Clearly the Best in Water Treatment – Finnish Creativity and Courage Driving Sustainable Infrastructure
Finnish technology expertise is globally recognised as a synonym for quality, durability and reliability – qualities embodied by Finnchain, a technology leader in chain scraper systems. Continuous innovation, deep technical expertise and uncompromising quality have elevated Finnchain to a global frontrunner whose solutions safeguard critical water infrastructure in nearly 70 countries worldwide.
In today’s global economy, technical competence is not merely about manufacturing products – it is about the ability to solve societal challenges in ways that endure from one generation to the next. Based on Finland’s west coast in Rauma, Finnchain operates at the heart of this development. The company’s specialisation in water and wastewater treatment technology has made it a vital link in the global water purification ecosystem.
Finnchain’s chain scraper systems are a critical part of processes in which sludge and impurities are removed from sedimentation tanks, clarifiers and flotation systems. These systems ensure that water is efficiently purified before being directed to subsequent treatment stages.
“Put simply, we develop technology that helps purify water efficiently and sustainably. Finnish expertise is known worldwide for its high quality and reliability. We do what we promise – and this certainly applies to Finnchain,” emphasises CEO Krister Stenbom.
In addition to chain scraper systems, Finnchain also manufactures surface sludge removal systems and tank covering solutions. Its technical scope extends from individual devices to comprehensive, end‑to‑end solutions.
“We offer a full lifecycle service model, from design to maintenance. We are not merely a manufacturer – we invest in genuine, functional partnerships.”
Creative and Bold Innovations as a Technical Foundation
Finnchain’s technology did not emerge by chance. It is a legacy of the company’s founder, Pekka Tuomikoski, whose insights laid the technological foundation of the company at the turn of the 1990s. His vision of using plastic chains and distinctive product design challenged conventional, heavy metal components.
Although the technology has evolved significantly, the original innovation – the plastic chain – remains at the core of the systems. It enables lightness, corrosion resistance and energy efficiency that are difficult to achieve with traditional material choices.
“True technical expertise is the ability to see beyond what already exists. Pekka’s influence is still clearly visible. His guiding principle was that design must always include a distinctive angle that delivers real value to the customer – and this is something we continue to uphold today,” says Stenbom.
This mindset is evident in Finnchain’s current product development, with several active patents in place. Innovation is not limited to new products – it is a continuous process of refining existing solutions. One example is the rail irrigation system for surface sludge scrapers, developed to reduce friction and extend component lifetimes.
“At Finnchain, innovation and creativity go hand in hand. We dare to think outside the box, which enables us to offer solutions that many competitors cannot match. Our slogan, Clearly the Best, is more than a marketing phrase – it is a promise of technical excellence and a cleaner future.”
Long Lifecycle Quality and Reliability
Technical competence is ultimately measured by equipment lifespan and operational reliability. Over the past three decades, Finnchain has installed more than 4,500 systems, each tailored to the customer’s tank dimensions and process requirements – whether in rectangular or circular clarifiers, and in both primary and secondary treatment.
One of the strongest demonstrations of quality can be found in Greece, on the island of Psyttalia. Just before the 2004 Summer Olympics, 128 scraper systems were installed at Athens’ wastewater treatment plant. It was a massive delivery that required exceptional logistical and technical coordination.
“Our equipment has withstood demanding use for over 20 years in challenging island conditions. That is something we can be extremely proud of – it proves that we selected the right materials and technical solutions already back then,” Stenbom notes.
Quality assurance is also supported by a strict no‑compromise approach to material sourcing. When customer specifications are demanding, Finnchain responds by utilising specialty materials such as super duplex steel.
“Quality is a promise we keep every day. It is not only about being error‑free – it is about ensuring that the solutions we deliver stand the test of time and operate reliably even under extreme conditions.”
Major Projects from Australia to Finland
Finnchain’s ability to manage large‑scale, technically demanding projects has made it a sought-after partner worldwide. One example is a major delivery to Australia’s west coast near Perth, where 36 Finnchain scrapers will be installed at a new desalination plant. Once completed, the facility will produce 50 billion litres of drinking water annually from seawater.
“A highly demanding client selected Finnchain because we have extensive proof of meeting exceptionally strict specifications. In this project, all metal components are made of super duplex steel. Not everything is available off the shelf – but fortunately, we have the experience and strong procurement channels,” says Sales Manager Gerald Dippacher.
In Finland, Finnchain is also involved in major domestic projects, such as the Sulkavuori Central Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tampere. Designed to serve 360,000 residents, this massive facility significantly reduces environmental loading. Finnchain supplied four scrapers for grit chambers, eight for primary clarifiers, 16 for secondary clarifiers and 24 surface sludge removal pipes.
“Sulkavuori is an impressive and intelligently designed facility. Given the massive volumes of wastewater treated, a process with proven reliability was required,” Stenbom says.
Infrastructure Modernisation Across the Nordics
While new large‑scale plants play an important role, Finnchain’s expertise also extends to upgrading existing infrastructure. In Sweden and Finland, many treatment plants built in the 1960s and 1970s are nearing the end of their lifecycle. At the same time, urbanisation has increased wastewater volumes, pushing older facilities beyond their original capacity.
In these cases, Finnchain’s grit removal and clarification systems become essential. Grit removal is critical in the early stages of treatment to remove heavy inorganic materials, such as sand and gravel, before they damage pumps or other equipment.
“For example, in Sweden we have several installations scheduled during 2026. Plant refurbishments and expansions demand high‑level expertise – modern, efficient technology must be integrated into old structures without compromising the process,” explains Sales Manager Iiro Vahala.
Laying a Sustainable Foundation for a Cleaner Future
Behind Finnchain’s daily success is a team of 21 professionals whose expertise and commitment form the company’s core strength. Employee turnover is exceptionally low, with many team members having worked at the company for more than 20 years.
“It is immensely valuable that we have all this experience and know‑how in‑house. We encourage people to develop and to be themselves. A safe, relaxed and pleasant working environment is one of the most important foundations of success,” Stenbom emphasises.
Approximately 80–90 percent of Finnchain’s production is exported. Long‑term partnerships with distributors, some lasting over 30 years, are strong evidence of the trust placed in the company.
“As the world changes, we must remain agile. The importance of clean water grows every day – and we are not only responding to today’s needs, but building a foundation for a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
One of the most important growth areas is desalination. As traditional freshwater sources are depleted, the utilisation of seawater becomes increasingly critical – and Finnchain’s technology plays a key role in this development. Finnchain’s vision of more sustainably treated water also extends to new innovations such as the Solar Cover – an innovative solution that protects tanks from sunlight, preventing algae formation.
“For us, the essential thing is that we manufacture durable equipment and machinery for this vital sector. Long‑lasting products that do not require constant maintenance or spare part replacements are our contribution to the green transition. From a business perspective, they sometimes even last a little too long,” Stenbom adds with a laugh.
