Customer overview

Fiskarhedens Trävaru AB is one of Sweden’s largest and most technologically advanced private sawmills, located in Dalarna. With a history spanning over a century, the company processes approximately 400,000 cubic meters of timber annually, generating a turnover of SEK 1.4 billion in 2022. Fiskarheden has a strong commitment to digitisation, aiming to improve product quality, traceability, and operational efficiency.

The objectives

Fiskarheden sought to overcome the limitations of its existing Wi-Fi network, which suffered from instability and coverage issues across its expansive site. The primary goals were to:

• Improve real-time communication and data transfer throughout the facility.

• Improve operational efficiency and reduce production interruptions.

• Increase employee satisfaction by providing reliable connectivity.

• Lay the groundwork for future digital initiatives, including automation and advanced monitoring systems.

The solution

To address these challenges, Fiskarheden partnered with Radtonics to implement a private 5G network, becoming one of the first companies in Sweden to do so following the deregulation of the private 5G market in early 2022.  The 5G network was deployed across the sawmill, particularly focusing on areas previously underserved by the existing infrastructure.

Key solution features included:

• Deployment of a customised industrial 5G network tailored to the sawmill's specific needs.

• Integration with existing systems to ensure seamless operation.

• Provision of high-speed, low-latency connectivity to support critical applications and real-time data processing.

The results and outcomes

The implementation of the private 5G network led to significant improvements:

• Improved operational efficiency – this included real-time control of logistics operations, such as directing forklift movements, reduced production stoppages and improved workflow continuity.

• Improved employee satisfaction - reliable connectivity eliminated frustrations associated with previous network issues, leading to a more satisfied and productive workforce.

• Increased safety and accuracy - the 5G network facilitated smoother and uninterrupted communication between systems, this improved safety protocols and operational accuracy.

• Lay the foundation for future digitisation - the robust network infrastructure positions Fiskarheden to further explore automation and advanced digital solutions, aiming to become one of Europe’s top five most digitised sawmills.

By adopting a private 5G network, Fiskarheden has not only addressed immediate operational challenges but also established a scalable platform for ongoing innovation and digital transformation in the timber industry.

Read more: https://www.radtonics.com/case-study-fiskarheden-private-5g/