Metsä Group takes pulp logistics to the new era through RFID technology
Metsä Group is creating new technology for its logistics chain in the pulp industry by being the first to introduce Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) based on the wireless identification of products. RFID will be introduced at all Metsä Group’s pulp mills and most loading ports during the spring.
RFID is major advance from the manual and barcode identification of pulp lots due to the technology's precision, durability and small size. RFID has been used in many industries, but with Metsä Group leading the way, the existing technology will now be utilised in the pulp delivery process.
"RFID development is a good example of our continuous renewal with which we can ensure success in global competition," says Ismo Nousiainen, SVP, Production, Metsä Fibre.
The pulp units’ RFID tags will include the product's lot number, the date of manufacture and the manufacturer itself. Pulp with an RFID tag meets product safety requirements and is suitable for food use.
RFID technology improves cost effectiveness
As a result of RFID technology, the entire pulp logistics chain will become automatic and faster with fewer errors. From now on, pulp lot information will be known in real time at both the pulp storage location and ports. The change will enable savings in pulp flow management for all actors in the logistics chain.
"RFID supplements our range of technical services. Accurate data on pulp characteristics enabled by RFID technology provide our customers with new opportunities to improve production effectiveness," explains Ari Harmaala, SVP, Sales and Marketing, Metsä Fibre.
Metsä Group openly develops the RFID system
The main goals of Metsä Group are to expand the use of RFID technology in the pulp industry and to support other industrial actors in adopting the technology.
"The RFID system we have developed for pulp has been open to all actors in the industry right from the start. The real benefits will only be achieved once the main pulp suppliers use a common standard. We have shown the way and now the extensive introduction of the system in the pulp industry can begin," says Harmaala.