Case: Byggbetong John Dahlgren AB, Skellefteå, Sweden
Photo: Byggbetong John Dahlgren AB
Today, many concrete producers around the world are looking for cleaner and more environmentally friendly ways to produce their concrete and concrete products. Reducing energy use and cutting emissions are essential steps towards building a more sustainable and competitive business. By choosing smart, green technologies to heat aggregates and water, producers can also boost efficiency and lower their costs.
Winter Concrete Specialist
Byggbetong John Dahlgren AB is a family-owned Swedish company specializing in the production and delivery of ready-mix concrete. Founded in 1973, with roots dating back to 1935, the company operates seven plants across northern Sweden. The company is known for its technical expertise and high-quality standards, and they supply concrete that is tailored to withstand the demanding climate conditions of their region.
Challenge: Heating in Harsh Winter Conditions
Byggbetong opened their ready-mix concrete plant in the town of Skellefteå in 2018. As winters in the region can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -30°C (-22°F), making an efficient heating system essential for producing warm concrete. After operating the new plant for some time, the company began looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective way to operate their plant, especially during the winter season.
Solution: Integrated District Heating with TURBOMATIC MAX
In collaboration with Polarmatic experts, and after careful evaluation, Byggbetong decided to connect their TURBOMATIC MAX heating system to the district heating network. This upgrade enables them to use district heating to produce warm water for their production process when needed.
With the TURBOMATIC MAX model installed, they can continue heating the aggregates using TURBOgas produced by TURBOMATIC, while the integrated 6000-liter insulated hot water storage tank is heated with district heating. During milder winter conditions, it is also possible to heat the aggregates using district heating and utilizing the burner only when temperatures drop further.
Results: Efficiency Gains and Emission Reductions
Following a few months of upgrade work and a successful trial period, Byggbetong has set an excellent example for the concrete industry by integrating district heating in parallel with their original TURBOMATIC MAX heating system by Polarmatic.
The TURBOMATIC MAX offers a clear advantage for concrete producers: the system can heat water and aggregates separately. This feature has made a real difference for Byggbetong as well, enabling them to operate their system more efficiently and flexibly based on production needs.
Today, they produce hot water for their operations using the TURBOMATIC system powered by district heating, while still retaining the ability to heat aggregates using the TURBOgas, as originally specified. This smart upgrade has not only improved the efficiency of their heating process but also marked a significant step towards reducing their overall environmental impact.
So far, the results of the upgrade have been impressive. Byggbetong reports up to a 50% reduction in both heating costs and CO₂ emissions – clear proof of the system’s value.
According to plant manager Fredrik Berglund, this solution benefits both the environment and the company’s overall performance:
“We had the idea of combining the two heating methods in TURBOMATIC, and now after everything is up and running, we can see the benefits of the combined sources both in terms of money saved and the quality we produce.
It is also great to see that our carbon footprint has reduced permanently with the help of TURBOMATIC heating system’s outstanding features and multiple possibilities. We definitely made the right decision when purchasing the system.”
Photo: Olof Burström (left) and Fredrik Berglund.
A Model for Sustainable Concrete Production
As the construction industry continues to evolve, Polarmatic remains committed to developing smart, green technologies for concrete producers. Byggbetong’s success story is a great example of how Polarmatic solutions can help concrete producers become more sustainable without compromising the quality of their concrete. This innovative approach demonstrates how Polarmatic can support concrete producers in switching to greener heating methods, making a real difference for both the environment and the future of concrete production.
This commitment is also echoed by Peter Lillqvist, Sales Manager at Polarmatic:
“We want to help concrete producers’ transition to more sustainable operations without compromising on quality or efficiency. The Byggbetong project is a great example of how our systems can always be adapted to demanding local conditions and to several energy sources.
The TURBOMATIC MAX heating system is a result of our excellent engineering, designed specifically to meet the needs of concrete producers operating in extreme climates.”
This project is one example of Polarmatic’s broader impact on the concrete industry. For nearly 60 years, Polarmatic has been at the forefront of concrete heating technology, always delivering innovative solutions that combine efficiency, flexibility, and environmental responsibility.
Read also our blog text Why District Heating Matters for Concrete Production in Europe.