News

AFRY Chile to Carry Out Engineering for Ambitious Forestal Arauco Project in Ñuble

Sponsors

In mid-2024, Arauco announced a $100 million investment for a new board production line at its historic Trupán-Cholguán Complex in the Ñuble Region. AFRY, a renowned global engineering and design consultancy, is responsible for developing the engineering for this ambitious project.

This project for the plant located in the commune of Yungay—one of the most significant initiatives in the region's industrial history—aims to modernize and upgrade sections of the MDF1 line. This will enable the operation of a domestic production line for OSB (Oriented Strand Board), a product created 35 years ago in the United States (the world's leading producer). Known for its strength, efficiency, and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, OSB is widely used in residential and commercial construction.

"With this project, we not only seek to expand our portfolio of wood-based products but also to contribute to addressing the country's housing deficit," commented Cristián Infante, General Manager of Arauco.

AFRY is an international company with a strong track record, positioning itself as a strategic partner for the forestry industry due to its combination of global expertise, innovative digital solutions, and a strong focus on sustainability. On this occasion, AFRY is responsible for engineering the integration of the equipment and systems required for this new production line, which marks Arauco's first venture of this kind.

Rodrigo Brisghello, Country Manager of AFRY Chile, highlights the importance of being part of these transformative processes in the national forestry industry, stating, "At AFRY, we have worked closely with Arauco on various projects to modernize and automate their processes. This particular engineering project is especially motivating, as we will support the client in diversifying production while also promoting an innovative and more competitive solution for the country's construction industry."

Franklin Canales, Project Manager at AFRY Chile, added, "Through this engineering process, we will link innovation, sustainability, and local development, contributing our technical expertise to ensure the investment meets the highest standards of quality and efficiency."

Currently, Arauco's Trupán-Cholguán complex produces sawn timber, remanufactured wood, and moldings with varying degrees of finishing, appearance, and value-added processes. The new OSB production line is projected to begin operations in the second quarter of 2026.

Source:La Discusión