Toscotec has completed an energy-saving modernization project at Cartiera del Vignaletto’s tissue mill in Zevio, Italy, upgrading the mill’s cogeneration plant and air systems to improve overall energy efficiency and optimize thermal performance.

The project focused on rebuilding the mill’s thermal power system serving PM4 and PM5, with the objective of increasing energy recovery, improving steam generation and supporting more efficient tissue production.

Upgrade Optimizes Cogeneration System

Cartiera del Vignaletto operates two tissue paper machines with a combined annual production capacity of approximately 46,000 tonnes.

The machines produce a range of tissue products, including:

• Toilet tissue
• Facial tissue
• Kitchen towels
• Handkerchiefs

Operating at speeds between 1,200 and 1,700 metres per minute, the machines manufacture tissue grades ranging from 15 to 40 g/m².

The site is powered by a 5.5 MW gas turbine, which supplies electricity for both production lines.

Full Recovery of Waste Heat

As part of the project, Toscotec carried out a complete rebuild of the mill’s thermal power system.

The upgraded configuration enables full recovery of exhaust gases generated by the gas turbine.

Recovered thermal energy is now used to:

• Supply heat to the hood air systems on both paper machines
• Generate high-pressure steam
• Produce low-pressure steam for PM4 and PM5

According to Toscotec, the thermal and air systems were fully redesigned to maximize energy efficiency while meeting the project’s performance targets.

Supporting Lower Energy Consumption

Energy optimization has become an increasingly important investment area for tissue manufacturers as mills seek to reduce operating costs and improve environmental performance.

By improving heat recovery and optimizing steam generation, cogeneration upgrades can increase overall plant efficiency while reducing fuel consumption.

Stefano Pecchia, Energy Technology Director at Toscotec, said the project demonstrates the company’s focus on delivering customized energy-saving solutions that improve long-term mill efficiency and sustainability.

Cooperation Between Supplier and Mill

Giovanni Pomari, Plant Director at Cartiera del Vignaletto, said the project was completed through close cooperation between the mill’s technical team and Toscotec.

According to Pomari, the modernization provides the tissue mill with a more efficient, reliable and sustainable energy platform to support future production.

Continued Investment in Tissue Mill Modernization

Founded in 1966, Cartiera del Vignaletto produces approximately 140 tonnes of tissue products per day at its Zevio facility in northern Italy.

The mill manufactures both jumbo and converted tissue rolls covering a wide range of consumer and away-from-home tissue applications.

For the tissue industry, the project reflects the growing emphasis on energy efficiency, waste heat recovery and process optimization. Rather than expanding production capacity, many tissue producers are investing in energy-saving technologies that improve operational performance, reduce fuel consumption and support long-term sustainability objectives.

Last Updated on 31/07/2026 by Jota Machinery