UPM Seikku is part of the UPM-Kymmene group. The sawmill’s annual capacity is 390,000 m³ of spruce timber and currently employs approximately 80 people.
The Seikku sawmill was founded by F.W. Rosenlew in 1872. It was fully modernized in 1940 and has since seen regular upgrades. The latest major investment was the renewal of the log sorting line in summer 2015. You can explore the sawmill’s history and investment roadmap on their website.
Where it all began
The cooperation between UPM Seikku sawmill and FreshWind Oy began over ten years ago with a dust suppression project in the sorting area. “It’s been so long since the first project that I can’t recall exactly how the cooperation began. Kalevi Riipinen has always been proactive in discussions, inquiries, and suggestions. Through ongoing dialogue, we’ve moved things forward with Kalevi. He’s been in touch ever since the first project, so continuing the collaboration has been easy,” says Juha Tuominen, Production Manager at UPM Seikku sawmill.
Dust suppression in sorting and stickering
When asked about the initial situation in the sorting and stickering areas, Tuominen answers succinctly: “In the literal sense—dust suppression.” Both the employer and employees had noticed the need to address the sawdust problem. “The dust suppression in the sorting area was initiated from the employer’s perspective, while more comments came from employees regarding the stickering section,” Tuominen recalls.
FreshWind’s dust suppression system was installed in the sorting area in 2007 and in the stickering area in 2014. According to Tuominen, the system has clearly helped manage the dust problem.
Humidification in the drying kiln
In 2015, FreshWind Oy installed a humidification system in the drying kiln. The previous humidification system had deteriorated so much that, in practice, there was no functioning humidification. One of the key goals was to prevent the timber from over-drying.
Compared to similar systems, the advantage of FreshWind’s solution lies in the small droplet size created by high-pressure water, which enables rapid evaporation and efficient humidification. This leads to faster ramp-up times and effective moisture balancing. As a result, the total drying time is minimized while maintaining high timber quality.
Installation and maintenance
The FreshWind system is easy to install and operate. A FreshWind technician performs the installation, followed by cleaning and testing of the system. Once complete, the system is ready for use. Tuominen notes that working with FreshWind has provided useful insight into high-pressure systems. As Production Manager, he also appreciates that once the system was installed, employees could fully focus on their own tasks. The FreshWind system has worked flawlessly and has required no additional input post-installation.
Maintenance needs are minimal. Typically, only filters and nozzles need to be replaced once a year, depending on water quality. Maintenance tasks are simple to carry out using the instructions provided by FreshWind Oy. Customers also have the option to utilize FreshWind’s tailored maintenance services.
Did the humidification and dust suppression systems meet expectations?
UPM Seikku was looking for an efficient solution for kiln humidification and a cost-effective way to manage dust. According to Tuominen, the FreshWind system has effectively addressed dust problems, improved humidification, made daily operations easier, and enhanced working conditions at the sawmill.
Collaboration with FreshWind Oy
Tuominen describes the cooperation as follows: “The collaboration has gone well and been smooth. Communication has worked well and schedules have been met.” He adds: “FreshWind has been able to respond even on short notice.” Tuominen gives both the company and the system high marks.
The Production Manager at UPM Seikku recommends the FreshWind system to others: “All projects have gone well, and the systems have worked reliably.” He adds that no major actions have been needed after installation.
A long-lasting solution that stands the test of time
Although the first project was completed over 15 years ago, FreshWind systems are still operating and have supported the Seikku sawmill’s production year after year. Their long service life, low maintenance needs, and ease of use have reinforced FreshWind’s position as a reliable partner in the sawmill industry. This article highlights the long-standing cooperation between UPM Seikku and FreshWind—from its early stages to today.
