Energy-Independent production: Brennholzwerk Trier lives the sustainable dream
Brennholzwerk Trier, Trierweiler, Germany, exemplifies an innovative and future-ready energy concept. By combining renewable energy, self-generated heat, and a WEIMA WLK 2000 single-shaft shredder, the company is almost entirely independent from external energy sources.
Zerkleinerung von Brennholz Produktionsabfällen
Holistic sustainability – from production to power
The company’s energy strategy focuses on maximum efficiency and closed-loop thinking. A wood-powered combined heat and power (CHP) plant supplies both thermal and electrical energy. In addition, a large photovoltaic system provides electricity for the entire facility – including the WEIMA shredder. Each year, approximately 2.500 MWh of energy is produced, while only 350 MWh are required to operate the facility. The significant surplus powers their own EV charging station and is fed into the public grid – directly contributing to the energy transition.
“We wanted a system that works in perfect harmony and operates as autonomously as possible. With the WEIMA shredder as the centerpiece, we’ve achieved exactly that”.
A sustainable system that sets standards
Brennholzwerk Trier demonstrates how modern wood processing can be seamlessly integrated with intelligent energy supply. The WEIMA WLK 2000 is more than just a machine – it’s a key component of a carefully crafted, resource-saving energy concept. “Our goal was to waste as few resources as possible. The WEIMA shredder adds real value – both to our production and to the environment,” concludes Markus Arnoldy. This is a compelling example of how responsible resource management and energy autonomy can go hand in hand in everyday practice.
Efficient wood waste utilization with the WLK 2000
Wood residues from firewood production, along with scrap wood from a neighboring carpentry business, are fed into the shredder’s large hopper using a telescopic loader. With a rotor length of 2.000 mm and a diameter of 370 mm, the WLK 2000 is designed for high throughputs and easily handles bulky and tough materials – including pallets and reclaimed timber.
The shredder features WEIMA’s proprietary WAP gearbox, designed for long-lasting, low-maintenance operation. Thanks to its robust design and integrated safety clutch, the drive ensures smooth performance, while its compact structure and easy accessibility minimize service efforts – a clear benefit in daily operations. The tailored drive solution also stands out for its durability and low running costs.
Smart conveying with Steiner-Spiralen
A 30 mm screen is used to ensure ideal chip size for downstream conveying systems. A rugged Steiner screw conveyor transports the shredded material into a storage bunker. A magnetic separator mounted above reliably removes metal contaminants such as nails or screws, protecting subsequent equipment. From there, another auger feeds the chips directly into the woodchip heating system – supplying thermal energy to the drying chambers and a neighboring workshop.
“We often deal with large and solid wood residues. We needed to be confident that our shredder could process them without issue – and it works brilliantly”.
