HELSINKI (News release) -- UPM invests nearly Euro 10 million in the modernization of the Korkeakoski sawmill. A new split saw supplied by USNR will start operating at the sawmill in 2025.

"The sawmill industry has a long history of over 60 years in Korkeakoski. Great work has been done here for a long time, and this investment is an excellent continuation of that. The Korkeakoski sawmill has been a model example of excellent production efficiency, and this investment will further strengthen our position", says Korkeakoski Sawmill Director Janne Klaavuniemi.

In the modernization of the sawmill, the split saw in the second stage of sawing will be renewed, along with automation and other equipment. The investment enables more efficient use of raw materials, as the same amount of logs convert to more end product. Modern equipment also increases energy efficiency.

"We aim to develop our sawmills more efficient and responsible in the long term. This investment is a great milestone and very much in line with our goals, as we aim to be a forerunner in sustainability in the industry", says Thomas Westerback, UPM Timber's Director, Sustainability and Investments.

Earlier this fall, Korkeakoski sawmill started using the 52-60 degree waste energy from its two drying kilns with an AmbiHeat heat pump system supplied by Calefa. The waste heat is processed into heat with a high efficiency of over 100 degrees Celsius for the sawmill. The heat pump reduces the amount of wood bark burned. In addition, the kilning capacity can be increased during winter freezing periods.

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