West Fraser Nacogdoches mill reduces maintenance and enhances performance with Valmet debarking technology
West Fraser’s Nacogdoches mill replaced its aging debarking drum with a modern Valmet solution to improve reliability, reduce maintenance, and sustain production targets.
Addressing an aging debarking drum
West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 50 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. The company promotes sustainable forest practices while producing a wide range of wood-based products, including lumber, engineered wood products, pulp, newsprint, and renewable energy.
At its Nacogdoches, Texas mill, which specializes in Oriented Strand Board (OSB), the team faced a significant operational challenge: an outdated rubber-tire-supported debarking drum that had reached the end of its lifecycle.
The aging equipment required frequent maintenance, impacting efficiency and reliability. To sustain production demands, the mill sought a modern, high-performance replacement that could be integrated into the existing structure with minimal disruption.
Implementing a high-capacity solution
Valmet delivered an advanced debarking drum engineered for high capacity and reliable operation ensuring effective bark removal with minimal wood loss before the chipping process.
The upgrade included:
• A complete new drive system featuring a motor, reducer, sprockets, chain, and platforms
• Advanced rubber tire support units for improved reliability
• Installation advisory services
By modernizing the system, West Fraser achieved optimal bark removal, reduced maintenance needs, and improved overall efficiency—all without major structural modifications.
Collaborative installation, minimized downtime
In addition to supplying the equipment, Valmet provided installation advisory services, working closely with the mill’s chosen contractor to guarantee smooth and efficient implementation. This collaborative approach minimized downtime while maximizing the performance and longevity of the new system.
Achieving operational excellence
The successful installation of the new debarking drum system significantly reduced maintenance demands while enhancing overall mill performance. Throughout the project, Valmet maintained clear and open communication with the customer, resulting in seamless execution with minimal disruptions.
“It all started with proper planning and coordination from Valmet with the Nacogdoches team. Then, you pair that with Valmet’s experienced field technicians that worked night and day during installation to make sure the project was completed safely and effectively. They were looking out for the mill, not just to get the project completed but also the equipment’s long-term use. We were able to safely shave multiple shifts off the project timeline allowing us to start up much sooner,” said Caylan Bailey, Engineering Supervisor, West Fraser Nacogdoches.
Watch the installation in action
Want to see the debarking drum installation? Take a look at some behind-the-scenes footage from the installation process below.
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