S-BT electrical connector accelerates completion

The biorefinery plant under construction in Äänekoski is a key part of advancing sustainable industrial development in Finland. Commissioned by Veolia Group and supplied by Andritz, the plant refines by-products from the bioproduct mill into commercial methanol. Installation work, led by Bilfinger, has progressed in a demanding environment classified as ATEX, where all components must meet strict safety standards due to explosion risks.

This biorefinery is a prime example of carbon-neutral projects in Finland. It will produce 12,000 tons of biomethanol, 1,000 tons of ethanol, and 7,000 tons of ammonium sulfate annually, replacing fossil-based products. The facility converts methanol from Metsä Fibre bioproduct mill into biofuel for transportation, supporting the use of sustainable raw materials and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Hilti S-BT-EF HL electrical connector: A game-changing innovation

The grounding installations at the plant were completed using Hilti’s newly launched S-BT-EF HL electrical connector solution. This direct fastening solution eliminates the need for traditional drilling and welding, which are prone to corrosion. The vulcanized rubber ensures a tight, durable connection, while Hilti cordless drill driver ensures the correct drilling depth and installation torque automatically, guaranteeing consistency and quality within the end-result. With the pre-hole being only about 6 mm deep, it also removes the background corrosion of the structural steel (which often occurs in through-drilling) if the steel is stronger than 6mm.

A demanding work environment

The Äänekoski biorefinery is ATEX-classified, indicating explosive hazard zones that require stringent safety measures. Caverion site supervisor Janne Laitinen highlights the complexity:

“From an electrical installation perspective, this is an exceptionally demanding site. The ATEX environment requires specialized solutions, and strict installation standards must be followed to ensure safety. Hilti SB-T electrical connector has proven an excellent choice.

Speed, quality and cost efficiency

SB-T has streamlined the installation. Andritz project manager Mikko Antikainen emphasizes the impact:

“The installation can be completed in a single process without needing to revisit the work. Because there is no damage to the surface coating, there’s no need for touch-up painting or additional corrosion protection. This prevents corrosion risks that traditional methods often face.”

“The installation can be completed in a single process without needing to revisit the work.”

Mika Ojala and Lasse Torvinen from Andritz add:

“In practice, S-BT has reduced cabling needs and shortened installation time significantly. When such a large number of connections can be installed quickly and reliably, it directly translates to cost savings and project efficiency.”

According to Andritz interviewees, in such a demanding project, it is essential to use thoroughly tested and certified products and methods.

“When installations are carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions, we can achieve a reliable level of quality and conductivity. By using products specifically designed and certified for this purpose, we ensure that the work meets all required standards efficiently and reliably”, they add.

A new standard in industrial construction

Due to the confined and challenging workspaces, installation work at the Äänekoski biorefinery can be physically demanding. However, SB-T has made the work lighter. Bilfinger supervisors Nico Huttunen and Petri Metsälä praise the solution:

“S-BT allows installations to be completed with less physical effort, reducing strain and therefore improving ergonomics.”

Site supervisor Janne Laitinen agrees:

“S-BT 6-22 cordless drill driver ensures consistent results. Its automatic depth control also makes it a safer solution compared to traditional methods.”

Replacing tradition with innovation

The Äänekoski biorefinery project demonstrates that Hilti S-BT electrical connector is not only cost-effective and efficient but also safe and durable solution. The simplified installation process and long-lasting durability make it an attractive option for widespread use in industrial projects.

“The construction industry needs new working methods, and Hilti’s solution has great potential to become one.”

Bilfinger’s team has prior experience using S-BT solution in other projects. Huttunen and Metsälä believe it may well become the new industry standard:

“At first, we were a bit concerned about the cost, but we quickly realized that the savings from reduced labor cost outweighed it. The construction industry needs new working methods, and Hilti’s solution has great potential to become one.”

Hilti S-BT electrical connector