History

Advanced Cyclone Systems (ACS) was founded in 2008 by Romualdo Salcedo (CTO), Professor at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP), and Pedro Araújo (CEO), Industrial Engineer from FEUP with an MBA from Lisbon MBA. The company was established with the support of the CoHitec program, promoted by Cotec — a Portuguese institutional innovation association — which was instrumental in developing the initial business plan and securing early-stage financing.

From the earliest days, ACS has been exclusively dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-efficiency cyclone systems, with a strong focus on solving complex particle separation and emission control challenges across industries. With an international outlook from the outset, ACS quickly became a trusted partner worldwide.

In its formative years, the founders built upon longstanding research and successful prototype performance in biomass emission control — particularly in cork and wood industries — where cyclones were consistently operating without maintenance and complying with strict environmental limits. These early successes confirmed the value of ACS’s technology and inspired the mission to bring high-efficiency cyclone solutions to clients globally.

Over the years, ACS expanded its reach, delivering tailored cyclone systems that address specific operational and particle characteristics for a broad range of applications — from emission control in boilers, furnaces, and dryers to the recovery of valuable powders in food, chemical, and pharmaceutical processes. With a strong reputation for innovation and engineering excellence, ACS completed hundreds of successful installations across dozens of countries.

After 17 years of innovation and growth, in May 2025 Advanced Cyclone Systems became part of the Sunds Fibertech Group, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history. This strategic step opens a new chapter of growth — especially in the wood-based panel industry — while strengthening ACS’s ability to serve all markets with the same dedicated team, identity, and commitment.

Sunds Fibertech — a global technology leader headquartered in Sweden — brings additional scale, resources, and a shared commitment to long-term innovation and customer-centric development. As a dedicated business unit within the Sunds Fibertech Group, ACS retains its identity, leadership, and team, while gaining a like-minded partner to accelerate global expansion, broaden its solution portfolio, and co-develop more advanced technologies.

Together, ACS and Sunds Fibertech are positioned to offer enhanced solutions that address evolving market demands, reinforce their shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, and deliver even greater value to clients worldwide.