30 years of partnership: Sofidel’s journey with Valmet IQ quality control
From the first paper machine in Porcari to the latest spectrum measurement solution, Sofidel and Valmet have built a lasting partnership rooted in reliability, continuous innovation and commitment to sustainability.
Founded in 1966 in Italy, Sofidel is today one of the world’s largest producers of paper for hygienic and domestic use. The group has continuously invested in advanced technologies to improve its efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Producing more than 1.8 million tonnes of paper annually across 21 sites in Europe and the United States, Sofidel focuses on delivering high-quality products while reducing environmental impact.
For more than three decades, Valmet IQ Quality Control Systems (QCS) have supported Sofidel in its growth and drive for operational excellence.
Over 20 QCS installations operating today
Sofidel’s cooperation with Valmet started in 1994 with the PM3 tissue machine in Lucca, Italy. It was the group’s first wide tissue machine – and the first Valmet machine at Sofidel. Many others would follow.
Valmet’s automation solutions, including QCS technology, were introduced soon after that first installation.
“That’s when I joined the company,” recalls Fabrizio Lapucci, Corporate Automation Manager at Sofidel. “The group needed someone to oversee all the new technologies being installed, which were quite extensive in the field of automation.”
Over the years, Sofidel has continued to adopt Valmet IQ solutions, so that now it has more than 20 QCS installations in mills across the world.
I would say that Valmet’s QCS is a very user-friendly system – engineered well and very easy to install. For us, it’s been especially important that it integrates seamlessly with the mill’s Valmet DNA Distributed Control System (DCS), he says
Phasing out radiative-source scanners
In the early 2010s, Sofidel shifted from radiative-source sensors to infrared technology.
“When this technology was developed by Valmet, we decided to replace all the radiative-source scanners in our mills with the new infrared-based IQ solution,” Lapucci says.
This was a game-changer. With infrared, we eliminated the challenges of radiative sources – heavy documentation, permissions and, of course, safety concerns. At the same time, we gained more efficient and reliable measurements. This helped us optimize machine performance significantly. And because the main source is a thermal lamp, it’s also inexpensive and easy to maintain, he says
“After the first installation, we went on to implement the infrared scanner in almost every Sofidel mill,” he adds.
Next-generation measurement
Innovation remains central to the partnership. Over the past two years, Sofidel has worked closely with Valmet to develop and test the new IQ Spectrum Measurement.
“This sensor is very important for us,” Lapucci says. “As the latest innovation for the tissue industry, it offers a next-generation solution for measuring special papers, delivering reliable results under all conditions and for all types of fibers. That’s especially valuable as tissue compositions and treatment methods continue to evolve and are constantly posing new challenges.”
“We are now installing the first units in Sweden and the US, and we see a lot of potential for the future,” he adds.
Greater efficiency brings greater sustainability
For Sofidel, sustainability has always been a core value. By enabling tighter control of fiber, energy and water consumption, Valmet IQ helps Sofidel achieve measurable efficiency and a resulting increase in sustainability across its mills.
The QCS is the focal point where all the machine and paper parameters are collected, Connecting all the data together allows us to optimize performance and reduce consumption significantly – whether it’s water, electricity or gas. Lapucci explains.
“With more precise moisture control, we can reduce energy use. And using accurate machine settings, we can save fiber considerably. The impact over the years has been substantial,” he says..
More than technology
While the relationship between Sofidel and Valmet has been built on their shared focus on innovative technology, deep personal connections have also developed. Lapucci himself has been a key link between the two companies for over 30 years, collaborating closely with Valmet’s teams in Tampere, Finland.
“Every time we meet in Tampere for Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), it’s not only about the system and equipment,” he says. “It’s about sharing experiences, solving challenges together and building a stronger partnership. I would describe our cooperation as a good and highly professional friendship.”
30 years and counting
With an already solid installed base and new investments underway, Sofidel’s journey with Valmet IQ continues to unfold. Tissue production faces evolving pressures – from growing sustainability demands to changing customer needs – and the cooperation continues to deliver solutions that allow Sofidel to adapt.
Celebrating 30 years of Valmet IQ in 2025, the long-standing partnership with Sofidel is a testament to the technology’s enduring value. Decades of proven performance, continuous development and a shared commitment to sustainability ensure that their cooperation and trust will continue well into the future.
