IFI December 2020 January 2021

LOGGING • SAWMILLING • BIOMASS

DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

SAWLINES Biomass Felling Heads Steep Slope Harvesting Firefighting Forwarder Engines

WHAT WILL YOU GRIND? New from Peterson, the 1700D Horizontal Grinder.

Small, and mobile, but packed with the features that make Peterson grinders the most productive machines on the market—producing materials at the lowest cost per ton.

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

•

Chippers

•

Grinders

•

Screens

•

Stacking Conveyors

LOGGING • BIOMASS

CONTENTS

24

BIOMASS Big brands continue fight for market share in chipper sector

38

32

48

32 FELLING HEADS

38 STEEP SLOPE HARVESTING

48 PONSSE FIGHTING WILDFIRES

Felling heads continue to incorporate features to their design that make cutting, releasing and moving on a more efficient process

Steep slopes are the new battle grounds for the world’s major suppliers of forestry equipment

The importance of wildfire suppression and effective firefighting measures has increased globally

DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

REGULAR FEATURES

6 Logging News 52 Advertising Index

LUMBER PROCESSING

COVER: Valutec As the leading developer and world leader in continuous kilns Valutec has delivered more than 1,500 continuous kilns to sawmills around the world.

One year ago, the company commissioned North America’s first TC continuous kiln at Pleasant River’s site Moose River in Jackman, ME and in April 2020 the second TC kiln was

LOGGING • SAW

commissioned at Pleasant River’s site in Dover, ME. “It does a great job, in a lot less time than we’re used to and puts out a much better product”, says Fred Haigis, Lumber Yard Supervisor Moose River.

MILLING • BIO MAS

CONTENTS

S

DECEMBER 2020

/ JANUARY 2021

SAWLINES Biomass Felling Heads Steep Slope Harvesting Firefighting Forwarder Engines

www.valutec.ca

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 1

LUMBER PROCESSING

15

31

18 18 BID GROUP

31 ENGINES

15 JARTEK

Cummins Marketing Communications Director for the Global Off-Highway business, Steve Nendick, explores the benefits of the Stage V diesel for forestry applications

Jartek Invest has signed a major contract with Fargesbois in France

20

During the past few decades, debarker technology has not been the greatest mover in terms of innovative evolution – that is changing

23

22 20 VALUTEC

22 BRUNNER HILDEBRAND

23 CALDWELL

As a leading developer and world leader in continuous kilns, Valutec has delivered more than 1,500 continuous kilns to sawmills around the world

Industry stalwart pushes the limits of what’s possible in kiln drying technology to raise the bar on finished wood products for what has become an incredibly competitive market

Freres Lumber Utilizes Caldwell Rotary Leg Lumber Lifter

ED 3000* WRAPPER Fully Automatic Wrapping Machine for Lumber Packages with welding head module or stitching module • • • • • •

Compact design and small footprint for easy integration into existing plants Fully automated wrapping and switching between films Revolver magazine for up to six films Tight fitting film hood, avoiding requirement for staples Easy access to individual components for maintenance Support for PE or Woven wrap, with both welding head or stitching module available *patent pending

North America Springer Microtec Inc. | office@springer-microtec.com | www.springer-microtec.com | 203, 1847 West Broadway | Vancouver, V6J1Y6 | Canada | T +1 604.879.4628

International Springer Maschinenfabrik GmbH | office@springer.eu | www.springer.eu | Hans-Springer-Strasse 2 | A-9360 Friesach | T +43 4268 2581-0 | F +43 4268 2581-45

2 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

www.microtec.eu

www.lucidyne.com

ISSUE 78 DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

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 Save our summer

T

here has been much to celebrate in the past month or so. Most notably, in the UK, where the International Forest Industries offices are based, the first person in the world received the breakthrough Pfizer vaccine in early December. By mid-month, the first patients in the US had also received a dose, along with a significant number of patients in other European nations.

travel is possible. This will depend on the policies of multiple governments – who will be operating with the knowledge those politicians that took the most conservative line on COVID-19 had the best approval ratings – but it is feasible that events could be back on the agenda by late in the first half of next year, albeit with various restrictions in place.

This represents the realisation of a hope that most thought was beyond the reasonable back in March when COVID-19 became very real for much of the world. At that point, the usual vaccination development periods of somewhere between 10-15 years were used to taunt us, suggesting this would be a virus that would kill hundreds of thousands – potentially millions – and we would be asked to live with for the foreseeable future. At best, some said a vaccine could be rolled out within 18 months.

For those who haven’t yet guessed, I’m thinking explicitly about the prospect of forestry shows going ahead in some capacity in 2021. On the agenda (back on the agenda) in Europe alone are major sawmilling and forestry shows such as Ligna, Tra and Teknik, and KWF.

Maybe some of the doom and gloom can be put down to my colleagues in the mainstream press trying to sell papers, or maybe medical experts really were that downbeat, but some nine months after those first pessimistic guidance figures were released, we’re seeing the beginning of the end – it has been literally twice as expedient as the best-case scenario.

This success has prompted economic forecasters to revise upwards projections for 2021 from those published earlier in the year and, in fact, many of the forecasts for 2020 look likely to be far worse than the reality once the books are balanced from the current calendar.

The focus now, of course, is on the rollout of the Pfizer vaccine and others that are hot on its heels. The broad target in Europe, at least, is to have frontline workers and the vulnerable vaccinated by the end of the first quarter next year, with everyone else following by year end.

Though we are still probably a year away from a world in which COVID-19 doesn’t pose a fatal threat, we could be months away from a world where international

4 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

These international events are at the heart of our industry.

Sure, forestry has historically been a very domestic sector but more and more it has consolidated manufacturing resources and sought to grow the best technologies for a given region into global product suites.

International meetings, therefore, represent an opportunity to both learn and to build business relationships that may underpin sales for a year – and beyond in some cases.

For our little team here at IFI, forestry events get us out of the office and into the industry, sometimes literally into the woods.

We meet people, we learn about the latest technologies and we generally just enjoy ourselves.

For all the benefits an active vaccination programme will have for the global economy and the forestry sector, specifically, I’ll admit one of my first feelings was pure relief that my colleagues and I may once again be among industry this northern summer.

Enjoy Chris Cann

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LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

John Deere to expand TimberMatic™ Maps & TimberManager™ job site visualization to include Waratah H-16 production data • John Deere will now offer TimberMatic™ Maps and TimberManager™ as a standard offering for tracked harvesters or forestry swing machines with a factory-installed Waratah H-16 Measuring System.

• T his will enable the onboard TimberMatic™ Maps and cloud-based TimberManager™ programs to incorporate production data from the Waratah H-16 Measuring System.

• T he expanded software collects timber processing data from the H-16 system, providing a realtime look at job site progress.

Increasing job site visibility and visualization, John Deere expands its TimberMatic™ Maps and TimberManager™ software to seamlessly incorporate data from the Waratah H-16 Measuring System. With the new capability, the TimberMatic Maps system collects production data from harvesting heads equipped with the Waratah H-16 system, providing real-time production data of processed timber linked to location through the in-cab monitor and synched to the cloud-based TimberManager. Job site progress data is then accessible to off-site managers or employees through a phone, tablet or computer using the TimberManager software.

The software pairing is available for John Deere tracked harvesters or forestry swing machines equipped with harvesting heads using the Waratah H-16 Measuring System. Additionally, the TimberMatic Maps and TimberManager are included in-base on new machines ordered with a factory H-16 Measuring System. A retrofit option can be downloaded and installed at no additional charge on existing machines utilizing the H-16 system.

Machines must be equipped with 4G MTG and an active JDLink™ Telematics subscription.

“With this action, we are bringing together the powerful data collection capabilities of TimberMatic Maps and the Waratah H-16 Measuring System to offer more value to our customers,” said Matt Flood, product manager, John Deere. “Many of the challenges our customers face can be improved through increased visualization of job site workflow and productivity, and communication — seeing what is actually going on. With this expanding offering, we are providing more ways for our customers to collect data and

The H-16 system data will provide loggers with job progress in real time analyze their business, helping them increase outputs and boost profitability.”

Launched in 2018, TimberMatic Maps and TimberManager enhance machine connectivity and

communication. The TimberMatic Maps solution features mapping software for use in the field, leveraging a mobile network to share real-time production data between operators and office managers in the office. Data is collected through sensors on the equipment, while production location is gathered through GPS technology. This data is then shared to the cloud, where managers can access TimberManager from a PC, tablet or phone, allowing them to track job site progress remotely.

.30 Jun. - 03 Jul. 2021 | Largest forestry demo fair

TimberRite H-16 is our ultimate measuring and control system designed to increase efficiency, accuracy and productivity.

It allows you to transfer real-time data wirelessly and stay connected to optimize your job sites. And with its additional mapping option, you can visualize production data and see terrain obstacles at a glance. With this kind of intel, you get the lay of the land to tackle every stand.

6 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

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LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Converting residue to money As part of a complete range of sizereduction solutions, West Salem Machinery specialises in delivering marketable fibre from waste Entrepreneurs can reliably convert mill residuals into valueadded marketable fibre with West Salem Machinery (WSM) wood and bark hogs, wood grinders, no-knife re-sizers, shredders, and hammermills, according to the manufacturer.

“Field proven to deliver outstanding performance, operators can count on WSM’s complete line of size reduction equipment to get the job done,” the manufacturer stated.

Entrepreneurs can eliminate unscheduled downtime and spend more time grinding because of the robust construction and reliability of the machines. Longer intervals between scheduled maintenance means more uptime and more throughput.

“It’s simple – less downtime means more production,” WSM said. “Superior componentry and

maintenance-friendly features allow WSM’s equipment to deliver industry leading reliability.

“Whether you need to process panel trim, mill waste, plywood trim, chip overs, planer trim, log yard debris, or veneer trim – WSM’s size reduction fleet will deliver.”

Complete size reduction solutions That full range of grinding, shredding, and milling machines in numerous sizes and feed configurations, means WSM can provide the best solution for whatever the operator needs to grind.

WSM horizontal grinders/ hogs easily process large, bulky material at a metered rate of help maximize capacity. The Titan Series horizontal grinders/hogs are massive systems that process high volumes of diverse types of wood waste. The vertical grinders/hogs are a great option for processing shorter incoming feedstock with a smaller installation footprint.

8 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

4864 Titan Horizontal Grinding System with 600 HP drive motor going to large recycling operation in the SE USA. The system includes a massive powered feed roll and 30’ long heavy duty chain infeed conveyor.

High speed, high volume 44 Series hammermills provide high capacity grinding to a small consistent end product.

WSM’s severe duty hybrid 42 Series hammermills/grinders are designed to reduce larger pieces of wood than a conventional hammermill and better withstand damage from tramp metal.

The company’s 48 series super shredders are massive machines

that combine the efficiency of the 44 Series and the durability of the 42 Series to provide small, consistent finished fibre at the highest capacity requirements in the most demanding environments.

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

Miika Soininen appointed to Ponsse Plc’s management team Miika Soininen (38), student of technology, has been appointed Director of IT and Digital Services in Ponsse Plc’s Management Team.

He will start in his new position on 1 December 2020. Soininen will report to Ponsse Plc’s President and CEO Juho Nummela, and his location will be in Vieremä.

“The significance of digitalisation for the company’s operations has increased considerably, and data-based services will be a significant part of Ponsse’s future solutions and service range. The aim is to

use the opportunities offered by digitalisation in developing Ponsse’s operations throughout the group. Ponsse will use modern technologies in the development of solutions provided for customers.

Ponsse will invest heavily in the development of digital solutions in the next few years”, says Juho Nummela, President and CEO of Ponsse Plc. Miika Soininen will transfer to his new position from the position of Manager of Ponsse Plc’s IT and Digital Services. Soininen started working at Ponsse in February

2018 as an IT Manager, and he has also been responsible for the company’s digital services starting from the beginning of September 2020. Before transferring to Ponsse Plc, Soininen was the Managing Director of Qentinel Finland Oy. In addition to Miika Soininen, other members of Ponsse Plc’s eight-member Management Team are President and CEO Juho Nummela, Chair of the Management Team; Petri Härkönen, CFO and Deputy CEO; Juha Inberg, Technology and R&D Director; Marko Mattila, Sales,

Marketing and Service Director; Tapio Mertanen, Service Director; Paula Oksman, HR Director; and Tommi Väänänen, Supply Chain Director

New Sales Director at Nisula Forest Oy Timo Savornin has been appointed as Sales Director at Nisula Forest Oy from November 1st, 2020. Timo has strong practical knowledge of mechanical timber harvesting and years of experience in international

trade. “The ongoing expansion of the factory as well as upcoming products will open new market areas and possibilities in the near future. Timo is the best person to export high-quality Nisula

products to new market areas, says Kalle Mattsson Director, Sales & Marketing Nisula Forest Oy.

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International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 9

Ponsse once again the most reputable company in Finland For the third year in succession, Ponsse has been selected as the most reputable company in Finland in the annual Reputation &Trust survey. In the top three, Ponsse was followed by game development company Supercell, while Fazer came in third. A total of 8,974 Finns participated in the survey.

“Ponsse has succeeded in maintaining its first place, and even in increasing its reputation during this challenging year.

Ponsse received the highest individual score in the vital areas of leadership and modernisation.

Especially during the coronavirus crisis, there is a demand for an ability to lead and modernise,” says Harri Leinikka, CEO of T-Media, which conducted the survey. The Reputation&Trust survey identifies the reputation of companies by analysing the greater public’s impressions of them in different dimensions.

Jarmo Vidgrén, Chairman

of Ponsse’s Board of Directors, appreciates this year’s recognition more than ever. “This year has been challenging for us as well, and we humbly accept this recognition. We have succeeded together, for which I would like to thank our customers and employees as well as their families, and our stakeholders. Ponsse’s 50th anniversary has not gone as planned, and it feels great that we can thank everyone for our shared successes through this recognition too,” said Jarmo Vidgren, Chairman of Ponsse Plc’s Board of Directors at the award ceremony.

T-Media found this year’s survey extremely interesting due to the exceptional circumstances caused by the coronavirus situation.

“Companies were forced to rapidly adapt to unexpected changes in their operating environments, and the spread of the pandemic has affected people’s expectations of companies.”

Reputation&Trust survey The results are based on the Reputation&Trust survey, carried out in the summer of 2020 with the goal of investigating the reputation of companies operating in Finland among the general public. A total of 8,974 Finns responded to the survey, providing a total of 19,110 company evaluations.

The published most and least reputable companies were selected for the survey based on a preliminary study carried out in April 2020. In the preliminary study, 1,064 Finns spontaneously named two companies which they thought had a particularly good reputation and two that had a particularly poor reputation. The thirty most frequently mentioned companies were carefully studied with the Reputation&Trust model, in which the reputation score of a company is formed as the average of eight different dimensions: governance, financial performance,

leadership, innovation, dialogue, products and services, workplace, and responsibility.

The survey’s target group consisted of Finns between 15 and 65 years of age. The sample has been weighted to be representative in terms of gender, age and the area where people live.

Maxam enhances its forestry series with the new ms930 With the forestry series gaining a strong reputation in the industry, MAXAM has expanded the program to include the all-new MS930 to the lineup. The MS930 is engineered to provide the efficiency and strength of the LOGXTRA series while providing exceptional value to every site, making it a formidable solution for the forestry industry.

The all-new versatile MAXAM MS930 LOGXTRA is specifically developed for multiple forestry applications, featuring a deep and wide tread that is reinforced with a steel breaker belt package for maximum strength. Providing maximum protection from cuts, impacts and punctures, the MS930 is built tough for the application.

Delivering value-added solutions

27th September -

Size

P.R.

O.D. (in/mm)

S.W. (in/mm)

T.D. (32nds/mm)

28L-26

20

64.2/1632

27.9/709

72/57

30.5L-32

26

72.7/1847

30.2/768

76/60

35.5L-32

26

79.3/2016

35.2/895

79/63

to sites globally, the MS930 is built with the signature LOGXTRA high-strength, belt-stabilized construction. Offered at an aggressive price point, the MS930 is an added-value solution for the industry.

Manufactured with an extrawide footprint that delivers exceptional flotation in muddy and wet ground conditions, the MS930 increases efficiency on all

10 – 13 November

1st October 2021

10 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

sites. To prevent common bead winding defects, the MS930 is manufactured with nylon-wrapped beads that outlast alternative options. Additionally, the adaptable MS930 integrates advanced compounding and enhanced features such as a heavy-duty shoulder and sidewall to eliminate downtime.

The MS930 LOGXTRA delivers maximum performance and

30 June - 03 July 2021 Largest forestry demo fair

extreme traction at an exceptional value. Available now in the below size range, the MS930 comes in a variety of ply ratings to meet the needs of the application.

August 11 - 13, 2021 | Atlanta, GA

Waratah introduces multi-use HTH623C loader processor for tight spaces Waratah Forestry Equipment debuted a new model configuration of the HTH623C harvester head.

The new HTH623C loader processor (LP) features a wide delimb opening for increased productivity while its short tilt frame improves reach for higher deck piles, making it more maneuverable and ideal for tight spaces.

“The HTH623C LP takes great features of the HTH623C harvester head and expands on those for loading and processing applications,” said Brent Fisher, product marketing manager for Waratah. “With a shorter tilt frame and a larger maximum delimb opening, the HTH623C LP delivers the productivity and efficiency Waratah customers have come to expect from each new innovation.”

The 623C LP is more stable and allows me to quickly get in and out of a pile when processing and loading Jake Dailey, Operator at C&C Logging in Kelso, Washington

Extra efficiency One of the biggest differences from the HTH623C harvester head is the large delimb opening on the HTH623C LP, which allows for multiple logs. The maximum delimb opening on the new configuration is 939 mm (37 in.), which is 239 mm (9 in.) larger than the HTH623C’s opening. The new short tilt frame allows for better log control along with more flexibility working on high decks or sloped piles, and with the advantage of grabbing multiple logs, operators can clear the yarder chute or shovel more efficiently.

“The 623C LP is more stable and allows me to quickly get in and out of a pile when processing and loading,” said Jake Dailey, operator at C&C Logging in Kelso, Washington.

The larger delimb opening can also manipulate larger single logs.

This increased efficiency helps operators quickly clear the chute and load trucks. As a stand-alone option, the wide opening delimb arms can also help improve log deck picking.

Workhorse in tight spaces With a weight of 3,140 kg (6,923 lb.), the HTH623C LP is a multiuse tool for those working in tight spaces. When a landing doesn’t have the space for multiple pieces of equipment, the HTH623C LP is the right head for the job. The new configuration features a shorter tilt frame, which permits efficient

R

With a shorter tilt frame providing improved reach for higher deck piles, the HTH623C LP is a multi-use head built to work in tight spaces. Its large delimb opening allows for grabbing multiple logs or larger single logs, which increases efficiency and productivity for clearing the chute and loading trucks

loading of trucks, improved reach for higher deck piles and more compatibility with live heels – all while maintaining easy access to hoses and valve.

“With more than 45 years of innovation in the forestry industry, Waratah understands what customers need for their worksites,” Fisher said. “The HTH623C LP is another example of the Waratah team’s creativity in

delivering the best machines.”

The Waratah HTH623C LP is currently available to customers in Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Asia Pacific, Brazil and Latin America.

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International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 11

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

Moelven Soknabruket invests in CamShift 600 debarking system

The image shows a similar system at Höglands Såg & Hyvleri AB, Sweden

2020 continues to be a successful year for USNR’s Cambio debarker product line. The latest addition to their order book is a CamShift 600 modular debarking system ordered by the Moelven Soknabruket sawmill in Sokna, Norway.

CamShift is USNR’s modern and modular adaption of traditional Cambio debarking technology, allowing for a variety of configurations to match different application requirements.

This particular unit comprises a

CamTrim flare reducer, a Cambio 600 debarking rotor, and six CM 600D direct-drive feedworks modules that transport logs through the machine.

Both the flare reducer and the rotor slide out of the machine for easy maintenance. USNR will also deliver a CIM 800 log infeed and an outfeed conveyor. This system will replace a Cambio 800 and will be installed during summer 2021.

binderholz Group wins auction of Klausner Lumber Two in North Carolina, USA and thus expands further in the USA The Austrian binderholz Group, headquartered in Fügen, has purchased all assets of Klausner Lumber Two LLC, headquartered in Enfield, Halifax County, North Carolina, at the virtual auction held on Thursday, December 10, 2020.

In the auction, binderholz prevailed over Mayr Melnhof Holz and was awarded the contract at USD 83.4 million. The transaction is expected to close in January 2021.

In August 2020, binderholz already expanded outside Europe for the first time with the purchase of Klausner Lumber One in Live Oak, Florida. This will now be followed by the second American sawmill in Enfield, North Carolina.

The technical equipment and performance of the two sawmills are similar.

The North Carolina site is located in one of the best growing areas for the “Southern Yellow Pine” species, which is in high demand in the USA. Log availability from the local area is sufficient and sustainable. In addition, the southeast of America is one of the most populous states, so that sales in this region are correspondingly high.

Reinhard Binder, CEO of binderholz, explains the strategic motives as follows: “The acquisition of Klausner Lumber Two in Enfield, North Carolina,

is the logical complement to the Klausner Lumber One plant in Live Oak, Florida, which we acquired in August. This step will significantly improve availability for our customers. With this acquisition accomplished, the foundation has been laid for further investments in the depth of value creation.”

The acquired Klausner Lumber Two sawmill has a sawing capacity of over 1 million m³ of logs and a further processing capacity of over 500,000 m³ of planed products.

As some technical investments still have to be made, production is expected to start at the end of 2021.

With this acquisition, binderholz becomes the largest European sawn timber producer.

With its 9 sawmills in Austria, Germany, Finland and the USA, binderholz has a capacity of approximately 8.5 million solid cubic meters of roundwood, from which 5 million m³ of sawn timber and from which 3.6 million m³ of solid wood products are produced.

Through Binderholz Timber Inc. and its employees, the binderholz Group already has a very good network and customer contacts in the USA. In addition, Binderholz Bausysteme GmbH has been able to realize numerous innovative timber construction projects in the USA in recent years. With the

12 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

acquisition of the two sawmills in the USA, binderholz will further strengthen its presence in this market and continuously advance the internationalization and diversification of the binderholz Group in terms of market and production.

binderholz Group Leading European company for solid wood products and innovative construction solutions.

In the timber industry, the name Binder stands for a sense of tradition and reliability, combined with high-tech and innovation.

More than 60 years ago a small sawmill business, today the family-owned company binderholz presents itself as one of the leading European companies equipped with the most modern technologies and production methods, with a corresponding reputation on the market. binderholz has 14 locations: around 3,000 employees work at five Austrian sites - Fügen, Jenbach, St. Georgen, Hallein and Unternberg - five German sites Kösching, Burgbernheim, Oberrot, Baruth and Wolfegg - two Finnish sites - Lieksa and Nurmes - and two US sites - Live Oak, Florida and Enfield, North Carolina. The solid wood product range extends from sawn timber, profiled timber,

Reinhard Binder, CEO of binderholz,

single- and multi-layer glued solid wood panels, glued laminated timber to binderholz cross laminated timber BBS. The waste wood from production is processed into biofuels, green electricity, multi-purpose boards, pressboard blocks and pressboard pallets. The products are exported all over the world.

Sales will increase to 1.5 billion euros and 3,500 employees in 2021/2022 due to the start-up of the two US sawmills and ongoing investments at the European sites. binderholz produces sustainably and efficiently according to the no-waste principle and utilizes 100% of the wood resource.

Stockhult Holding acquires Rolfs såg from Setra Trävaror Stockhult Holding AB has agreement with Setra Trävaror AB to acquire all shares in Rolfs såg AB with its registered office in Kalix kommun. The entry was to take place no later than 1 December 2020. The acquisition will momentarily enable increased delivery capacity within Stockhult Holding.

The acquisition of Rolf såg is another step closer to realizing our vision. The assessment is that Rolfs såg has very good development opportunities and we see great synergies with, among other things, our sawmill in Glommersträsk. The ambition is to resume operations in Rolfs såg during December 2020. The restart of operations will mean several new jobs in Kalix kommun.

A more detailed plan will be communicated later.

As we have for a long time had difficulty being able to fully meet the demand of both existing and new customers, we see the acquisition of Rolfs såg as an enabler to increase production - and thus increase our delivery capacity in the short and long term,

says Paul Björnsson It feels fantastic, the Rolfs såg has a long tradition in Kalix and it feels good that Stockhult Holding AB is now starting its operations in Kalix as well, this also shows a collaboration between the inland and the coast, says Tommy Nilsson, municipal councilor in Kalix kommun.

The work with the acquisition of Rolfs såg has been going on for some time, which is why we want to take the opportunity to thank everyone involved for a good collaboration - and that we have got/get the great confidence to take care of and develop Rolfs såg.

Stockhult Holding AB is a small privately owned investment company with a focus on operations in wood transformation.

Our investments always have a long-term purpose. Stockhult Holding AB is, among other things, the owner of Glommers Timber AB.

NORDIC INNOVATIONS NORDIC INNOVATIONS

MECHANISATIAUTOMATION VISION

James Jones & Sons invests GBP 3 million in Stevens Croft site extension James Jones & Sons commences GBP 3 million extension to Stevens Croft site in UK. A four acre extension to Lockerbie mill 1 log yard is well underway, with phase one of the project on schedule to be completed by Christmas.

The northern extension will provide a larger storage area for unsorted and sorted logs, increasing the range and flexibility with which the logs can be cut in mill 1.

The extension includes the construction of a perimeter road and concrete slab for log storage.

It will be serviced by a purpose built Sustainable Drainage System

AUTOMATION

(SuDS), including solids and oil interceptors to handle all surface water drainage. The project has been supported by design engineers, Asher Associates, while the principal contractor on site is Hardie Engineering.

James Jones & Sons Ltd is the UK’s most diversified, family owned timber processor. The company today operates from 20 sites across the UK.

MECHANISATION

VISION

www.jartek.fi International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 13

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

All sawn timber production of the ULK Group is now graded with FinScan scanners In the last quarter of 2020, Finscan specialists completed the installation of two new FinScan NOVA timber grading scanners in the ULK Group’s Ustyansky and Velsky sawmills. The NOVA was chosen to enable the task of scanning boards from all sides

without having to flip it on the line, thereby increasing the speed of the sorting line.

Together with these systems, FinScan EndSpy board end scanners and FinScan MoistSpy non-contact moisture meters were installed for a complete

and comprehensive analysis of all product parameters. The new scanners give now an opportunity for ULK to increase the yield and the volume of sorting. Now all sawn timber of the ULK Group’s sawmills are graded by Finscan scanners, and the total number of FinScan

scanners in Russia and Belarus has reached 25 units.

Juha Vanhainen appointed Chairman of the Board of Koskitukki Oy Juha Vanhainen has started as the Chairman of the Board of Koskitukki Oy, the parent company that manages the operations of the Koskisen Group, as of 1 December 2020 . Markku Pohjola , who has been the Chairman of the Board since 2014, will leave his position on the Board.

“I have served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for six years and now is a good time to change the Presidency”, says Markku Pohjola.

“Over the years, the company has undergone a major overhaul.

Unprofitable operations have been reduced and by focusing on core operations in the sawmill and sheet metal industries, we have laid the foundation for improved

competitiveness and profitability.

The outlook is bright, not least with an investment project to reform the sawmill industry. I will gladly leave the reins of the Board in the competent hands of Juha Vanhainen. I would like to thank the company and everyone who works within it for their success. ” The new Chairman of the Board, Vanhainen, joined Koskituk as a member of the Board in April 2020.

Juha Vanhainen has extensive experience working for the Board in various companies, and is currently a member of the Boards of Ponsse Oyj and Wihuri Group. He has gained previous board experience, e.g. Chairman of the Board of Ekokem Oy, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Pohjolan Voima Oy

and Chairman of the Board of Metsäteollisuus Ry. “Koskisen is a traditional, reputable and well-branded international wood products specialist. I confidently accept the position of Chairman of the Board after Marku’s successful term.

The company has significantly improved its financial position in recent years and is implementing its strategic plan. One of the Board’s main tasks in the near future is to continue to prepare and implement a major investment that is central to the sawmill industry and the company’s strategy as a whole, together with the operating management. ” With the change, Koskitukki Oy’s Board of Directors will have

Juha Vanhainen

five members. The Chairman of the Board is Juha Vanhainen, the members of the Board are Hanna Sievinen and Kalle Reponen and the owners are Eva Wathén and Kari Koskine

New & improved network sawmill camera Opticom Technologies have announced the release of its new 3MP CC04 Series IP camera.

(CC04-IP3MV) The new version

27th September 1st October 2021 Trade fair for the forestry and wood industries

offers both H.264 and H.265 video compression algorithms. H.265 compression reduces bitrates by approximately 50% which significantly cuts bandwidth and storage usage.

The 3MP CC04 delivers real time triple streaming that can be independently controlled in terms of resolution, bitrate and compression. Environmentally the camera is rated IP67 waterproof/ dustproof. The built-in infrared (IR) array also ensures reliable video even in total darkness to a range of 65 feet.

Opticom’s CC04 Series industrial IP camera is designed

14 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

to meet the tough environmental challenges that exist in wood processing mills and many other industrial facilities. The camera features advanced vibration damping design right down to the neoprene equipped mount.

The camera installs in minutes in virtually any location and can be integrated with all major video management software (VMS) platforms.

Opticom Technologies Inc. was incorporated in 1973 and continues today as an industrial video camera company specializing in manufacturing application specific cameras for a variety of industries.

Their products are designed to solve the formidable challenges found in heavy industrial applications. For more information visit them at www.opticomtech.com or call us at 1-800-578-1853.

SAWLINES

Jartek will deliver a sorting line for green lumber in what is essentially a brownfields project

Jartek takes major stride into France Jartek Invest has signed a major contract with Fargesbois in France.

Fargesbois belongs to the Piveteau Group, one of the major wood processors in France. Piveteau has several processing sites and is known for value added projects and innovative thinking.

J

artek will deliver a sorting line for green lumber in what is essentially a brownfields project. Besides delivering a new sorting line, a lot of connections to the existing process will also be added. The delivery consists of the latest innovations by Jartek; multiple servo feeder and machine vision systems, to name a few.

Though earlier this year Jartek delivered a smaller project to France, this contract is a real breakthrough in that market.

Jartek has cooperated for years with its French partner, Finnsobois, mainly in Thermowood kilns. The cooperation has now also extended to mechanical processing.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to our partner Finnsobois and especially Fargesbois for the trust towards our company,” Kari Puustinen, Sales Director of Jartek, said. “We see a big potential on the market with the help of our partner. There is really a place for our fast tailor-made lines with good references.”

This is not the first time Fargesbois has turned to Finnish technology. The Piveteau Group has several debarkers by Valon Kone and a sawline by HewSaw, which started up in 2009 in Farges.

“This will become an excellent showroom for us in the future,” says Puustinen.

The Piveteau Group is very innovative and open minded.

“When choosing our partner for the project we looked openly for companies who can fulfill our demands. Jartek was a natural choice for us,” said Philippe Piveteau, CEO of Piveteau Group.

This order increases a record high order book for Jartek in addition to a large-scale contract to Russia a few months ago.

asset in the ULK supplier choice.

Moreover, Jartek has founded a new automation enterprise this year and we can offer modern solutions for the process control of the Pinega Sawmill.”, says Teemu Uimonen, CEO at Jartek Invest Oy. The ULK delivery is massive in every aspect. The delivery will include millions of kilograms of steel for machinery and framing, taking up several hundred truckloads. In terms of automation and components, acquisitions will be very significant. The design, manufacturing and installation supervision of the sorting lines will employ multiple subcontractors in addition to Jartek’s own resources.

The project in its entirety will last more than three years.

“It is a privilege to be part of these great projects in the current global situation,” said Puustinen.

Jartek has been developing

ULK Group LLC This was with the Russian company ULK Group LLC for the construction of lumber handling lines to a new Pinezhsky Forest Industry Complex plant in the Arkhangelsk Region.

When finished, the plant will be the largest modern sawmill plant in the world and simultaneously the largest sawmill in Northern Europe.

The capacity of the plant will be over two million cubic meters of logs per year with one million cubic meters of lumber and over half a million tons of pellets.

Jartek’s delivery consists of four green sorting lines and three dry sorting lines. The delivery is the largest in Jartek’s history as well as the largest sorting line delivery in Europe. The contract price is tens of millions of euros.

“For a project of this scale, the customer required a trustworthy partner with the ability to deliver the newest and most reliable technology available. Jartek’s extensive experience in Finnish and Russian markets, especially the successful cooperation in the Pestovo sawmill, was a prominent

We would like to say a huge thank you to our partner Finnsobois and especially Fargesbois for the trust towards our company Kari Puustinen, Sales Director of Jartek, sawmilling technology for more than half a century following its inception in 1957, though under the name Sateko. Today, the company is a leading supplier in Finnish sawmilling technology, while building its export footprint with deals such as the this one.

In Thermowood kilns, Jartek is a global market leader. The familyowned company also specializes in log handling and lumber handling lines, drying kilns, and high speed planer lines, alongside sorting technology. Jartek`s technology and services have been trusted by groups such as MetsäWood, UPM and Stora Enso.

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 15

Valutec supplying four OTC continuous kilns to new German sawmill Germany’s best wood SCHNEIDER is investing around EUR 80 million in a completely new sawmill in Messkirch. The sawmill will have an annual capacity of 200,000 m3 (85,000 MBF) of sawn lumber. All lumber drying will be performed in four OTC model continuous kilns from Sweden’s Valutec.

“We were looking for a kiln supplier who could provide high-capacity lumber kilns that required minimal maintenance, and Valutec was able to offer the best solution. They also have extensive experience of continuous kilns and excellent references here in Germany. It’s why we chose them,” says Andreas Schilling, MBA, Project Manager, Technical Systems Planning at best wood SCHNEIDER.

The sawmill in Messkirch is a greenfield project, and it will be one of Europe’s most modern sawmills once completed. For example, forklifts will be replaced by gantries between the lumber feed and the trimmers.

“Being entrusted with this investment is proof that we offer leading edge technology. In the case of a completely new sawmill, we have much greater latitude when it comes to the lumber drying process, and with four OTC model continuous kilns, we provide the ideal balance between availability, capacity and the right end-product quality,” says Robert Larsson, Valutec CEO. The kilns are built in stainless steel and equipped with Valutec’s

latest Valmatics 4.0 control system.

It’s the only system on the market to use built-in simulator technology to optimize drying processes for all types of lumber kilns.

OTC kiln assembly will begin in the summer of 2021, and commissioning is scheduled for the following winter. The sawn timber produced and dried at the location is used exclusively in the course of own further processing.

Weyerhaeuser Company’s 3Q net sales increased to $2.1 billion Weyerhaeuser Company reported 3Q 2020 net earnings of $283 million, or 38 cents per diluted share, on net sales of $2.1 billion.

This compares with net earnings of $99 million, or 13 cents per diluted share, on net sales of $1.7 billion for the same period last year.

3Q 2020 results include aftertax charges of $103 million for special items, primarily a non-cash timber casualty loss associated with Oregon fire damage. Excluding special items, the company reported 3Q net earnings of $386 million, or 52 cents per diluted share. This compares with net

earnings before special items of $59 million for the same period last year and $77 million for the 2Q 2020.

Adjusted EBITDA for the 3Q 2020 was $745 million compared with $308 million for the same period last year and $386 million for the 2Q 2020.

“In the 3Q, each of our businesses delivered outstanding operational and financial results despite disruptions from severe weather, unprecedented forest fires and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Devin W. Stockfish, president and CEO. “We

achieved record Wood Products Adjusted EBITDA, surpassing the previous high by nearly 60%. In addition, we redeemed $325 million of debt maturities and announced transactions to strategically upgrade our Oregon timberland holdings.”

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 manages additional timberlands under long-term licenses in Canada.

Devin W. Stockfish, President & CEO

Hurford Wholesale signs up with Lignia to distribute its modified timber in Australasia Lignia Wood Company has signed a distribution agreement with Australian timber experts Hurford Wholesale, who will be distributing LIGNIA products to the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Neil Ryan, CEO of Lignia Wood Company said: “Lignia continues to go from strength to strength across the globe and we are now delighted to welcome Hurfords as a world-class distributor and partner of Lignia for Australasia.

Hurfords has a track record of success going back nearly 90 years and an expertise that will help us take Lignia into a bright future, especially as they are close to the end users and can therefore provide solutions for specific projects.”

Hurfords was established in 1932 and is a leading Australian third-generation family business dedicated to the native hardwood timber industry. With its HQ in

16 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Stapylton in Queensland, it covers the entire supply chain from the management and harvesting of forest resources, processing, manufacturing, sales, and distribution of wood products in Australia and around the world.

Lignia Wood Company produces modified timber at its base in Barry, Wales. It uses real softwood from responsibly sourced FSC® certified plantations which is then modified through a unique process.

Hurford’s main site in Stapylton, QLD, Australia (© Hurford’s)

time. It offers one of the highest debarking speed on the market (600 fpm+) because there is no air seal to limit the ring RPM. Also, the log-end debarking is significantly improved (especially when the bigger end is entered first). The VTO debarker has ultrarobust parts and structure, and it is designed for easy maintenance.

Currently, there are several clients using our new VTO debarker and results are remarkable: unsurpassed debarking speed and exceptional debarking performance. How are these results achieved?

Log-diameter evaluation, prepositioning of tools, and log centering at infeed

BID Group readies market for variable tool opening debarker During the past few decades, debarker technology has not been the greatest mover in terms of innovative evolution – that is changing

S

everal years ago, BID Group decided to investigate and identify the common problems and challenges of log debarking. Finally, at the end of year 2016, a team was formed to design a new debarker to be commercialized under Comact’s brand.

“Our objective was ambitious,” Simon Potvin, Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer said.

“We wanted to create an ultrarobust and ultra-fast debarker that could replace two debarkers.

We asked ourselves how we could apply our acquired experience and expertise at the sawing process to a debarking equipment.”

There was a period of trial and error during the design and testing phases that led to several

The feed rolls all use centering linkage and are driven by one electric motor and gearbox per feed module.

18 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

adjustments to ensure reliability and performance. BID Group also strived to create a unique offering to leverage the added-value of its integrated offer that included automation and optimization in addition to mechanical that allowed the company to offer global performance results.

Today, the patent-pending Variable Tool Opening (VTO) debarker is the only integrated debarking system available on the marketplace. It offers a smooth debarking process with an operating speed up to 40% higher than other debarking systems, according to BID Group.

The VTO debarker allows debarking tool positioning in real

At infeed, there is a scanner that evaluates the log diameter. Based on the scanner data, the debarking tool arms are prepositioned, and the log-centering system is activated. There are side rolls, as well as top and bottom rolls, to centre and hold the log before it enters the debarker.

The side rolls are fluted and shaped like an hourglass to improve the stability and alignment of the log. A laser beam provides feedback to the system to specify the roll positions. The rolls are controlled with proportional air valves on each end of the cylinder.

The feed rolls all use centering linkage and are driven by one electric motor and gearbox per feed module.

Debarking with the VTO The VTO debarking tools close to the proper debarking diameter the instant the log enters the ring.

The tension used for debarking

SAWLINES – BID GROUP

LUMBER PROCESSING

Ultra-robust structure and parts

We wanted to create an ultra-robust and ultra-fast debarker that could replace two debarkers Simon Potvin, Executive VP & COO is based on the log diameter, the ring RPM and other debarking conditions. The debarking tools open and close based on the desired tool-arm pressure using a single servo motor.

The automatic unloading of the debarking tool arms on the trailing end of the log eliminates shock.

Each debarking tool arm has a precharged airbag and the six airbags are plumbed together.

There are two rings that rotate at the same speed: the main ring and the actuator ring. When the phase of the actuator ring changes in relation to the main ring, the tools are opened or closed.

HALCO AD:Layout 3 3/8/10

The air seal and VTO debarker rings are available in 17 in, 22 in, 27 in, 31 in and 35 in. Also, the feed-work gears are 3 in thick and made of hardened steel to ensure an extremely long service life.

The feed rolls have a fullfloating axle design. The drive shaft sees no radial or axial loads, it only transmits torque to the feed roll.

All radial and axial loads are taken by a large snout assembly with oversized tapered roller bearings.

We still offer our Comact Debarker model with air seal since this technology is common on the market for lower speed applications.

Maintenance This debarker is designed for easy maintenance. For example, in the infeed module, the roll frames do not share pivots. This allows a quicker roll response time and easier maintenance.

Also, the centering linkage and cylinder pins use Garmax bushings that eliminates multiple lubrication points. These bushings are easy to replace. Note also that the complete control of debarking tool arms greatly improves the debarking tool tip life.

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Optimise your production plan...

Versa Ring and air seal models BID Group also offers the Versa Ring, which is basically two rings side by side. This reduces the physical space required since there is no need for two debarkers, one after the other.

Mill owners can also choose the most appropriate ring configuration for their needs, either: two different ring sizes (if there is a variety of log dimensions), a VTO and an air seal ring (when the second one is used as a backup); or two Air Seal rings. The ring pull-out system is completely electric and requires no locking pins. A 3 in diameter ball screw actuates the cassette in and out for maintenance.

Since there is only one infeed module, there is less maintenance required.

Future of the VTO debarker Now that the mechanical aspect of the VTO debarker is developed, BID Group has plans to continue adding value to this debarking system by integrating its expertise in optimization and artificial intelligence.

“The latest technologies offer incredible performance possibilities and BID Group is developing other innovations,” the manufacturer said.

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Vancouver, Canada • Tel: 1 604 731 9311 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 19

Luzales: In May Valutec started up two TC kilns at Russian sawmill Luzales

Worldwide continuous success for Valutec TC-Kilns

O As a leading developer and world leader in continuous kilns, Valutec has delivered more than 1,500 continuous kilns to sawmills around the world

ne year ago, the company commissioned North America’s first TC continuous kiln at Pleasant River’s site Moose River in Jackman, Maine and in April 2020 the second TC kiln was commissioned at Pleasant River’s site in Dover.

“It does a great job, in a lot less time than we’re used to and puts out a much better product,” says Fred Haigis, Lumber Yard Supervisor Moose River.

The TC Kiln Valutec is the only company offering TC kilns. A kiln type that comes with distinguishing features such as high flexibility and superior capacity. It gives the operator the possibility to create the ultimate drying process with unlimited freedom to mix dimensions, minimal moisture content variation and reduced risk of checking. Annual capacity can reach 150 MMBF with target moisture contents down to around 12-18%. The principle is based on the timber package being fed length-wise through zones in which the air circulates laterally across the drying channel. This enables the separate regulation of the climate in different zones according to a schedule that comes very close to the ideal schedule of a batch kiln. The TC kilns are equipped with Valutec’s control system Valmatics 4.0, which

20 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

has an integrated simulator that enables simultaneous optimization of capacity, quality, and energy consumption. “The leap in technology has fundamentally changed the way of working at many sawmills. Higher flexibility creates significant advantages, particularly when it comes to planning. Competition is extremely tough in the sawmill business, where margins are tight. So, customers in this sector rely on high efficiency and quality,” says Wallocha.

The TC-kiln has quickly become a favourite among sawmills around the world and during the past year Valutec has sold and installed

TC-kilns to North America, Central Europe, Scandinavia and Russia.

First Canadian TC The startup of Pleasant River’s TC kilns did not go unnoticed and before the Corona outbreak several sawmills visited Pleasant River to take a closer look at Valutec’s TC-kilns. The response from the visits were overwhelming and Valutec has already sold two more kilns to North America, including Canada’s first TC to a sawmill in New Brunswick.

“I can honestly say that whoever sees the Valutec TC-kiln

Dover: Ingo Wallocha, MD Valutec Wood Dryers Inc, infront of Dover’s TC-kiln

VALUTEC at Moose River probably won’t buy another kiln again. Whenever I talk to the guys at Mooser River or Dover I’m really proud to hear that they’ve the best experience with our kilns”, says Ingo Wallocha, Managing Director, Valutec Wood Dryers Inc.

Record deal to Russia Valutec was also chosen to deliver eight TC-kilns to Russia’s ULK Group. The company is investing more than EUR 400,000,000 in one of the country’s biggest sawmill investments in modern times.

The ambition is to have one of the world’s largest and most modern sawmills, with an annual capacity of more than 425,000 MBF sawn timber, when completed in 2023.

“That ULK chose Valutec for this state-of-the-art project proves that our solutions are a good match for sawmills all over the world,” says Robert Larsson, CEO of Valutec Group “Our mission is to facilitate an increased use of wood products in every customer market. We are honored to help ULK optimize their drying process, which we know

WOOD DRYING TECHNOLOGY makes a big difference on every sawmill’s bottom line.”

Leading up to the decision, ULK carried out a comprehensive comparison of major kiln suppliers and visited many reference installations.

“Our ambition is to build the world’s most modern sawmill, and to do so we must exclusively use suppliers who are technology leaders,” says Artem Samuhin, Deputy General Director for Development of ULK Group. Valutec was the kiln supplier offering the most modern, efficient solution. In the end the superior capacity and flexibility of the TC kilns, boosted by the Valmatics 4.0 control system made it an easy choice.

New Control System 18 months ago Valutec released the control system Valmatics 4.0.

It allows sawmills around the world to automate and optimize drying in all types of lumber kilns. High process quality is guaranteed by simulators programmed with data from hundreds of thousands of measurements that enable the calculation of drying processes with unbeatable accuracy from

Moose: Fred Haigis, lumber Yard Supervisor at Moose River, standing in front of North America’s first TC Continuous kiln beginning to end. “We knew that the market had a demand for an automated control system but the response has been better that we could imagine. In 18 months we’ve already sold over 500 Valmatics 4.0 systems”, says Wallocha.

Valmatics 4.0 is the only control system on the market that combines simulator technology with adaptive control, and enables optimization based on capacity,

quality and energy consumption.

Simultaneous. The new Valmatics 4.0 means modern TC continuous kiln functions can be put to full use. All the kiln operator needs to know is the incoming and desired outcoming moisture content – the system does the rest. This frees up time for more important operations such as saw planning, quality control and sampling.

Continuous wood drying greatness by Valutec

The kiln does a great job in a lot less time than we’re used to and puts out a much better product.

Fred Haigis, Lumber Yard Supervisor, Moose River

Sawmills around the world are discovering the benefits of Valutec’s TC continuous kilns. Like Pleasant River sawmill group that recently invested in TC kilns to their sites in Dover-Foxcroft and Moose River, ME. They are now experiencing a shorter drying process, lower energy consumption, higher quality and the intelligent drying schedule simulator that makes Valutec’s kilns the leading product on the market.

Read more at www.valutec.ca

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 21

tailor-made and designed to hold loads of 100, up to more than 2,500 pallets.

Control system B-Vector EW

Brunner Hildebrand sets tone for North American wood drying Industry stalwart pushes the limits of what’s possible in kiln drying technology to raise the bar on finished wood products for what has become an incredibly competitive market

S

pecializing in kilns for softwood and hardwood, Brunner-Hildebrand Lumber Dry Kiln Co has been a proven leader in the industry since 1948. Located in Nashville, US, the company provides sales and service for all types of kilns.

Brunner-Hildebrand’s dry kiln solutions are based on decades of experience in the demanding lumber drying conditions of the North American sawmill industry.

The company’s expertise ensures that customers receive individual dry kiln solutions tailored to the needs of each mill, with special focus on desired capacity and lumber grade.

The possibility of future expansion is always taken into account when designing the kiln layout. The company´s priority is in providing the best-engineered, installed, and serviced product in the market today. BrunnerHildebrand’s service network is on stand-by to provide full service support after delivery

and installation, either on location or by remote access.

Batch kilns Track and forklift-loaded kilns are designed for all kinds of lumber packages with regard to dimensions, lumber species, and required moisture content. Stateof-the-art automation ensures a fully-controlled drying process and the required end result.

Track loaded kilns offer shorter loading/unloading time which improves the kiln’s utilization rate. An optional shelter on both sides of the kiln may be used as a temporary storage space.

Continuous kilns Brunner-Hildebrand recently introduced their new highly efficient continuous-type kiln, the Hildebrand Continuous Kiln Alexander (HCK-A). This type of continuous kiln is designed for mills that produce large volumes of lumber, e.g. dimension SPF. While designing the HCK-A, the company put great emphasis on creating exactly the right drying

conditions (temperature, climate, air speed) for the respective lumber moisture content. The technical features of each individual drying zone are customized to the drying 22 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

state and moisture of the lumber passing through.

Lumber packages are placed lengthwise on carts and dried during transport through a number of zones with separate climate conditions. These conditions are perfectly adjusted to the lumber moisture content at all times.

Indexing of the kiln carts is performed by powerful hydraulic pusher units. Also featuring the ‘GreenKiln’ technology for energy management and the Hildebrand Turbo Technology (HTT) to ensure tight final moisture distribution for maximum planer yield.

Heat treatment kilns ISPM15 More and more countries demand that the wooden packaging of imported goods comply with ISPM 15. Brunner-Hildebrand has developed an entire line of kilns specialized in heat treatment of pallets and wooden packaging.

Short temperature ramp-up time and strong airflow make for fast kiln throughput. The dry kiln software is equipped with

elaborate features for process documentation.

Dry & Heat Treatment Kilns are

Due to the Brunner-Hildebrand dry kiln automation and control system, the kilns are easy to operate. Creating default settings and using the control system is similar to the Windows operating system, where windows can be chosen from a drop-down menu.

The B-Vector control system can be designed with a hybrid relative humidity measuring system where EMC wafers are used from greento-30% MC and then the wet bulb system kicks in automatically for the MC range between 30-10%.

The idea here is to take advantage of the accuracy levels of both measuring systems. Of course, either system is also applicable for the full drying cycle.

B-Vector EW also features the brand-new Brunner-Hildebrand Weight Precision Technology (HWPT), which is a lumber moisture measurement system capable of weighing whole lumber stacks wirelessly.

One of the flaws of common inkiln-probe systems and electrical resistance metering is that they only consider between six and 12 probes for the entire lumber load in the kiln. The HWPT system, however, takes into account the weight of the entire stack of lumber that rests on top of its weighing devices.

Therefore, the number of probes is increased to hundreds or even thousands of boards in those lumber packages. The benefits: “unparalleled” precision of the resulting average mc along with “perfect” ease of use since no probes have to be placed, according to the manufacturer.

The weighing devices are simply placed on the kiln floor as replacement of the regular 4x4” lumber spacers.

The rotary leg lumber lifter is in daily use

Freres Lumber Utilizes Caldwell Rotary Leg Lumber Lifter

F

reres Lumber Co. Inc. is using a custom below-the-hook attachment, manufactured by Caldwell, to lift long lumber loads at its Mass Ply Panel (MPP) facility in Lyons, Oregon.

The 15-ton capacity, 53 ft.-long, motorized rotary leg lumber lifter handles lamellas (thin layers / plates) of structural composite lumber, used to manufacture MPP products. It is attached to a 20-ton capacity overhead crane with two hoists; the lifting equipment and attachment were provided by U.S. Crane & Hoist, also of Oregon (Wilsonville).

Kyle Freres, VP of operations at Freres Lumber

“I was confident in Caldwell,” said George Beaudoin, general manager at U.S. Crane & Hoist.

“Having worked with them for a number of years, I knew that they had a wide range of product solutions as well as the ability to design custom lifting solutions. The Freres team and I discussed a few different options and ideas. Lumber applications can present some challenges due to the length of the loads as well as the width. There are times when the long loads require multiple hoists operating in a tandem-lift scenario and there are other times when a custom lifting device is a better solution. As crane manufacturers, it is extremely helpful for us to be able to work with a company like Caldwell. It gives us the ability to make sure we are providing the best possible solution to the end user.”

The crane, hoists and lifter combine to lift product from a roll case and place it into inventory.

The maximum unit dimensions that the motorized lifter picks is 60 ft. long by 30 in. high by 4 ft. wide.

This is approximately 600 cubic ft. of material at 37 lbs. per cubic ft., which weighs a little over 11 tons.

The lifter itself weighs another 6 tons.

Kyle Freres, vice president of operations at Freres Lumber, said: “We knew we needed to pick extremely long units, and we were aware that lumber lifters had been utilized in the past due to our relationship with LVL [laminated veneer lumber] producers. The lifter was a natural fit for that reason. The 4 ft.-wide units may be made up of 2 ft. by 2 ft. pieces. The lifter is also able to pick a unit from

The maximum unit dimensions that the motorized lifter picks is 60 ft. long by 30 in. high by 4 ft. wide

The 15-ton capacity, 53 ft.-long, motorized rotary leg lumber lifter handles lamellas (thin layers / plates) of structural composite lumber

The lifter is attached to a 20-ton capacity overhead crane with two hoists

Freres Lumber Co. Inc. is using the attachment to lift long lumber loads at its Mass Ply Panel (MPP) facility in Lyons, Oregon inventory and place it onto another roll case, which delivers the product to the next manufacturing phase.”

The rotary leg lumber lifter, which is in daily use, can effectively lift two bundles of lumber sideby-side, fully supporting them from underneath. Freres explained that the lifter “forks” or “legs” are rotated out parallel to the length of the machine. This allows the lifter to drop on top of the unit of product that is to be picked. Once the “legs” are under the unit they are rotated 60 degrees so that they are below the unit. When the crane starts lifting it picks the package with it. The aforementioned roll cases have rolls spaced so the lifter can set the unit gently onto the case.

Continued on page 50

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 23

Biomass

Flexibility & versatility top priorities Big brands continue fight for market share in chipper sector

P

eterson, Jenz, and Precision Husky – these are three of the biggest and most respected names in the biomass chipper supplier game, and they span the globe in terms of origin and reach.

This year once again sees these key suppliers drift further from their roots as purveyors of raw power and more toward suppliers of multiple business opportunity

for the contractors buying these units. These opportunities take the form of a greater range of options in terms of chipping quality, mobility and efficiencies/ serviceability.

That is not to say power isn’t the first consideration for buyers of chipping technology and therefore for the brands supplying that market; it remains the chief

requirement for those in the chipping trade. But the race to the top of the raw-power tree is now so tightly fought and the rates

LOAD SPOUTS All models come standard with an end-load spout, the 4310B, and 4310B Highwalker are available with an optional topload spout.

Peterson 4310B biomass drum chipper in action 24 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

6310B-Drum Chipper

The 6300-series drum chippers are suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material, from logs up to 36″ (91 cm) in diameter, to brush and small feed stock. of processing so impressive that the greatest opportunity to take market share from a rival is around the margins – namely flexibility of a range or of a specific machine.

More Power, More Applications 4300-Series

The 4310B Drum Chipper comes equipped with a wireless remote transmitter

Peterson 4310B Drum Chipper Cutaway

For applications needing more production, Peterson’s popular 4300-series machines pack a Caterpillar 755hp (563 kW) engine to get the job done. Popular with both biomass and land clearing applications, the Peterson

THE POWER YOU NEED

Powered by a Caterpillar engine, Peterson drum chippers boast high torque for high volume production.

CHIP ACCELERATOR

Increases output density and decreases chip truck load times.

4300B-series machines are being used in a variety of terrain and feed stock jobsites. “Peterson has had a tremendous amount of success with the 4300B-series for pipe-line right of way contractors who need the extra mobility in tough terrain” said Michael Spreadbury, Director of Marketing for Peterson.

The 4300B-series machine is suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material from brush and small feed stock to logs up to 24 inches (61 cm) in diameter.

At 58,500 pounds (26 535 kg), the track mounted 4310B Drum Chipper is designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. The 4300B, which comes on wheels,

SAFE, EASY ACCESS

Knives are easy to access on all drum chipper models with our patented safety latch system and prevents the drum from moving during knife changes.

FEED ROLL

Large, aggressive feed roll smoothly feeds material into the chipper.

weighs in at 52,000 lbs. (23,586 kg.)

The chipper utilizes a 36 inch diameter by 44¾ inch (91 by 114 cm) wide drum with either 6 or 12 knife pockets. Traditional Babbitt type knife systems are standard equipment. Chip length can be set from 1⁄8 to 1¼ inch (3 to 32 mm) depending on rotor and knife configuration.

Other key features include a hydraulic clutch, sloped feed deck for ease of feeding the chipper, and wear resistant AR 450 wear surfaces on the drum pockets and shell. Optional material sizing grates further reduce oversize twigs and branches in the chips, and an optional chip accelerator helps with loading.

The 4310B Drum Chipper comes

FEED CHAIN

SLOPED FEED DECK

Three strands of WHD 120 feed chain, paired with an aggressive feed roll makes loading easy for all types of material.

The sloped feed deck minimizes double handling of feed material by the loader.

BELLY BAND

Peter's anvils are made from AR400, for long life and accurate chip sizing.

ANVIL

GRATE SYSTEM

Provides ultraconsistent chip sizing; twigs and small stems are easily fractured.

Helps eject chips, and can include breaker bars to further assist with sizing for microchips.

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 25

Peterson+ is a unique communication network and information system connecting Peterson machines, customers and dealers with Peterson’s cloud-based machine monitoring, diagnostics and information systems Michael Spreadbury, Director of Marketing, Peterson equipped with a wireless remote transmitter, putting control in the palm of your hand.

The end load spout is standard, and an optional top loading spout is available.

6300-Series For those needing even higher production, or have large diameter feedstock, the C27-powered 6300-series drum chippers are an industry-leading solution.

Available in both wheeled and tracked options, the 6300-series

drum chippers can get the job done. “The 6300-series machines performance is really inspiring—we have seen these machines utilized on land clearing jobs in orchards, or just making biomass microchips, and their throughput is amazing We always advise our customers to have plenty of trucking lined up with these machines, as they fill up a traditional chip van fast!” said Spreadbury.

The 6300-series drum chippers are suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material, from logs up to 36″ (91 cm) in diameter, to brush and small feed stock.

The 6300-series machines are powered by a 1050 HP (772 kW) C27 Caterpillar engine. At 85,000 pounds (38,555 kg), the 6300B was designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. The tracked 6310B weighs in at 86,000 lbs.

(39,010 kg).

The 6300-series drum chippers have two drum configurations, an 8-pocket drum to make standard biomass chips, or a 16-pocket drum to make microchips. An optional grate system has been redesigned to allow for adjustment from a microchip to a 1¼” chip with the same grates. Traditional Babbitt type knife systems are standard equipment, or an optional Key Knife system is available.

Peterson’s chip accelerator system,

adds load density, or throws chips well away from the machine for land clearing operations.

The chipper utilizes a 50″ (127 cm) diameter by 60″ (152 cm) wide drum. Other key features include a sloped feed deck for the ease of feeding and wear resistant AR450 wear surfaces on the drum pockets and shell. The feed chain has been upgraded to WDH120 for improved strength and long life.

In an age where machine owners want real-time data about their machines, Peterson has developed Peterson+ to enhance the customer experience with Peterson products.

Peterson+ was designed from the ground up to enable an integrated team to work together by sharing machine data; helping provide customers the information they need to ensure successful grinding and chipping operations.

“Peterson+ is a unique communication network and information system connecting Peterson machines, customers and dealers with Peterson’s cloud-based machine monitoring, diagnostics and information systems,” said Michael Spreadbury, Peterson’s Director of Marketing.

“The system will help improve customer profitability through higher machine utilization,

productivity and increased uptime.”

Peterson+ equipped machines, such as Peterson’s 4710D horizontal grinder, provide streaming machine data, including a GPS locator. Customers can have live access to the machine’s on-board display and operating information on their office computer, laptop or mobile phone.

Statistical historical data can also be used to track important information such as fuel consumption; engine rpm’s and oil temperatures giving owners and operators better efficiency, increasing profits through productivity.

The wireless display feature uses a local area network to allow machine operators to use their smart phone as a wireless display mounted in an excavator, loader, or control booth.

Peterson+ also makes a great troubleshooting tool. The operator, dealer, and Peterson technicians can all see what is going on with the machine’s control system – similar to having a technician on-site working through a potential problem.

Machine documentation, parts information, and support services are also made easily accessible through the Peterson+ portal via Peterson’s website.

Michael Spreadbury

In this application, Peterson 6310B Drum Chippers are making biomass fuel chips from time expired orchards in California. The contractor will clean out the old trees, pull the roots out of the soil and make biomass fuel chips for energy from the wood. The cleaned land will be replanted with new trees so the cycle can start again.

26 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

recognized as the as the toughest and most productive wood hogs available,” the supplier stated.

This machine can handle really tough-to-grind materials like cedar, black spruce, lily pads and log ends. The Rawlings machine has a massive solid steel rotor that supplies more than enough kinetic energy to power through the largest feeding surges.

The hog upper case is clam shell opened hydraulically for quick

over the years that did not have the overhead clearance in their existing footprint to allow for a clam shell opening type of machine.”

The VRM hog opens hydraulically from the rear of the machine allowing full access to the hog’s internal wear components and rotor for ease of maintenance.

All models in the Rawlings equipment are equipped with the patented Super Hi-Inertia solid steel rotor that powers through

The 460 stationary electric system

With over 40 years of experience in the forest and sawmill related industries, Rawlings has a proven track record in some of the toughest wood grinding applications that exist.

“We assist our customers with every aspect of designing, manufacturing and supporting a complete materials processing system,” the supplier stated. “We offer a complete line of stationary, portable, diesel or electric powered vertical and horizontal grinders in a full range of sizes and models.

“Each customers operation is unique with its own challenges with this in mind our design team treats each system specific to the customers operation and specifications. Add a wide variety of available options such as work platform decks, choice of belt, chain, vibrating in-feed and outfeed conveyors, metal, or magnet protection, product screening and separation, and you’ve got the flexibility to customize the perfect wood grinding system.

“Our HZX Horizontal model is ideal for processing logs, railroad ties, construction and demolition debris, urban wood waste,” the firm continued.

The Rawlings HZX Horizontal grinders features dual electric drive motors and a fully proportional feed system for efficient processing of diverse feed stocks. Sizing screens insure a consistent sized finished fuel product. Machine capacity ranges from 40-100 t/h, depending on feed stock and finished product size.

The powered feed mechanism insures a metered and controlled feed to the grinder producing a consistent finished product, while

Rawlings Portable Wood Grinders are heavy duty portable grinders that are capable of producing valuable wood fiber products in a single pass

Our PXZ Vertical model is the back bone of our company

the slow speed, high torque cutting action means lower hp and lower noise. The horizontal models are available in stationary, portable, diesel or electric-powered units.

“Our PXZ Vertical model is the back bone of our company and is

and easy service access. Simple design reduces parts inventory and is easy to maintain, while it operates one third lower RPMs than other types of hogs, reducing both mechanical wear and fines generation.

And, to complete the machine line up, the firm has introduced the VRM Vertical Wood Hog. “No cookie cutter machine can meet everyone’s space constraints or challenges,” the supplier stated.

“We have had several customers

feed surges with ease.

“Our machine is tolerant of contaminants, rocks, and metal without catastrophic maintenance costs if metal enters the grinding chamber. Simple design reduces parts inventory and is easy to maintain. Rawlings Super Hi Inertia hogs are the most productive and efficient hogs available with proven track records in some of the toughest applications that exist.”

Rawlings vertical Wood Hogs

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 27

Next-level shredding system complete The BA 926 presents itself as a logical evolution of the newcomer BA 916 and sound chipper know-how

Size-reduction specialist Jenz has completed the latest iteration of its shredder generation with the BA 926 becoming the second new biomass processor this year following the release of the BA 916.

The newcomer also builds on the previous market favourite, the all-rounder BA 725, and provides an impressive overall package in addition to a noticeable performance increase of over 30%.

The basis for further development was both know-how from the chipper sector, as well as proven success factors from previous shredding technology.

Taken over from predecessor The foundation for the new development is the TwinGear System, already proven in the predecessor BA 725. The unique system with two working speeds enables application with almost any material – whether green waste,

roots, waste or trunk wood.

“It is logical that we didn’t want this significant flexibility to be missing from the new BA 926,” said Product Manager Hans Heinrich Hermeier.

For material with high throughputs such as manure and compost, which tend to bulge at the discharge, it was necessary in the past to dismantle the overbelt magnet. This is no longer necessary because of the magnet can now be moved away from the material flow to a parking position.

This and the height are now hydraulically adjusted using the easy2 Control.

The over-belt magnet is height adjustable from 150 mm and a scale with pre-defined steps allows the operator to set the same distance between magnet and conveyor belt again and again, depending on the material.

Copied from little brother The design of the BA 926 is based on the proven machine base of its ‘brother’, the BA 916.

28 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

“This not only provides more freedom of movement at the discharge chute, but above all increases the intake opening to what is now 900 mm,” Hermeier said.

The higher opening in combination with the aggressive high-speed draw-in results in a remarkable increase in throughput – almost 60% more speed at the draw-in belt and almost 90% at the top roller. More power and an electrically adjustable preload pressure ensure rapid material draw-in.

“If more material is drawn in this also means, conversely, that more open area is required for discharge,” Hermeier said.

The unhindered material flow to the rear is ensured by the increased surface area; the gross screen surface increases by some 20%, but net by up to 30% due to optimisation of the screen. The screening surface can be further increased by the standard leakage belt and the installation of a screen floor with screening plates. This

massively increases the throughput once again, especially in biomass applications. This allows the chippings to move away from the rotor very quickly.

The BA 926 is also similar to the BA 916 in terms of userfriendliness. In addition to the Operator Info System, consisting of an easy2CONNECT remote control

It is logical that we didn’t want this significant flexibility to be missing from the new BA 926 Hans Heinrich, Hermeier, Jenz

and LED status flashing lights, use of the innovative easy2 controller provides relief during everyday work.

Therefore, the conversion to the easy2 controller includes the mode-selecting system. Up to three programmes can be stored depending on the material to be processed. The programmes can therefore be used to adjust the entire machine at the touch of a button.

Even inexperienced drivers can get the maximum out of the machine, for example by calling up the ‘waste wood programme’. This takes into account the speed of the draw-in, rotor and top roller in addition to their preload pressure.

This makes it easy to switch between chipper and shredder mode.

Influences of chipper knowhow In addition to proven shredder components, the new BA 926 is also influenced by chipper technology. One new feature is the positioning of the lower draw-in

roller. The screening technology used in chipper mode also originates from the chipper sector.

Hermeier described the advantage: “Taking the draw-in geometry from the chipper has the decisive advantage that the wood is fed to the rotor in a more controlled manner. The result is even better chipping quality and additional protection of the machine. In this context, slatted screens lead to best chipping results without excess lengths.”

Improved ergonomics and a faster screen basket change were recently in the foreground of further developments in the chipper area. So, it was obvious to do this for the shredders as well.

With additional handles and steps, it is easier to access the rotor and to climb up to the motor.

The new machine stands and the greater draw-in height also provide more space for maintenance work on the rotor and also the shredding system.

In addition, the flail bar puller is electro-hydraulically controlled.

Valuable time can be saved when converting between chipper and shredder mode. With the screen holder at the rear, the screens are readily available at the machine.

It allows the transport of an additional screen set, consisting of two screens, which means it can be handled by only one person.

REVERSIBLE FANS FOR AUTOMATIC RADIATOR CLEANING | www.cleanfix.org

more Cooling

more Power

more Productivity

less Downtime International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 29

Even after half a century, industry leader Precision Husky never stops innovating its line-up of whole tree chippers, flail debarkers and knuckleboom loaders.

“Most of us came up in the logging industry and we know what it takes to win at this game.

Customers all over the world recognize this commitment in the equipment we sell,” Smith said.

The latest achievements in Precision’s quest for forest industry perfection are accomplished with the remarkable design experience

Plus, through messagebased CAN bus platform with its easy to use three wire system, a remote operator can monitor infeed through the HD colour control panel. The operator can see production from the top or at insertion in real time and adjust

The new 2366 chipper brings 25% more anvil control

sub frames.

“With its 3-axle spring suspension, our Precison chippers are tough to beat,” Smith said.

“Choose the engine strength that suits your operation – up to 1,200 hp. We also offer a popular new radio remote controlled trackdriven chipper that goes where the big rigs can’t and are favoured by many of our international recycling operations.

generate over 100 t/h of clean chips.

The 2600-4 is also highly flexible. Because it allows for multiple individual solutions, it

Precision is more than our name. It’s our number one goal Scott Smith, Precision Husky

and application of ever-changing technology in the digital age.

From the top down, the Precision line is better engineered, built heavier, smarter and stronger for more fruitful logging and less costly downtime than previously.

“Precision is more than our name. It’s our number one goal.”

Precision Husky did not invent the whole tree chipper but it does make one of the best chippers available today as the more than 5,000 crews that use Precision products every day and have access to an unbeatable parts inventory and service technicians would likely attest.

The latest generation of Precision-built chipper pushes the envelope of technology to include a 66 in, five-knife option, which allows the chipper disc to operate at a slower rate. This not only saves wear and tear, it produces the most valuable chip quality available.

Year after year, Precision chippers, operating with the 2600-4 flail debarker gives operators the highest production, lowest bark content and cost per tonne in the industry.

accordingly. That’s like having an extra man in the crew. Complete system diagnostics come at the touch of a button, making trouble shooting simple when it used to take hours of downtime.

The new 2366 chipper brings 25% more anvil control to the table to prevent slapping and turning.

This results in smoother slicing and more uniform chips, with less horsepower.

The unit comes with a fully adjustable hydraulic system, which provides limitless control of feed rate. The patented PT Tech HPTO Hydraulic Power Take-Off is a totally enclosed wet hydraulic clutch that requires no adjustment through its wear life. During a torque spike, the clutch will act as a torque limiter by slipping to absorb the shock load. A microprocessor controller provides remote operation.

The industry-leading XL-175 knuckleboom loader comes standard in the 2366 Precision chipper. They are professionally engineered to be highly responsive and balanced with a smooth, powerful swing. These workhorse loaders have central hydraulic pressure checks and are the largest available with super heavy-duty

30 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

The new FD 2600-4 debarker can easily process logs from 3-26 in (76-660 mm) in diameter with a feed speed of up to 200-plus linear ft (61 m)/minute. An operator can

The Precision Husky chipper line

consistently receives the highest efficiency rates in the world. It can operate along with our mobile chipper or as a stand-alone debarker.

Bark and limbs are removed in enclosed housing, protecting the system from damage. The 2600-4 flail removes waste with an oversized hydraulic pusher, keeping the chamber clean.

Cleaner, but also meaner: the benefits of Stage V diesel power

Cummins Marketing Communications Director for the Global Off-Highway business, Steve Nendick, explores the benefits of the Stage V diesel for forestry applications

F

or the introduction of Stage V emissions regulations in 2019 and early-2020, engine manufacturers have met the challenge of redefining what can be achieved using diesel technology. Advancements in engine design, fuel injection and exhaust aftertreatment technology have all contributed towards a total reduction in NOx of 96% and particulate matter (PM) of 97% since regulations began. In short, the diesel engine has never been cleaner.

But do improved emissions come at the cost of performance or reliability? Not at all. Instead, engine manufacturers have now pushed the diesel engine onto the next rung of its evolutionary ladder, with clear benefits for the forestry industry.

No loss of performance

The latest generation of Stage V powered equipment can result in more compact, harder working machines

To date, Cummins has completed over 360 installations for applications across construction, agriculture and forestry, with our new Stage V Performance Series engines being chosen to power everything in the forestry industry from chippers to bulldozers.

This latest generation of Stage V engines isn’t just designed to meet some of the strictest emissions regulations in the world. Speaking from experience, Cummins‘ Stage V Performance Series engines deliver on average 10% more power and 20% more torque across the 75-321 kW range, compared to their Stage IV counterparts. For example, top rated power for the B6.7 Stage V engine moves up to 243 kW (326

hp), while peak torque increases by 30% to 1,375 Nm. This higher performance leads to increased engine power density facilitating engine downsizing, a trend that we’re seeing across all sectors to which we provide engines. Fundamentally, this means OEM engineers and operators can do more with less. A smaller engine is easier to install within equipment, and it weighs less, allowing for lighter chassis and helping to further improve fuel efficiency.

One forestry equipment manufacturer in the US taking advantage of our Stage V technology is Bandit Industries.

Its new Intimidator 20XP typifies the trend for greater power density, with it designed with the capability of a whole tree chipper, in a smaller package that’s easier to tow and manoeuvre. Previously, a machine of these specifications would have benefitted with a 9 litre engine, however with increased performance of Stage V they have downsized to a Cummins 6.7 litre engine.

Simpler engine design facilitating reliability You would be forgiven for thinking that these advancements in performance and emissions would lead to over-engineered and complicated engines. Whilst most manufacturers have adopted a ‘same as’ strategy from Stage IV to Stage V with little change, Cummins‘ advances in technology has enabled us to deliver improved

ENGINES products with reduced complexity for our customers.

Our Performance Series engines are fitted with the revolutionary Cummins Single Module aftertreatment system, which is not only 40% smaller and 20% lighter than previous systems, but significantly, its higher NOx conversion capability has supported the removal of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system from our 3.8 to 9 litre Performance Series engines. This simpler EGR-free engine design, coupled with the latest generation of Cummins turbochargers, results in engines with less complex parts, extended service intervals and more reliability – a delight for operators and technicians.

For operators out in the forest, the latest generation of Stage V powered equipment can result in more compact, harder working machines, that have improved fuel efficiency, increased reliability and lower running costs for operators.

Recently, Komatsu upgraded its XT-5 family of tracked feller bunchers with Cummins Stage V Performance Series engines, adding performance and operator improvements compared to previous models, as well as covering the machines with a special 2-year/5,000-Hour warranty program. Similarly, in the US, Fecon, has introduced its latest addition to its line-up of forestry mulchers, the Stage-V compliant FTX300 Mulching Tractor.

So, the benefit of this new generation of ultra-clean and ultraefficient engines is already being felt in the forest and woods across the world.

Bandit Intimidator 20XP powered by Cummins B6.7 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 31

Felling Heads The FD55 Felling Head

Built for speed Felling heads continue to incorporate features to their design that make cutting, releasing and moving on a more efficient process

The John Deere felling head line-up provides reliability and efficiency for loggers, tackling everything from small stems to big timber, softwood to hardwood, or level to sloped ground. When a John Deere L-Series II Wheeled Feller Buncher or M-Series Tracked Feller Buncher is combined with the right felling head, loggers can “power through any job, regardless of the conditions”, according to the manufacturer.

Drive-to-Tree Compatible with the L-Series II Wheeled Feller Bunchers, the John Deere felling heads are ideal for drive-to-tree operations. With the Quick Dump feature on the L-Series II machines, loggers can swiftly release trees.

The FD45 Felling Head is equipped to handle thinning applications at increased performance levels. With the deepest accumulation capacity of the three John Deere drive-to-tree felling heads, the FD45 has the ability to thin small trees and give operators more visibility due to the twin-post design.

A versatile solution for harvesting jobs including thinning and clearcutting, the FD55 Felling Head can handle a wide range of tree diameters. Its large accumulation area helps loggers take care of small-diameter thinning to large single stems up to 584 mm (23 in). Similar to the FD45 Head, the FD55 has a twin-post design. Additionally, the fast saw recovery jump-starts the wood flow going to the landing and provides superior accumulation.

The FD22B has a larger accumulation capacity, strong

clamping force for more stable tree control, and “workhorse” gathering arms. This felling head was designed to take on final harvests and large trees. The FD22B pairs well with the 843L-II for hills or muddy ground and the 643L-II for flatter ground.

Swing-to-Tree For Swing-to-Tree applications, John Deere offers felling heads compatible with the John Deere M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers.

Two different attachment rotation options, meant for specific felling applications, are available as well.

When there is no specific alignment of the tree to the ground, the standard wrist FS models are ideal.

The high rotation wrist FR models permit closer cuts with limited travel to fallen timber.

The John Deere FR22B and FR24B Felling Heads were upgraded to deliver superb

reliability, improved flow capability, increased hydraulic hose size and routing, and updated ring gear and frame welds. Compatible with select M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers, the newer FR22B and FR24B models increase durability and extend the life of the wrist and head.

Compatible with the 800Mand 900M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers, the FR50 and FS50 models offer increased accumulating capacities, improved range of motion, and excellent visibility. The FS50 model features the 30° swing-to-tree wrist configuration, while the FR50 model offers 310° rotation. These felling heads help to make the hardest tasks easier and more efficient for customers. The FS50 and FR50 models have a cutting capacity of 20 inches and an accumulation capacity of 6.9 ft2.

“The high accumulation FR50 felling head on [the 853M Tracked Feller Buncher] has made a big difference,” said Thomas Johnson of Thomas Johnson Logging.

The felling heads provide a taller horn that works together with the pocket and arms to collect larger, tighter bunches. The horn delivers excellent handling of tall trees, which improves skidder productivity during tree removal.

Both FS50 and FR50 models also include arm cylinders mounted

high for impressive wear protection of the saw housing and can easily hold up to 15 six-inch trees.

The FR50 configuration maximizes versatility when positioning bunches in both plantation and thinning conditions due to the increased rotation.

“I always try to work more efficient, smarter, more precise.

Nothing else on the market holds the timber that this one holds,” said Thomas. “My production has [gone] up using this bunching head.”

Additionally, the FS50 and FR50 Felling Heads provide excellent visibility to the cutting area and superior wear protection of saw housing. A full-coverage option is available for both models, and for the FR50 model, sealed bushings in all clamp arm pivot joints are available.

The high accumulation FR50 felling head on [the 853M Tracked Feller Buncher] has made a big difference Thomas Johnson, Thomas Johnson Logging

Efficiency meets precision with the all-new FR50 felling head from John Deere.

A large accumulation area, taller horn, and high-rotation wrist combine to help you cut more wood in less time.

32 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Increased durability

Waratah Forestry Equipment has released a new large felling head model, the FL100. The large directional felling head, designed for 30-plus metric ton carriers, improves productivity, increases durability and extends uptime for steep slope, shovelling and traditional felling applications.

“The high-capacity Waratah FL100 gives our customers the benefit of added productivity in a very capable head,” said Brent Fisher, Product Marketing Manager for Waratah.

“It has high-capacity grapple arms engineered for improving operational picking and holding force of logs – this provides exceptional operational capabilities in traditional felling and steep slope shovelling applications.

It also includes a valve-in-head design and our new TimberRite X-20 control system, simplifying installation.”

Maximized productivity New features on the FL100 that contribute toward maximum productivity include continuous rotation and dual rotate motors that enable high rotation power requirements. As a large class of directional felling head with a 1m (39.3 in) cut capacity, the FL100 also features extra-long, continuously curved opposing arms for enhanced grapple capacity and picking capability and a 1,470 mm (57.8 in) opening and 0.78 m2 (8.4 ft2) payload capacity.

The FL100’s forward placed saw unit allows for easier cutting of larger timber. For power in small or large capacity loads, the FL100 has one cylinder per arm plus a synchronizing link for maximum grapple holding force and control.

This new head also leverages Waratah’s TimberRite measuring and control system. The TimberRite X-20 stand-alone controller provides configurable settings for improved head performance, productivity and measuring accuracy. Features include a stem counter, sawcut/home indication, production reports and individual operator settings. Together, the new features allow enhanced flexibility in operation that improve overall productivity by allowing operators more capabilities to properly position timber.

In addition to maximized productivity, the FL100 has a robust and sturdy design for increased durability. Its one-piece, welded, high-strength steel frame is coupled with large pin diameters and a grapple geometry with an arm profile designed to handle various sizes of timber.

As an added bonus, the FL100’s grapple force remains high even with its arms at capacity. For simplified integration, the FL100 has a valve in-head design. Its fixed saw box design also contributes toward increased durability in a variety of applications.

Extended uptime The FL100 uses proven Waratah saw system components, some rotate components and electrical and oiler systems while providing extended uptime with a variety of new features. For improved serviceability, the chain oil capacity is 35 litre (9.2 US liquid gallons), and a large chain oil reservoir minimizes frequent top ups.

The new machine also can adapt to any carrier and provides efficient pump control, hydraulic system protection and required safety/service lock-outs for added uptime and efficient serviceability.

“We are always looking for opportunities that improve our customers’ productivity,” Fisher said. “The FL100 does exactly that.

We’re excited for our customers to enjoy the benefits of this new machine.”

The Waratah FL100 is available to customers in the United States, Canada, Australia, Latin America and New Zealand.

The high-capacity Waratah FL100 gives our customers the benefit of added productivity in a very capable head Brent Fisher, Waratah

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 33

The Tigercat 5702-26 felling head is best matched to the X870D and LX870D feller bunchers

Tigercat builds a full line of innovative felling attachments designed to match the high performance and productivity of Tigercat carriers. The product range includes disc saw and shear felling heads, fixed wrist and directional bar saw felling heads, and a growing line of harvesting heads.

Tigercat felling attachments are used around the world and can be matched to virtually any type of mechanized felling application from small diameter pulpwood and biomass clear fell applications to selective felling of oversized, highvalue hardwood.

The shear arm pivot bearing design is extremely strong and reliable. The chassis is constructed with hardened steel, with bronze alloy bushings installed in the grab and accumulator arms. The shear blades are the toughest on the

market and replaceable hardened steel wear strips are available for very sandy soil conditions.

The massive 0.62 m2 accumulation pocket allows for larger bunches, subsequently boosting skidder production

2000 bunching shear The original Tigercat bunching shears were designed in the mid-1990s for North American pine thinning operations. Over the years, the evolution of the 2000 series shear has made into what is considered the premium plantation eucalyptus felling head for the blue gum applications in highly abrasive soil conditions and rocky terrain.

With fast shear cycles, the 2000 has proven to be highly productive, and extremely reliable. Compared with a disc saw, maintenance requirements are less and bushfire risk is minimized.

A Tigercat 2000 shear bunching eucalyptus in Australia

34 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

and reducing fuel consumption as the skidder can more quickly accumulate a load. The shear improves the flow of the entire harvesting system.

5300 Bunching saw The Tigercat 5300 bunching saw boosts feller buncher productivity in smaller diameter plantation wood under 405 mm (16 in). It has greater accumulating capacity than the 5000 bunching saw but the added weight of the additional trees and extra steel in the structure means that the 5300 is only suited to the full-sized Tigercat 870 series track carriers.

Feller buncher productivity and efficiency improves because more trees are cut per cycle, reducing unnecessary machine travel.

Skidder productivity and efficiency improves because the bunches are large, well aligned and easy to pick up.

5702-26 felling saw Tigercat’s 5702 felling saw has been a highly successful workhorse on Tigercat tracked and wheeled feller bunchers for almost two decades and now Tigercat has introduced an important evolution – the 5702-26 for tracked bunchers.

The 5702-26 shares the same arms, horn, wrist and asymmetric geometry of the 5702 with a larger saw housing and blade to increase single-cut capacity, throat width and accumulation area.

Tigercat 5300 The 5702-26 features a 1,625 mm (64 in) diameter blade with 20 teeth spun at up to 1,050 rpm (max rated speed) delivering up to 30% more blade energy than the regular 5702. The single-cut capacity is 660 mm (26 in) for the 5702-26 compared to 580 mm (23 in) for the 5702.

As with all Tigercat felling heads, the 5702-26 is designed for durability, long life and easy maintenance. It features durable, well-guarded, cushioned cylinders and strength-to-weight optimized frames. Hardened wear plates and replaceable liners are installed in critical areas. Heavy duty spindle

and bearings in saw drive system can take the punishment from harsh forestry conditions.

The 5702-26 is best matched to Tigercat 870 series feller bunchers.

5185 fixed felling saw and 5195 directional felling saw Tigercat’s 5185 and 5195 felling saws are steadily increasing in popularity globally in large timber and steep slope operations.

Contractors in native hardwood and other oversize timber applications are seeing benefits from the 5195 coupled with the LS855E shovel logger due to the excellent shovelling performance

on steep slopes. This significantly decreases the amount of side cut skidder trails required to access the timber which is a big advantage in forests with strict regulations and stringent oversight.

The 5195 can efficiently top the trees within the cut block. With continuous rotation, the head is quickly and easily repositioned and double cuts on steep slopes are performed quickly without moving the carrier. This makes the head versatile for oversized timber over one metre in diameter.

The 5195 has full 360° rotate with through-the-link central hosing for enhanced hose protection and extended hose life.

Oversized twin grapple cylinders deliver high performance and control when felling cutting and shovelling. The fully fabricated chassis and grapple arms design provide strength and added longevity.

The 5185 shares the saw performance and strength and longevity characteristics of the 5195. Where the 5185 excels is in its ability to control fell and place high value trees, avoiding breakage. In timber stands with average diameters that are approaching or beyond the limitations of a disc saw, contractors are seeing excellent productivity with the 5185.

An added benefits is the ability to top and cross-cut as well as shovel the timber uphill within reach of the skidders and prebunch for skidders or yarders.

The Tigercat 5195 for performance when cutting and shovelling

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 35

Quadco Shear head model 7320 felling Eucalyptus in Australia

stands, exfoliated insects ridden or burnt forests, etc.

Quadco has released its latest developments focused on its

specialty – developed over the past 31 years the felling heads sector – high-speed disk saw heads, shear heads, intermittent disk saw heads and bar saw heads.

Traditional logging in North and South America, Europe, Russia and Australia will make good use of the extended line of Quadco disk saw heads starting with the 18C at 450 mm cutting capacity which can be mounted on 20 t-plus excavators, to the largest 27B capable of cutting up to 710 mm requiring the largest feller buncher carriers.

Available models: 18C, 20B, 20SC, 22B, 22C, 22SC, 22CP, 24B, 24C, 24CP, 27B, 27SC. The B-Series is designed for bigger stem diameters. Four arms are each activated by a cushioned cylinder for better handling of heavy and tall timber. The C-Series is designed for ease of accumulation. Four arms located higher in the head frame are activated with only two cylinders

Quadco Shear model Q212

Quadco focuses on reliability, low maintenance costs, and maximum productivity when it comes to engineering innovative products for loggers. Nowadays, the needs

of the forest industry are much diversified. Felling equipment and technology have to cover a wide range of applications like biomass harvesting, thinning, scheduled cutting of short cycle tree plantations, final felling of mature

36 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Quadco Shear Head, model 7320D on rubber tyred carrier

The QB4400 can cut up to 47” (1200 mm) when equipped with a 55” saw bar. With the large, customized slew bearing, three heavy-duty slew motors and 255 degrees of saw bar rotation the well-proven QB4400 is the right choice for controlled felling applications and heavy-duty timing bars for faster accumulation and shorter cycles. CP models come with front-end mounts for rubber-tyred carriers.

The 7000 series heads are designed for the operations where high accumulating capacity is the name of the game. From Eucalyptus plantations in Brazil and Blue Gum stands of Australia and Asia, to energy-wood short-cycle plantations in Europe, the fast cutting and bunching felling heads allow high productivity and lower operating cost per cubic meter.

The 7000 series comes in four main models: 7224 and 7224D (D denotes front-end mount on articulated rubber-tyred carrier) are cutting with a disk saw whereas the 7320 and 7320D shears are destined for areas where the use of saws is limited because of fire hazards (dry lands) or difficult ground conditions (rocky terrain) or very abrasive sandy soils. All these 7000 series heads are equipped with the patented multijunction accumulator arm to allow the optimal use of the tree accumulation area.

For lighter carriers (12-15 t excavator), Quadco offers the 212-shear head, best suited for pulp and biomass harvesting. This head has a max cutting capacity of 305 mm and can accumulate up to four smaller trees. The 235° side rotation is a standard feature in the head. All boom-mounted heads feature either a 40° or 360° lateral tilt allowing bigger tree piles to be made without compromising productivity.

For larger diameter timber,

Quadco intermittent disk saw heads (QU2400 and QU2900) and bar saw heads QB3200 offer selective cutting versatility, extra safety in confined places, some slashing alternatives and shovel logging operations. The bar saw head series of Quadco

Quadco 24B high speed disk saw head

felling heads for large timber is completed by the QB2500, QB3500 and QB4400 fixed grapples for the toughest felling applications.

These large purpose-built felling grapples are designed for a better controlled felling with minimal stem breakage.

The QB4400 can cut up to 47 in (1,200 mm) when equipped with a 55 in saw bar. With the large, customized slew bearing, three heavy-duty slew motors and 255° of saw bar rotation the well-proven QB4400 is a good choice for controlled felling applications.

QS605 Processing Head

QRX103R Saw Teeth

QP33 Saw Teeth

27B Felling Head

QRA1043-HR Saw Disc

www.quadco.com International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 37

Steep Slope Harvesting

Uphill Battle Steep slopes are the new battle grounds for the world’s major suppliers of forestry equipment

Today’s steep slope logging operation is radically different from the past, as equipment manufacturers continue to develop purpose-built machines designed to tackle the challenging and severe conditions. John Deere has continued to expand its lineup to provide a robust set of solutions built to operate efficiently on the slopes and ensure safety. From its tracked feller bunchers, harvesters, and forwarders to the 959ML shovel logger, loggers can be confident in the John Deere steep logging offerings.

M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers and MH-Series Tracked Harvesters The John Deere M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers and MH-Series Tracked Harvesters are well-suited for steep slope applications.

Designed with the industryleading, best-in-class leveling system, the 859M/MH and 959M/ MH machines offer excellent stability and reach that maximizes forward off-level efficiency. This

allows the system to tilt forward up to 26 degrees while electronically controlling the leveling envelope boundaries, resulting in a smooth transition when approaching the leveling limits. The 859M/MH offers a low-tail swing option, while 959M/MH is a larger tail swing option optimal for big timber.

The M/MH-Series models are equipped with large and wide undercarriages, maximizing stability in terrain conditions.

The tractive effort enables the machines to navigate steep, challenging terrain. Equipped with robust booms that feature thick plates and large pins and bushings, the tracked feller bunchers and harvesters deliver the reach and durability required for steep slope logging. Multiple long-reach boom options and a variety of attachments can be combined to suit a wide range of applications.

The cab on the M-Series and MH-Series machines offer a comfortable workspace ideal for long days on the job. Ergonomically designed controls and improved visibility help maximize operator productivity. The M/MH-Series machines can be utilized with thirdparty winch-controlled traction-

38 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

assist systems. Combined with the increased off-level capability of the machine, these tethering systems enable improved traction and functionality in steep slope harvesting conditions.

959ML Shovel Logger Created based on customer feedback, the John Deere 959ML Shove Logger is designed specifically for steep slope applications.

A notable feature of the 959ML is its boom, which is available in 9.21-meter (30-feet), 10.34-meter (34-feet), and 11-meter (36-feet) reaches. All three boom reaches are equipped with downhill reachability, allowing for high performance in steep slope applications. The boom, arm, and heel configuration can effectively reach the downhill side of the ground at full tilt. Additionally, the 11-meter boom includes a strong live heel, helping to provide better machine flexibility. As noted by Andrew Johnson of A&K Timber, “the 959ML has been a gamechanger for us. It is extremely maneuverable on steep slopes. We work in a lot of creeks and steep ravines, and I’m always amazed

by the machine’s ability to reach down into ravines and grab timber.

It gives us the flexibility to not have to go all the way down. That’s a strong feature.”

Available in two configurations – shovel logger or directional feller The 959ML builds upon key features from the John Deere Mand MH-Series models, including the best-in-class leveling control system. Customers can configure the machine for shovel logging applications or directional felling with the purchase of the FL100 Felling Head. The 959ML allows for a directional felling head or a grapple and live-heel boom for shovel-logging applications.

The cab on the 959ML was designed to improve operator experience in steep slope applications. The cab is extremely spacious and features an overhead skylight and downward viewing window for improved visibility.

Equipped with a powerful and fuel-efficient John Deere 9.0-liter diesel engine, the 959ML maintains peak performance while minimizing total fluid consumption.

The reliable John Deere engine

the 959ML has been a gamechanger for us. It is extremely maneuverable on steep slopes. We work in a lot of creeks and steep ravines, and I’m always amazed by the machine’s ability to reach down into ravines and grab timber.

Additionally, the machine comes with a variety of optional features such as a weld-on, tether-ready hitch field kit, slope monitoring system, and four-point seat harness.

G-Series Wheeled Harvesters and Forwarders The 1170G eight-wheel and 1070G six-wheel harvesters provide loggers with exceptional grip when moving on steeper slopes. The eight and six-wheeled machines can be fitted with the tracks for extra traction and stability. The G-Series Harvesters rotating leveling cab features comfortable ergonomically designed seats providing operators maximum productivity. Equipped with

the Processing Power Control (PPC), the G-Series Harvesters’ PPC optimizes fuel efficiency by anticipating the engine load and automatically responding with the correct power increase. The advanced twin-pump hydraulic system ensures maximum power

Andrew Johnson, Owner A&K Timber

combined with the industryleading, patented leveling system expands the overall working capability of the 959ML. “We’ve been happy with the 959ML — it is exactly what we were hoping for in terms of uptime and performance,” Johnson also said.

Additionally, the 959ML offers convenient access to service components, allowing for quick and frequent maintenance checks.

for a smooth operation as well as control of the boom and harvester head.

The G-Series Forwarders include a large hydrostatic-mechanical, 2-spread gearbox transmission.

This feature provides greater tractive ability than previous models. Available on the 1170G and 1270G G-Series Forwarders, the Intelligent Boom Control (IBC) allows the operator to control the boom directly with two joysticks compared to controlling each boom manually. Additionally, the Germanbased HAAS Maschinebau installed a solution for traction-assistance on the front-rear of the John Deere Wheeled Harvesters and Forwarders. This gives the operator the flexibility to work above or below the extraction road.

Customers can configure the machine for shovel logging applications or directional felling with the purchase of the FL100 Felling Head

Andrew Johnson loves the challenge of steep-slope logging on Vancouver Island International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 39

With factory-installed shovel logger and directional feller configurations, the new 959ML is designed to handle steep-slope applications. Industryleading leveling technology delivers exceptional stability. Plus a “tetherready” field kit, slope-monitoring system, and four-point seat harness make it easier to harvest logs in areas once thought to be impossible.

40 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 41

LS855E and LH855E

Tigercat continues to lead the industry in steep slope technology in both track and rubber tire machines. With continued focus on safety when logging on steep terrain, Tigercat machines are proving to be stable, productive, efficient and comfortable.

Leveling track machines Tigercat’s leveling track machines use innovative technologies optimized for a wide range of steep slope applications including shovel logging, felling and harvesting.

Tigercat’s super-duty leveling undercarriage is longer and wider, providing exceptional stability on steep slopes. The patented leveling design uses two massive hydraulic cylinders and heavy steel sections for a solution that is simple, robust and reliable. Unlike competing systems, the Tigercat leveling system leans into the hill when leveling to the side, which further improves machine stability and operator comfort.

To further enhance the ability of Tigercat’s track machines to work on slopes, an optional cable assist mount has been developed.

The tether anchor bolts firmly to the main carbody structure of the undercarriage and allows either single or double cable tethers to be attached to the track machine.

The tether can then be connected to a variety of different third party winch system that can assist the track machine up or down slopes.

The LS855E shovel logger is an important evolution of the wellproven 855 series track carrier platform and a powerful solution for steep slope logging. Often equipped with a live heel and grapple or the 5195 directional felling saw, the LS855E is suited to felling, pre-bunching and shovel logging in challenging terrain.

LH855E is designed to achieve maximum performance and minimum fuel consumption in harvesting and processing applications. A dedicated attachment pump supplies oil to the primary head functions, delivering flow and pressure to match the demands of the head without interference from other machine functions, while delivering maximum fuel efficiency.

Both the LS855E and LH855E come equipped with the switchable, 3-way ER boom control, which allows the operator to choose between ER, semi-ER and conventional operation. The new semi-ER function allows the operator to extend the boom on a horizontal plane using a single joystick, but retracts the boom with the increased power of both cylinders, doubling the pull force.

Harvesters and forwarders Tigercat also harvesters, and forwarders with unique innovations to enhance productivity on steep terrain. The drivetrain components including the pump drive, transmission, and straight and bogie axles are engineered and built by Tigercat for extreme forest duty, long life and high uptime The 1165 harvester is a strong,

The Tigercat 1085C with tilting crane and steep slope package 42 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

mid-sized wheel harvester that excels in thinning, select cut and final fell applications. With strong swing and levelling capabilities that exceed or surpass the competition, the 1165 is well suited for steep slopes. The same upper turntable and swing components as used on the lager 1185 give the 1165 strong swing torque on steeper slopes.

The hooked boom design along with large cab windows provide unparalleled operator visibility. The Tigercat ER boom provides same action as a parallel boom, but with simplified construction resulting in less maintenance. 9.0 metre crane comes standard, with optional 11.0 metre telescopic crane available.

Tigercat has developed the new 1085C tilt crane option - a steep slope solution for the powerful 1085C forwarder that will expand its capabilities when working on hilly terrain.

The tilting crane system allows the crane pillar to tilt up to 25 degrees rearward, allowing the operator to keep the pillar nearly vertical when on a downhill slope.

The result is the ability to use full slew torque to manipulate grapple loads while on steep slopes instead of swinging uphill against gravity.

Tethering lugs are installed in the rear frame with bronze greasable bushings and have a 21 tonne (46,300 lb) capacity.

6-wheel skidders Tigercat builds the most advanced, efficient and refined skidders, as well as the only six-wheel drive skidders on the market.

Tigercat six-wheel skidders are field proven with over two decades of development and real world applications in the most demanding extraction operations on the planet.

The 625H is a medium sized high capacity six-wheel drive skidder. The combination of pulling power and agility make the 625E best suited to steep slopes and tough terrain. Tigercat’s highest capacity skidder. With six-wheel drive and a massive grapple, the machine is built for extreme duty and super high production logging operations.

The 635H is a Tigercat’s highest capacity skidder. With six-wheel drive and a massive grapple, the machine is built for extreme duty and super high production logging operations. The new 635H swing boom skidder is the newest addition to the skidder line up.

With a 210-degree rotation, the swing boom increases the working envelope of the skidder, which means the operator spends less time manoeuvring the machine.

Tethering device set-ups are reduced due to the wider working range. Dual rotate motors and

Tigercat levelling undercarriages provide stability on steep slopes

a large swing bearing make gathering and moving bunches effortless on steep slopes.

Tigercat’s patent pending cable routing and mounting system for

skidders is offered as a factoryready cable assist package. The clever concept routes the cables through the blade and attaches to the frame structure behind the

front axle, closer to the payload.

With other systems that route the cable underneath the blade, there is always the danger of damaging the cable with the blade. Not only

is this possibility eliminated, but the operator can raise the cable if required, say to clear an obstacle, merely by raising the blade.

Tigercat 6-wheel skidders are available with the through blade tethering system International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 43

KDH40-1 OPTIMUM THINNING HARVESTER & HARVESTER HEAD COMBO The Konrad Thinning Harvester (KDH40-1) with Woody WH40-1 with the tracked harvester KDH from Konrad Forsttechnik claims to have solved the challenge of making the challenging first thinning economic.

The add-on system enables an individual customer configuration tailor made for their needs.

For example, the tiltable upper carriage and cabin keeps the operator levelled in steep slopes.

An optimized main boom for an improved kinematic, as well as the arm telescopic extension with hidden hose routing, further improves reach and productivity.

Further useful options such as climbing support bars mounted on the tracks, a hydraulic winch on the main boom, the

WOODY WH40-1

Basic machine

Tracked excavator WackerNeuson ET90

Hydraulic

Deutz 2920 cm³; 55,4 kW bei 2500 U/min; watercooled, gas turbocharger and intercooling

power-boost-hydraulic-accumulator or an additional rear weight completes the KDH offerings.

The purchase and operational costs stay economical even with that versatile offer. A low weight and compact design make transport simple and easy.

Driving speed

180 l/min, 300 bars

WOODY WH40-1

Driving speed

max. 5 km/h

Chain width

450 mm

The head for thinning work with grapple function

Diesel tank capacity

85 l

Hydraulic oil tank capacity

92 l

Other equipment

Long boom, security cabine, dozer blade

Range

max. 9,3 m with optimized main arm and telescopic extension

Slope compensation

max. 22

KDH thinning harvester - Technical Data

The automatic knife pressure reduction in relation to diameter and tree species as well as the delimbing knives geometry maintain an excellent delimbing result. The sophisticated hydraulic system of WH40-1 is located almost entirely in the frame unit for easy access for maintenance work.

Sensors always work precisely and deliver correct measurements to control system KTC.

The tiltable feeding unit is the unique feature of the KONRADharvester heads and completes the family in the first thinning segment.

If mounted on a compact excavator or KONRAD thinning harvester – WH40-1 always has proven its quality.

The feed rollers of the 2-wheel drive always work in optimum position and maximize traction thanks to adaptive parallel bar.

The harvester head Woody is optimized for combined application harvesting and processing, but is widley used as pure harvester head as well

44 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

A QUANTUM STEP IN MOBILITY AND FLEXIBILITY Highlander: The Konrad HIGHLANDER is a steep terrain harvester with enormous flexibility due to a synchronized step and drive movement.

When reaching the climbing limit telescopic extensions push the machine forward and over edges. The machine can manage a slope of 100%. All four wheels can be steered independently, this results in a small turning radius and allows crab movement of the machine on slopes.

The crane and the cabin are one unit; the crane is fitted behind the cabin and turns endlessly.

This gives an excellent view for the driver to the harvester head Woody 61 - fitted at the end of the crane.

The reach of the crane (10 m) with one telescope extension and integrated hydraulic hoses is described by the manufacturer as “remarkable”.

The HIGHLANDER is powered by a 285 HP IVECO Diesel engine and has three hydraulic pumps, two for driving and one for the crane and harvester. The electronic control system (Konrad Touch Control, KTC) is also manufactured

by Konrad. There is a six- and fourwheel version of the Highlander,

and each machine has a strong shield as standard with the option of a clambank and a synchronized winch with double function. This allows either securing the machine in steep areas or winching trees to the machine.

New to market is the Highlander Basic Machine, which is a cheaper version of the normal machine.

The basic machine does not have telescopic extensions on the rear wheels or cabin tilt. The purpose of this machine is to work on forest roads and evacuate the trees arriving with a yarding system.

HIGHLANDER Advantages • E normous terrain flexibility due to synchronised step and drive moment

HIGHLANDER 6 Wheel drive harvesting larch trees on steep slopes

• I ntegrated traction winch for driving support in steep terrain • S afe and well arranged cabin • H igh performance harvester with flexible operation possibilities • E ndless turnable crane-cabinunit • O ptimum maneuverability due to four or six controlled and driven wheels • S trong crane with woody harvester head

HIGHLANDER wheel drive Basic machine cutting a spruce tree

One Step Further

KONRAD

WOODY WH61

HIGHLANDER

www.forsttechnik.at We will be happy

KonradKONRAD Forsttechnik 9451 Preitenegg, Oberpreitenegg 52, Austria Sales Forsttechnik GmbH, GmbH Franz Buchsbaum 52, 9451 Preitenegg Phone:Oberpreitenegg +43 4354 2432-0 Fax: +43 4354 2432-35 E-Mail: office@forsttechnik.at Phone +43 664 80132202 Phone +43 4354 2432

to assist you!

Mail office@forsttechnik.at

KDH Mail buchsbaum@forsttechnik.at

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 45

One of main benefits with PONSSE Synchrowinch is that the cable is not running on the the ground. This prevents cable damages and sparks.

Harvesting on slopes is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and PONSSE forest machines have opened up a completely new range of possibilities. By making it possible to work on steep slopes and in similarly demanding conditions, PONSSE forest machines make it possible to harvest timber on previously inaccessible land. For steep slope operations, the cut-to-length method have proven to be very efficient way to do logging in slopes as it enables all harvesting types from selective thinning to final cutting with low ground impact. Ponsse has developed solutions, which are enabling usage of the machines in very steep slopes yet doing it in an environmentally sustainable way.

It all starts from an eightwheel machine. An eight-wheel machine is productive in steep slopes because of its stability, lower ground pressure, and better tractive effort compared to traditional six-wheel machine.

The structure of the eight-wheel PONSSE machines are optimal for the steep slopes as the crane is located on a separate frame from the operator´s cabin.

This improves ergonomics as the forces from the crane are not transferred to the cabin, but what is even more important is that

the operator’s inclination angle remains stable even if the crane is turned – without lateral swaying.

Today, over 90% of the total Ponsse production consists of eight-wheel forest machines that feature excellent usability on steep slopes and soft soils. As the eightwheel machines have gained more

stability and traction to access more and more difficult harvesting terrains, the requirements for other components of the machines have also grown higher.

One of the biggest differences in the productivity of different machine makes comes from the crane’s properties and the stability

The cut-to-length method has proven to be a very efficient way to do logging in slopes as it enables all harvesting types from selective thinning to final cutting with low ground impact.

46 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

in most challenging slopes yet causing low ground impact.

In the most challenging logging sites PONSSE harvesters and forwarders can be equipped with traction winch to support the wheel drive and to protect soil.

The traction winch mounted on the machine’s frame assists the machine while logging in the steep slopes. PONSSE Synchrowinch helps achieve high productivity in steep ground operations. It allows operating the same machines in flat and steep work sites with no need for additional machinery or methods.

PONSSE Synchrowinch preserves soil from rutting and erosion, saves fuel and reduces stress in drive transmission components.

There are also many other features supporting the steep slope operations.

Synchrowinch equipped PONSSE machines are today used in various countries around the world.

Automatic Steep Slope Brake AUTO

BRAKE

of the machine. Also the machine’s centre of gravity must be kept low when working in slopes.

PONSSE cranes are offering low center of gravity, sufficient tilting angle and strong slewing.

Designed especially for regeneration and sloping sites with large trees, PONSSE telescopic harvester cranes C5 and C6 are offering low center of gravity combined with strong slewing and long reach making them an optimal solution for steep slope harvesting.

The new K121 forwarder crane further improves the forwarding performance on steep slopes, by providing high lifting but especially high slewing power that is essential for steep conditions.

Such conditions also demand a large tilt angle for the crane and loader in order to ensure smooth load handling. The tilt stand for the PONSSE K121 crane has a large tilt angle from -12° to +24°, for harvester cranes C5 and C6 tilt angle is one the most extensive on the markets, ±20°. This guarantees that the crane works at the right angle even in steep environments.

An eight-wheel machine complemented with Ponsse’s reliable traction winch, called Synchrowinch enables harvesting

A new Automatic Steep Slope Brake (ASSB) assists the operator to stop the machine in case of misuse or a failure in the machine’s drive line.

If the system senses that the wheels start turning not according to the operator’s command, it activates the parking brakes and stops the machine instantly.

The brake activation time is significantly faster than human reaction time, so the machine stops before it gains speed and momentum in a steep hill.

Another example is PONSSE Seat, a first, designed purely for forest machines can be added with tiltable seat base and five-point seat belts.

This means that the operator can keep a relaxed sitting position while working on steep slopes. This makes the work ergonomic and causes less strain for the operator.

These solutions reduce need of traditional sky-line working on slopes, reduce harvesting costs and minimizing the risks. PONSSE Syncrowinch winch is available for PONSSE harvesters (Ergo and Bear) and forwarders (Elephant King, Elephant and Buffalo).

Synchrowinch equipped PONSSE machines are today used in various countries around the world.

With PONSSE Synchrowinch solution forwarding is possible to both directions without need for separate routes with full loads.

BENEFITS 1. P ONSSE Synchrowinch helps to maintain high productivity also in steeper terrain because: - Forwarding is possible to both directions (no need for separate route with full loads).

- Due to the tiltable PONSSE Seat the driver can keep a relaxed sitting position while working on steep slopes. This makes the work ergonomical and less tiring.

2. P ONSSE Synchrowinch helps to widen the area of operation - same machines can handle even terrains and steep slopes. No need to employ additional machinery or other harvesting methods (like cable skidders, manual felling) in the same logging site.

3. W ith PONSSE Synchrowinch, the wheel spin in steep slopes is significantly reduced. No spinning means mitigated impact to soil and lower erosion risk by reducing track formation. Lower fuel consumption and decreased transmission part wearing are pros of traction assistance compared to operating without winch in slopes.

4.

AUTO

BRAKE

ew Automatic Steep Slope Brake assists the operator to N stop the machine fast in case of it rolling in an unwanted direction.

5. I nvestment cost compared to fully mechanized cable yarding systems is remarkably lower. Traction assistance logging has lower transporting costs (two machines vs. four machines) and system involves only two operators at the same time.

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 47

Ponsse Fighting Wildfires

Firefighting equipment installed on a Ponsse forest machine for effective wildfire suppression

The importance of wildfire suppression and effective firefighting measures has increased globally.

In recent years, human activities and global warming have increased wildfires in all parts of the world.

Making use of the properties of forest machines Finnish forest machine company Ponsse Plc, together with rescue departments, has developed firefighting equipment installed in the load space of a forwarder for fighting wildfires.

As wildfires usually take place far away from roads, accessing fire sites by fire trucks may be impossible or at least slow.

Instead, a forest machine is designed to be agile in the terrain, and it can reach its destination quickly and easily, also in difficult conditions. Rescue workers normally carry fire hoses to wildfire

sites manually or using an ATV and then connect a sufficient number of hoses together to reach the fire. It is easier to limit a fire and protect residential areas when using a forest machine than manually.

“Forest machines are the most natural and effective way to access a forest fire area. Operations in difficult terrain are second nature to them, and they have more than enough capacity in their hydraulic system for demanding conditions”, says Juha Haverinen, forwarder product manager at Ponsse. “When the rescue authorities asked us if we were willing to start developing this product together, we were

ready right from the beginning, because rescue professionals and our customers round the world had a clear demand for firefighting equipment”, Juha says.

Firefighting equipment is available for the PONSSE Buffalo, PONSSE Buffalo King, PONSSE Elephant and PONSSE Elephant King forwarders. The minimum loader requirement is PONSSE K90+. The optional equipment is available for new forest machines, or it can be retrofitted on forwarders of the 2015 model series or newer.

A thoroughly considered technical system The firefighting equipment designed by Ponsse is brought to the fire site on a transport base by a truck with a demountable platform, from where it is lifted into the load space of a forwarder using the forwarder’s loader.

After the firefighting equipment is securely fastened and the electrical and hydraulic connectors are connected, fire suppression and fighting can begin.

“Our firefighting equipment

48 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

consists of a 10 m3 water tank, which can be filled with the system’s powerful pump from a natural source, such as the sea, a stream, lake or ditch, or from the tank of a fire truck if possible.

The water cannon has a range of 47 metres and a turning radius of 360 degrees”, Haverinen says,

and specifies that when filling the water tank, a safe distance of 20 metres from the forwarder must be maintained.

The powerful pump fills the water tank very quickly, in just six minutes. At full power, it takes roughly 10 minutes to empty the tank when extinguishing a fire. The maximum speed of a forwarder is 20 km/h on public roads and 5 km/h in the terrain. This must be considered especially when the tank is filled from the tank of a fire truck, because large volumes of water must be transported to the site.

The water cannon and a fire hose can be used simultaneously.

Using the remote control, a firefighter can adjust the water pressure, water cannon direction, spray angle and pattern (water mist or solid stream), whereas the water cannon’s water flow is adjusted manually. During firefighting activities, the forest machine and rescue personnel can be protected from heat radiation using a water mist pattern.

“The water tank is made from aluminum to make it as light as possible. In terms of its volume, the water tank is designed to fit the load space of a PONSSE forwarder, and it can be lifted into place using the forwarder’s loader. Aluminum is highly resistant to the use of chemicals mixed with water and the use of salty sea water. Baffle plates have been installed inside the tank to prevent water from moving freely in the tank when the machine is driven in the terrain”, Haverinen says.

To prevent corrosion damage, the equipment must be maintained regularly, especially if water is pumped from natural sources, as sand or other material may then access the tank. It is also important to clean the water tank thoroughly after the use of chemicals or sea water in the tank. Pumps must be protected against freezing when the equipment is stored in cold conditions.

Financially viable Installing firefighting equipment on a forest machine is financially viable. A forest machine contractor who enters into a firefighting agreement can carry out productive harvesting activities in the forest when the firefighting equipment is not needed.

“In practice, this means that a rescue department owns the firefighting equipment, and it is stored on a transportation platform at the fire station. Rescue departments sign agreements with local forest machine contractors on the use of forest machines in firefighting activities. When there is a fire alarm, rescue personnel transport the firefighting equipment to the fire site and the forest machine contractor drives their forwarder there. Then, they can start firefighting activities together”, Haverinen says.

Local rescue department responsible for planning firefighting activities Trained rescue personnel are always responsible for limiting and extinguishing fires, as well as

supervising firefighting activities.

The firefighting equipment is controlled by a firefighter, while the forest machine operator follows the instructions given via a radiophone.

The forest machine operator does not require any rescue training to enter into an agreement on firefighting activities.

The firefighting equipment includes a wireless reversing camera. It is installed on a forwarder as optional equipment so that the operator can see behind the equipment. This ensures the safety of rescue personnel around the forest machine. The reversing camera is also necessary when setting the grapple in the transportation position.

The firefighting equipment meets the requirements of EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/ EC. Before any delivery of the firefighting equipment to market areas outside the EU, it must be ensured that the equipment meets local requirements and regulations.

Further information

Juha Haverinen, Ponsse Plc, Product Manager, Forwarders, juha.haverinen@ponsse.com, tel. +358 40 839 8529.

Ponsse´s new firefighting equipment to be installed in the load space of a forwarder for extinguishing wildfires International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 49

Tigercat adds high horsepower mulcher carrier Tigercat adds to its mulcher lineup with the release of the 760B mulcher and the 4061-30 mulching head.

The new 760B is a 550 hp class mulcher carrier that shares major components with the field proven and similarly classed Tigercat 480B track driven mulcher as well as the popular M726G wheel driven mulcher.

The 760B was designed primarily for silviculture applications. Forestry companies require the capability to efficiently clean up residual post-harvest forest debris and grind stumps to

ground level. The 760B meets this requirement and the machine will also find application in large scale land clearing and ROW projects.

In stable, well drained soil types, a high horsepower wheel driven machine has many advantages including quicker travel speeds, lower operating costs and the ability to run a wide mulching head for improved coverage and wider swaths, increasing quality and productivity. As such, Tigercat also designed a 3 metre wide mulching head to complement the new carrier. The new 406130 mulching head is based on

the original Tigercat 2,5 metre 4061, with several updates and enhancements. The 2,5 metre 4061 will be rebranded as the 4061-25 when similar updates are introduced in early 2021.

The 760B will be standard equipped with boom float, LogOn™ (Tigercat’s wifi based machine monitoring system), ground level fueling and Tigercat’s WideRange transmission. The operator’s station was designed with operator comfort in mind, with a climate controlled seat, Bluetooth audio connectivity and ergonomic controls.

Tigercat mulcher carriers offer superior build quality, greater hydraulic efficiency, better operator ergonomics and easier access to components and daily service points than competing mulcher carriers. The result is greater uptime and higher productivity

Connected technology opens up new possibilities in Komatsu MaxiFleet Now you can easily turn on the forest machine’s engine heater wherever you are – whether the machine is running or not. The MaxiFleet engine heater function has been made both easier and better thanks to new, connected technology that makes it possible to interact directly with the forest machine’s computer. The new technology brings great opportunities for improvement and this is only step one.

The MaxiFleet engine heater

function has received several practical upgrades that makes it both easier and better. Information about current battery capacity, cab temperature and machine position is regularly sent to MaxiFleet – regardless of whether the machine is running or not. This allows the operator to see, for example, that the heater is working and has warmed up the cab, that there is sufficient battery capacity to start the machine, and so on.

Most operators have

programmed a schedule for the machine’s engine heater based on their usual working hours.

But sometimes you need to work at other hours and with the new MaxiFleet functionality it is easy to program the engine heater to start, for example, an hour earlier. The machine’s pre-programmed engine heater schedule can be displayed in MaxiFleet, but changes to this schedule can only be made in the machine. It is also possible to manually switch the engine heater

Komatsu - New branch in Uruguay

on or off through MaxiFleet.

The upgraded engine heater is the first improvement made possible by the new, connected technology, but more news is to be expected.

The local dealer Roman SA will continue as a partner and will be focusing on the small and midsize customer segment in the Uruguay forestry business, while the new branch will focus on the large customer segment.

Contacts

Jens Bengtsson, CEO of Komatsu Forest.

In September Komatsu Forest established a new branch in Paysandu, Uruguay. This is a strategic, important step for the company to strengthen their presence with both machines and a strong service organization in this market.

Komatsu Forest has been present in Uruguay since 1992

through local dealers and has now taken the step to establish a Komatsu Forest branch to further expand their presence in the country.

“Despite the corona pandemic we feel a strong belief in the future of forestry and our establishment in Uruguay is one evidence of that”, says Jens Bengtsson, CEO of

50 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Komatsu Forest.

Antonio Pezzi has been appointed as acting General Manager. Mr Pezzi has extensive experience from working with large full-service contracts in Brazil and will transfer that knowledge to this new branch. The company moved into the new facilities during December.

Antonio Pezzi Branch Manager 598 472 48108 +55 41 9 8856 1102 (WhatsApp) antonio.pezzi@komatsuforest.com Lonard Santos Sales Manager +55 41 9 9188 1888 (WhatsApp) lonard.santos@komatsuforest.com Raul Puleri Service technician 598 472 48108 +598 99 852834 (WhatsApp) raul.puleri@komatsuforest.com

ROTTNE H8

D

UNBEATABLE HARVESTER FOR STAND-OPERATING THINNING

Rottne H8D is a small and versatile harvester with unique characteristics including exact tracking, swing arms on the wheels, variable transmission and automatic anti-spin. This makes it very easy-to-operate with minimum space requirements, providing the conditions for smooth and fluent thinning and an undamaged stand – as well as high productivity.

Since Rottne H8D works inside the stand, it’s easier for the operator to decide which trees need to be thinned, as it is never more than 6–7 metres to the trees. This means more uniform thinning extraction, which gives both greater volume and added value – and probably also a less storm sensitive stand. In other words, Rottne H8D gives good conditions for a timber rich forest!

OURE SERVICE-FRIENDLY FORWARDERS AND HARVESTERS WITH FANTASTIC OPERATOR COMFORT SATISFY ALL NEEDS FROM LIGHT THINNING TO TOUGH FINAL FELLING. WE OFFER SWEDISH MADE PRODUCTS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY WITH THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY, AN EXTENSIVE SERVICE NETWORK AND A COMPETENT AND PLEASANT RECEPTION.

ROTTNE.COM

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 51

ADVERTISERS INDEX SALES OFFICES

CLEANFIX ����������������������������������������� 29 www.cleanfix.org

PANOLIN ������������������������������������������� 8 www.panolinamerica.com

Halco Software Systems ��������������� 19 www.halcosoftware.com

Precision Husky ���������������������������������� 5 www.precisionhusky.com

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KONRAD Forsttechnik GmbH ����������45 www.forsttechnik.at

Springer ����������������������������������������������2 www.springer.eu

Microtec - Lucidyne Technologies Inc ����� 3 www.lucidyne.com

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Email: ishihara@media-jac.co.jp

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Western USA (AZ, CA, NV, UT) Australia, & New Zealand

Petro-Canada ������������������������� 7 & OBC www.TRYENVIRON.COM

Valutec ����������������������������������� F/C & 21 www.valutec.ca

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

CONTACT: Bob Warren International Forest Industries Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777

Peterson ���������������������������������������� IFC www.petersoncorp.com

Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com

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 CONTACT: Kevin Lapham

Continued from page 23 Freres added: “Due to the length of our product, and the requirement to pick both 2 ft.and 4 ft.-wide material, we could not consider a standard sheet lifter. Having units split down the middle and still have the lifter function properly was an important requirement. Our shortest packages are 32 ft. in length and the lifter was required to handle all lengths between there and the maximum [60 ft.].

“It has been very successful; we have had no issues with the lifter that I am aware of. Start-up issues were limited to having to fine-tune the location of the roll cases to work successfully with the lifter legs. We would order another if

we had an opportunity to build a facility like our current one, but we have no need of it at the current site.”

Beaudoin said: “At the time, the lifter for Freres was the first custom device that I was involved in. Thankfully, I had worked with Caldwell many times for other devices such as Posi-Turners [Freres has one], gantry cranes, jib cranes, etc. For the Freres rotary leg lumber lifter, Caldwell was my first and only call and they certainly came through.”

The rotary leg lumber lifter has not required any unscheduled service or maintenance.

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 crane, hoists and lifter combine to lift product from a roll case and place it into inventory

52 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Primarily for tracked carrier applications, the H219X comes standard with a heavy-duty tilt frame for maximum productivity. With easy access to service points, laser findend sensors and heavy-duty guarding for feed motors, this head is built for next-level performance.

Waratah Forestry Equipment has introduced two new models to its 200 Series line: the H219 and H219X harvester heads. Primarily built for late thinning or final felling, the new models have a variety of features for added uptime in harvesting, processing and debarking applications.

“T

he robust Waratah H219 and H219X heads define high capacity two-roller productivity,” said Brent Fisher, product marketing manager for Waratah. “Whether you’re in final felling or variable diameter late thinning in mixed stands, crooked hardwood or debarking applications, the new models deliver versatility with durability, performance and serviceability features our customers expect.”

Punched-up productivity The H219, weighing in at 1,970 kg (4,343 lb.), or the H219X, at 2,050 kg (4,519 lb.), can efficiently handle large-size wood in final felling or late thinning applications – including hardwood or softwood – and eucalyptus debarking. The narrow head design lends itself

Waratah announces the new H219 & H219X harvester heads to improved visibility in thinning applications, while the two-roller geometry design provides excellent handling of variable diameters and challenging tree forms up to 750 mm (29.5 in.) in diameter.

Available configuration options promote productivity in processing applications. These include longer upper-delimb arms, top saw and find-end sensor, which are available for faster processing of logs from the ground.

Furthermore, the new length measuring unit has improved geometry and consistency for more precise measurements – reducing measuring loss and reversals.

Additionally, the H219 and H219X are equipped with the new SuperCut 100S saw unit which features new improvements to usability and serviceability. One highlight of the SuperCut 100S is the improved chain tensioning system, which extends saw bar and tip life while reducing chain jump-off. The saw also has new mechanical bar locking – making saw chain changes easier and providing more flexibility for motor sizing and wide-tail saw bars for broader application suitability.

“The H219 and H219X are such great heads for large wheeled or tracked machines – handling so many different large diameter applications,” Fisher said. “With their versatility and power, these really are great heads for tackling the tough jobs.”

The configurations include new optional HD feed roller guards for durability in thick understory or rough terrain. A heavy-duty (HD) tilt frame option is available for tracked applications, and it is standard on the H219X. Improved hose routing along with new guarding protection on both the exterior and underside of the head help extend hose life. The new configuration helps reduce limb interference with hoses, cylinder and motor fittings, while feed motors have new anticavitation protection.

Likewise, the optional top saw now has a more integrated design improving durability and serviceability. The new design features guarding on the underside to keep splinters and debris away.

Additionally, the new measuring arm design features a larger cylinder and pins, higher

contact force and increased shock resistance while a larger and more aggressive measuring wheel expertly handles trees with thick bark.

Increased uptime Simplified servicing extends operational time to increase productivity on the job. Highlights of the H219 and H219X include a new valve cover and more easily accessible service points for quicker access – reducing servicing time.

Likewise, new hose bulkheads improve access with hose connections externally accessible for quick changeouts.

The Waratah H219 and H219X are currently available to customers in Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Asia Pacific, Brazil and Latin America.

Dependable durability With uptime being critical to any operation, the H219 and H219X have a variety of improved features that enhance durability.

With a robust design, the H219 can handle the toughest woods. Durability is built-in with protected hoses, additional guarding and an aggressive measuring wheel. Plus, accessible servicing and a top saw option provide increased uptime and versatility.

International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 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 it’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

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