A new large volume chip storing system delivered by Valmet has improved the chip feeding into the cooking plant at The Navigator Company's pulp mill located in Figueira da Foz, Portugal. A more homogeneous chip feeding contributes to a stable process afterwards. It is the first chip storing system of GentleStore type that Valmet delivers to Portugal and replaced an existing, high energy consumption, pneumatic conveying system. The storage volume is near to 180,000 m3s.
The new heavy-duty chip storing system is designed to withstand the wind conditions in the coastal area of Atlantic Ocean. It operates on the first-in first-out principle allowing to use 360° circle. The chips are reclaimed gently from the whole cross section of the pile, which ensures excellent blending and homogenization of the chips. It has several features that grants low operation and maintenance costs. The fully automatic storing system including conveyors is integrated with the existing woodyard.
Having an automated system will improve the chip quality and safety, as no bulldozers or front-loaders are used. Less traffic together with minimized chip damage, dust and noise generation will enhance the woodyard operation up to date. The system has been running very well since the start up in May 2017.
"The new GentleStore system is easy and safe to operate. This is an important reference and a great achievement accomplished together with the customer," says Juha Vepsä, Project Manager at Valmet.
"The implementation of this GentleStore is an important effort to reduce the environmental impact of our mill, and it is to be part of a continuous cycle of Navigator as a modern company, concerned about sustainability and recognized for its culture of excellence through its operations and quality of products," underlines Pedro Matos Silva, Figueira da Foz Mill Manager at The Navigator Company.
