New Automation and Robotics Enable VLI Timber to Increase Production by More Than 40%
New Automation and Robotics Enable VLI Timber to Increase Production by More Than 40%
The implementation of new equipment at VLI Timber was supported by funding provided under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.
Following the implementation of a Norway-funded project, VLI Timber, the largest producer of kiln-dried firewood in the Baltic States, has deployed new technological solutions that automated and digitised wood sorting, cutting, splitting, and packaging processes. For the company’s manufacturing facility in Anykščiai, the project not only enables an increase in production capacity by more than 40%, but also allows faster order fulfilment, higher product quality, and more efficient use of natural resources.
“Modern wood processing and packaging methods contribute to environmental protection. With the new solutions, raw timber is utilised to the maximum, leaving minimal waste, while the automated palletising system ensures the most efficient pallet filling,” says Darius Lackus, Head of VLI Timber. “This allows better utilisation of pallet space, more products to be loaded onto the same transport vehicle, reduced road congestion, and lower emissions.”
Benefits of Bilateral Partnership: Joint Modernisation Projects
In order to strengthen bilateral relations with Lithuania and reduce economic and social disparities within the European Economic Area, Norway provides continuous financial support to Lithuanian companies. In close cooperation with the Norwegian company Vepak, VLI Timber applied for funding last year. By mutual agreement, the goal was set to automate timber preparation, firewood production, and packaging processes.
In August last year, Norway’s financial contribution amounted to EUR 516.7 thousand, while VLI Timber allocated more than EUR 517 thousand of its own funds to the implementation of the project.
Project Implementation Results
The project titled “New Technological Solutions for the Digitisation and Automation of Production Processes” was implemented in less than nine months. During this period, the firewood manufacturing facility acquired an innovative firewood cross-cutting and splitting line, as well as a robotic palletising system.
These technologies enable faster and more efficient production organisation while reducing operating costs. The fully automated cross-cutting and splitting line allows production processes to be accelerated and production volumes to be increased by more than 40%, while also reducing the need for human resources.
“Now, a single employee can supervise the entire cross-cutting and splitting line and use raw materials more efficiently – product yield has increased from 90% to 95%,” explains D. Lackus.
According to him, the new automated line also significantly accelerates palletising: firewood bags are placed on pallets every 2–3 seconds according to selected layouts, thereby reducing the need for physically demanding labour.
Operational Efficiency and Business Growth
The Head of VLI Timber notes that operating costs are also reduced: the robotic system allows more products to be placed on a single pallet, lowering transportation costs and reducing the use of pallet wrapping film.
It is estimated that, as a result of the technologies implemented during the project, the company’s labour productivity in the first year after project completion (2025) compared to 2022 will increase by more than 40%. Combined with the company’s accumulated operational experience, qualified personnel, and modern production processes, this enables VLI Timber to comprehensively meet customer needs and gain long-term competitive advantage.
About VLI Timber
UAB “VLI Timber” has been operating since 2009 and, based on production volumes, is a leading producer of kiln-dried firewood not only in the Baltic States, but also globally. According to 2023 data, VLI Timber’s revenue reached EUR 20.7 million, which is 27% higher than in 2022.
The company’s mission is to provide warmth and comfort to every home. VLI Timber produces and supplies premium-quality kiln-dried firewood for stoves and fireplaces. Products are available via the e-shop www.onlydry.lt.
More information: www.vlitimber.eu