Quito-based particleboard manufacturer Novopan del Ecuador has ordered a 30 MW energy plant from Dieffenbacher to burn waste wood using reciprocating grate technology. The order includes a MAIER Big Crusher and Rechipper to process waste wood and eucalyptus bark. Delivery is scheduled for December 2024, with installation beginning in January 2025 and commissioning expected by May 2025.
“This plant shifts us from oil to biomass, boosting our sustainability,” says CEO Ignacio Bustamante. Novopan and Dieffenbacher have collaborated since 2008. Key milestones include the expansion of the forming station, the addition of a second cooling wheel, and the installation of an EVOjet P glue-saving system.
The new energy plant will connect to an existing vertical combustion chamber, replacing the heavy oil burner. “We face a demanding schedule to deliver, install, and commission the plant,” says Diego Coelho de Oliveira, Area Sales Director at Dieffenbacher. “We look forward to tackling these challenges together with Novopan,” he concludes.
Novopan will use the MAIER Big Crusher to shred large residues from plywood and particleboard production, while the Rechipper will resize eucalyptus bark. “Based on our positive experiences with MAIER machines since our first plant in 1978, we’re confident in a successful outcome for our new energy plant,” adds Bustamante.
