Valmet to Upgrade Automation System at MM Kotkamills to Enhance Reliability and Operational Efficiency

Valmet will upgrade the automation system of the recovery boiler at the MM Kotkamills mill in Kotka, Finland, in a move aimed at strengthening system reliability, improving usability, and supporting long-term lifecycle management of critical production equipment.

The modernization project will focus on upgrading the existing Valmet DNA automation system, including enhancements to hardware, input/output systems, and control applications. The upgrade is designed to improve operational reliability while ensuring easier maintenance and continued compliance with lifecycle requirements for mission-critical process systems.

According to Niko Brofors, Engineering Manager at MM Kotkamills, the investment is essential for maintaining high availability at the mill, which operates continuously apart from scheduled maintenance shutdowns. The upgrade will help secure spare parts availability, ensure access to technical expertise, and improve the safety level of the boiler plant while bringing system components in line with modern standards.

The scope of delivery includes a comprehensive modernization of the control application as well as upgrades to the integrated safety system. These improvements are expected to enhance system reliability, simplify maintenance procedures, and provide greater operational transparency for mill personnel.

The order was included in Valmet’s orders received during the fourth quarter of 2025, with the delivery and implementation scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2026.