Connecting the pulp and paper Industry: KPNB's role in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation Johannes Holubec, Pixact Product Manager

PAPERTECHNOLOGYINTERNATIONAL
Connecting the pulp and paper industry: KPNB’s role in enhancing eficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation
Johannes Holubec, Pixact Product Manager
INTRODUCTION:
In the dynamic landscape of the pulp and paper industry, the quest for efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation has become highly important. KPNB serves as match-maker that connects specialised suppliers with paper mills, cardboard factories, pulp mills, and since 2025 also paper converting industries. KPNB facilitates partnerships that not only optimise production processes but also
pave the way for a more sustainable and digitally advanced industry.
1. Technological Trends in the Pulp and Paper Industry
The pulp and paper industry is undergoing a major
transformation driven by technological innovation. New
developments in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), data
analytics, and Industry 4.0 are enabling more efficient production,
cost reduction, and improved environmental performance. In the
KPNB-Net-Work you find some of the best specialised suppliers for
the pulp and paper industry that deliver state-of-the art technology
and set some of the most important technological trends revolutionising the sector. We want to highlight some of these KPNB
partners here.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
The use of AI allows for the optimisation of production
processes. Algorithms analyse large amounts of data in real time
to identify bottlenecks, enable predictive maintenance, and reduce
quality fluctuations. Predictive maintenance helps avoid unplanned
downtime and reduces maintenance costs.
Regarding predictive maintenance KPNB is in cooperation
with the Freiburg-based company Endiio. Their expertise focusses
on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Sensors.
Sensors and connected devices provide precise data
on the production process, from raw material processing to 昀椀nal
packaging. IoT technologies create transparency across the entire
manufacturing process, helping to reduce costs and minimise waste.
Figure 1: The KPNB Network.
A compelling example of innovative IoT solutions is Endiio’s
ultra-low-power, real-time wireless technology specifically designed
for industrial applications. This technology enables wireless sensor
networking at minimal operational cost over decades.
One of Endiio’s standout features is its patented *Wake-Upon-Demand* functionality. Sensors remain in energy-saving deepsleep mode and activate only when needed to transmit real-time
data. This leads to a power consumption up to 10,000 times lower
than conventional wireless technologies such as Bluetooth Low
Energy or Wi-Fi.
The robustness and reliability of Endiio’s wireless
sensors have already been proven in the paper industry, i.e. in
high temperature applications like dry section of a paper mill. At
KÄMMERER Spezialpapiere GmbH, for instance, Endiio helped
detect bearing damage on a guide roll at an early stage, avoiding
costly downtime. Thanks to Endiio’s unique energy harvesting
technology, battery or sensors replacements are no longer
necessary, leading to further cost savings in the total cost of
ownership.
Figure 2: Endiio V2 Sensor installed at a ventilator’s bearing.
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