Originally, Mönsterås had purchased two VK Combi debarkers with two debarking rotors and a hydraulic tool pressure in each. With two rotors they could reach a necessary feed speed level during the winter season. The hydraulic tool pressure was a closed pressure system. Meaning, when the tool pressure was needed to be changed, the rotor had to be stopped during the pressure adjustment. Also, since the closed system could not allow a tool pressure release, there was a need for an intermediate storage between the debarker and saw machine to empty the debarker when the saw line was stopped. “The original rotors at Mönsterås were worn out, as we had debarked about 70 million of logs during the 20 years they were in use. In addition, we needed to reduce our maintenance costs”, says Denis Halilkanovic, project manager from Södra Wood Mönsterås. “It was time to do something.”
As a solution, Valon Kone offered to change all original rotors with the latest VK technology. The new rotors are now equipped with a pneumatic tool pressure system and this allows machine operators to change the tool pressure remotely. In addition, the tool arms are equipped with an automatic opening function. When feeding to the saw line is stopped, the tool arms of the rotor open immediately, and logs can be stopped inside the debarker.
The new solution offers many advantages for Södra. “We can now increase the availability and degree of the saw line better. We have been able to reduce stopping times, as we can change the tool pressure from the control room. In addition, it means minor jams, as the debarking tools open automatically. There is no need to empty the debarker at each stop, as we had to do with old debarkers with a hydraulic tool pressure. And, this has improved the working circumstances as well,” continues Denis.
Due to the better tool coverage of VK air seal debarking rotors, the customer can now achieve the same capacity by debarking with one rotor, instead of two. The more robust construction of the air seal rotor means less maintenance. “We have been able to reduce our maintenance costs as well,” tells Denis.
“Södra has been very satisfied with the solution Valon Kone offered and our goal is to debark the next 10 to15 years with new rotors,” tells Denis. “The service we receive from Valon Kone AB, is very good, the service guys from Bollnäs are always available when needed,” Denis says in the end.
Would you like to hear more how Valon Kone can help you? We are happy to tell you about our solutions!
