Fimpec helped execute the repair project for Metsä Fibre’s Joutseno pulp mill baling facility on a tight schedule

Metsä Fibre’s Joutseno pulp mill, part of Metsä Group, had its baling facility building declared off-limits in September 2024 due to potential safety risks detected in the roof structures. The repair and reinforcement work, crucial for the mill’s operations, was completed in just over two weeks under Fimpec’s leadership in November 2024.

The Joutseno pulp mill baling facility repair project provides a strong example of how a challenging project can be executed safely within a fast-tracked schedule. In September 2024, Metsä Group identified structural deformations caused by settling load-bearing structures, posing a potential collapse risk, which resulted in the facility being closed for use.

Following a five-week planning phase, scaffolding construction began at the end of October and early November, and actual repair work commenced on November 11. The project was completed ahead of schedule on November 27, a few days earlier than originally planned.

In the rapidly progressing project, massive steel trusses were installed on-site to support load-bearing structures, element joints were reinforced, and a counterweight embankment was built to prevent foundation movement. In total, nearly 30,000 kg of steel structures were installed as reinforcements. Thanks to the successful execution of the repair project, the building is no longer at risk of collapse, and production at the baling facility resumed on December 2.

A unique and challenging repair project

Fimpec was responsible for construction site and HSE management, scheduling, coordination, cost tracking, client reporting, and design oversight. Olli Kaski, Fimpec’s Site Manager, described the project as unique and demanding in several ways.

“The project was divided into three areas, executed in phases between the structural pillars. The scaffolding and protective structures alone were a massive undertaking, as the work was performed high up near the factory hall ceiling. Therefore, we paid special attention to the safety of both the workers on the scaffolding and those moving below. Additionally, it was crucial that the valuable factory equipment remained undamaged.”

Another significant aspect of the project was relocating essential utilities, as pipelines and electrical trays had to be dismantled before installing the steel structures and then reinstalled afterward. The third phase involved reinforcing the structural joints and installing the steel trusses, which was particularly challenging due to the weight of the trusses and supports and the tight spaces in which they had to be maneuvered. Throughout the project, the baling facility’s machinery and equipment remained in place, adding complexity to the repair efforts.

“Our collaboration with Fimpec went smoothly. The fact that these complex installation works were executed safely was of utmost importance,” said Olli Kokki, VP at Metsä Fibre’s Joutseno Mill.

Success driven by strong collaboration and active site supervision

Despite the tight schedule, the project was successfully completed within the planned timeframe—and even slightly ahead of schedule. Work was carried out in two shifts, seven days a week, with more than 20 workers simultaneously working on the scaffolding at peak times.

According to Kaski, the project’s success was based on several key factors:

“We placed great emphasis on work coordination, active site supervision, and safety management. Another crucial factor was the strong collaboration between all stakeholders, facilitated through frequent project meetings held several times a week with contractors, designers, and Metsä Group representatives.”

Kaski also believes the project aligned well with Fimpec’s expertise, as the team had experience in both construction and industrial projects within the forest industry.

“A demanding and fast-paced project like this requires extensive hands-on experience in both site operations and project management. In this case, having a strong understanding of the forest industry was a clear advantage,” he concluded.