Toscotec has completed an energy-efficiency project at Cartiera del Vignaletto’s tissue mill in Zevio, near Verona, Italy. The project involved the comprehensive upgrade of the cogeneration plant and the air systems serving the mill’s PM4 and PM5 tissue machines.
The investment was originally launched to improve the overall energy efficiency of the production site through the installation of advanced equipment and the optimisation of the mill’s thermal and air systems. Toscotec had previously announced that the project would include the complete upgrade of the cogeneration plant and the air systems of both paper machines.
Cartiera del Vignaletto operates two tissue machines with a combined production capacity of approximately 46,000 tonnes per year. Running at speeds ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 m/min, the machines manufacture tissue paper with basis weights between 15 and 40 g/m² for products including facial tissue, toilet tissue, handkerchiefs and kitchen towels.
A comprehensive energy system upgrade
The production site is equipped with a 5.5 MW gas turbine capable of supplying electricity to both tissue machines. Toscotec’s scope of supply covered the complete rebuild of the mill’s thermal power system, enabling the full recovery of exhaust gas generated by the turbine.
The recovered thermal energy is now used to supply hot air to the hood systems of both machines and to generate high- and low-pressure steam for PM4 and PM5. The entire thermal and air system was redesigned and optimised to maximise energy efficiency and achieve the performance levels established for the project.
“With this project, Toscotec proves its value as a partner dedicated to tailored, energy-saving solutions that drive long-term efficiency and sustainability,” said Stefano Pecchia, Energy Technology Director at Toscotec.
Giovanni Pomari, Plant Director at Cartiera del Vignaletto, added: “Completing this project required strong cooperation between Toscotec and our technical team at Cartiera del Vignaletto, supported by the long-term vision of our ownership. The result gives our mill a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy platform for its future development.”
The successful completion of the project further strengthens Toscotec’s role as a technology partner for customised energy-saving solutions designed to support the paper industry’s long-term operational and environmental objectives. Toscotec specialises in machinery, plant rebuilds and standalone systems for the tissue, paper, board and nonwovens industries.
About Cartiera del Vignaletto
Founded in 1966, Cartiera del Vignaletto operates a tissue mill in Zevio, near Verona, in northern Italy, with a daily production capacity of approximately 140 tonnes. The company manufactures jumbo and rewound rolls in a range of grades from 15 to 40 g/m², covering the main tissue product categories, including facial tissue, toilet tissue, handkerchiefs, napkins and kitchen towels.
