International Forest Industries Magazine October November 2020 by International Forest Industries Ltd

LOGGING • SAWMILLING • BIOMASS HARVESTER HEADS REPORT

SAWLINES Tigercat in BC John Deere in Georgia Ponsse - The Story

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

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1700D Specifications Operating Length Operating Width Operating Height Machine Weight Engine

1344 cm 296 cm 427 cm 18 597 kg Caterpillar C9.3B Tier IV, 339 kW Caterpillar C9.3B Tier III, 309 kW Rotor pinned or drum rotor available Feed Opening (width x height) 137 x 69 cm Wheeled, Tracked, & Stationary Electric Options

Blower Trucks

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Chippers

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Screens

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Stacking Conveyors

LOGGING • BIOMASS

CONTENTS

HARVESTER HEADS Productivity and precision combine to deliver best crop of harvester heads yet for the cut-to-length market

30 TIGERCAT

48 JOHN DEERE

52 PONSSE HISTORY

TB catches up with Sunshine Logging B Ltd. after the Kaslo, British Columbia based company purchased two Tigercat 850 processors, each equipped with the Tigercat 568 processing head.

fter logging crews leave, Doyle Hancock A & Sons prepares sites for planting seedlings and rejuvenation.

T he mixed breed dog running around the Vieremä village would not have guessed that its name would be remembered for decades.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

REGULAR FEATURES

6 Logging News 68 Advertising Index

LUMBER PROCESSING

COVER: Log Max 6000V Tobias (Jobbet Huaröd AB) working with his Log Max 6000V mounted on an Eco Log 590E running in Southern Sweden. Log Max 6000V is a versatile head which has a wide range of applications, mainly focused on final felling. The new 6000V length measurement unit has been redesigned and optimized to create the very best conditions for

LOGGING • SAW

delivering precise and accurate results. Reinforcements and modifications to the new frame further improve the reliability and lifetime of the head. The unit is also equipped with our new, smart saw True-Cut that provides fast and controlled cutting.

HARVESTER HEADS REPORT

MILLING • BIO MAS

CONTENTS

OCTOBER / NOVEM

BER 2020

SAWLINES

Tigercat in BC John Deere in Georgia Ponsse - The Story

www.logmax.com

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 1

LUMBER PROCESSING

17 OPTIMIL

20 USNR

Side board profiling

24 HOLTEC

mart investments – safer, more satisfied S personnel

erman-based and internationally active G mechanical engineering company Holtec, a leader in sawmill and woodbased panel industry systems, has turned 50-years-old

10. - 14. May 2021

27 FRANZEN

28 COMACT - BID GROUP

Getting chains right

Trade fair for the forestry and wood industries

hen Artificial Intelligence Juggles W Shifting & Sorting

Getting back in touch with the market – at LIGNA.21 Preparations for LIGNA ‘21 are already in full swing. The world’s top international wood-industry trade show is enjoying strong industry support despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheduled opening day is a good eight months away, but demand for exhibition space is already strong. “The event will once again fill ten halls as well as the open-air site booked. All the big industry players are on board. It seems that after many weeks of social distancing, lockdowns, online-only events and video conferencing from home, the industry is really looking forward to meeting up face-to-face,” said Christian Pfeiffer, Deutsche Messe’s Global Director LIGNA & Woodworking Shows. “Businesses in the wood industry are keen to resume normal production and sales. They want to be able to advise and inform their customers in person. So, we’re doing everything we can to provide a safe and effective marketplace where the wood industry can meet, showcase new products and

developments, and get business moving again.” LIGNA is the flagship fair of the global wood industry and serves as a marketplace for woodworking and wood processing plants, machinery and tools as well as a platform for exploring and debating hot topics set to shape the future of the industry. At the upcoming show, the following three topics will feature prominently: Woodworking Transformation, Prefab Building Processes and Green Material Processing. Exhibitors will be highlighting these topics at their stands, and they will also be featured across various forums and special displays. “LIGNA will present the pioneering developments and visionary ideas that will be shaping wood-industry production and business processes just a few years from now,” remarked Dr. Bernhard Dirr, director of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA). “LIGNA is our window onto the future, and that’s more important than ever given the COVID-19 pandemic.

2 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

If we manage to showcase our industry in a way that people can physically explore, experience and engage with, then I think we can call LIGNA 2021 a success, regardless of the visitor and exhibitor turnout,” Dirr said. “Obviously, we all hope that the worst of the pandemic will be over by May,” Pfeiffer commented, “but it’s impossible to say when case numbers might start to drop off or when a vaccine might become available. So we have to be realistic. The global travel restrictions alone suggest that we will have fewer international visitors than at LIGNA 2019. The virus is likely to be with us for some time to come, so we need to find new ways of enabling businesses to engage with their markets. We need LIGNA ‘21.”

Social distancing and safety at LIGNA The LIGNA 2021 format incorporates a public hygiene strategy that Deutsche Messe has developed in consultation with the relevant authorities. The show will have comprehensive measures

in place to protect the health and safety of exhibitors and visitors in all areas of the venue. Hannover’s hospitality sector is also ready for the new tradeshow normal. “For us, facilitating business and protecting health go hand in hand,” explained Pfeiffer. “To protect exhibitors and visitors, we will ensure that LIGNA ‘21 meets the highest standards of hygiene, safety and healthcare. This will entail hygiene and distancing measures at the entrances and exits to the venue as well as for inhall aisleways, exhibition stands, on-site restaurants and even local hotels.” Deutsche Messe’s LIGNA team is currently developing a digital participation option that will be offered alongside the show’s trusted in-person format. It will make the show available to exhibitors and visitors from key markets who may be unable to travel to Hannover. Further information about LIGNA is available at www.ligna.de

ISSUE 77 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 583 emma@internationalforestindustries.com Annual Subscription UK and Europe £160, €230 Rest of the world US$270 EDITORIAL T: +44 (0)1442 877 583 F: +44 (0)1442 870 617 www.internationalforestindustries.com 2 Claridge Court, Lower Kings Road Berkhamsted, Herts. HP4 2AF, UK Editor Chris Cann chris@internationalforestindustries.com Editorial Board Dr Patrick Moore – Chairman and Chief Scientist of Greenspirit (Canada) Darren Oldham – Managing Director Söderhamn Eriksson (UK) Professor Piotr Paschalis-Jakubowicz – Warsaw Agricultural University (Poland) Mr Kim Carstensen Director General Forest Stewardship Council Eduardo Morales South American Forestry Consultant ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONS International Forest Industries Ltd Advertising Manager Phil Playle phil@internationalforestindustries.com +44 (0)1442 87 77 77 Associate Editor Robin Peach robin@internationalforestindustries.com Advertising Production Enquiries Emma Smith emma@internationalforestindustries.com

International Forest Industries is published by International Forest Industries Ltd, 2 Claridge Court, Lower Kings Road Berkhamsted, Herts. HP4 2AF, UK International Forest Industries (ISSN 1755-6732) is published bi-monthly by International Forest Industries Ltd GBR and is distributed in the USA by Asendia USA, 17B South Middlesex Avenue, Monroe NJ 08831 and additional mailing offices. Periodicals postage paid at New Brunswick NJ. POSTMASTER: send address changes to International Forest Industries, 17B South Middlesex Avenue, Monroe NJ 08831 © International Forest Industries Ltd 2007 – 2019 IFI uses, as preference, SI units throughout. All dollars are US unless otherwise stated.

EDITOR’S COMMENT Sustainability hero

ir David Attenborough recently decided to dive into the world of social media in order to more widely broadcast his views on conservation. I must admit to having thrice set up a Twitter account and only twice actually filing a ‘tweet’ owing, in part, to a combination of technophobia and a traditionalist approach to media. So, at 94 years of age, Sir David has rightly been commended for taking the plunge. Of course, I very much doubt the nonagenarian will be sitting in bed in the evenings, thumbs whirring madly, launching meaningless thought balloons into the Twittersphere, something many users for this medium seem to practice. Rather he will have team that will be – and already has been – crafting considered, fact-based and pointed messages to be posted alongside video content, which has been specifically made to back these messages up. It’s an unorthodox approach to our most contemporary form of media, but such has been its success that Sir David has just about crashed the internet. It seems the world can’t get enough of conservation as a theme. One of the great things about Sir David, apart from being wildly popular, is he generally tells a balanced story. In the modern world, where being progressive has become something of a competition among the liberal elite – and is then aped by mindless hoards on social media – the messaging seems to have become more extreme as a function of the messenger’s need to get noticed. Taking a balanced and practical progressive view gets you nowhere on Twitter. If you want some attention you have to make genuinely radical – and therefore routinely baseless – statements. But Sir David is rarely dramatic and almost always measured. He has never called for the end of extractive industries – and one could probably include industries such as fishing in that – because he understands their importance.

4 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

In many ways, what he has long advocated is not conservation at all, really, but something the international forestry community has been practising for many years – sustainability. Sure, there are swathes of the Amazon being torched and torn down, but not by foresters; this is the work of pseudo agriculturalists. On reflection, the forestry sector was a beacon of sustainability long before it became trendy. In Sweden, for example, renewable energy as a percentage of the energy mix sits at around 54%. This is in part because of the effect of the oil shock in the 1970s but it has been possible largely because of the country’s thriving forestry sector, that provides biomass fuels. Finland is not far behind for similar reasons. The Forestry Stewardship Council that certifies some 214 million ha of forests across 89 countries through its 1,165 international members was established 26 years ago. The point is that conservation, as much as many cling on to it, has become an outdated term. Conservationists such as Sir David nowadays practice the much more sophisticated model of sustainability. And this is a world in which the international forestry community is thriving. The more balanced accounts of modern conservation or sustainability are distributed into the global media through social networks, the more understanding and support there should be for wood industries. It would be a wonderful thing should Sir David inspire a new breed and a better standard of social media commentators.

Enjoy Chris Cann

Complete Sawmill Solutions Optimil is a name recognized around the world as a leader in primary and secondary log processing machinery, as well as providing log and board optimization systems for the progressive sawmill.

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LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Ponsse launches a new powerful harvester head H8HD Euca, for processing eucalyptus trees Ponsse recently launched a new debarking PONSSE H8HD Euca harvester head for eucalyptus sites. The new powerful harvester head has been designed as a response to customers’ needs, and it further strengthens Ponsse’s strategy to be the leading global manufacturer of harvester heads. The new harvester head has been designed for the PONSSE Bear harvester, but especially it is an ideal solution for track-based machines. The H8HD Euca is an effective tool in forests where the diameter of eucalyptus stems can be up to 50 cm. The geometry of the new harvester head’s debarking

knives and feed rollers improves the efficiency of H8HD Euca in debarking and processing both smaller and larger stems. Ponsse’s heavy-duty frame structure means that the new harvester head can withstand the extreme loads of track-based machines, says Janne Loponen, Product Manager, harvester heads. The head has been optimised to debark trees. Its feed rollers and debarking knives guarantee firstrate debarking results from start to finish. The solid frame and robust tilt frame give the harvester head the durability needed in debarking. Automated functions control saw movements according to the

tree diameter and saw bar position and allow trees to be cut quickly. All Ponsse harvester heads have been designed to withstand even the toughest conditions. They are characterised by a simple and solid structure which enables them to be used in various harvesting applications, ranging from harvesters to track-based solutions. All PONSSE harvester heads are manufactured and designed at the Ponsse factory in Vieremä. The design process is comprehensive and covers, in addition to mechanical parts, the electronic control system, controls and software. The manufacturing process is highly automated to

ensure high quality and measuring accuracy. Durable hoses and delimbing knives form an important part of reliability.

Weyerhaeuser to buy 85,000 acres of timberlands from HNRG Weyerhaeuser Company has entered into two distinct agreements to purchase timberlands from and sell timberlands to funds managed by Hancock Natural Resource Group (HNRG), a Manulife Investment Management company. The company is purchasing approximately 85,000 acres of timberlands in mid-coastal Oregon in one transaction, and selling

149,000 acres of timberlands in southern Oregon in a second transaction. The net cost of these two separate transactions is approximately $40 million in cash. “These two agreements represent a unique opportunity to further enhance Weyerhaeuser’s Western timberlands portfolio with exceptional land that is contiguous with our existing ownership,” said Devin W. Stockfish, president and

6 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

CEO. “Through these transactions, we are acquiring highly productive timberland with low operating costs and strong access to key domestic and export markets, and we expect them to deliver immediate and long-term value for our shareholders.” The transactions are subject to customary closing conditions and are expected to close in the 4Q 2020.

Weyerhaeuser Company, one of the world’s largest private owners of timberlands, began operations in 1900. The company owns or controls approximately 11 million acres of timberlands in the U.S. and manage additional timberlands under long-term licenses in Canada.

TOGETHER

In the manufacturing of forest machines, we have focused on products of the cut-to-length method, familiar to Finland, for fifty years now. Focusing exclusively on the most effective and environmentally friendly harvesting method helps us to develop our products and services without making any compromises.

DOWNLOAD NOW! www.ponsse.com/ products/cut-to-length

Our operations have always been based on collecting customer feedback and reacting quickly to it. Currently, we have the broadest range of CTL forest machines and services in the markets. We have the best solution, no matter the worksite or conditions. Let’s keep up the good work – together.

Ponsse Plc Ponssentie 22 74200 Vieremä, Finland Tel. +358 20 768 800

Learn about benefits of CTL and why our customers have chosen the method.

Right on track with the 2021 Komatsu models Upgraded 845 (see inside back cover) revised 835TX & NEW 825TX At the launch of its 2021 models, Komatsu Forest presented a number of forwarder announcements, including an upgraded Komatsu 845 and a brand-new thinning concept:

Thinning Experts (TX) Which includes the 835TX & the new 825TX This will mean that Komatsu’s entire forwarder range now boasts a fully upgraded design, a new 4-cylinder engine and a new control system. The Bogie Lift Advanced option will be available for all small forwarders and, moreover, MaxiFleet will gain several new features to simplify day-to-day forwarding work. The Komatsu 825TX, an agile 9-tonne forwarder for the market segment for the smallest machines, is a brand-new and eagerly awaited forwarder model. The former smallest model, the 11-tonne Komatsu 835, has been upgraded and is now being relaunched with a new designation, the Komatsu 835TX. Also presented is an upgraded mid-class 12-tonne stalwart, the Komatsu 845, (see inside back cover) which performs well not only in thinning, but also in lighter final logging. “With the launch of the 2021 models, all our machines have now been upgraded and we’re pleased to be able to offer our customers comprehensive forwarder and harvester ranges. The new thinning experts have several qualities which make them extremely well-suited to thinning, and which have been requested for some time. They also feature some of the advantages of the larger forwarders,” says Daniel Grabbe, Product Manager at Komatsu Forest.

Comfortable cab with excellent visibility in all directions All new forwarders have been upgraded with the same cab as the current Komatsu 855, 875 and 895 models. Komatsu’s ergonomic cabs are based on a tried and tested concept that offers a comfortable and spacious work environment with good visibility in all directions.

The interior is well considered with many practical storage spaces. Another improvement is that the Orbitrol steering wheel has been replaced by an electric mini steering wheel, found on the right joystick. This new steering wheel enables a higher transport speed of 22–25 km/h depending on the model. “The removal of the old steering wheel means less hydraulics in the cab, providing an even more spacious and quieter work environment,” says Grabbe.

Greater reliability with the latest engine installation The Komatsu 825TX, 835TX and 845 models all boast a new engine installation, one which meets the latest emission legislation for diesel engines (Stage V). This provides a number of benefits: an all-new AdBlue system, a new exhaust system and hydraulic tappets. The AdBlue system has been completely overhauled, with a focus on improvements to increase reliability. The tank has been moved to the front-left storage space and has a new and improved filling solution incorporating both a spill guard and filtration. A specially designed funnel with venting channels enables faster filling. “All these modifications simplify daily machine maintenance while also reducing the risk of dirt entering the tank,” Grabbe explains.

Komatsu 825TX is the thinning specialist that is powerful yet compact. Low weight, accessibility and power are examples of features that all contributes to long-term productivity

The Komatsu 835TX is optimal for thinning with its accessibility and strength. It is a lightweight forwarder, with high ground clearance and a fuel efficient engine, which all contributes to reducing the environmental impact. system for machine and head control, bucking, crane settings and administration, with user friendly functions and tools that provide full control of the timber from order to roadside delivery.

Bogie Lift Advanced for an easier working day

Daniel Grabbe, Product Manager, Komatsu Forest

Modern control system for the best starting conditions Another feature shared by our new forwarders is that they have been equipped with the MaxiXT control system, which was unveiled for Komatsu’s other forest machines last year. MaxiXT is a complete

8 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Bogie Lift Advanced, which enables individual control of the left and right bogies, will now be available as an option on the Komatsu 825TX, 835TX and 845 models. This function provides the forwarder with great mobility when passing over obstacles, which is especially important in dense forest stands with narrow strip roads that require agile machines with good offroad handling.

Improved information transfer and increased cooperation The launch of their 2021 models will also see two major new features added to MaxiFleet,

Komatsu Forest’s operations management system. Location data will now enable you to view your position on the map, which can aid the sharing of information between colleagues. We are also releasing a new function that helps in the preparation of forwarder instructions. Preparing the instructions in advance means less need for administration in the cab and more time for the operator to actually forward.

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st i n g p h a r ve i r g e l g e sin ing at a oductiv k r r p o y w l h r g et h e rs hi he c ut , w h enginee l x a a n e h a ve t fi M w g o t p Lo m g u n i t nn he s ro m t h i sing at t s e c o r p heads. F and r s , Lo g r fe l l i n g o harveste g d n s. n a i s d r n la rrie peration . a c ke d c a u u g h e st o tr o to d y e n a r th o d f f wheele mands o s o l ut i o n for both ucts t the de ed r p ro d to mee Develop m a ke o u esigned e d m e r ti a n s w d do Max hea minimal g. lity and il b nt loggin a ie e c ic fi f e r Serv fo t ice dealer a ious cho the obv ur local

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New Keto continuous 360° plus rotator CONTINUOUS 360° PLUS ROTATOR This is the newest updated in Keto head family. It meant to enhance the efficiency significantly in every day operation. Kone-Ketonen has filed a patent application for the rotator as it incorporates new and unparalleled features.

Feedback There are already a number of these unlimitedly rotating Keto harvesters in use in Finland, Germany and North-America since last three years. Contractors have given very positive feedback of new innovation. One of them is from entrepreneur Hannu Siukola, Finland, expressing his satisfaction with the new rotator.

Benefits The 360° Plus continuous rotator provides significantly more rotational force: up to 1050 Nm at a pressure of 100 bar. In forest thinning, this also increases the efficiency. The 360° Plus continuous rotator expedites the felling work. The tree can be approached from any direction. The felling head

can be rotated unlimited in both directions without damaging the hoses or trees. The 360° Plus continuous rotator also facilitates maintenance work, whit the easy access to the hoses and fittings. This new rotator increases the service interval for hoses, which saves the service costs. The hoses are not moving and wearing out and they are much shorter.

Everything passes through the rotator All hydraulic hoses, electrical cables, stump treatment liquid and urea, are passing through the rotator. The urea hose has its own isolated channel in the the rotator. Therefore, even in the case of any failure, the urea and hydraulic oil will never get mixed.

10 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Rotator for smaller models: Suitable for

0 45 links & 0 45 swing dampers

Rotator Max Torque

1050 Nm(@ 100 Bar)

Rotar Max Static Load

146 kN (15 metric ton)

Rotator for large models: Rotator Max Torque

1800 Nm(@ 100 Bar)

Rotar Max Static Load

450 kN (46 metric ton)

• Hoses cannot be twisted anymore around the tilt • No more pulled out electrical cable or wires • Increased service life for hoses and fittings • More powerful and precise rotational motion

• Built-in sawing feature • Easy ad well designed service access

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Ponsse strengthens its market position with the H9 PONSSE launched it’s H9 harvester head at the Oregon Logging Conference in USA. The head strengthens Ponsse’s strategy to be the leading manufacturer also for harvester heads. The H9 challenges other products in the same size class with its power and precision. Listening to the needs of it’s customers, they have developed a robust cutting head for tracked machines. The H9 harvester head is capable of processing, felling and multi-stemming even large trunks. Thanks to the felling feature, the new harvester head has a decent tilt function and the top saw option allows for more efficient tree handling, says Janne Loponen, Product Manager at harvester heads. The H9 harvester heads solid structure, firm grip and powerful feed guarantee a high efficiency ratio and reliability from one logging site to the next. All PONSSE harvester heads have been designed to withstand

Thanks to the felling feature, the new harvester head has a decent tilt function and the top saw option allows for more efficient tree handling Janne Loponen, Product Manager, Harvester Heads even the toughest conditions. They are characterised by a simple and solid structure which enables them to be used in various harvesting applications from harvesters to

track-based solutions. All PONSSE harvester heads are manufactured and designed at the Ponsse factory in Vieremä, Finland. The design process is comprehensive and covers, in addition to mechanical parts, the electronic control systems, controls and software. The manufacturing process is highly automated to ensure high quality and measuring accuracy.

The frames of harvester heads are machined from a single piece after the welding assembly. This guarantees the highest quality with excellent precision. Durable hoses and delimbing knives form an important part of reliability.

Same input, different output www.jenz.de

Chip quality according to your needs

JENZ GmbH Maschinen- und Fahrzeugbau • Wegholmer Straße 14 32469 Petershagen • Germany • Tel.: +49 (0) 5704/9409-0 • info@jenz.de International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 11

FAE gives itself a facelift Italian heavyweight has undergone a corporate makeover to prepare itself for future challenges

AE Group, an Italian company and leading manufacturer of forestry, agricultural and road construction equipment, is starting a new chapter in its evolution. Founded in 1989, in Fondo, Trentino, FAE now has more than 250 employees, with subsidiaries in the US, Canada, France, Germany, Russia and Australia and four manufacturing facilities in Northern Italy. Revenues, which have increased consistently over the years, will exceed €90 million ($106 million) in 2020. Drawing on the strength of consolidated success in its key world markets, FAE has undertaken a corporate restructuring process in recent months that has led to the

launch of a new logo and corporate image created by the branding agency, Robilant e Associati, in Milan. These winds of change extends beyond the group’s image into business operations. The PrimeTech brand, which identified the range of multi-purpose tracked vehicles for forestry and road maintenance and the self-propelled vehicles for clearing landmines will be discontinued. These machines will now be produced under the FAE name and will be part of FAE’s land clearing line (mulchers, tillers and special vehicles for agricultural and forestry work) and the new FAE demining line (radio-controlled tracked equipment carriers for the removal of anti-personnel and anti-tank mines) that will join the FAE Construction line (tillers and multi-purpose machines for road construction). “We have decided to join forces to create economies of scale that enable us to be even more competitive in the market,” said

Diego Scanzoni, FAE Chairman. “PrimeTech, already fully owned by us, can now count on a strong and successful brand as well as shared investments in advertising.”

Features of the new brand The new brand is typified by dynamism and innovation, in the name of tradition. The logo is still recognizable but profoundly different at the same time. The triangle, which distinguishes FAE across the world, comes to life and becomes a fan, symbolizing the movement of a rotor, while the lettering moves around in a dynamic play on perspectives that represents the company’s path

Davide Baratta, Sales Director, FAE Group

towards the future. The slogan, “Make the Difference”, summarizes the spirit that brings FAE to life. It represents a “desire to do our utmost to make a difference, in every area and at every level, in product quality, technology, company procedures, workplace and also in society and in the world”, according to Scanzoni. Davide Baratta, Sales Director of FAE said: “We are also revamping our website and our social media channels, 12 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

We have decided to join forces to create economies of scale that enable us to be even more competitive in the market Diego Scanzoni, President, FAE Group

and we are strengthening the marketing department in order to communicate even more effectively in all markets. “Drawing on an innovative business strategy and these crucial new digital tools, we are ready to consolidate and create FAE Group’s success in the years to come.”

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Soil preparation works in full swing

JSC “Latvia’s State Forests” (LVM) has already prepared soil in more than 3 000 hectares to carry out the forest restoration works planned for next year in an area of 10 500 hectares. “Preparation of soil or planting sites in felling areas is a key prerequisite for successful reforestation by planting young trees. It is best to do it in late summer or autumn of the previous year, and before planting trees in the spring. This year, there are several positive developments in the forest soil preparation sector.

The range of service providers has increased; the forest machinery park has been supplemented and upgraded. Two new John Deere skidders, as well as several Bracke and one UOT tillage unit have been purchased in Latvia. It is worth mentioning that in addition to the skidders used for transporting trees, several new tillage units will be powered by John Deere, Ponnse and Komatsu forest machines, which have already proven themselves in forestry,” says Edmunds Linde, LVM Forestry Planning Manager.

Soil preparation in the territory managed by LVM has been performed by seven service providers so far, but the new changes have facilitated the involvement of three new cooperation partners with relatively new sets of equipment. “It gives hope that work will be much smoother this season,” says Edmunds Linde. Since its foundation in 1999, LVM has paid more than one billion euros to state and local government budgets.

Company’s economic activities are carried out by maintaining and recovering forests, taking care of nature conservation, recreation opportunities and increasing timber volumes, as well as by investing in expanding the forestland and developing forest infrastructure – renovation of drainage systems and forest road construction. The volume of timber in the forests managed by LVM increases by 12 million cubic metres annually.

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

FAE GROUP is turning the page to its newest chapter. We are celebrating our past while keeping a clear vision towards the future by uniting FAE and PrimeTech under one brand. The new slogan, “Make the Difference”, conveys our commitment to do our utmost to make a difference in every area and at every level, extending from product quality, technology, company procedures, and in the workplace. FAE Group S.p.A.

Zona Produttiva 18 - 38013 Fondo - Borgo d’Anaunia (TN) - Italy - Ph. +39.0463.840.000 www.fae-group.com

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 13

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Bogie Lift Advanced for an easier working day Simplify your working day in the forest with Komatsu’s individually controlled bogie lift – now available for more models. Bogie Lift Advanced, which enables individual control of the left and right bogies, will now be available as an option on the

Komatsu 825TX, 835TX and 845 models. This function provides the forwarder with great mobility when passing over obstacles, which is especially important in dense forest stands with narrow strip roads that require agile machines with good offroad handling.

Komatsu 825TX, 835TX & 845 models upgraded with a Stage V diesel engine The new engine installation offers many advantages, such as an allnew AdBlue system, a new exhaust system and hydraulic valve lifters. The AdBlue system has been completely overhauled, with a focus on improvements to increase reliability. The tank has been moved to the front-

left storage space and has also been improved with a new filling solution incorporating both a spill guard and filtration. It even has a specially designed funnel with venting channels for faster filling. All these factors simplify the machine’s daily maintenance needs.

TXL U LT I M AT E

HAGGIS LINK NOW FITTED AS STANDARD

F LOTAT ION

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14 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

In these troubled times, togetherness is more important than ever. Together we will get through this. Also, we encourage you to share glimpses of your everyday life with #komatsutogether on social media. Your posts and our reposts will make this imposed social distancing at bit more socialâ&#x20AC;Ś Your friends at Komatsu Forest

NZ - East coast sawmill set to create 50 jobs Kiwi Lumber is to set up permanent operations following the successful trial of a sawmill at Matawhero, Gisborne. The operation will create 50 jobs and pave the way for NZ$15 million of capital investment over the next three years and a substantial investment in systems and teams. Kiwi Lumber managing director Adam Gresham is confident the Matawhero mill can be highly successful. “Kiwi Lumber wouldn’t take this site on unless we were confident we could make a go of it,” Mr Gresham said. “Gisborne will be our fourth sawmill site in the North Island. We are pleased with the results of the trial and excited about making our

arrangements permanent through a lease with Trust Tairawhiti.” Trust Tairawhiti chairman Dr Paul Reynolds reinforced the significance of growing wood processing to the region. “The trust invested in local infrastructure to act as a catalyst for growth in the wood processing sector. Tairawhiti currently processes 6 percent of wood, compared to 39 percent nationally. “Kiwi Lumber will not only employ locals, they will also contribute to a more diverse wood industry and a more resilient Tairawhiti economy,” Dr Reynolds said. Trust Tairawhiti commercial general manager Richard Searle has worked closely with Kiwi

Lumber during initial discussions and the trial period. “Kiwi Lumber are experienced in running very successful timber processing businesses, taking on troubled sites, turning them around and growing them as part of their group,” he said. They have demonstrated 70 percent revenue growth in their sawmilling businesses over the past five years. We welcome that experience and track record to our region.” Mr Gresham described Kiwi Lumber as a growing, progressive sawmilling company marketing radiata pine to the USA, Australia, Europe, Asia and New Zealand customers. The group consists of sawmills in Masterton, Dannevirke

Adam Gresham, Managing Director, Kiwi Lumber and Putaruru — employing 275 staff — and now Gisborne. About 50 people will be employed at Kiwi Lumber Gisborne, increasing permanent employment in the region through the creation of a range of roles. Mr Gresham said Kiwi Lumber was pleased to be creating jobs at a time when the impact of Covid-19 was contributing to job losses and a lot of uncertainty in businesses and the workplace.

Best Wood Schneider GMBH has released details on high-tech sawmill in Messkirc Best Wood Schneider GmbH with production site in southern Germany has released more details on their plans to build a state of the art, Euro 80 million sawmill in Meßkirch. The new mill will produce up to 200,000 m3 of lumber and 100,000 m3 of CLT per year. The facility will be highly automated, with separate

lines for small diameter and large diameter logs. Schneider will be relying on a mix of German, Finnish and Swedish manufacturers for machinery. For the log yard operation Schneider has chosen mechanization from Holtec and will only accept shorter length logs (up to 4m) to eliminate log sorting.

Instead the logs are fed separately according to small and large diameters on two independent feeding conveyors. Beginning installation is planned for the summer of 2021 and commissioning in the winter of 2022.

ED 3000* WRAPPER Fully automatic Wrapping Machine for Lumber Packages with welding heads for PE film or stitching modules for PP and PE film • • • • • •

Easy to integrate into existing plants due to the short and compact design Continuous production process that is not interrupted by the wrapping Film magazine for six films Tight fitting film hood, without loose foil corners which have to be fixed extra Easy to maintain thanks to the easy accessible individual components Modular design for welding head or stitching module (subsequent con-version possible at any time!)

*patent pending

16 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

SAWLINES – OPTIMIL

LUMBER PROCESSING

Our PLC Group programs equipment to achieve maximum performance, and maintain smooth operation including Primary Log Breakdown, Log Bucking PLC, Edger Controls and Planermill Controls Ross Chapman, Optimil Machinery Inc

SIDE BOARD PROFILING • Side Board Profilers increase production by reducing the number of flitches going to the board edger • Less downtime caused by poor quality slabs being sent to the board edger • Reduce manufacturing costs by eliminating secondary handling and manufacturing of side slabs • Our side Board Profilers have been designed with chip & sawdust containment in mind to promote safe and clean operation

ptimil Machinery Inc. is a high quality designer and manufacturer of stateof-the-art sawmill machinery. In business since 1983, the company has had average annual sales of $30 million for the past three years. Optimil currently employs 150 people in management, design, fabrication, machining, assembly, painting and testing at its modern plant in Delta, B.C. Our capability includes strong control systems, design,

manufacture, commissioning and service including robotics, computer and P.L.C. support. Optimil’s main business is building new sawmill machinery and equipment. It has also developed a specialized expertise in refitting older, less efficient sawmills with up-to-date high speed, highrecovery upgrades. It also provides a parts service for its clients. The objective of Optimil has been to establish a design, marketing and manufacturing capability with strong emphasis on state-of-theart and innovative machine to fill sawmill industry needs. The company presently operates a medium-size, modern manufacturing facility serving mostly Canadian and American clients.

Head Office: Canada 8320 River Road, Delta, BC, Canada V4G 1B5 (604) 946-6911 Sales: Bill LeGentil

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 17

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

Niagara Sawmilling invests in BioVision technology Niagara Sawmilling of Invercargill, New Zealand is investing in BioVision for its edger and trimmer lines. The mill is replacing older scanning and optimization systems. This new technology will improve the quality of the material it is sending to its reman plant, increasing the efficiency and throughput of that operation. These systems are scheduled to be installed in December 2020. USNR’s reputation for stellar vision scanning technology is second to none, with over 170 systems sold globally. This order for Niagara Sawmilling marks USNR’s 29th and 30th vision scanning systems processing Radiata Pine.

Here’s what some of our customers say about our vision scanning systems: We recover some of the high value wood out of the lower grade boards, where possible. This maximizes our recovery and value. Darryl Robinson, Tenon Clearwood The results we have seen are outstanding. We’ve seen a 4.2% improvement in sawn recovery, an 8.3% improvement in grade recovery, and a 13% increase in output. Grant Arnold, Waipapa Pine This new scanning technology opens up other opportunities for us to consider in terms of grades

or products which we haven’t produced before, but may be able to now. Duncan Oakley, Kiwi Lumber

Tschopp Holzindustrie invests in new sawmill Tschopp Holzindustrie to build a new sawmill in Switzerland. This will replace the existing plant, which has been operating at full capacity in three shifts for years. The building permit is expected in January 2021, after which construction work will start immediately. All machines and systems have already been ordered. The Austrian company Springer supplies the log yard, the sawing line comes from

USNR AB from Sweden, the sorting and stacking systems come from TC Maschinenbau from Austria and the disposal technology is supplied by Vecoplan from Germany. After a two-year construction phase for the 123 meter long and 20 meter high hall, as well as for the assembly of the machine and conveyor technology, commissioning is scheduled for spring 2023. The heart of the new plant is

high-performance Quadro band saws from USNR AB. A Quadro band saw consists of a unit of four band saws. Two Quadro units are installed, making eight band saws available. This innovative saw technology enables a very high cutting performance, flexibility in the cutting patterns and at the same time a large yield. The new sawmill is vital for the future development of Tschopp Holzindustrie AG. The

cutting capacity is so generously dimensioned that in addition to the requirements of the shuttering panel plant, sawn timber can be produced for new products without any problems. After a phase of commissioning, the cutting volume will be 135,000 m3 per year.

#teamfranzen2020

www.franzen-machines.com

Getting chains right. 18 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Gaining efficiencies

Smart investments – safer, more satisfied personnel Even when a mill is not capacity-limited, equipment upgrades delivering the latest technologies can bring significant returns, and make the job safer and more satisfying for equipment operators. Waipapa Pine’s chain of successful mill upgrades is proof positive.

aipapa Pine’s Kerikeri mill has been upgrading its processes to improve its bottom line, to increase efficiencies, and to move its staff to more challenging and satisfying roles. This latest project succeeds on all fronts. The Waipapa Pine mill in Kerikeri, New Zealand has been in operation processing Radiata Pine into framing timber since 2012. In 2017 the mill installed a USNR Lasar2 scanning system to optimize its carriage operation. The most recent project, completed early in 2020, included major upgrades to the board edger, and green chain/ trimline at the plant. Prior to the latest upgrades there were many roles within the mill that required very heavy, manual inputs from the team. The mill’s board edger was manually fed, at 8-10 boards a minute. Clearing the slash decks of rubbish from the board edger and trim line were also handson manual processes. Thus mill management decided to invest in new technology to improve these areas.

Focus on efficiencies “We are happy with the overall capacity of the mill, so this investment was about moving our focus into gaining efficiencies around this capacity,” said Grant

20 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Arnold, Waipapa Pine Operations Director. Log prices in NZ have continued to increase due to export demand, while at the same time New Zealand expects to be experiencing a drop in harvest in this region in coming years. “We wanted to invest in technology that gives us every opportunity to maximize value return on the raw logs we process,” continued Grant. With this goal in mind, Waipapa management looked for improvements that could be made from both sawn recovery and grade recovery perspectives. They were also looking for an opportunity to dramatically change the type of work within the mill, from highly manual to far more automated, providing a safer workplace while increasing the skill level and satisfaction of mill personnel.

The mill’s decision The focus of the upgrades involved improving the functionality and level of optimization at the edger and trimmer stations. The mill’s goal was to provide enough speed/capacity to be able to run both green sawn and kiln dried, planed timber at the same time. This project would be the largest completed on site over the last seven years, but it had to be completed with minimal mill downtime. To provide this challenging solution, Waipapa

looked to USNR. Waipapa management cited USNR’s high level of capability and focus on supporting the customer, so there was little interest in evaluating another supplier. Grant Arnold explains: “Several years ago, we invested in USNR 3D log scanning on our carriage,” he said. “We saw massive improvements in all measures off the headrig, so it was a no brainer to remain with the USNR platform.”

USNR’s solution The new technology involved upgrades to the mill’s USNR 4TA36 edger that the mill bought used for this project, and was updated by USNR. This included adding a fourth shifting saw to the edger sawbox, and installing USNR’s state-of-the-art BioVision optimization system. The edger’s fourth saw accommodates the broad range of material widths the mill processes, ranging from 75mm to 300mm (3” to 12”). The BioVision system utilizes proprietary BioLuma 2900LVG sensors. Its optimization platform takes advantage of Deep Learning technology for enhanced defect recognition and classification. The project also included the conversion of the plant’s existing trimline to a combination line, with the goal to enable processing a random mix of green sawn and kiln

SAWLINES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; USNR

LUMBER PROCESSING

The new BioVision Edger system provides dramatic improvements in value recovery by accurately detecting and classifying the defects, far more precise edging, and better grade solutions

The THG utilizes 4-sided scanning as well as an end-grain scanner to assist in locating the boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pith. This provides highly accurate defect detection and grade solutions for both green and dry products

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 21

dried material, with the addition of the Transverse High Grader (THG). The optimizer provides 3D modeling based on an enhanced optimization platform that is shared across all of USNR’s vision scanning products. These systems are also now enhanced with the benefits of Deep

Learning technology. Also included in the project were installation of a new Revolver Lug Loader and Multi-Track Fence. Both are instrumental in providing increased processing capacity, and maintaining efficiencies and trimming accuracy at the speeds that the mill targeted. The

Revolver was chosen to efficiently handle the variation of product thicknesses, from 25mm to 105mm (1” to 4”), and green as well as kiln dried product. The Revolver is fitted with a rotating overhead hold down assembly that assists the feeding process for mixed thickness products.

Dry line integration The planer outfeed is designed to feed directly to the green trimline on a separate landing deck. The mill plans to install a moisture meter after the Revolver Lug Loader to identify green vs dry material. This will allow the mill to run green and dry material through the green trimline simultaneously. This component of the project has been delayed due to COVID-19. In the meantime, with a wide range of product sorts the initial process employed is running dry material in batches through the trimmer line to take advantage of the grading accuracy of the THG. With the very attractive payback being seen, the mill is eager to implement this additional capability.

The installation

A Transverse High Grader and Multi-Track Fence automate the grading, trimming and sorting processes

The new supply includes a Revolver Lug Loader fitted with a rotating overhead hold down assembly to facilitate dealing a variety of material thicknesses

22 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

The plant upgrades were clearly a team effort. USNR and Skookum Technology (USNR’s agent in the region) worked closely on engineering and project management, and mechanical integration of the new mill hardware was provided by Skookum. The groups coordinated closely with mill personnel to ensure a very successful result. The project needed to be completed during the four-week downtime window over the plant’s Christmas shutdown. To prepare for the installation a lot of equipment needed to be constructed within the mill but offline, while the mill operated at full capacity. Other equipment needed to be assembled outside of the mill and readied for moving into place once the back end of the sawmill building was demolished. “Needless to say, planning and execution of the project was critical,” said Grant. “We effectively had two weeks to have everything mechanically completed so that electrical and controls could be installed.” “The USNR team members were great,” said Grant. “Everyone had their job to do and completed it without any issues at all. Communication between the USNR team and our project guys was excellent from start to finish. It

was also great to have such highly skilled and knowledgeable USNR staff on site so we could learn from them.” Grant also noted that the Skookum design team did a great job, while Skookum engineers supported the Waipapa Pine team very well on site. On the Waipapa side, Phillip Crawley, Engineering Manager, completed an outstanding job managing the delivery of a complex project within the confines of a very small timing window to install and commission the plant upgrade. Processing Managers Jody Mitchell and Dan Spake also worked hard to ensure successful commissioning of the lines, and optimization of the outputs. Training of mill personnel was done at USNR’s facility in Salmon Arm, BC, and was also held on site in New Zealand during start-up and commissioning.

Results

The green trim line from the Revolver Lug Loader through the THG, Multi-Track Fence, and trimmer, to the incline to the sorter

“The results we have seen are outstanding, across all key measures within the business,” said Grant. “We’ve seen a 4.2% improvement in sawn recovery, an 8.3% improvement in grade recovery, and a 13% increase in output.” Raw log input costs have reduced, and overall value return

has been improved. This project has had a large impact on how the mill operates and the type of roles/ work that staff members perform. Now, 95% of the operational jobs within the mill are very “hands off ”. Health and safety stats have improved, and the company has been able to take its manual

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graders and train them in the new technology, which has given them a great boost from both a job satisfaction and skills perspective.

Prepared for the future “We are experiencing some very uncertain times, with unpredictable long-term economic impact,”

said Grant. “This investment will provide us the opportunity to maximize efficiencies across our complete processing footprint, while being able to respond nimbly to any changing landscape we have in front of us.”

Page 1

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International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 23

Holtec - 50th anniversary Headquarters in Blumenthal with modern machine park. Approx. 150 people are employed here

German-based and internationally active mechanical engineering company Holtec, a leader in sawmill and woodbased panel industry systems, has turned 50-years-old

ree rings do not only show the age of a tree but also the conditions in which it grew up. Every tree ring has its own history. This year wood industry specialist Holtec can count back on 50 tree rings. The wood industry systems expert has built a reputation over a half a century, having been established with just a few

employees before growing into a medium-sized company with 180 employees and customers in the wood industry worldwide. From the ‘sawmill technology’ sales and planning office within Gölz GmbH in Blumenthal, Holtec was launched as an independent company on January 1, 1970. The demand for systems for the sawmill industry was recognised

and a young graduate engineer, Peter Klement, was the right man to establish the department for sawmill technology and then push and promote the business as the founding member – and later sole owner – of the new company. Together with three other partners, the first package crosscut saw was developed in cooperation with Stihl. At first HOLTEC

PIVETEAUBOIS – system for feeding, separating and butt-reducing long and short logs up to 5 tons efficiently and flexibly 24 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

SAWLINES – HOLTEC

Founding Member, Peter Klemnet produced just as a licensee. Own developments in the products range of the tilting saws were made and HOLTEC rapidly started to produce those machines under their own HOLTEC brand. Today, Holtec has sold more than 10,000 saws – worldwide. The entrepreneurial spirit for engineering leveraged expanding the product range by log handling systems for the sawmill industry. In the beginning, the company focused on German sawmills, however, the structural change in the sawmill industry required a rethink, and Holtec succeeded in international export markets while sustaining its domestic market. Over the past few decades, Klement had a continuous sense for development and market demands and he trusted in the right people and partners. That is how Holtec has grown into an internationally operating, medium-sized company – ‘made in Germany’ – delivering systems on a technically high level and offering market and customer-oriented products. Klement retired from the operating business in 2005, making room for a second generation to take the reins: his daughter and managing director Ute Klement is responsible for human resources and finance, and managing director Alexander Gebele is responsible for technology, marketing and sales.

The path to worldwide success At the point of foundation, the target has been to build up an ‘own production’ in Blumenthal in addition to the sales. In 1972, this idea was realised and the construction of the office building and of the first production hall was started, which have continuously been expanded. In 1991, Holtec

LUMBER PROCESSING

Joint Managing Directors Ute Klement & Alexander Gebele

established a further production facility in Jänkendorf, Saxony, in the east of Germany. There are further modernisations and expansions at both production sites so that the total production area in Blumenthal and Jänkendorf is today 10,000 m² and Holtec is proud of its modern machine park. In order to meet the requirements of the growing international clientele, Holtec ventured overseas and built up the sales organisation, Holtec USA. In 1989, the subsidiary BZH (Baljer & Zembrod, Holtec) was founded in France. Today, Holtec has a worldwide network of agencies.

Focus on log handling Over the past 50 years, more than 350 logyard systems have been delivered and started up. In the beginning, the focus was firmly on systems for thin and long logs. Systems for the handling of short logs as well as high capacity systems were, however, required more and more. The chainless separation technology, mainly fostered by Holtec, has become a brand in the industry sector. Orders placed by industrial giants such as Egger or Klausner who require system availabilities in 24/7 operation led to a breakthrough in the high capacity segment. Today, the V-shaped rollerway Log-Runner sets new benchmarks in log speeds. In combination with the gap optimization system, GapControl, it provides optimal conditions for feeding the sawing lines. Short logs and long logs, logs with small or with large diameters – Holtec is a leader in a wide range of system technology in Europe. The company recently booked two

Log yard mechanisation for handling long and short logs

Holtec supplies complete logyards for the wood based panel industry. This photo shows the plant for producing MDF in the Altai Region in Siberia

Package crosscut saws, thousandfold sold worldwide other large projects: “We are proud to deliver the sawmill infeeds for the Binder group in Baruth and for the greenfield location of Schneider in Meßkirch,” said Alexander Gebele. “This is an ambitious target – in Baruth a capacity of 45 logs/minute is required. Further highlights in Germany this year

are the systems for Gelo and for Schwaiger.”

Breakthrough in wood-based panelling Building on the experiences in log handling, Holtec succeeded

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 25

Modern and compact systems feeding the sawmill with logs in highspeed are real challenges in the sawmill industry

high-capacity logyard with two parallel debarking lines as well as a crosscut saw for first cuts and for cutting fix lengths.

Entrepreneurial vision and highly qualified employees

The stair feeder, a system for separating and feeding industrial logs, is Holtec’s start into the wood based panel industry

in product diversification for the wood-based panel industry at the end of the 1990s. With the innovation of the stair feeder, a future-oriented system for separating and feeding industrial logs, Holtec moved passed established technologies. The first reference system was installed at Kronospan in LUX-Sanem. The market entry to the wood-based panel industry was then officially made and Holtec would not look back. Planning and development of logyards for OSB production were the next target markets for Holtec. With the development of the debarker Variobarker, Holtec completed its portfolio in this segment. Meanwhile, 15 Variobarkers have been delivered

– with a weight of more than 100 tonnes/unit. Today, the biggest players in the European wood-based panel industry trust in Holtec. More than 35 delivered systems to the top-three companies in this industry (Kronospan, Egger and Swiss-Krono) is clear proof for the capacity of the company, located in the Eifel region. Currently, Holtec is delivering a complete logyard to Homanit’s location in Losheim; the third logyard for this group.

New solutions for log conditioning In the past, the main focus of investments in the OSB range focused on east Europe and Russia, up to the permafrost areas. Holtec’s task was extended by de-icing the logs in order to be able to chip them. For this, Holtec developed a

26 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

new log conditioning technology ‘smartcon’, which is, meanwhile, the standard solution for de-icing logs in cold regions. This was reason enough for Holtec to transfer this system to the growing markets of the plywood and LVL production. Successful installations have already been made at Steico in Poland and at Kronospan (UltraPly) in Smorgon (Belarus). From the Swiss-Krono group, Holtec has recently received the largest order in its company history: in 2021, a logyard with two de-icing lines; as well as two debarkers will be installed in Scharja (Russia).

Successful market expansion in Austria When deciding on appropriate equipment technology, the operating costs are more and more important for the operating company. The positive feedback from long-term Holtec customers was also decisive for the traditional and large Austrian players such as the Hasslacher group, Holzindustrie Stallinger and Mayr-Melnhof Holz to decide for Holtec technology. The start-up sawmill Handlos Holzwerke was convinced of chainless technology with its advantages all proven. The equipment is currently installed and will be commissioned in autumn 2020. Just recently, the Pfeifer Group has placed an order that completes Holtec’s debut in Austria. Holtec will deliver a

When a company has been so successfully positioned in the market for 50 years, it is only with the courage to build a foundation, then the entrepreneurial commitment and foresight in the following years – combined with expertise and professional competence – which are proven over decades. A large part of this is thanks to the 180 employees, many highly qualified. Ute Klement and Alexander Gebele lead the company through calm and rough times: crises like the corona pandemic do not weaken the company but rather let it grow as the company recognises the signs of the times and is rewarded for being an early adopter of assisting technologies, like digitalization. With a healthy workload; the daily customer’s confidence; and loyal, highly trained employees being committed to new challenges, Holtec is looking forward to the future and to further interesting tree rings.

Getting chains right The Franzen SA6 – The blue Original

On the cleaning side the Franzen RK cleaning cabinets, available in two different sizes, are suitable for everyone who is in need of an enclosed, manual pressured-air-cleaning-solution. The focus of every Franzen product lies in enthusiastic product quality, designed to best fit customer needs and to ensure a long lifetime and subsistent customer service that is available when customers need it. The Franzen SA6 is an automated sharpening machine for chainsaw chains. It can handle

for a standard chainsaw chain, makes the Franzen SA6 the perfect tool for any chain sharpening professional. The machine’s scanner head senses left and right teeth, as well as broken teeth. It is also capable of sharpening multiple consecutive left and right teeth. Equipped with a versatile cooling solution, that can be switched to air only or spray-mistmode, also heavily used chains can be sharpened in one cycle. Following the goal of selling equipment that is built to last,

Sharpening a HOLTEC 15mm chipper chain any pitch chain from ¼“P to .404“, which doesn´t include special attachments for sawmill-chains like chipper- (15 & 20mm) and scratcher-chains (also carbidetipped and modified-skip-chains!) as well as Mafell-ZSX models. Those attachments are easily

hen Johannes Franzen started to get into chain sharpening in 1985, the method itself was more rudimentary than practical, at least looking at the service life of chain saw chains. 30 years later more than 2000 chain sharpeners have been sold and a broadly based portfolio is offered to customers

from more than 30 countries. An efficient net of distributors was implemented in the key markets to ensure close contact to customers and quick response times for parts and service. Franzen is a mechanical engineering company that has specialised in the field of sharpening, as well as multipurpose cleaning, with innovative inventions. They are based in 53894 Mechernich-Holzheim, Germany in the beautiful “Eifel”region. In the sharpening sector they have successfully established the Franzen SA6 automated chain sharpener, the F33” automated blade sharpener as well as a deburring tool to prepare used chains for sharpening. The BS1000 is a vertical belt sander to complete the product range, that is picking up more and more. The special feature on this machine is the opportunity to sharpen hedge trimmer blades in a new fashion.

the cooling nozzle is driven by a magnetic valve, instead of a pump. Franzen offers a special range of grinding wheels that has been developed over the past 25 years. The range includes corundum wheels as well as diamond wheels for carbide tipped chains.

Sharpening a HOLTEC scratcher chain installed on the machine, so swapping them out does not take more than 5 minutes. Two motors can be set up individually to grind the tooth as well as the depth gauge (if necessary!) of the chain. The short set-up time (approx. 30 seconds)

Interested? Then contact via email: info@franzen-maschinen.de or phone: +49-2484-918950. On the website: www.franzen-maschinen.de you can find more information as well as contact details to their international distributor network.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 27

Cut-in-two boards before they get separated

When Artificial Intelligence Juggles Shifting & Sorting There are several ways to manage the shifting and sorting of boards in a sawmill. Over the years, BID Group, through its Comact brand, has developed and improved its offering in this area, focusing mainly on efficiency to increase sawmill throughput

nspired by its mission to provide industry leading solutions, BID’s multidisciplinary team combined its renowned optimization software with artificial intelligence (AI) to create the next powerful innovations in optimization performance. One of these innovations is the centralized management of the shifting and sorting using the GradExpertTM with AI, the Cut-in-2 system, and the new SortPro software module.

Artificial Intelligence Performance With artificial intelligence, the GradExpertTM can grade up to 300 pieces/minute. The grading decision is based on your grading criteria and product prioritization. Among other functions, this system allows you to conform to NLGA, NHLA, ALSC regulations and other international standards, optimize cutting in N (2 pieces or more), manage rules for cutting in N (identification of combinations that are not allowed), and identify species with at least 98% of accuracy. There is also a high-speed simulator mode that allows you

28 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

to quickly grasp the financial and production impact a grade or a product priority modification may have. It allows you to try out various cuttings in N and sorter simulations to maximize the value of the fiber. The simulation tool gives you the opportunity to maximize your investment in the sorter system since it enables you to make the best decisions according to the value of the products on the market. The GradExpertTM with AI can also manage the automatic lumber sorter using the SortPro software module that merges the optimization platform and the sorter manager to constitute a centralized management that is much more efficient.

Centralized Management with SortPro The new SortPro is a lumber sorter manager software module for sawmills and planer mills. It is a simple, versatile and configurable tool that is seamlessly integrated in your optimization system and it offers a complete centralized management in accordance with the optimizer’s active product list. All sorting management logic is

performed in the optimizer. There is only one product activation required which means less product mismatch problems. You may create and manage product recipes & bundle definitions and incorporate any product created in the optimizer to bundle definitions. The user-friendly Web interface, available on any device in your network, offers easy recipe/batch management, product cancelation, “live” modifications to sorter parameters or bundle definitions without interrupting production, and “live” recipe activation from anywhere via the Web page. There are also several filters for easy recipe/bundle/product management, and distinctive recipe/bundle template and batch management. The SortPro also offers improved management of multiproduct bundles and multiple sorters. Note that all reports are centralized in one database. There are other features

SHIFTING & SORTING – BID GROUP

LUMBER PROCESSING

and options, such as automatic allocation of bundles to available bins, traceability of every board in the bundle, and the destination management of certain products in specific bins or zones. The Maximizer option will even allow you to manage bundle completion during production switches. There is also the possibility to view and manage bin zones, bins and bundles directly from the Web.

It also allows two bundles in the same bin, maximizes the usage and closing of bins, and less physical space is required for the sorter. The speed is maintained as if there was no cutting performed and there is no need to vary the lug loader speed. This is highly efficient and adds up to greater throughput for the sawmill.

Artificial Intelligence Offers Endless Possibilities

Cutting Boards Without Reducing Speed Our high-performance two-level Cut-in-2 system is linked to the optimization platform that uses the GradExpertTM artificial intelligence. It was designed to offer more flexibility and maintain a constant board feet/hour speed during the board cutting process. It is also linked to the SortPro which optimizes the bin management. The Cut-in-2 system is located after the trimmer and once the board is cut in two, the piece aligned on the far end goes on the top transfer and the piece aligned with the near end goes on the lower transfer. A set of rolls ensures each piece is aligned properly to its corresponding zero line, either FE or NE. Afterwards, the two pieces end up on the

Cut-in-two boards after they have been separated by the cut-in-2 system

same lug and move towards their destination bin where all pieces are aligned properly. This allows to maximize the value of the products, facilitate the

These examples demonstrate how our vision and our AI platform propelled us at the forefront of the fourth industrial revolution in the wood processing industry. In the short and medium term, our complete range of machines will benefit from developments in applications that go beyond optimization. As a result, BID Group, through all its brand portfolio, will meet the client’s current and future needs in an outstanding manner and offer a return on investment unparalleled by competition. All of this will be supported by BID Group’s renowned 24/7 service.

management of a complex product basket, create more product combinations, and keep two pieces with different solutions on the same lug.

Interface of the SortPro software module with Far End bins details in the upper section and Near End ones in the lower section

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 29

the FULL PACKAGE

BTB catches up with Sunshine Logging Ltd. after the Kaslo, British Columbia based company purchased two Tigercat 850 processors, each equipped with the Tigercat 568 processing head. Owner Clint Carlson and operators Dave LaMarsh and Kerry Gouldsborough share their thoughts on this new Tigercat roadside processing package.

– SAMANTHA PAUL

unshine Logging is based in Kaslo, a village in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia, Canada – located among picturesque snowcapped mountains on the western shore of Kootenay Lake. Clint runs three ﬁve-piece crews with twenty employees. Each crew has a feller buncher, shovel logger, skidder, processor and loader. Clint started hand falling, line skidding and yarding after high school. In 1989 he started working for Sunshine Logging. Nine years later he purchased half the business, and in 2018 took full ownership. His wife

30 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Vanessa manages the books and keeps everything in order. Clint’s oldest daughter Kelsey runs the company’s safety program and helps out in the ofﬁce. His youngest daughter Julia operates equipment, currently working on the road-building side of the business.

Logging in the Kootenays Sunshine Logging has a one-year renewable harvesting contract with Kalesnikoff Lumber Company based in Castlegar and a contract with Porcupine Wood Products out of Salmo. He also buys timber on private land. “It is a bit of a mix,” says Clint. “That is what the

Kootenays has going for it, we still have a log market here. We still have multiple mills. We don’t have one big licensee in the area running the whole show.” Typical terrain in the Kootenay region is quite steep. The forests generally are mixed stands of ﬁ r, hemlock, cedar and spruce, known as ‘Kootenay Mix.’ “Right now we’re harvesting a 30 hectare [74 acre] tract of Kootenay Mix for Kalesnikoff Lumber Company,” says Clint.

The new iron Sunshine Logging received British Columbia’s third and fourth 850 processors – both equipped with

The 850/568 processing cliffside

the new 568 harvesting head. Clint was tired of playing tug of war between the carrier and head with his processing equipment. “Tigercat is a good product and I was attracted to the full package,” explains Clint. The gear was purchased through Inland sales specialist Jason Quaife out of Cranbrook. With the new Inland dealership in Castlegar, Sunshine Logging will now be serviced by this location. “Castlegar is ramping up. They have hired some new mechanics – it’ll be good for us having a closer branch.” Clint ordered the 850/568 packages in April 2019 and subsequently toured the Tigercat plant in Ontario the following month. “I was impressed. It’s amazing what they’re doing there. It’s a factory with a customer touch,” says Clint. “A lot of the factories I’ve been to, they’re massproducing excavators. You’re just

At the end of the day, the two work better together since they’ve been designed and tested together Clint with youngest daughter and equipment operator Julia getting what everybody is getting. You walk into Tigercat and you can see your machine. There’s a good chance I was climbing through the frame of our 850 when it was still steel,” tells Clint. “As for the head, I think we determined we were watching ours being built when we were there.” “I’m fully aware that we are in a bit of a prototype phase when you get the ﬁrst of anything, but I wasn’t worried,” Clint says. “If any

Clint Carlson, Owner, Sunshine Logging Ltd.

problems do come up, Tigercat has always been good about bringing that improvement back to us. And it’s not my ﬁrst early Tigercat. I bought a brand new 870C buncher in 2005 and we had two early L870s before that.”

First impressions Sunshine Logging’s ﬁrst 850 processor with the Tigercat 568 harvesting head arrived onsite in January 2020. Clint wanted a head

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 31

850/568 processor operator, Kerry Gouldsborough

that could work efficiently in both 20 cm (8 in) pine and 70 cm (30 in) fir. “It is a big factor,” says Clint. “We were worried the head was going to be a bit small since we do push 30 inch wood. The whole thing is getting the right size head to be efficient in both.” Clint provides some feedback on the machine thus far. “The swing on it is really good. I definitely notice a difference from the previous excavator-style carrier. The twin swing drive is a lot better,” he says. “The saw is a lot faster cutting than on excavator conversions, which is saving time, and it’s actually producing a better

product. We’re getting less ladder check,” explains Clint. If the saw cuts too slow and there’s tension in the log when it cuts, it tries to break it, and it will leave splits. Because the saw is cutting faster, it is more of a clean cut. This is especially important as the wood gets bigger. Clint also commented on how the righthand side visibility has improved due to the hooked main boom proﬁle. “It was always a blocked view with the straight style boom,” he says.

Dave LaMarsh Operating the ﬁrst machine Sunshine Logging received is Dave

850/568 processor operator, Dave LaMarsh

LaMarsh. Dave has nineteen years of experience operating equipment, including experience with different brands and multiple processors. Dave comments on the processing performance. “It doesn’t matter if the logs are eight inches or 30 inches, it just pulls them through effortlessly,” Dave asserts. “It’s set up nice. The way the head hangs makes it easy for picking. The length and diameter reading is really good. The length of the logs have not varied two inches from what the reading is telling you,” adds Dave. “The heated seat is awesome and the visibility with the bent boom is

Both Clint and Dave comment on the improved righthand side visibility due to the hooked boom proﬁle

32 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

way better. Overall it’s much better than a regular excavator. That is for sure.”

Kerry Gouldsborough The second 850/568 processor package arrived the first week of February and is operated by Kerry Gouldsborough. At the time of visit the machine had accumulated 120 hours. This is Kerry’s first Tigercat. “It’s fast,” he claims. “I really like it. It’s way quicker than I expected. I find the operating station really comfortable. It’s a small cab but when you’re sitting in there, it’s actually quite comfortable.” “I’m surprised at how big of a

It doesn’t matter if it’s eight inches or 30 inches, it just pulls the logs through effortlessly Dave LaMarsh 850/568 Operator, Sunshine Logging Ltd.

don’t have that issue,” adds Kerry. “Other guys that have run the Tigercat brand all say they’re great. So I was actually quite excited to be getting it, especially brand new, straight out of the box.”

Increased productivity, it’s unanimous Clint, Dave and Kerry have all noticed an increase in productivity

since getting the new machines. “We’re early on, but I think for sure we will see an increase,” says Clint. “We just haven’t got past all the visitors,” he laughs. The crew hasn’t been able to run at full capacity for several weeks due to all the interested people coming out to see the machines in action. Clint wanted the full Tigercat package and is very happy with his

decision. “At the end of the day, the two work better together since they’ve been designed and tested together.” This article originally appeared in Between the Branches, May 2020, the official publication of Tigercat Industries Inc.

piece I can run through that head. I have run logs up to 30 inches through it,” tells Kerry. “I haven’t had to work on the carrier yet but I like how everything is contained. Everything is airy and it opens up well. There is good access into the centre of the machine and all the way around it.” “Because it’s purpose-built, your functions are a lot better,” states Kerry. On his previous processor, if the head was having an issue, it basically eliminated the rest of the hydraulic system. “You had to wait for the head to ﬁnish before you could do anything. It didn’t multi-function as well as the new package. With this, you

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 33

When I saw the new 622B Series-III, I was really amazed Luc Jalbert, Luc Jalbert Foresterie

Waratah releases new HTH622B Series-III Waratah Forestry Equipment has released the new HTH622B Series-III, the next generation of its HTH622B harvester head. The new model combines improved operational performance, proven durability, and new serviceability features for next-level productivity and uptime “The HTH622B has a loyal customer following and is now better than ever – as the new HTH622B Series-III,” said Brent Fisher, Product Marketing Manager, for Waratah. “As our most popular model in its size class, the HTH622B has proven itself as a reliable workhorse for Waratah customers worldwide. But we (Waratah) aren’t content to settle; we’re always looking for ways to improve our products. We’ve been listening to customers and assessing their needs, and their input has driven development in an even better product with the HTH622B SeriesIII. We think our loyal customers and new customers alike will be very pleased with its performance.”

When coupled with the TimberRite H-16 control system, this translates to improved feeding performance, log handling and speed when single stem processing, and pronounced ¾ in pitch saw performance. Additionally, a new measuring arm with 30 mm more travel and sensor protection provides increased accuracy in measuring crooked wood and improved uptime.

Improved durability In addition to enhanced performance, the HTH622B SeriesIII features several upgrades that make the machine even more

Enhanced performance The updated HTH622B Series-III includes several new features that make its performance even smoother and faster. These include a new valve with better flowthrough characteristics for reducing heat, while improving feed speed and sawing performance. 34 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

durable for working in tough woods. A new twin retainer front knife and strengthened upper delimb castings each contribute to improved delimbing durability in the harshest applications. For increased strength and productivity, the head has a new tilt frame and optional integrated color marking system. A newly styled and stronger valve cover and hinges as well as reinforced drive arm covers keep key components covered. Additionally, an optional main saw box strengthening kit for harvesting can provide additional protection, and new top saw motor protection and seals help fight cold weather conditions to improve uptime.

Easier to service The new HTH622B Series-III improves uptime with several

updates that make servicing quicker and easier. Supplementing the new valve performance and reliability is faster access to the valve with new integrated handles, and tool-less entry – followed by an improved and simplified hose layout which provides optimum access and serviceability. Additionally, a larger saw oil filler makes fills faster with less spills. An improved pin retention also reduces stress on pins and need for servicing – maximizing uptime. “When I saw the new 622B Series-III, I was really amazed,” said Luc Jalbert, owner of Luc Jalbert Foresterie. “I was anxious to take it to the woods to try it. And I think they really succeeded; they made a good thing. In the new series, the operators like the tilt; there is more torque on the rollers; the top saw is faster. And the oil cap – it’s really big.” The Waratah HTH622B SeriesIII is available to customers in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and Russia.

NEW H8HD Euca

Harvester Heads

Designed for the PONSSE Bear harvester, but especially it is ideal solution for trackbased machines

More productive Heads hit market Productivity and precision combine to deliver best crop of harvester heads yet for the cut-to-length market

his year’s review of harvester head technology is an outlier for two reasons. The first is that it is clearly our largest review of new heads and upgrades in recent years. Where we have grown used to the development cycle of technologies revealing gradual steps forward, this feature represents something of a step change in new product releases. As usual, these releases focus on heads that are more versatile and capable of reaching into more varied applications, with a keen eye on greater efficiencies in thinning operations, where agility is paramount. The second point of interest for us is that this explosion of technology comes at a time when the world should be, theoretically, in shut down – or at least a lull. Granted, the advances released and described in this feature are the result of many years’ research and development, but the decision to release and push these developments right now speaks to the resilience of the forestry sector, particularly in the parts of the world, such as Europe, where the

cut-to-length harvesting method is dominant.

Ponsse has a long history of manufacturing harvester heads. The first PONSSE harvester head was made in Vieremä in 1986. PONSSE harvester heads have been designed to withstand even the toughest conditions.

They are characterised by a simple and solid structure which enables them to be used in various harvesting applications from harvesters to track-based solutions. Each harvester head model is designed on the basis of efficiency, durability and ease of use. Harvester heads must withstand

in processing, felling NEW H9 Excellent & multi-stemming processing.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 35

extreme conditions while operating accurately and as gently as possible without damaging the trunk surface unnecessarily. All PONSSE harvester heads are manufactured and designed at the Ponsse factory in VieremĂ¤. The design process is comprehensive and covers, in addition to mechanical parts, operating controls and software. The manufacturing process is highly automated to ensure high quality and measuring accuracy. The frames of harvester heads are machined from a single piece after the welding

assembly. This guarantees the highest quality with excellent precision. Durable hoses and delimbing knives form an important part of reliability. Ponsseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selection includes 12 different harvester heads for different conditions from thinning to regeneration felling and processing. The basic product features in all models include powerful feeding as well as quick and efficient sawing. The harvester heads can be adjusted according to the trees harvested and the base machine used, ensuring smooth operations and

a long service life. Their strong grip and accurate measuring system ensure excellent measuring accuracy.

JANNE LOPONEN, Product Manager, Harvester Heads

36 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

1 Strong power, reliable structure and

accurate control in the same package. PONSSE H9 is excellent in processing but suits felling and multi-stemming processing very well. PONSSE H9 head is a real multifunction head. Fast, effective, rational and most important productivity. A harvester head of this size class has never been this versatile.

2 The new H8HD Euca harvester head has

been designed for the PONSSE Bear harvester, but especially it is ideal solution for track-based machines. The H8HD Euca is an effective tool in forests where the diameter of eucalyptus stems can be up to 50 cm.

3 The PONSSE H5 is a multipurpose

harvester head especially suited for efficient thinning.

4 The PONSSE H6 is praised as the best

multipurpose harvester head on the market. It’s suited to a variety of uses, ranging from thinning sites with small trees to regeneration felling.

5 The PONSSE H7 is a compact, robust and powerful harvester head for demanding regeneration felling and later thinning work.

6 The PONSSE H8 is a robust and powerful harvester head for demanding work with large trees. Powerful feed and excellent geometry together with efficient sawing enables high productivity. Also available with a top saw.

7 The PONSSE H10 is the largest harvester

head in the selection, suitable for processing large diameter trees. With a very robust structure, the H10 is designed for track-based machines weighing over 25 tonnes. In spite of its size, the H10 is not only suitable for processing but also felling.

ONSSE H7 Euca is designed for 8 P

processing and debarking eucalyptus trees. Thanks to its excellent geometry, the H7 Euca works well with big trees. Suitable for both wheeled and track-based machines.

9 The PONSSE H77 Euca is an efficient and durable debarking harvester head for processing smaller eucalyptus trees. The H77 Euca is characterised by the feed

rollers on the sides, enabling very efficient debarking. If necessary, the H77 Euca can be equipped for conventional harvesting. Suitable for both wheeled and track-based machines.

10 The PONSSE H7HD is a very robust and

strong harvester head primarily for large wheeled harvesters and tracked based machines. The structure is based on the popular H7 model, but it has been reinforced for the special operating conditions of track-based machines.

11 The PONSSE H8HD is a robust harvester

head with high power and excellent geometry for demanding conditions. The H8HD is designed for demanding use on large track-based machines with a powerful hydraulic system. Also available with a top saw.

to constantly be aware of hosepositions when rotating; this is especially useful when, for example, they are working in dense stands with low visibility and/or when processing and sorting wood out of a pile. The rotator is currently at work on three different continents and is planned for release during the June quarter next year.

Fully compatible with Ponsse Opti

The SP 661 LF on Ponsse Bear SP Maskiner was founded in 1978 and presented the world´s first ever single grip harvester head in 1980. The company claims to have more experience than any other manufacturer in developmenting and delivering harvester heads for the professional forestry sector.

Continuous rotator Due to customer demands, SP has developed a continuous rotator

to suit both the 591 LX, 661 LF as well as 761 LF head models. It is an extremely heavy duty and robust rotator that is primarily designed to be used for installations on tracked carriers. Obvious benefits of the rotator are the elimination of risk around over-rotating the head and damaging hoses, cables and fittings. Also, the operator enjoys the benefit of not having

SP harvester heads have long been fully compatible with almost all measuring and control systems available on the market such as Dasa, Komatsu MAXI, John Deere Timbermatic and Timberrite. The latest addition is the Ponsse Opti, where currently both the SP 4651 LF head and SP 661 LF head are working on Ponsse carriers controlled by the original Ponsse Opti measuring system. In many instances, contractors wanting to change to an SP harvester head have been held back because the SP harvester heads could not be controlled by

the Ponsse Opti computer system. “Now we offer a fully compatible design and we foresee quite large demand from customers wanting to use SP harvester heads also on Ponsse carriers,” SP Export Manager Anders Gannerud said.

The continuous rotator is an extremely heavy duty and robust rotator that is primarily designed to be used for installations on tracked carriers

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 37

The John Deere H415 Harvesting Head

The John Deere lineup of H200- and H400-Series Harvesting Heads provide loggers with excellent power-to-weight ratio, aboveaverage tree delimbing, precise measurements for cut-to-length applications and heightened maneuverability.

Ideal for processing both softwood and hardwood, the H200-Series Harvesting Heads offer a two-wheel drive feeding and powerful delimbing knives. This series ensures solid feeding despite crooked trees. The H400Series product family offers fourwheel drive and manufacturing standards that loggers rely on for their toughest jobs. Another notable feature from John Deere is Intelligent Boom Control (IBC), which improves and enriches operation when combined with a compatible harvesting head. IBC is currently available on the CH6 boom on the 1170G harvester, the CH7 boom on the 1270G harvester, and the CH9 boom on the 1470G harvester. When equipped with IBC, the harvester head and the movement of the boom improves operator control, resulting in increased precision. New operators can learn how to utilize IBC quickly and efficiently.

H270 Series II Harvesting Head

The John Deere H290 Harvesting Head

38 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

The John Deere H270 Series II Harvesting Head is built for superior performance yet simple execution. With long knives and wide-opening two feed rollers,

their next-level performance promises accurate length and diameter measuring and easy fell cutting. The headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floating front knife merged with four moving knives help facilitate impeccable feeding performance. The H270 Series II Harvesting Head also offers multitree-handling options that ensure improved performance smooth delimbing processes no matter the size of the tree.

H290 Harvesting Head Perfect for new-generation harvesting, the H290 Head was designed for use with large wheeled or track harvesters. The headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capable top saw and dual-speed feeding motors allow for fast, forceful large-volume harvesting. With long cutting knives, the head can fell and process trees up to 760 mm in diameter while maximizing productivity in hardwood processing and harvesting.

H413 Harvesting Head The H413 Head is capable of a variety of harvesting jobs such as early to late thinnings and regeneration harvesting. When combined with multi-tree-

New H424 harvester head for later thinning and final felling handling equipment, the H413 Head is sturdy, fast-paced and extremely accurate saw masters felling and crosscutting. The H413 featured four-wheel drive and hydraulically-connected feed rollers, guaranteeing fast feeding. The dense frame, four moving knives, and optimal placement of a fixed delimbing knife provide outstanding delimbing performance. The H413 features exceptional power-to-weight ratio, effortless serviceability, and overall high-quality operation, ensuring it meets the needs of any logger.

H415 Harvesting Head Boasting strength and stamina for large timber, the H415 Harvesting Head utilizes large-timber-cutting power with first-rate delimbing properties. The trustworthy design of the feed-roller-arm assures that the H415 can grip and carry trunks of all diameter ranges. Built to perform high-level tree-processing, the H415 provides a solution for three different tree stem types: standard (narrow stem), buttress (wide stem), and top saw (processing and hardwood). H415 is equipped with the sought-after MultiSpeed feeding feature, easing the feeding and delimbing processes for loggers. The head also contains feed motors that adjust depending on tree diameter, feed speed, and tree species. Delimbing begins at first gear, while MultiSpeed provides high torque at a low speed. MultiSpeed employs the highest possible hydraulic power and feed torque, giving loggers the appropriate tools to operate on large trees with heavy branches. With a raised frame and hydraulic solution, the H415 Head helps control the felling process while supporting long-lasting hoses. Feeding is immensely improved with the H415 due to the placement of the delimbing knives and its strong grip and trunk handling features.

The new H424 harvester head replaces the previous, bestselling H414. The H424 has a redesigned look. The changes based on customer feedback improve productivity, ease of service, durability, uptime, measuring accuracy and reduce daily operating costs. This model is also equipped with the new SuperCut 100S saw unit. The H424 harvester head is available for John Deere 1070G, 1170G and 1270G harvesters. The H424 is a medium-size harvester head designed for later thinning and final felling where the tree diameter at chest height is 150–430 mm. The H424 is also well suited for handling crooked wood and working on slopes. The harvester head’s robust structure, improved hose routing and easy access to service points have convinced customers.

H424 product improvements The new PEVO valve improves the harvester head’s performance, adjustability and economy compared to its predecessor. Improved hose routing from loader to harvester head and from valve block to feed motors improves the durability of the hoses. The new hinged valve block cover makes daily maintenance easy. Grease points and the saw chain oil tank are also easier to access, and the greasing intervals have been extended compared to before. The harvester head’s backwards tilt angle has been increased by 4°, which improves the grip of the stem in the grapple when feeding backwards and makes it easier to work on slopes. The fixed rear knife has been shortened for easier handling of crooked stems and hardwood. Also the placement of the rear delimbing knives has been changed to improve colour-coding accuracy. A more robust tilt frame for demanding conditions is available. • Max. cutting diameter 620 mm

H424

New SuperCut 100S saw unit for all John Deere harvester heads. In 2020, all John Deere harvester heads will have the new SuperCut 100S saw unit. The saw unit’s next-generation chain tensioning unit, automatic chain tensioning, and mechanical bar locking give it added efficiency and reliability. The improved chain release makes it easier to replace the saw chain. The new saw unit enables also a bigger selection in terms of saw motors and saw bars.

John Deere harvester heads are known for their productivity, reliability and measuring accuracy. John Deere harvester heads are high performance tools that meet the industry’s stringent quality requirements in all working conditions. Harvester head testing is part of John Deere’s product testing process. Each harvester head model has been field-tested for thousands of hours before the start of serial production. John Deere harvester heads are designed and manufactured in Finland.

• Max. feed roller opening 640 mm • Feeding force 27 kN • Max. feeding speed 4.3-5.3 m/s • Weight starting at 1100 kg

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 39

New Keto continuous 360° plus rotator

Unlimited 360 ° Plus Rotators are now available The following models can be ordered with the CONTINUOUS 360° Plus rotator; Keto-51 Eco LD3 Keto-100 Karate Keto-150 Keto-600+ Keto-800+ series Keto are in the process of gradually including this rotator to other models

CONTINUOUS 360° PLUS ROTATOR This is the newest updated in Keto head family. It meant to enhance the efficiency significantly in every day operation. Kone-Ketonen has filed a patent application for the rotator as it incorporates new and unparalleled features.

The 360° Plus continuous rotator expedites the felling work. The tree can be approached from any direction. The felling head can be rotated unlimited in both directions without damaging the hoses or trees. The 360° Plus continuous rotator also facilitates maintenance work, whit the easy access to the hoses and fittings. This new rotator increases the service interval for hoses, which saves the service costs. The hoses are not moving and wearing out and they are much shorter.

We have been involved in this Keto’s continuous rotator project since day one. We are running them on a bunch of Keto heads, each getting 100h per week, over 4000h per season. Sure, we had some hick-ups in the early stages, but Keto took care of them quickly. Today we have the total of over 30000h on these rotators, and they work very well. No more old hose issues, more rotating power, fool proof electrical swivel, simple and compact unit - there is no way going back to the old setup. Desmond Major, Major’s Logging Limited, Deer Lake, NL, Canada:

Rotator for smaller models: Suitable for

0 45 links & 0 45 swing dampers

Benefits

Rotator Max Torque

1050 Nm(@ 100 Bar)

The 360° Plus continuous rotator provides significantly more rotational force: up to 1050 Nm at a pressure of 100 bar. In forest thinning, this also increases the efficiency.

Rotar Max Static Load

146 kN (15 metric ton)

40 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Rotator for large models: Rotator Max Torque

1800 Nm(@ 100 Bar)

Rotar Max Static Load

450 kN (46 metric ton)

Forestry contractor Hannu Siukola introduced his Keto-51 LD3 with unlimited rotating rotator and SampoRosenlew HR46x harvester at Forest Machine Demo Day, in Kangasala.

Helping drivers work The 360° Plus continuous rotator revolutionizes the usability of the harvester head. • Trees can be approached from any direction • Dangling hoses cannot be cut or damaged by the saw • Hoses cannot be twisted anymore around the tilt • No more pulled out electrical cable or wires • Increased service life for hoses and fittings • More powerful and precise rotational motion • Built-in sawing feature • Easy ad well designed service access

The hose bundle does not interfere with trees. It is faster to rotate the head to the next tree. I will not go back to the old, limited rotators. This is a keeper! Hannu Siukola,

KETO500 EcoProcessor and 360º PLUS ROTATOR UNLIMITED 360º PLUS ROTATORS ARE NOW AVAILABLE Have You heard about this innovate product?

The following models can be ordered with the CONTINOUS 360º Plus rotator:

Keto-51 Eco LD3, Keto-100 Karate, Keto-150, Keto-500 and the largest Keto-600+ and Keto-800+ series heads.

We are in the process of gradually including this rotator to the other models.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 41

The latest addition to Tigercatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s line of harvesting heads is the 568.

Tigercat harvesting heads are built to match the high-performance capabilities of Tigercat track and wheel carriers and are well suited to a variety of jobs including atthe-stump harvesting, roadside processing and debarking.

The 570 The 570 is most productive working with trees 15-50 cm (6-20 in) in diameter in softwood and hardwood stands. Although best suited to the Tigercat H845 series, the 570 is designed to work with the H822, H855 and 1185 carriers, or a 20-25 t forestry excavator. With optional hydraulically timed processor knives, the 570 can also be used for roadside processing. The 570 has recently proved itself beneficial in debarking eucalyptus. The wheel arms, pins, bushings, cylinders, feed motors and rotator are shared with the 575 model for proven strength and long life. The chassis is designed for optimum strength-to-weight with focus on visibility, component protection and quick service access. A new integrated valve package enhances performance and service access

with fewer hoses and connections to improve reliability. Clean electrical routing with common service parts further increases up-time. An optional top-saw is available for the 570 giving it more versatility. The top saw housing is integrated into the saw chassis, providing optimum head balance, weight, and structure.

The 575 The 575 is a heavy duty threewheel drive harvesting head also best suited to in-stand harvesting in the 175-560 mm diameter range. It is very effective in tough applications like large limbed hardwood and crooked trees. With optional mechanically timed processor knives for easier picking, the 575 is also an excellent

roadside processing head. The 575 features Tigercatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique three-two drive system. When processing a tree, the head starts in three-wheel drive, maximizing feed force for faster acceleration and quickly powering through bigger trees. As the load drops, it automatically shifts to two-wheel drive, improving efficiency and increasing feed

The 570 is most productive working with trees 15-50 cm (6-20 in) in diameter in softwood and hardwood stands.

42 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

speed up to 30%. Both the 570 and 575 use larger diameter hoses and larger capacity valves than similar class heads to match the greater hydraulic flow and power of Tigercat harvester carriers.

The 568 The latest addition to Tigercat’s line of harvesting heads is the 568. The new 568 harvesting head is a robust, high performance head designed for tracked carriers. It is best suited for road-side processing applications, with trees in the 15-55 cm (6-22 in) range. With timed knife arms and triangulated wheel arms, the 568 can quickly pick and maintain positive tree contact and control. The patented 4WD-2WD auto-shift drive system provides extra power and positive grip when feeding large trees, fast speed in smaller trees and full manual control when needed. Knife arms feature doubleedged, replaceable blades with optimal contour for clean delimbing. The front floating knife with spring preload follows the contour of the tree further enhancing delimbing performance. Single or dual-track length measuring wheels and dual diameter encoders assure superior measuring accuracy. Other features of the 568 include optional conventional

The 575 is a heavy duty three-wheel drive harvesting head also best suited to in-stand harvesting in the 175-560 mm diameter range boom or through-tip boom continuous rotation, laser diffuse or through-beam find end sensors, colour marking and various feed wheels.

D5 Control System Tigercat’s D5 control system gets the most from Tigercat harvesting heads. The D5 system combines field-proven hardware and bucking control with a simple and intuitive Tigercat-developed user interface. Available in three levels of control and reporting, the D5 system handles multiple jobs with

multiple operators, and allows for customizing menus and settings, right down to joystick button functions. Over 70 operator specific parameters to tailor controls to each operator’s desires. Multiple password protected logins give each operator their own secure identity. The clean and easy to follow layout of the touch control screen allows the operator to make adjustments as easily as using a smartphone or tablet. Touching the length or diameter log symbols immediately direct

you to the calibration setting screens. Indicator icons link to relevant setting screens. Production windows link directly to production reports and bucking instructions. The main diagnostics screen is a map of the system. Simply touching a controller icon takes you directly to where you need to be and makes diagnosing faults quick and easy. Running a harvesting head doesn’t need to be difficult, and with the Tigercat D5 system, it isn’t.

The highly anticipated 850 processor equipped with the robust 568 harvesting head operating cliffside in the Kootenay region of British Columbia. The 850/568 package provides contractors with an all-Tigercat roadside processing solution.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 43

Reliable Komatsu S132 in a new version The 2021 version of the Komatsu S132 introduces a number of functions and improvements that make an already welladapted harvester head even more versatile and suited to demanding logging assignments. The reliable and service-friendly design has been updated with new features such as Constant Cut as standard, improved length measuring and a reinforced frame.

ogether with the twin feed rollers, the sturdy build makes the Komatsu S132 a highly reliable head, with the frame now reinforced exactly where needed, such as around the vertical knife and the end stops for the wheel arms. With Constant Cut as standard, the Komatsu S132 delivers a steady maximum chain speed of 40 m/s. The saw unit design ensures that the saw motor does not run too fast while reducing the risk of cutting

44 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

cracks and thereby increasing productivity. To ensure the best possible measurement accuracy, the length measuring function has been improved and reinforced. The measuring wheel cylinder, the hydraulics and the measuring wheel arm and its mount have been updated, and the head also boasts a brand-new measuring wheel unit, complete with a larger measuring wheel. “These changes enable the measuring wheel to better follow the contours of the stem, thereby providing even better measurement accuracy,” explains Tobias Ettemo, product manager at Komatsu Forest. The Komatsu S132 has a brand-new rotator that has been redesigned to meet market demand for functionality, performance and service life. What’s more, the head has a larger tilt angle. The generous 133-degree angle affords the head greater manoeuvrability while reducing loads when working in steep terrain. The head has smart hose routing and protected head components and is very service-friendly, with easy access to service points, the valve assembly and other important parts. The colour marking tank has an improved

These changes enable the measuring wheel to better follow the contours of the stem, thereby providing even better measurement accuracy, Tobias Ettemo, Product Manager Komatsu Forest.

design for easier filling while its hose routing has been moved to the inside of the frame to avoid unnecessary wear. One new option for the Komatsu S132 is the Find End Laser, a function that resets the length measurement without the need for a new cut. This maximises timber length and increases production capacity. Further to this, the head now has several options that enable it to be mounted on an excavator, such as a choice of two different felling links and a reinforced base plate. “Together, this all makes the Komatsu S132 a productive and reliable head suited to all kinds of forests,” Ettemo concludes.

New Komatsu harvester head – the S162E, adapted for eucalyptus Komatsu Forest presents a brandnew harvester head specially adapted for the harvesting of eucalyptus. The head is called Komatsu S162E, where the E stands for eucalyptus.

lready 20 years ago, the company launched the first harvester head adapted for eucalyptus, the 370E, which was equipped with a more robust frame construction and a felling link dimensioned for the power of an excavator. The head has been much appreciated and has over the years gained two companions in the eucalyptus forest, V132E and C202E. However, all these heads are modified and originally designed for softwood, i.e. pine and spruce. The new Komatsu S162E is specially designed for fast and efficient felling in eucalyptus stands. With sustainability and

The all-new Kesla 14RH is the smallest harvester head in Kesla’s range

The all-new Kesla 14RH is the smallest harvester head in Kesla’s range. Despite its size, it makes use of the technology, structural solutions and manufacturing knowhow of large harvester heads. With the new model, Kesla strengthens its position as a leading harvester head manufacturer independent from base machines. Suitable for tractors, small harvester base machines and excavators The 14RH is suitable for installation on tractors, thinning harvesters and excavators up to approximately 5 t. Straightforwardness, simplicity and great efficiency are the core characteristics of the small head.

Unlike the larger Kesla harvester heads, the 14RH head applies the traditional side-squeezing feed roller geometry, which has the advantages of a very simple structure, lightness and efficiency in feeding small-diameter trees. Depending on the size of the traction motors selected, the head only requires an oil supply of 120-150 litres/minute, making it ideal for the hydraulics of modern tractors. Kesla also offers a PTO-driven auxiliary hydraulic supply package optimised for harvester use, which, in addition to additional output, has the advantage of separating the harvester head into its own hydraulic circuit, adding power to the use of the crane during

longevity in focus, the head has been designed to withstand the tough stresses it is subjected to. The fact that the components of the head are well-proven ensures efficient felling in challenging conditions. The S162E is optimised for delimbing and debarking eucalyptus trees with a diameter of between 20-26 cm. To optimise the debarking process, the head has angled feed roller arms, and the frame has a support roller in the middle to minimise friction. The head is also equipped with four hydraulically manoeuvrable delimbing knives and a fixed top knife, which further improves the debarking process. In order to reduce environmental impact caused by oil leakage, the hoses of the head are equipped with ORFS couplings. “With its unique characteristics, the S162E becomes an efficient and well-adapted harvester head

harvesting. The auxiliary hydraulic supply package also makes combiuse easy when operators can detach the harvester head, boom hoses and pump equipment neatly without opening the hoses. The 14RH has three delimbing knives that, together with the short head frame length, make it especially agile and efficient in handling curved and branchy trees. Thanks to the rear knife, spruce bases also get delimbed nicely. The head’s hydraulic solutions and component choices are largely based on the larger Kesla harvester heads made for demanding professional use and on the longterm experience gained from them. Considering the size class of the harvester head, the sturdy and highly efficient saw unit powered by an 18 cc motor is familiar from the Kesla SH series stroke harvesters. The harvester head features a strong two-cylinder tilt, ensuring controlled and safe tree felling. The 14RH works best with a tree diameter of less than 25 cm. “Applying the long-term experience and know-how gained from Kesla’s heavy-duty professional harvester heads has given us a real thinning powerhouse here,” says Business Director Mika Tahvanainen. “The 14RH brings power and features to users that have never been seen in this size and

for eucalyptus harvesting,” says Tobias Ettemo, Product manager at Komatsu Forest. The head will primarily be mounted on excavators but is also available for rubber wheel machines, such as the Komatsu 951 harvester.

Kesla’s heavy-duty professional harvester heads has given us a real thinning powerhouse here Mika Tahvanainen, Kesla weight class before,” Tahvanainen continues.

Durability and serviceability Serviceability of the harvester head is excellent. The protective covers open completely, making it easy to access the items needing service. The availability and management of spare parts have been the focus of attention right from the design stage – for example, all actuators have been implemented using the same cylinder type. In view of the harvester head size class, the heat-treated shafts are sturdy ensuring a long service life, similarly to all bearings. The Continued on p68

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 45

on the head thanks to Improved accessibility, well laid out hoses and grease nipples makes life easier.

Strength and durability

7000XT Top Saw At the last 2020 Oregon Logging Conference, Log Max presented to the public the next generation 7000XT Top Saw

his pre-series was due for testing under 2020 before a release later this year, there has been some delay due to covid-19 situation yet there is hope for the series production to start at the beginning of 2021. The new log max 7000XT is a durable, easy-to-work, accurate, and intelligent workmate, ready for the toughest applications. Weighing 2 270 kg (5,004 lbs) it has everything you would expect from a modern harvesting head and is designed to withstand the toughest applications no matter how or where in the world you use it. It offers accurate and precise length and diameter measuring and has many smartly designed features that greatly simplify service.

What makes the 2020 7000XT Top Saw special : • D urability: the frame is reinforced in many places to withstand the toughest jobs and increase lifespan. • Cutting performance, the 7000XT Top Saw as new saw valves for both units that have been optimized to offer fast, troublefree cutting. • The measuring results, there is a high requirement for today’s harvester heads to deliver precise measurement results. The 7000XT measuring unit has been redesigned to meet these requirements. • Simplicity & ease of access: It’s now even easier to perform regular maintenance and service

To improve the frame’s durability and life span, the attachments for all the delimbing knives and for the feed roller arms have been strengthened. The lower knife has a new reinforced mechanical stop in both open and closed positions. In the open position, the inside of the frame has been strengthened, inside the oil tank. In the closed position, a mechanical stop has been integrated in the frame. To increase the lower knifes lifting capacity and improve the stem holding, the cylinder for the lower knife has been upgraded. Both the lower knife attachment and the knife itself are updated to work optimally with the new larger cylinder. The frame’s design around the measuring wheel hole has been modified and the stoppers for the roller arms on the inside of the frame reinforced. A replaceable wear plate has been added on the frontside of the Top Saw box. Instead of wearing down the centerline of the frame, the new wear plate will take the hit. The 7000XT Top Saw will, from now on, be equipped with a hydraulic top knife as standard. This feature allows the upper knife to automatically retract when the

The new contactless measuring unit has conical roller bearings that better withstand radial forces. It also has a removable grease nipple on the cover

A new, more powerful cylinder and reinforced lower knife

46 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

head feeds in reverse, a good way to protect the knife from damage. The 7000XT has new reinforced knives with welded knives edges. The knife-edge has an increased thickness and is interchangeable. The tip of the knifes have a smaller round tip, which makes them function more like a tweezer, making it easier to pick stems from a woodpile. The knives are also better suited for hardwood thanks to a steeper angle of the lower part of the knife helping to fend away thicker branching. The lower knife is reinforced to adapt to the new, more powerful cylinder.

Cutting performance The head comes equipped with the 611 has the main saw and the 318 for the top saw. The saw 611 has a 60cc (3.66 cu.in) motor, manual chain tensioning and 3/4” chain, the top saw is the 318 with a 30cc (1.83 cu.in) motor and automatic tensioning. To increase the performance and durability of the top saw, a new valve has been added. It has also been given a new position on the frame to simplify service and settings. The main saw also has a new valve that provides increased durability and better controllability of the saw. The valve has a new placement, directly mounted on

A new saw position, larger saw cylinder and saw valve placement improve cutting

the motor outlet, which minimizes the risk of cavitation. To improve cutting, the position of the main saw has been optimized. This modified geometry provides a faster cutting cycle and minimizes the risk of the wood splitting during cutting. This change in design of the saw box also provides extra room for the new, more powerful, saw cylinder.

Improved length measurement function & New contactless sensor To offer the best measurement results, the length measurement function has been totally rethought. The design of the measure wheel cylinder, the hydraulic circuit have been

improved and the measuring wheel arm and its attachment reinforced. The new measuring wheel unit includes a larger diameter measuring wheel. Altogether, the changes will allow the measuring wheel to follow the contour of the stem even better and provide the best measurement results. The new length measuring sensor is now contactless meaning that there are no mechanical moving components that will result in minimal or even service and maintenance free sensor. The spring-loaded sensor is placed in the arm and retained by a lock ring. An o-ring prevents it from turning, a magnet is fixed to the cover which is part of the wheel assembly. The measuring wheel assembly has also been equipped

The new knives contour and tips make it easier to pick up logs form a woodpile

with a new bearing with tapered rollers which provides a more stable and stronger construction. To simplify the maintenance of the roller bearing, a lubrication point on the aluminium cover of the measuring unit has been added. The heads come with many more improvements, such as the new laser find end sensor, the integrated safety pin attachment, hose protections that protects the base machine hoses from sticks coming from the front.

WSM hails high volume, automated bale processing Efficiency and capacity define this waste processing system

S manufacturer WSM’s bale processing system is an automated, high-volume processing system for baled agricultural residuals that delivers process-ready feedstock for largescale bio-fuel, bio-refining, biopower, and animal feed operations. A single line system consists of five integrated processing modules to process 40-50 bales per hour. Multiple lines can be installed for additional capacity. Bulk receiving, singulating, orientation, and inspection are the first stage of this innovative process. The unique quality control inspection station with reject option provides an added layer of protection.

WSM’s bale destringer removes twine, with an adjustable opening to handle various sized rectangular bales. The built-in disposal system removes string from the processing line. WSM’s bale chopper deconstructs the bale and performs the initial size reduction. WSM’s screening/cleaning system reduces maintenance by

pre-screening dirt, grit, ferrous metal, and other contaminants from chopped fibre and classifies sized material prior to milling for reduced power consumption. “The system produces processready feedstock, sized to work with conversion technology, with WSM’s massive super shredders,” the manufacturer stated.

“These high capacity and high efficiency machines, suitable for 24/7 operations, ensure you get the finished product you need.”

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 47

Common Ground AFTER LOGGING CREWS LEAVE, DOYLE HANCOCK & SONS PREPARES SITES FOR PLANTING SEEDLINGS AND REJUVENATION

Andy & Dean Hancock

Story - Kevin Orfield Photography - Michael J Newell

oday, the United States has 20 percent more trees than it did when the first Earth Day was celebrated 50 years ago in 1970. Sustainable forestmanagement practices have been key to making this happen. Over 90 percent of the wood harvested in the U.S. comes from private forests, and in the Southern U.S. almost 90 percent of forests are owned by private landowners. These landowners are good stewards of the land, planting more than four million trees per day, or 2.5 billion trees per year.* That’s a lot of trees.

48 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Site preparation is one of the most important aspects of seeing to it that the seedlings survive and the stand succeeds. At a clear-cut site near the Florida border in Saint George, Georgia, two John Deere 640L-II Skidders are hard at work. But instead of skidding wood, the two machines are preparing the area for seedlings. One machine runs a large chopper attachment, basically a huge drum that chops material into small pieces. Another skidder with a Savannah bedding plow rolls up the material into beds

for planting the seedlings. Larger debris is raked away by a John Deere 624K Wheel Loader. Since 1990, Doyle Hancock & Sons in Sylvester, Georgia, has been doing seedling-bedding work in this region for Rayonier Advanced Materials™ and private landowners, mostly on pine plantations. The clear-cut sites are typically on 20-year rotations and used for pulp. “It’s amazing when you return to a site you worked on 20 years ago,” says Co-Vice President Andy Hancock. “It seems like only yesterday, but then it

makes me realize how old I am (laughs). We’re proud to play a role in the sustainable management of these forests.”

Planting the seedlings for future growth Andy and his brother Dean grew up in Sylvester, which is about two hours north of Saint George. “It was great living in this small community, hunting and fishing with our father Doyle,” recalls Andy. “Dean and I always got along really well. There’s never really been any conflict.”

ALMOST

OVER

OF HARVESTED WOOD COMES FROM PRIVATE FORESTS

TREES ARE PLANTED PER DAY IN THE SOUTHERN U.S.

90% 4M = 2.5B TREES ANUALLY

*Sources: American Forest & Paper Association, forestlandowners.com, and twosidesna.org.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 49

Deere has been a large part of our success ANDY HANCOCK, Co-Vice President, Doyle Hancock & Sons Construction, Inc

4182 GA Highway 33 So. Doerun, GA 31744

“It was a peaceful area to grow up in — not a lot of traffic,” says Dean. “Working with my brother has been great. He handles the office and I’m out in the field. It’s a great combination. We think alike, like twins. If we ever had a difference with Dad, it was always two on one (laughs).” Today their father is content to let his sons run the business while he putters around with his 1950s-era John Deere 420 Utility Tractor. Originally a farmer, Doyle started the land-clearing company in the 1970s with a single bulldozer, which he used to build ponds and roads for other farmers. In the early 1990s, Doyle started clearing land for pine forests in southeastern Georgia and northern Florida, and the company began using Deere skidders for chopping and bedding. The opportunity helped the company diversify, while the region’s sandy soil allowed crews to work year-round, unlike the much shorter season in rainy Sylvester. Today the skidders prepare approximately 700 to 800 acres a week, or about 20,000 acres of land per year. “With their great flotation and ground clearance, skidders are the perfect machine for this work,” says Dean. “Although they are good for

50 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

general land clearing, dozers are too big and slow for bedding.” Since the early 1990s, the company has grown from three or four employees to 45 today. During the 2000s, the company began branching off doing construction work closer to home in Sylvester, including clearing land for highways and large developments, grading roads and parking lots, and utility work for cities and municipalities. Today 12 employees handle the forestry work. The crew typically leaves early Monday morning, often not returning until Friday night. Weather is a challenge, so the crew frequently puts in 12-hour days to keep on schedule. “We’ve been able to hire some really great people, which has been key to making this all work,” says Andy. “Some of our employees at that operation have been with us over 20 years.” “We’ve always focused on having good people and good equipment,” adds Dean. “John Deere skidders are all we’ve ever used. We’ve had great success with them. We have tight margins, so we need to be productive.” Currently the company runs eight John Deere skidders. In addition to the two 640L-IIs and a 640L, they also own three

748H machines and two G-Series models. “We started out with a 648E Skidder,” says Fred Jefferson, who supervises the forestry crew. “I think the 640L is the best thing that ever came along. Our operators love it. It has plenty of cab room. It’s got the rotating seat that improves rear visibility with minimal neck strain. And now the L-Series II models have new steering stops that cushion impacts at full articulation. We turn at the end of every row, which adds up. After a 12-hour shift, operators don’t feel so beat up.” One of the main reasons the company chose John Deere skidders is the transmission. The easy-to-use Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) combines the efficiency of a direct-drive transmission with the smoothness and operating ease of a hydrostatic drive. “We’ve had very good luck with them,” says Dean. “They don’t overheat like torque-converter transmissions. And there’s no shifting. You simply set the maximum speed and let the transmission do the rest. This makes it easier for new operators to learn, while helping our experienced operators be more productive.”

DURABLE AND DEPENDABLE The company runs its skidders an average of 2,500 hours a year. “We went 10 or 12 years before replacing the original John Deere skidders we bought in the 1990s,” says Andy. “We have some skidders approaching 50,000 hours, which is pretty rare. Why change when everything is working?” Andy is impressed by the changes to the L-Series II Skidders. “They’ve really streamlined the design, and that’s advantageous to us,” he says. “A lot of details make them more reliable and easier to maintain — for example, simplifying the hydraulic and electrical routing to reduce wear.” The company’s local John Deere dealer, Flint Equipment Company, also helps keep the machines up and running. With multiple locations, they are rarely more than an hour away. “Our dealer has been great to work with,” says Dean. “We’ve had very few issues. Deere has been a large part of our success.” It’s all about the people you surround yourself with, according to Andy: “We’ve been just so fortunate to have long-standing relationships with such good people. We enjoy working with our dealer, our clients, and our employees. We couldn’t do it without them.” Doyle Hancock & Sons Construction, Inc. is serviced by Flint Equipment Company, Albany, Georgia.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 51

PONSSE HISTORY

“This is a Ponsse that will get logs from the bogs and deep snow. Just like its name-sake catches hares in the same places.” Einari Vidgrén (1943–2010), Founder of Ponsse

THE PONSSE STORY

he mixed breed dog running around the Vieremä village would not have guessed that its name would be remembered for decades. The first forwarder developed by forest machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgrén was named Ponsse after that dog. There was a stray mixed breed dog in the village at that time. It had a long body and it was grey and quite ugly It was called Ponsse. But it was a good harrier and never gave up when hunting. No matter the weather, no matter the place – heaths, swamps, clumps of spruce or thick coppices – it would hunt. When hunters went out with Ponsse, they never came back empty-handed.

Kauko Väisänen, the husband of Einari’s sister, and a skilled local blacksmith, lent his forge. It was there, in the ordinary village forge, that the first “forest machine factory” was established. The sounds of banging and clanging iron and welding noises could be heard from morning to night from the village forge. Absolute expertise in welding was represented by Lauri Uuksunen. The days were filled with planning and building different alternatives. The axles were taken from an old wheel loader. A powerful engine was attached to the frame. A wärtsilä loader was installed on top. The villagers were eager to see how the work was going, and when seeing the machine they wondered, “What kind of a ‘Ponsse’ is that going to be?” “Now it even has a name. It’s going to be a Ponsse”, laughed Einari. After months of hard work, in the late winter of 1969, a grey – and many thought ugly – load-

52 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

bearing forest tractor was driven out of the village forge. It was the first Ponsse. It was put into use at Tehdaspuu’s logging site. After a year of operation, the people from Tehdaspuu called and said: “Why don’t you make more of these forest tractors? It has hauled twenty-five thousand five hundred

cubic meters of piled wood, and it has needed the least servicing.” Hearing that request, Einari jumped up and said to his wife, “I’m going to start a factory!” “A factory!” said his wife surprised. “That’s right, a factory,” said Einari and left. He set off in his car towards the village.

TEST DRIVING IN NISSILÄ GOOD EXPERIENCE GAINED FROM THE FOREST TRACTOR PROTOTYPE FROM VIEREMÄ The manufacturing of forest tractors has kicked off in Vieremä. The first Ponsse forest tractor that Einari Vidgrén has had built has been tested for some time already at a Metsäliitto site in the forest of Viljo and Martti Sahlström forest in Nissilä. The test drives in difficult terrain have been successful, even beyond expectations.

”We will start building two similar machines immediately, and a larger production series will be started when the industrial building of the town is completed,” says forest machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgrén. “Through the years, I have come to the conclusion that forest tractors built using farm factor parts and models are not durable enough for difficult conditions.” “This is a natural fact, because

the parts used in farm tractors are not designed to withstand driving in the forest. Therefore, we have designed a machine which is so robust that it can be used in the forest without any worries. A forest tractor really has to be a forest tractor,” Vidgrén says. In district foreman Sauli Piispanen’s opinion, the test drive was a success. In difficult marshy terrain, 50 stacked cubic metres

of wood per hour has been moved from 0 to 200 metres, which is an impressive amount. There have been no days off, the machine has endured well. Farmer Viljo Sahlström told us how surprised he had been to see how cleanly the forest tractor can move in the forest. “This test has been done in a stand marked for cutting, and when the felling is organised well and suitable trails

• The Ponsse’s engine is a six-cylinder Perkins producing 130 hp. • The transmission is a hydraulic ZF transmission. • The machine has a transmission and torque converter. • The axles are also the same ZF products from Germany, and their carrying capacity is 20 tons. • The total length of the forest tractor is 7.20 m, of which the load space is 4 m. • The width is 2.5 m and ground clearance is 60 cm. • The tyres are four 18.4 x 34 14-ply steel belted tyres made by Nokia. • The machine has four gears forward and four backward. • There is no clutch, the machine moves according to the throttle. Total weight is 9,000 kg. • The load space can accommodate 14 stacked cubic metres of wood, and the balance point is low even though the machine has a generous ground clearance. • The operator’s seat can be turned around, so it’s possible to handle both the driving and crane control from the same position. • The crane is a 4-ton Wärtsilä loader.

of around three metres wide and 40 to 50 metres apart are opened up for the machine in the forest, it won’t trample the forest floor

much. Forest owners still have inaccurate presumptions against this.” Newspaper article, 1970 / Iisalmen Sanomat

GROWING DEMAND FOR FOREST MACHINES IN 1978 GROWING DEMAND FOR FOREST MACHINES When Ponsse was established in the early 1970s, many experts brushed it off as just an interesting experiment. A small company building large forest tractors was impossible to fit into the predefined notion of viability. Luckily, not even experts know everything. Ponsse has been able to do well through all these years. Not even the depression made it difficult to sell machines, even though the company practically lacks any kind of a sales organisation. The big companies have now moved away from the assembly line system, where possible. Five or six workers build machines from start to finish, just like at the Ponsse workshop. “They’ve followed our example,” says Einari Vidgrén, managing director of Ponsse Oy. Forest machines are made by three workshops in Finland: Valmet, Lokomo and Ponsse. “We are in tough company,” Einari Vidgrén admits. “Our colleagues really are a bit bigger, but, of course, they don’t

have us between a rock and a hard place.” There’s a great deal of truth in what Einari is saying. One of his strengths is the unbroken connection to the rough work being done every day with forest machines in the wilds and thickets of this country. Back in the day, the man himself headed out to logging sites with his farm tractor, and operations also continue in that sector to this day. Separate from the Ponsse organisation, a fleet of harvesting machines, with a daily volume of about 500 cubic metres, works under Einari Vidgrén’s own name, even today. From there, new ideas flow to Ponsse and fresh experience is gained in the work for which these machines are made. It all started, because Einari thought that the machines available at the time were not durable enough for the work done in the forest. Using someone else’s workshop, he built his own model, tested it, made improvements and finally ended up with the prototype of the present Ponsse machine. He had faith in starting to build forest tractors in Vieremä, even though there were quite a few sceptics around.

Operations have continued on a similar scale all these years. There are fifteen employees now, net sales are around five to six million Finnish marks per year and eight machine units are built each year with a price of around 500,000 marks. Dealing in trade-in machines is an almost mandatory part of this kind of business. Ponsse has a separate building for repairing used forest tractors and multifunction machines. Einari Vidgrén has no intention to expand his company. He thinks that the current size is appropriate.

The recession proved the power of the adaptability of a small business, but at Ponsse the same thing was realised already much earlier. And now, the increasing forest trade is already clearly boosting the trade of heavy forest machinery. “It’s certainly visible already,” says Einari Vidgrén. When the sale of timber picks up, more harvesting equipment is needed. Then the questions about suitable machines start to come in. Newspaper article, 1978 / Iisalmen Sanomat

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 53

PONSSE THROUGH THE DECADES

1969 1969 The first PONSSE Dino is manufactured at Kake’s workshop in Vieremä for machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgrén.

1970

1970 Einari Vidgrén establishes Ponsse Oy and leases a 300 m2 facility from the municipality of Vieremä for the production of forest machines. In the 1970s, 50 PONSSE PAZ forwarders are completed in the facility.

1980 1980s The aluminium-frame S15 is a breakthrough in the forest machine market. The first harvester head, H520, is completed in 1986 and the first harvester in 1987. The factory is expanded

54 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

1990

1990s The light 8-wheeler machine chain HS10 and S10 wins the Pro Finnish Design award. Ponsse is the first forest machine manufacturer to receive the ISO 9001 quality certificate. The 500th PONSSE is completed in 1993.

2000 2000s The product family undergoes a complete modernisation. Machines feature a striking modern design, a Mercedes-Benz engine and the digital OptiControl system. The 3,000th PONSSE is completed in 2003.

2010 2010s PONSSE Scorpion, a completely new forest machine, is introduced in 2013. A new logistics centre is completed in Iisalmi in the same year. The 10,000th PONSSE is completed in 2014.

2020 2010s 2018 Ponsse’s factory in Vieremä is expanded to cover four hectares. The first Bison forwarders and Cobra harvesters are completed in the world’s most modern forest machine factory. The PONSSE forest machine number 16,000 is driven out of the factory in September 2020.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 55

One-stop service gives added market traction Vermeer size-reduction kit has helped build a versatile and highly successful aboreal services company in Finland

We’ve got an SC362 stump cutter, a BC190XL brush chipper and two S925TX mini skid steers,” confirms Storlöpare

56 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

inland is Europe’s most heavily forested country, with woodland covering three quarters of its territory. No surprise, therefore, that forest industries dominate the Finnish economy. But trees and tree care also play a big part in everyday life. Most property owners have trees that need to be managed. “Yeah, I reckon there’s plenty for a woodman to do around here,” acknowledges Janne Storlöpare, owner and operator of Sahauspalvelu. “But there’s also plenty of competition. Building a business from scratch is never easy – even building a tree care business in a country that’s full of trees.” Sahauspalvelu offers a comprehensive arboreal service to customers in and around the southern city of Lahti, about an hour’s drive from Helsinki. Since starting up in 2012, Storlöpare has built a strong reputation across the region. An important factor in his success has been his ability to read the market and align his services. “Customers in general, but especially ordinary householders, don’t like having to go to several different contractors to get a job done,” says Storlöpare. “If you’ve got a couple of trees in your yard that are diseased or getting too big or whatever, it’s a pain getting in one firm to fell them, another to process the timber, and then a third to get out the stumps and level the ground. That’s why my aim is to provide a one-stop solution.” Storlöpare believes that the ability to offer a turnkey service depends on two things: expertise and machinery. Although he already had a degree in forestry, he has now obtained a degree in arboriculture as well. “The idea is to have in-house knowledge of managing all the different types of tree we encounter

here. Plus, comprehensive insight into the lifecycle of wood, from planting to end product.” With a view of putting his expertise to practical use, Janne is also building up an impressive machinery park. Back at base, Sahauspalvelu now has its own bandsaw installation, producing sawn timber that’s sold for use in a variety of building and manufacturing purposes. For site work, the firm has a small fleet of Vermeer mobile machines. “We’ve got an SC362 stump cutter, a BC190XL brush chipper and two S925TX mini skid steers,” confirms Storlöpare. “In my eyes, Vermeer is the clear market leader. So why make life complicated when I can get all the machines I need from them?”

Sahauspalvelu handles an increasing volume of emergency response work, where Storlöpare finds the versatility of his Vermeer mini skid steers a huge advantage. “You never know quite what you’re going to find when you arrive onsite,” he says. “So, you want to cover all the bases if you can. The S925TX enables us to do that because we can switch attachments and use the same machine for multiple purposes. We’ve got tree and shrub grapples that we can use to pull out smaller trees and a set of forks for lifting lengths of trunk after sectioning them with the chainsaw. “The wood splitter attached to the skid steer is also ideal: you can take it almost anywhere on worksites because the machine runs on tracks. The bucket attachments are really useful too. There’s a scrap grapple bucket that’s ideal for moving brush and limbs around. “My Vermeer dealer told me they’ve got something like 80

attachment options in total. We don’t have them all, of course, but having a number means we can travel out to an unseen site ready to tackle a variety of situations.” The value of having the knowhow and the hardware to deal with a wide range of challenges was illustrated when the region was hit by a major autumn storm. “We got a call from the owner of a farm near Kuivanto,” recalls Storlöpare. “They had a stand of aspen close to the buildings and several had been uprooted and either come down or been left teetering. One had gone right through the roof of a barn. The buildings were out of action until the trees were seen to. “We went in and dealt with everything: we cleared the tree that had hit the barn, took down the ones that were unstable, logged and removed the trunks, and cleared and chipped the brush. Our one-stop service shortened the window before the structural repairs could begin and the business could get back to normal.” Like a lot of the sites where Sahauspalvelu works, the farm was accessible only by a narrow, unpaved track. “Everything had to be taken in on a small low-loader. It’s often like that, which is why power-tofootprint really matters. With the S925TX mini skid steer, you get as much horsepower as any other mini skid steer on the market, plus loads of torque, in a really compact form – it’s only about a meter wide and stands chest high,” Storlöpare explains, before adding with a wink, “So even Leevi can use it. Eh, Lev?” His assistant takes the jibe in good humor: “He likes to wind me up. It’s true that the mini skid steer is easy to use. There’s just one joystick for everything so you can operate the arm at the same time. I find the enclosed platform and failsafe systems reassuring, too.” “At the end of the day though, it comes down to efficiency,” adds Storlöpare. “The mini skid steer does the work of two laborers. We can work faster with a smaller team, making us very competitive on price and turnaround time.” A lot of Sahauspalvelu’s scheduled work is for private householders, felling yard trees. The ability to provide a comprehensive service has given the firm real traction in this segment of the market.

“As well as being convenient, an all-in solution is more customer friendly,” Storlöpare says. “After all, you’re working in someone’s home environment. If you go in, take down a tree and clearoff leaving a gaping hole, the customer’s probably not going to like it. “It’s much better to proceed sensitively, giving advice on conserving this tree and suggesting some pruning to that one. Where we do need to take a tree out completely, we do a thorough job removing the timber, chipping the brush, taking out the stump and levelling the ground where it was. A neat and tidy job means a satisfied customer.” Storlöpare’s customer-focused philosophy is clearly reflected in his machinery choices. His BC190XL brush chipper is invaluable when it comes to delivering a turnkey service for homeowners. “Ordinary people, especially people in cities, have no use for brush from the canopy of a felled tree or for smaller branches removed by pruning, and usually, they have no way of disposing of the stuff,” he explains. “Reducing it to chippings that can be used on the garden or taken from the site is really helpful. Being able to do that for them makes the package we offer more attractive.” What drew Storlöpare to the Vermeer BC190XL was the rugged design, and the machine has lived up to expectations. “We use it pretty much aroundthe-clock and it takes everything in stride,” he says. “Nothing slows us down. “We opted for the 2.2 liter diesel engine because of the power and the torque. No other chipper in that size bracket has the brawn to match it. Yet it isn’t nearly as thirsty as you might expect; I’ve been really pleased with the fuel economy.” That characteristic is due to the chipper’s engine load management technology. The diesel’s power output is constantly adjusted to match the processing load, so it doesn’t use more fuel than it really needs. Onsite, it’s usually employee Mikko who loads brush into the chipper: “Feeding it couldn’t be easier,” he says. “It’s the right height, for one thing. I’ve come across other chippers where you were always having to bend or stretch, and the auto reverse and refeed feature is great – you

don’t have to fight with the brush that doesn’t immediately feed smoothly.” Mikko adds that the chipper is particularly useful on urban sites: “If we’re managing roadside trees, the timber can be chipped onboard our truck. If we’re working in a wooded city park, the chips can be immediately scattered and left to decompose naturally, enriching the soil. So there’s no need to bring bigger trucks with cranes onsite when you’re dealing with something relatively minor like a limb that’s come down.” Another vital part of Sahauspalvelu’s all-in-one yard tree service is stump milling. “Our stump cutter was the first Vermeer machine we bought. It won me over, you could say,” Storlöpare recalls. “Working in domestic yards, city yards in particular, often means getting machines through small entrances and into awkward places. “So, the SC362 caught my eye, on account of the narrow design. But it packs a real punch; it’s 35 hp and has the torque to handle really stubborn stumps. The light weight is another plus. In addition to transport advantages, it means less damage to turf around the stump. With a petrol engine, there’s less noise, less vibration and less smell. So we like it, and our customers like it.” Serviceability is also important to Sahauspalvelu. “At the end of the day, time is money,” asserts Storlöpare. “Every hour we spend servicing a machine is an hour we don’t spend doing paid work for customers. “So, it’s good that I can always rely on Vermeer when I need information or parts. Most spares are available at short notice from the Finnish dealer, and even things that have to come from the US only take a week. “Another plus is the neat cutter design on the SC362 – cleaning and replacement are a breeze. The belts are straightforward too –they’re all on one side and easy to get on and off. You get the idea that the people who designed this machine put a lot of thought into every feature.” Ultimately, that’s the key for Storlöpare. His loyalty to Vermeer is underpinned by his general sense that the company understands the real-world challenges faced by owners. “Sahauspalvelu is a forwardlooking business,” he says. “In our

marketing, our positioning and our operating methods, we’re always looking to move with the times, to embrace new technology and new working methods. I reckon Vermeer is a company that thinks like us, constantly innovating to make our work easier, more efficient and more sustainable.”

Janne Storlöpare Koiskalantie 672, 15540 Villähde Puh. 040-562 4243 (24h vrk) info@sahauspalvelu.com

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 57

Grapple saw has “total tree control”

Dutch company GMT Equipment has just introduced an innovative solution to the market: the GMT TTC grapple saw

MT Equipment’s latest release to the forestry sector is the TTC grapple saw, with TTC an abbreviation for ‘Total tree control’. The grapple saw will enter the market as both the GMT035 TTC and GMT050 TTC. With the existing generation of grapple saws (GMT035 and GMT050), the branch will always tiltdown in a controlled manner after sawing. TTC combines the advantage of grasping the tree flexibly with the ability to hold tree sections in position when removing them. This ‘tilt-blocking’ method is unique and the system is patented.

Working safer The mechanical felling of trees with a felling grapple is gaining in popularity. The biggest advantage is that the process is safer and more efficient than with traditional techniques. The new models of GMT Equipment’s grapple saws have been specially developed to make it possible to hold tree parts after the moment of sawing. Not only is the tilt cylinder of the grapple blocked, but so is the movement in all directions in the cardanic suspension. That means flexible installation and fixed removal at the push of a button. There is no limit to the holding of the sawn tree sections, but for safety reasons, they are set at the factory to the maximum 58 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

permitted loads of the crane on the load-bearing vehicle. The design and operation have recently been patented.

More possibilities with less manpower GMT Director Michel Gierkink provides the technical explanation: “We have fitted a double knee joint above the rotation section and the attachment to the crane or telescopic handler. Each knee joint has a hydraulic cylinder and a number of brake linings. “These brake linings are clamped in place by the hydraulic cylinder pushing both suspension lugs toward each other. One push of a button suddenly transforms our pivoting grapple saw into a fixed grapple saw. This makes it possible to pick a branch from the tree exactly in the position in which it is attached. This allows you to work much cleaner when picking apart and removing entire trees.” GMT noticed some customers needed more control when removing branches. TTC combines the advantage of movement flexibility with the ability to keep or hold tree sections in position when removing them. The crane or telescopic handler operator can now bring the felled timber to the ground with even more control. This creates more possibilities when felling sick or dead trees or when there is little or

no room to manoeuvre, particularly when there are surrounding objects such as houses, above-ground power and telephone lines or other obstacles. As a result, little loose wood ends up on the ground, which also saves a lot of manpower. The TTC system was introduced early last month in two variants: a 16 in (GMT035 TTC) and a 20 in (GMT050 TTC) felling diameter.

experience a tyre breakdown,” Angelo Noronha, President EMEA at Alliance Tyre Group, said. “The reliable top performance of the 644 Forestar III easily stands comparisons with more expensive premium competition tyres. “Owners will surely enjoy the fact that they can benefit from this excellent performance for a more than competitive price.”

Performance while looking after the environment

Alliance Forestar 644 releases more options Three new sizes of an already leading product are now available. Following extensive testing against a premium forestry competitor, the range now has a large footprint, low ground pressure, is built for grip and traction, limits wear, has a high load carrying capacity, and uses a special material for construction

he Alliance Tyre Group’s 644 Forestar III tyre was only launched last year but has already received impressive feedback and earned itself an excellent reputation. Extensive field tests against a premium forest tyre competitor were conducted on a harvester in the Czech Republic and on a forwarder in Latvia to confirm the positive feedback. During the tests, the customers were impressed with the overall performance of the Forestar 644 tyres and they especially acknowledged great traction and stability, even in really challenging conditions. In summary, the test results showed that the Forestar easily stood up to the premium competition, but then pushed out in front in terms of value for money. “When working in remote forest areas, operators need to be sure that they will neither get stuck nor

Forestry operations mean tough environments, heavy loads, sharp-edged obstacles such as tree stumps, and a challenging mix of surfaces ranging from bare rock to sticky mud. The current state of many forests throughout Europe adds to the challenge: due to damage either caused by storm, drought, or bark beetles, large amounts of harvested timber need to be taken out of the wood lands quickly and reliably. Whenever the protection of forest soils as one important part of this fragile natural system is a key requirement, the 644 Forestar III offers a “perfect” solution. The tyre’s large tread width ensures a large footprint, which in turn reduces ground pressure in order to protect forest soils. Wide lug centre blocks are a distinctive feature of the 644 Forestar III: This tyre delivers exceptional traction without tracks, thus allowing for easy transfers on forest roads, for example, but can equally and easily be operated with tracks. Wide centre block lugs provide excellent stability and riding comfort. A dual-lug angle optimises both traction and durability. Whilst a lower angle at the shoulder enhances traction, the higher angle at the centre of the tyre reduces wear and ensures durability. Wider shoulder lugs with high fillet radius enhance the lateral stability of the 644 Forestar III, further adding to the excellent traction of this tyre. And, highly important in woody environments, the unique shoulder buttress design strengthens the tyre’s sidewalls and provides high stiffness while the curb-rib design enhances the protection of the tyre against side impacts and cracks.

Alliance Tyre Group is a part of Yokohama Group. With nearly 60 years of experience, Alliance specializes in the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of agriculture, forestry, construction, industrial and earthmoving tyres under the Alliance, Galaxy and Primex brands. Alliance serves customers in 120 countries, across six continents and offers a full spectrum of products, from basic entry-level tyres to a broad range of superior quality value-added products. All of the group’s tyres are designed, developed and tested at its advanced R&D centres around the world.

When working in remote forest areas, operators need to be sure that they will neither get stuck nor experience a tyre breakdown Angelo Noronha, Alliancep

New sizes launched The Alliance 644 Forestar III is now available in three new sizes: • 710/40-24.5 • 710/55-28.5 and • 780/50-28.5; International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 59

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Morocco discovers planting trees slows climate change Humanitarian crises have recently been declared in Sudan, Yemen, Niger, Mali, and Somalia—affecting at least 450,000 people—due to flash floods and landslides. Areas with low tree coverage and poor soil quality are more likely to experience flood and drought, as the soil is less able to retain excess rainwater. Countries like Morocco, which are highly susceptible to long periods of drought, are welcoming reforestation efforts to improve agriculture. In partnership with civil society, the Moroccan government will plant 800,000 trees across the country by 2024. Like Morocco, many are turning to agroforestry, or tree-farming, as an eco-friendly solution to climate issues. Globally, at least 650 million hectares of land (13.3% of total farming land) are used for agroforestry systems. Planting trees also diversifies farming. Estimates claim forestfarms can be eight times more profitable than staple crops like grain, which can increase farmers’ incomes and reduce rural poverty.

Deforestation and poverty are linked Almost 30 percent of the world’s 821 million malnourished people live in Africa, the highest prevalence by region. Despite socioeconomic improvements in Morocco (1.7 million Moroccans have moved out of poverty in the last decade), droughts continue to threaten agricultural production, which accounts for 20 percent of GDP and 30 percent of the Moroccan workforce. Low crop yield can exacerbate poverty, especially in rural regions, as two

thirds of people who are in extreme poverty work as agricultural laborers. However, African farmers are beginning to diversify their incomes, a method Morocco has been successful with in improving rural economies and reducing poverty throughout the region. For Moroccan farmers, this has meant investing in cash crops, such as fruit and argan trees, as opposed to producing principal crops, such as wheat and barley.

An oasis in the desert Forest-gardens, or “food forests,” have been around since ancient times. These cultivated forests contain several layers. The top layer, usually fruit or nut trees, provides shade and traps moisture for smaller edible plants, such as shrubs and root crops. One of the most well-known forest-gardens in Morocco, located in Agadir, is the Inraren forest, a strip of tropical fruit trees that covers approximately 65 acres. While the exact origins of the forest are untraceable, many believe that it has existed for at least 2,000 years. The area began as a small gathering of plants, an alternative to transporting and cultivating food sources far away from home. Locals tended the area over thousands of years, creating a support system—beneficial insects, cultivation techniques, and traditional horticultural knowledge. The end-result was the creation of a “self-sustaining” ecosystem, a so-called oasis in the desert, where local produce—goats, chickens, pheasants—could live within and contribute to the survival of the

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trees and crops. In addition to food staples and non-native produce, these forests provide shady spaces where cool, moist air can gather, keeping the surrounding land firm and waterretentive. The goal of food-forest developers is to create these forests in areas where the soil is prone to becoming loose and dry.

Resilience by planting trees In order to combat the effects of global warming, governments are embracing reforestation initiatives. A simple initiative may involve tree planting as an activity. The Chinese government, for example, enacted a program in 1982 to combat the effects of climate change within the country, establishing that all ablebodied citizens between the ages of 11 and 60 have the obligation to plant three to five trees every year. Local governments are required to organize voluntary tree-planting activities that engage all citizens. This ensures that trees are not planted in unwanted areas that could harm the land or the people. Since the program began, a total of 42 billion trees have been planted across the country. The High Atlas Foundation (HAF), a development nonprofit based in Marrakech, offers a method of reducing rural poverty by providing farmers with naturalgrown fruit and nut trees to diversify and boost local incomes. The approach connects three levels of stakeholders—individuals within the community, government, and local organizations—and provides a solution to barriers local farmers may face in trying to grow their own trees. Local farmers may not have available land or proper

equipment to grow saplings from seeds, and nearby nurseries may be too expensive to purchase from. HAF nurseries use land donated in-kind from donors such as the local Departments of Water and Forests, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Moroccan Jewish community. Locals grow seeds within these nurseries, keeping the process within the community. Then tree saplings are sold at reduced prices to local farmers, planted, and monitored for proper growth. In this way, the organization has planted 1.38 million tree seeds this year, partnering as well with Ecosia. Similar support within the country has helped build women’s argan oil cooperatives, by providing argan trees, thereby reducing inequalities and bringing money back into local economies. As climate change continues to affect communities around the world, reforestation and tree farming methods provide a solution. However, economic and political aspects of land ownership can challenge these initiatives. It will be important for those who choose to plant trees to do so in the right places.

John Deere launches mulcher hydraulics conversion kit for the 843L and 843L-II Wheeled Feller Bunchers To maximize the versatility of its machines, John Deere announces the availability of its Mulcher Hydraulics Conversion Kit for the 843L & 843L-II Wheeled Feller Bunchers

• John Deere now offers a dealerinstalled Mulcher Hydraulics Conversion Kit for the 843L and 843L-II Wheeled Feller Bunchers. • The base kit, which includes a new hydraulic pump and component updates, equips the machine for mulching applications, such as land clearing and right-of-way maintenance. attachment • Additionally, manufacturer Fecon has worked with John Deere to launch a new mulching head designed specifically for the 843 machines, available for purchase through the Fecon sales channels. Installed by the dealer, the kit allows customers to equip their machines for mulching applications, expanding the capabilities of the 843 models. The field kit can be used with compatible mulching heads, such as the new Fecon RK8620 Mulching Head, which was built specifically for use on the John Deere 843L and 843L-II machines. “This offering is exciting for our customers, as it expands the versatility of the equipment in their fleet so they can take on new jobs, such as land clearing or right-of-way maintenance,” said Brandon O’Neal, product marketing

manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “Additionally, this kit is installed and supported by the John Deere dealer network, so customers can feel confident in the durability and reliability of the kit and its components.” The Mulcher Hydraulics Conversion Kit includes a new hydraulic pump in addition to plumbing and valve updates. While the base kit allows for a single function and float, those needing a second function can upgrade with an add-on kit. Customers can purchase a kit through their local dealer, which can convert their existing 843L or 843L-II into a mulching head-ready machine. Built with the John Deere 843 models in mind, the Fecon RK8620 Mulching Head is constructed from a stronger, lighter steel and features an 86-inch cutting width. The RK8620 is available with an FGT- or DCR-style rotor to enhance the cutting performance. With the DCR rotor, the reversible Viking knives are ideal for fast cutting in all materials. The knife performance is further enhanced by depth control rings, which provide fast cutting durability. The heavyduty RK8620 offers a broad range of motion for felling and belowgrade work. With this attachment, operators are able to process

This offering is exciting for our customers, as it expands the versatility of the equipment in their fleet so they can take on new jobs, such as land clearing or right-ofway maintenance Brandon O’Neal, Product Marketing Manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry

material faster with fewer passes. The RK8620 Head is available as a standalone purchase through the Fecon sales channels. To learn more about the new Mulcher Hydraulics Conversion Kit, as well as the full line of John Deere forestry equipment, visit your local John Deere dealer.

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LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

New Cat D9 Dozer replaces the D9T model The new Cat D9 lowers overall costs per unit of material moved by up to 3%. Efficiencies gained through a new torque converter with stator clutch reduce fuel consumption by as much as 5%, and the new dozer reduces maintenance and repair costs by as much as 4%. The new dozer features a Cat C18 engine, which has a range of exhaust aftertreatment solutions available, including configurations to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V regulations and configurations equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 2 and Tier 3. The D9 also features differential steering for a tight turning radius and the ability to maintain ground speed while turning—to keep productivity high. The suspended undercarriage delivers more track contact with the ground for less slippage and greater productivity. The D9 can be equipped with any of a wide range of blades and attachments, enabling it to work efficiently in a variety of applications, including production dozing, site maintenance, fleet support and ripping. Companies engaged in heavy construction, quarry and aggregates, landfill, bulk materials handling and forestry applications have found the D9 Dozer an important tool for

delivering the lowest owning and operating costs while maintaining high productivity. Featuring a frame that absorbs and withstands high-impact shock loads encountered in severe applications, the new D9 offers design improvements that reduce maintenance and repair costs. The newly integrated AutoLube system results in fewer grease points to limit daily maintenance procedures. Extended filter change intervals, simple component removal and continuous fluid level monitoring also aid in further lowering operating costs. A new ground-level service centre provides convenient access to the engine shutdown switch, access/egress lighting and optional powered ladder operation. With standard rearview mirrors, the new D9 affords the operator clear lines of sight to front and rear working areas. The optional fourcamera system offers a 360-degree view around the machine and ripper to further enhance operating safety. Adding bottom guard retention pins and eliminating lift cylinder grease points also bolster safety. A new design with advanced ergonomics, the cab features intuitive controls that are easy to

access and operate. Its cloth airsuspension seat provides operator comfort throughout the entire shift. The suspended undercarriage reduces shock load transfer by as much as 50% to the undercarriage, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride. The new operator station comes fully equipped with large, high-definition touchscreen displays and new electronic architecture that is scalable to meet the customer’s technology needs. Sensors integrated into the new Cat D9 provide access to advanced operating technology for increased machine productivity. Standard Product Link™ Elite and Vital Information Management System

(VIMS™) are powerful machine management tools that provide customers with crucial dozer information like location, operating hours and machine condition as well as production information. Available Automated Blade Assist makes use of preset blade pitch positions for load, carry and spread tasks to increase efficiency and reduce operator workload. The Cat AutoCarry™ option automates blade lift to maintain desired blade load to improve load consistency, reduce track slippage and increase productivity. Optional Automatic Ripper Control maintains ripper depth to limit track slip and allow the operator to focus on the job.

FinnMETKO filled the venue – trade was booming The FinnMETKO 2020 annual professional exhibition for the heavy machinery industry attracted 9,950 visitors over its three exhibition days. Thanks to all participants, visitors, exhibitors and the volunteers who helped to organize the exhibition. Together we achieved a successful event in good spirits amid this unprecedented situation, which required special arrangements, says Markku Suominen, Chair of the exhibition management group. The feedback from participants has been positive. Exhibitors said that they had reached their target audiences and had traded well at the exhibition, Suominen adds.

Teemu Sillanpää wins the Ykköskuski competition Teemu Sillanpää came first at the Ykköskuski Finnish championships for earthmoving machinery drivers, organized on the last day of the exhibition. Jaakko Hannula took second place and Kim Lehkonen came in third. The competition tested the drivers’ skills with two earthmoving machines: a front loader and an excavator. The winner was decided based on a total score. The competition was organized by GRADIA Jyväskylä. The FinnMETKO exhibition is organized every two years. FinnMETKO 2022 will be held from 1.–3.9.2022.

62 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

The FinnMETKO 2020 professional and sales trade fair is Finland’s main event for the heavy machinery industry. The organizer responsible for FinnMETKO 2020 is Finnmetko Oy. The organizations behind the exhibition are the Trade Association of Finnish Forestry and Earthmoving Contractors and Keski-Suomen Koneyrittäjät ry. www.finnmetko.fi More information is available from: Chair of the exhibition management group Markku Suominen, tel. +358 (0)44 079 4977

BR, Sirpa Heiskanen Press Officer FinnMETKO 2020 Sitratie 7 FI-00420 Helsinki puh. +358 40 900 9423 sirpa.heiskanen@koneyrittajat.fi www.koneyrittajat.fi www.finnmetko.fi

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Skovteknik DK appointed as a sales and service partner for John Deere Forest Machine customers in Denmark John Deere Forestry is continuously strengthening its world-class distribution channel through a professional and customer-oriented dealer network, which in close cooperation with John Deere promotes a predominant position for John Deere products in the market. John Deere Forestry is now proud to welcome Skovteknik DK as an authorized dealer in Denmark. The company Skovteknik DK, located in Frederikshavn, Denmark has been a sales and service provider for Swedish John Deere

Forestry AB since 2002. Skovteknik DK now becomes an independent dealer for John Deere forest machines in Denmark. Skovteknik DK has customer service, spare part and machine servicing locations in Fredrikshavn, Vinderup and Randers. In addition, Skovteknik DK has a service provider in Sorö. “Our customer service locations are well positioned to serve our Danish customers. And our professional and experienced personnel have been serving John Deere forest machine customers for almost 20

years. This makes for a strong market share in Denmark”, CEO and owner of the company Claus Kammer explains. “Skovteknik DK has an excellent reputation for proven, high-quality parts and service support for their forest machine customers. Appointing Skovteknik as an authorized dealer in Denmark is part of our growth strategy”, concludes Pekka Leppänen, Manager, Sales and dealer development,

Claus Kammer, CEO & Owner, Skovteknik DK

NZ - MPI report: Big opportunities for high-value forestry New Zealand wood fibre futures stage one report published recently identifies key wood processing technologies that could help drive a high-value and lowcarbon economy. Te Uru Rākau (Forestry New Zealand) director sector investment Jason Wilson said the report, by an international consortium led by BioPacific Partners, focused on how New Zealand could build on the forestry industry’s current strengths to create a low-carbon future. The report identified possible alternatives to concrete and steel, and biofuels made from woody biomass. “We know forests have a big role to play in carbon mitigation, but forestry can play an even

bigger role in both the economy and meeting environmental goals if it is used to create new and innovative high-value, low-carbon products including liquid fuels and replacements for coal,” said Mr Wilson. “The questions for New Zealand are what products do we need the most, what technologies are available to help us create these, and, importantly, how do we attract investment to make it happen?” “New Zealand is considered one of the best places in the world to do business and we have a large amount of Pinus radiata which gives us a comparative advantage, but we need to start working with technology investors to produce high-value, low-carbon products.”

Mr Wilson said the report identified 15 technologies out of 108 found globally that New Zealand could prioritise and laid out ways to attract investors. “Both biocrude and liquid biofuels are favoured by investors, have the most potential for export, and are being actively developed globally by high-tech firms.” Mr Wilson said the report represented the culmination of stage 1 of the project and Te Uru Rākau was now progressing with stage 2. “Stage 2 focuses on building an attractive investment case and undertaking a detailed feasibility study for the priority technologies. It will involve discussions with key industry partners, including those in forestry, transport, construction, and energy. We are also working closely with other agencies, including the Ministry of Transport and MBIE, to identify policy tools to incentivise investment.” This next phase of work will come under the umbrella of the

Jason Wilson, Director Sector Investment Te Uru Rākau (Forestry New Zealand)

Forest and Wood Products Industry Transformation Plan, and as part of the broader Fit for a Better World initiative. “A high-value low-carbon future for the forestry sector that will deliver economically and environmentally is an exciting prospect and I am looking forward to working with New Zealand industries to achieve this.”

3-5 JUNI 2021 SOLVALLA STOCKHOLM

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LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Australia - New Victorian Forest Products Association formed The newly formed Victorian Forest Products Association (VFPA) yesterday announced 23 foundation members and elected its Interim Governing Council. The new Association will span Victoria’s forest industry value chain including plantations, native forestry operators, sawmills and pulp and paper making.

The eight members of the Interim Governing Council are: • Sarah Harvie: Opal Group • Rob Hescock: Hancock Victorian Plantations • Paul Heubner: Allied Natural Wood Exports • Mike Lawson: SFM Environmental Solutions

• Phil Mason: New Forests • Darren Sheldon: Australian Bluegum Plantations • Tony Price: Midway Limited • Owen Trumper: AKD Softwoods The Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association Ross Hampton said, “Forest industries employ thousands of men and women in Victoria. At a time when so many jobs are being lost, our industries can play a big role in Victoria’s post – pandemic economic recovery if they are enabled to.” “This new body will turbocharge representation for all our industries and help make the case to policy makers that now

more than ever our sustainable, renewable forest industries should be backed to deliver vital growth and prosperity.” The Chair of the Victorian Association of Forest Industries inc (VAFI) Craig Dunn said, “We are entering a new era for the Victorian forest products industry. VAFI has been the voice of the industry for many years. This new peak body is being formed on the strong foundation laid by VAFI through the perseverance of its members”. “The VFPA will bring a new approach and broader industry representation during these challenging times. VAFI will continue to operate in parallel until the VFPA is up and running to

NZ - Fresh thinking from JNL A bridge designed to carry heavy forestry loads is a substantial capital investment – but what if you could relocate that bridge and use it across multiple harvests? That’s exactly what Juken NZ Ltd (JNL) decided to do when commissioning two new bridges. In a first for Bridge It NZ, both crossings are designed to be disassembled in the years to come and moved to new sites within JNL’s forestry estate on the North Island’s East Coast in New Zealand. “A lot of our forests are still in their first rotation and we have identified a handful of other sites that are likely to require bridges in future,” explains JNL’s Planning and Engineering Manager Patrick Bethel. “So having the ability to pick a bridge up and transport it elsewhere – at a fraction of the price to build a new one – is an ideal solution. We can move them to suit our harvesting and heavy traffic requirements.” The first bridge at Rata Road, Wharerata (just south of Gisborne) was installed in August 2020. An existing culvert had blown apart during a storm many years ago, and until now JNL hadn’t required

access to that particular block in the Pamoa Forest so the issue remained unresolved. Pat weighed up the cost of installing another culvert versus building a bridge. The ongoing maintenance costs required to keep culverts clear of debris to avoid scour and erosion issues meant a bridge would be cheaper in the long-run. Bridges also provide greater clearance and flow capacity and are a better ecological option for native fisheries. “We looked at the real cost – not just the installation. The maintenance you can spend on culverts and pipes can get pretty hefty, pretty quick. And that’s where the bridge really shines for us. It’s pretty much a case of ‘put it in, walk away’ and not have to worry.” After carrying out all necessary site investigations, Bridge It NZ’s engineering partner designed an 18m x 4m steel beam bridge with timber deck capable of holding a full HNH072 load (required for forestry truck and trailer units and heavy machinery). Resource and building consent was obtained from Gisborne District Council

64 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

and Bridge It NZ fabricated and installed the new bridge, taking care of the entire project management process. A second relocatable bridge will be installed at ‘Centre Track’ in late 2020. Together, both crossings will give JNL the ability to access and harvest around 425,000 tonnes of wood from the Pamoa Forest in the next four to five years. Another significant benefit is the two bridge crossings will shave 24km off each round trip to the harvest site, allowing JNL crews to avoid some treacherous roads and saving an estimated NZ$1 million over the duration of the upcoming harvest.

Ross Hampton, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) ensure a seamless transition,” Mr Dunn concluded.

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

Martinsons now part of Holmen Holmen signed an agreement to purchase Martinsons over the summer and 1 October marked the formal change of ownership. To celebrate the occasion, a key handover ceremony took place at the sawmill in Bygdsiljum, which will now become one of the largest in the Holmen Group. “We will be taking the strengths of Martinsons and building on them. Specialist know-how and a focus on quality, long-term planning and innovation are all present within Martinsons and these features are closely aligned with the way we want to work. This acquisition will make Holmen a company with an incredible breadth and depth of expertise in wood products and wood construction,” declared Johan Padel, Holmen’s Senior Vice President Wood Products, during the ceremony. At the handover, Martinsons’ former CEO Lars Martinson

welcomed the new owners and presented Johan Padel with a symbolic wooden key to mark the change. “Holmen is the stable and longterm owner we were looking for. They have a similar culture to the one we’ve built up over the years, coupled with a desire to continue building on and developing Martinsons’ business areas. Given the pooled strength and resources that the companies bring, all the pieces are in place to advance a long way up the value chain. Together, we can make history in an important and sustainable industry of the future,” said Lars Martinson.

Safe and secure purchasing process for the forest owners Another essential aspect of the deal is the access to raw material, an area in which the companies have both spent many years establishing close partnerships. “We’ve worked with Martinsons

Martinsons’ former CEO Lars Martinson and Johan Pade, Holmen’s Senior Vice President Wood Products, at the key handover cermony in Bygdsiljum. for many years and carried out forest management work for Martinsons’ customers. As one of the biggest wood buyers in Sweden, we have a safe and secure purchasing process for the forest owners. I also think many

of them want to be involved in the specialist processing and wood construction that Martinsons is so well known for,” stated Sören Peterson, Holmen’s Senior Vice President Forest.

Mebor introduce new slab chipper – canter Mebor presents the newly designed slab chipper – canter BM 900 for Mebor’s VTZ 1400/1600 PLUS vertical band saws. Combining the canter with the vertical band saw naturally brings a higher production and also

eliminates the need to transport waste slabs. Positioning to size is done with a brushless SERVO motor, ensuring fast operation and precise sizes. The canter head is mounted directly onto a custom-made

reinforced motor, which brings considerable ENERGY SAVINGS. It is usually installed on a subframe, which means the customer does not have to make any special concrete foundations.

Australia – New Highland Pine Products General Manager Highland Pine Product (HPP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Bitzer to the role of General Manager. Mike will replace current General Manager David Knights who recently announced his retirement. David commenced as General Manager in 2016 and since this time has continued to lead the site through growth and change. We thank David for his service to HPP and wish him well in his retirement. Located in Oberon NSW, HPP is a sawmilling operation employing more than 200 people and is a joint venture owned equally by AKD

and Boral. Mike will be seconded to HPP from AKD in November this year and will assume full responsibility for the HPP business and transition out of his current responsibilities as the Chief Technical Officer at AKD. AKD CEO and HPP Director Shane Vicary comments “the Board is excited about Mike joining HPP in this role and we are looking forward to working with him and the Oberon team as we continue the journey with the many challenges and opportunities that exist at Oberon”. This is not Mike’s first

experience working with the HPP Team, he has a deep understanding of the site having previously worked as the site’s Process Manager, Acting General Manager and almost 5 years as a member of the HPP Board. Mike combines a highly energetic and passionate approach with significant sawmilling experience, relevant skills, and industry relationships having worked within and been respected in the timber industry for the past 30 years. Mike’s experience, passion and drive will support the team in in identifying and executing

on growth and improvement opportunities. The HPP Board wish Mike all the best in this new role and again thank David for his time with HPP.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 65

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber company announces formation of Stoltze Timber Systems Inc. The oldest family owned lumber company in Montana, F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Company has announced that they are joining forces with a group of key partners to form Stoltze Timber Systems, Inc. to build North America’s first mass timber production facility aimed at using small-diameter trees to build large format, crosslaminated timber panels.

Currently, Montana forests are saturated with small-diameter timber. In terms of resource management, this is proving problematic — the majority of timber sales require the timber’s removal as a fuel-reduction measure, but the over-supply isn’t matched by a readily available or economically viable marketable demand.

The intent of Stoltze Timber Systems, Inc. is to use Montana’s vast supply of small-diameter trees to create large format panels and, ultimately, green and efficient building systems with high demand. Stateside production is slated to begin early next year with a phased-out, integrated manufacturing plan emulating the practices of mass

timber production that has shaped European buildings landscapes for decades, while Stoltze’s existing sawmill will be used to process the supply of small timber — which has little value at the lumberyard — to produce large-format mass timber.

Holzwerk Schilling orders cant vision scanning Holzwerk Schilling GmbH of Rot a.d. Rot, Germany is investing in vision scanning from USNR. The BioVision side profile scanning system will scan the exposed faces of a sawn cant after the sideboards have dropped away to identify cant visual characteristics. This data will be used to sort each cant for “high quality” or “low quality” destination. The BioLuma 2900LV sensors will be mounted above and below the belt on the resaw outfeed to scan top and bottom faces of the cant. The system will detect knots

and color variations for rot, and will provide a solution for sorting the cants for further downstream processing. The BioLuma 2900LV combines HD laser profiling and HD color vision along the full length of the piece into a single sensor allowing USNR Optimization to identify and classify defects for accurate grade classification. Holzwerk Schilling also recently installed a sawmill ElectraTong Lug Loader, BioVision scanning upgrades to the existing Catech edger system, and 2 new Edger 7100D sawboxes for the Catech

systems. The new cant corewood vision system is scheduled to be started up Q1 2021. USNR is proud

to count this customer among its important business partnerships for this region.

Sawmills are interested in software-based strength grading developed by FinScan The completely new sawn timber strength calculation software developed by FinScan was approved in 2019 at a meeting of the CEN group for use in mechanical strength grading in accordance with standard EN 14081. The novelty and advantage of the system is that as a fully software-based solution it can be installed directly on all BoardMasterNOVA systems and on almost all old BoardMasterHD systems in use without any changes to the electronics or sawmill mechanics. Westas Pihlava sawmill has been the first sawmill to upgrade

its BoardMasterHD system in Finland with a new strength grading option. Westas plans to install the same program on its second sawmill this fall. At the Isojoki Sawmill, software has been installed and strength grading has been approved for the first time in Finland in the BoardMasterNOVA system. • Interest in the new software has been particularly high, especially in Sweden, where several systems have been upgraded to the new version within a short period of time. There are several more installations coming this year. There has also been a lot of

66 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

interest in Norway and the Baltic countries, says Lars Juselius, FinScan’s system designer and “father” of strength grading. • With the new system, strength grading can be done with BoardMasterNOVA up to class C40, and T-classes (tensile strength) are also possible up to class T22. BoardMasterHD sort up to the C30 class, says Juselius. The advantage of the BoardMaster system is not only its compatibility with older BoardMaster systems, but also its ease of setup as well as usability,

versatility and high sorting capacity. BoardMasterNOVA is currently approved up to a speed of 200 pcs / min

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

Norra Timber is investing in six batch kilns from Valutec Swedish Norra Timber has enjoyed good, long-term productivity trends, which has led to a need for increased kiln capacity. Now it’s investing in three batch kilns each to its sawmills in Kåge and Sävar. In all, the capacity increase totals around 85 000 cubic meters (36 000 MBF). “We’ve enjoyed good returns on previous investments, which has led to a production increase according to plan. This means we must now increase our kiln capacity. We studied various alternatives, but in the end, Valutec was able to offer the best solution,” says Johan Oja, Technical Manager at Norra Timber. Norra Skogsägarna and Norrskog merged in May 2020 to form Norra Timber. This means that Norra Timber have three modern sawmills in northern Sweden located in Hissmofors, Kåge and Sävar, which together produce

more than 780 000 cubic meters (331 000 MBF) per year. ”We’ve always enjoyed great collaboration with both Norra Skogsägarna and Norrskog, and we’re proud that they’re trusting us to join them on their shared journey,” says Jon Lindberg, Sales Manager at Valutec. In conjunction with the investment, Norra Timber decided to upgrade the control systems for their existing batch kilns with Valmatics 4.0. In all, Norra Timber invests in 28 control systems. ”Until now, we’ve had both Valmatics and Valmatics 4.0. The ability to work with a single control system improves user-friendliness for our operators while also making operations more efficient,” says Johan. Valutec’s new Valmatics 4.0 is the only lumber kiln control system to combine simulator technology with adaptive control, enabling

the simultaneous optimization of capacity, quality and energy consumption. The installation of the lumber kilns will begin in November 2020.

Jon Lindberg, Sales Manager, Valutec

Andritz to supply logyard cranes to Metsä Fibre’s mill in Kemi, Finland International technology group Andritz and Metsä Fibre have signed a preliminary agreement under which Andritz will supply two fully autonomous logyard cranes to the planned Metsä Fibre bioproduct mill in Kemi, Finland. Metsä Fibre will make the Euro 1.5 billion investment decision for the new mill in autumn 2020 at the earliest, and the new mill will take approximately two and a half years to build. Included in the EPC delivery are two 2 x 25-ton cranes on a 540 m long runway with storage capacity of approximately 120,000 m3. The cranes will handle approximately 7,600,000 m3 wood/year shipped on trucks and trains as well as handling log storage and feeding the wood to the pulping process. These Andritz cranes will be the first autonomously operated logyard cranes worldwide. They feature the latest in artificial intelligence, thus optimizing log

handling, minimizing wood losses and securing environmentally friendly and cost-effective operation compared with traditional log-handling solutions. This agreement is a significant breakthrough for logyard cranes in Europe. “We valued the low noise – considering the planned mill location – the energy efficiency and all-electric drives with no fossil fuels consumed, and also the advantages created by applying advanced robotics and artificial intelligence to achieve autonomous operation,” says Ismo Nousiainen, CEO of Metsä Fibre Ltd. Metsä Fibre is a leading producer of biochemicals, bioenergy and other bioproducts. Planning of the new bioproduct mill is based on a high level of environmental efficiency as well as efficiency in terms of energy and materials used. The mill will not use any fossil fuels at all, and

its electricity self-sufficiency rate will be 250%. If built, the Kemi bioproduct mill will produce 1.5 million tons of softwood and hardwood pulp a year as well as many other bioproducts.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 67

ADVERTISERS INDEX SALES OFFICES UK, Europe, South Africa, US East Coast CONTACT: Phil Playle International Forest Industries Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: phil@internationalforestindustries.com

Japan CONTACT: Yuko Ishihara Japan Advertising Communications, Inc. Star Bldg., 3-10-3 Kanda Jimbocho Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051 Tel: 81-3-3261-4591 Fax: 81-3-3261-6126 Email: ishihara@media-jac.co.jp

Western USA (AZ, CA, NV, UT) Australia, & New Zealand CONTACT: Bob Warren

Clark Tracks ��14 Petro-Canada ��OBC www.clarktracks.com www.TRYENVIRON.COM FAE ��13 Nordic Traction Group - Clark Tracks �� 14 www.clarktracks.com www.fae-group.com Franzen ��18 Optimil �� 5 www.optimil.com www.franzen-maschinen.de Halco Software Systems �� 23 Peterson �� IFC www.petersoncorp.com www.halcosoftware.com Jenz �� 11 PANOLIN �� 10 www.panolinamerica.com www.jenz.de Keto Harvesters ��41 Ponssee �� 7 www.ponsse.com www.kone-ketonen.fi Komatsu Forest ��15 Risutec ��6 www.risutec.fi www.komatsuforest.com Logmax �� FC/9 Springer �� 16 www.springer.eu www.logmax.com

International Forest Industries Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617

Lucidyne Technologies Inc �� 3 USNR ��23 www.usnr.com www.lucidyne.com

Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com Continued from p45

Western USA (MT, ID, OR,WA) & Canada CONTACT: Bob Warren International Forest Industries Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com

US Mid-West, Central & Mountain

delimbing knives have been hardened, as with the larger harvester heads. The head weighs about 400 kg in total.

Comprehensive assembly for the harvester use of tractors The Kesla tractor attachment range includes several suitable loader models for the harvester assembly of a tractor. In terms of hydraulics and steering, the Kesla 314, 305 and 316 models can be equipped suitable for harvester use.

Harvester equipment of tractors has become more common in recent years. “A tractor harvester is ideal for thinning,” Janne Sinkkonen, the Director of Tractor Attachment Business, says. “A tractor as a base machine is not always as good as a speciality machine, mainly because of its off-road characteristics, but in many cases versatility supports buying one.”

CONTACT: Kevin Lapham J.P.Media Inc 1163 E.Ogden Ave, Ste. 705-359 Naperville IL 60563, USA Tel: +1 (630) 420 9752 Fax: +1 (630) 420 9763 Email: lapham@jpmediainc.com

South America CONTACT: Ricardo Cortés Editec S.A. Avda del Cóndor 844 Of. 205, Cuidad Empresarial Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile Tel: +56 2 757 4200 Fax: +56 2 757 4201 Email: rcortes@editec.cl

The all-new Kesla 14RH is the smallest harvester head in Kesla’s range

68 International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020

Komatsu 845 in a new outfit The Komatsu 845 12-tonne forwarder is a versatile machine that performs well in thinning, but also in lighter final felling.

he 2021 model has been updated with new components, including a new chassis, a new engine and a new control system, bringing it fully in line with the larger forwarders, albeit in a slightly smaller package. New Komatsu 845 options include a larger crane and SpeedShift. “The Komatsu 845 is a mid-class stalwart that’s now received a much-needed upgrade,” says Daniel Grabbe, Product Manager at Komatsu Forest.

The Komatsu 845 in the 2021 line-up boasts an upgraded design with the same popular cab as the larger forwarders. The work environment is spacious and comfortable with good visibility in all directions – over both the hood and the load area, which is especially important in thinning. The latest engine installation ensures compliance with emission legislation while the overhauled AdBlue system increases reliability and simplifies service. Thanks to the user-friendly functions and tools of the new control system, MaxiXT, the best starting conditions are provided for ensuring full control of the timber from order to roadside delivery. To simplify loading, the Komatsu 845 now has a straight

head board. Just like on the larger forwarders, the load space is spacious and flexible with many customisation options for different harvesting conditions. There is now the option of a larger crane, which results in a more powerful machine well suited to handling heavy and long timber. Another new option for the Komatsu 845 is SpeedShift, a function that enables the operator to use the machine’s entire speed range without having to stop to change gears. SpeedShift automatically changes to a higher gear as the operator increases speed, resulting in both lower fuel consumption and a higher average transport speed. “The modern outfit reflects what lies beneath – with all these

Daniel Grabbe, Product Manager, Komatsu Forest

updates making the Komatsu 845 an agile and versatile midclass forwarder with many of the advantages of the larger forwarders,” Grabbe ends.

International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 IBC

TIMBER CRANE PALFINGER EPSILON M12Z & TIMBER CRANE PALFINGER EPSILON S280L94 in action. The development department at PALFINGER EPSILON has always been open to new customer requests and is able to come up with a lot of ideas for their requirements. Since autumn 2015 the cable yarding systems manufacture Mayr-Melnhof Forsttechnik is the proud owner of the first Syncrofalke with PALFINGER EPSILON S280L94. Since then the system has proven itself and more than 50 units have already been delivered.

www.palfinger.com

After the Storm

HG6800TX

Hurricane Michael devastated areas in the Southeastern United States in 2018. Ceres Environmental Services Inc. share their process of what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like to help clean up communities and remove green waste after a natural disaster.

Built for land-clearing and pipeline right-of-way operations, the HG6800TX horizontal grinder offers a high-horsepower engine on a tracked machine with a compact design. Featuring 950 hp (708 kW) in a 92,000 lb (41,730.5 kg) class, and an infeed design designed specifically for feeding larger materials, the new grinder is built to power through tough materials with less operator interaction.

WC2300XL

Vermeer and the people who make mulch

As the push toward alternative fuels accelerates, governments and industries are recognizing the advantages of using wood chips as a source for power generation. Now with a CAT C-13 Tier 4 Final engine with 440 hp (328 kW) of power, the WC2300XL whole tree chipper offers a powerful solution for producing wood chips.

We know you need industry-leading solutions to get the job done. Whether you are working on right-of-way preparation, commercial land clearing or storm clean-up, Vermeer horizontal grinders, tub grinders and trommel screens are designed to help you conquer your next job. www.vermeer.com

SAFEGUARD SENSITIVE SITES WITH ENVIRON™ MV Protect your site’s delicate environment — and your bottom line. ENVIRON hydraulic fluid balances a 10,000-hour oil life* with an inherently biodegradable ashless formulation that skips the heavy metals. With ENVIRON MV, you can expect superior wear protection and reliability while knowing you’re minimizing damage to the surrounding site. Raise your sustainability game with the inherently biodegradable hydraulic fluid that delivers operational productivity.

Visit TRYENVIRON.COM

* According to ASTM D943 testing. ™ Owned or used under license.

International Forest Industries Magazine October November 2020

Articles inside

JOHN DEERE