Operational excellence in Tissue: What do Clients expects from Valmet?
In today's industrial landscape, where maximum efficiency and competitiveness are paramount, a crucial question arises for companies: How can machine performance be maintained over time at the same levels achieved during the startup phase?
It is precisely in the post-commissioning phase that the most critical challenges emerge. The main hurdle is maximizing the effectiveness of the current equipment in operation, ensuring operational continuity which translates into measurable operational excellence based on OEE indicators — productive performance, quality and availability.
In the management of continuously operating assets, a reactive approach is no longer viable: it is crucial to stay ahead by adopting a proactive vision, capable of preventing critical issues with a maintenance strategy tailored to the actual risks of unplanned machine downtime. In this scenario, client expectations towards machine manufacturers are also evolving: technology is now merely the starting point and what truly makes the difference is the ability to offer services that generate value throughout the entire lifecycle of the equipment.
Valmet's tailored approach - The Performance Service program
In an industrial context, where operational costs, efficiency and sustainability represent strategic levers for competitiveness, relying on a structured Valmet Performance Service Program nowadays holds the value of an actual fourth production factor, alongside capital, labour and raw materials.
“The results speak for themselves: companies that have chosen Valmet’s Performance Service Program have achieved tangible improvements in terms of productivity, quality and overall profitability, with a direct impact on return on investment.” He adds, “three concrete examples prove this: in Algeria, the adoption of the program led to a 45% increase in log production; in a plant located in El Salvador, over two years, performance was improved by 27% over two years; and in the UK, in one of the most recent interventions, we achieved 100% efficiency, fully meeting the performance target set by the client”.
Franco Franceschi - Performance Services & Digital Sales Manager states
At the core of this approach lies a structured and continuous collaboration between Valmet and the customer.
The program originates, in fact, from discussions with each player in the tissue sector to define expectations, share goals and build tailored paths aimed at maximizing the Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) of converting and packaging lines. In this regard, the Performance Service Program brings together all essential services, consolidated best practices and Valmet’s technical know-how into a single suite.
The Performance Service Program goes the extra mile: four phases, one commitment
Valmet’s Performance Service Program is structured into four closely interconnected phases, designed to ensure continuous and personalized support throughout the entire performance optimization process.
PHASE 1 - Initial analysis and definition of priorities
The first phase is dedicated to an in-depth analysis of the initial situation, where the Valmet team examines the history of technical interventions already carried out and collects updated information on any upgrades or modifications made to the production lines. Subsequently, through a preliminary remote consultation, an initial list of critical issues identified internally by the customer is shared, clarifying their expectations to establish a mutually agreed list of priorities and objectives on which to base the program’s action plan.
PHASE 2 - Field observation and definition of targeted actions
The second phase involves an on-site visit to the client’s production facility, to gain a complete and direct understanding of the operational conditions of the running line. By observing the system in action, the Valmet team identifies any inefficiencies and intervenes in a targeted manner. Firstly, they optimize the system mechanically, electrically and in terms of software updates. Secondly, they address any potential skill gaps, and, if necessary, replace critical components or update the system. The intervention goes beyond problem resolution but also aims to enhance in-house competencies, fostering a more efficient, informed and proactive work environment.
"Truly understanding a client’s needs means being there, closely observing the operational reality and establishing an open and continuous dialogue. During field activities, what makes the difference is attention to detail: each line has its specific characteristics, and only through interaction with operators can we grasp what truly impacts performance,” emphasizes Iacopo Giannecchini, Performance Center Trainer. “But the real change occurs when we transfer knowledge and tools that enable the client’s personnel to work better, with greater awareness and autonomy, ultimately maximizing the peak performance of the equipment,” concludes Gabriele Salotti, Performance Center Trainer.
PHASE 3 - Performance monitoring and reporting
The third phase is dedicated to measuring and monitoring the results achieved. All activities are documented in detailed visit reports available on the Valmet portal, serving as a tool for continuous dialogue with the client and planning the next steps. Any pending activities, technical recommendations regarding spare parts or obsolete components, are meticulously recorded to keep performance under control and ensure full traceability of interventions.
PHASE 4 - Ongoing support & 24/7 assistance
The fourth and final phase is focused on continuous support between interventions. During this period, the client is never alone and can rely on the excellence of the Expert Online Service, a 24/7 service designed to provide timely assistance. A dedicated team responds quickly to every request, ensuring constant support even in the most critical situations. In addition to remote support, periodic calls are organized to build a roadmap aimed at continuous improvement, based on experience and targeted interventions scheduled for upcoming visits.
From on-site collaboration to 24/7 support, Valmet goes the extra mile for its customers. Efficiency, quality, and availability are the three key words for those operating in the tissue sector, to which Valmet, with the Performance Service Program, adds a fourth: trust, turning commitment into action every day.
