IFI April May 2022

SAWMILLING • LOGGING • BIOMASS

APRIL / MAY 2022

SAWLINES CHIPPERS FELLER BUNCHERS

BUILT TO CONNECT

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LOGGING • BIOMASS

CONTENTS

38 CHIPPERS 34

44

46

34 FELLER BUNCHERS

44 KOMATSU

46

Ongoing input from customers has helped to make the 800M- and 900M- Series Feller Bunchers more productive and userfriendly

A new type of forest machine is currently driving around the forests of Sweden

The new Super powertrain has made life easier for haulier Fermgruppen AB and driver Frida Lautin

SCANIA

APRIL / MAY 2022

REGULAR FEATURES

6 Logging News 48 Advertising Index

LUMBER PROCESSING

COVER - SUPERSAVER SuperSaver is USNR’s versatile concept for merry-go-round saw lines, maximizing a compact layout with high recovery and high capital utilization. A wide range of breakdown configurations have been applied with a broad variety of saw patterns and log diameters. Machines are concentrated in the center of the building making it easily operated by one person. Logs and cants pass

SAWMILLING

• LOGGING •

CONTENTS

BIOMASS APRIL / MAY

through the quad bandsaw as many times as needed to achieve the desired cutting pattern. Each log and cant is scanned to determine the highest yield.

Curve sawing is also possible. Log presorting is not required but will speed production. Over 65 SuperSaver systems have been installed worldwide.

2022

SAWLIN ES CHI PPE RS FELLER BUNCHE RS

www.usnr.com

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 1

LUMBER PROCESSING

SAWLINES

18

22

20 18 MOELVEN VALÅSEN AB The company is now investing in a new saw line for small logs, where Finnish Veisto OY will supply the HewSaw R200 1.1 V4 saw machine

20 USNR + WOOD FIBER GROUP

22 KOSKISEN

We introduce you to Craig Tompkins and Dale Brown, leaders of their combined company, and their vision for the future

The world’s first fully wood-based furniture board is a circular economy product born from the cooperation of Koskisen Oy and Stora Enso

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24 24 DELTA By integrating with Delta’s RMC151, Salem’s team could monitor position and pressure simultaneously in realtime

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26 26 POLKKY

27 HEKOTEK

Pölkky Oy awarded AFRY an engineering and consulting services assignment for the renovation projects of its sawmills in Kajaani and Taivalkoski

Hekotek AS has entered into a supply agreement with Koskisen OY, one of the largest privately owned wood processing companies in Finland

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30

28 HOLMEN

29 CARRIER LUMBER

30 LIMAB

The Intellinova Parallel EN online system was recently installed on the Linck saw line to ensure maximum availability

Carrier Lumber the first to install 2 Lucidyne 900 transverse scanners

BoardProfiler 3D - Best measurement performance producing the highest yield for Edgers & Trimmers

32

September 28-30, 2022 PORTLAND, OREGON

32 BID GROUP BID Group has developed a unique, operator friendly console for the remote control of equipment in your mill

2 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

ISSUE 86 April / May 2022

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 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 Russia poses tough question for international players

T

he imposition of sanctions and retaliatory export bans on Russian timbers stocks is unlikely to have a major effect on global forest industries, but suppliers of felling and sawing equipment could face an ongoing moral dilemma as they look to expand.

After all, the country delivered some 10% of hardwood plywood to the US in 2019, according to TimberCheck.

Russia’s war in the Ukraine has appalled most. The illusion of peace has veiled much of the civilised world since the end of the Second World War but President Putin’s aggression in attacking the Ukraine under the false pretence of – of all things – a humanitarian mission, has shattered that facade.

For a start, most businesses had adjusted to tightening of supply over prolonged periods of lockdown during the pandemic.

The relaxation of restrictions and subsequent drop in demand has granted many groups excess access to timber supply.

The warning signs were clearly there in the annexation of Crimea and Russia’s role in the Syrian Civil War, but most nations, set on peace and refusing to accept the reality of Russia’s ambitions (and paranoia) decided to turn a blind eye. Recent happenings in eastern Europe have rescinded that option for democratic nations.

The response has been unexpectedly coordinated. Sanctions have rained down on Russia like a blanked suffocating its economy, as Putin watches liquidity dry up and inflation rise in the initial consequence for his unlawful invasion.

His posturing response has been acutely directed at the timber sector. For Russia, known colloquially as the ‘Timber Bank’ because of its extensive reserves of natural forest that flourish across its vast land mass, this is one of the few levers it feels it can safely pull.

As it stands, despite being home to globally significant quantities of fertilisers, nickel, and platinum group metals – to name a few raw materials in which the nation has a major global position – timber is the only Russian commodity subject to an export ban as a direct result of Western sanctions.

Readers of this magazine are no doubt already aware Russia is the world’s biggest exporter of lumber and the nation sits at number seven in terms of forestry product exports, like wood pellets and sawn wood.

True enough, China is the most significant recipient of Russian products but the withdrawal of this feedstock from the market will be unwelcome in Western markets, too.

4 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Despite the initial shock, Western forestry sectors are unlikely to see dramatic problems in sourcing wood stock.

Secondly, there are plenty of other sources of wood that have gradually increased their capacity to supply Western economies.

Rather, the biggest challenge may actually fall on an increasingly global group of leading forestry equipment suppliers.

Long a domestically dominated and parochial industry, forestry professionals and equipment suppliers have belatedly embraced globalisation and the export opportunities it presents.

Exporting equipment into the ‘Timber Bank’ is a major opportunity for many global suppliers. It is an entirely reasonably position for suppliers to consider themselves apolitical and simply follow the government sanctions imposed in the jurisdictions where they are domiciled, which would see most investments into Russian timber continue.

But many groups have not been satisfied that is enough.

In a time when political and social pressures are the same thing, and when the middle ground has been abandoned to more and more extreme views, there will be pressure to limit involvement with any group that calls itself Russian.

Expanding export operations to take advantage of business opportunities in a major forestry market could become, ironically, bad for business if other partners decide government sanctions are insufficient.

This could post a difficult and unfair challenge to many groups we have supported in spreading their global reach.

Enjoy Chris Cann

New H225E harvester head for eucalyptus tree harvesting protected hose routings and ease of daily maintenance add to the high reliability of the H225E. The new casted delimbing knives are now a standard feature. The casted homogenous knives and their design bring high strength and durability. The delimbing knives make it easy to pick up logs from the ground for processing. The steel-covered feed roller arm cylinder is well protected from the eucalyptus juice and branches. The tilt cylinder frame end bearing is also protected.

H225E main tech specs: • Weight 1690 kg • Max. cutting diameter 550 mm • Max. feed roller opening 550 mm • Max. feed force 21-26 kN • Max. feed speed 6-7 m/s John Deere introduces the new H225E harvester head for eucalyptus tree harvesting. The purpose-built harvester head for eucalyptus debarking has been designed for use with the larger size-class 1270G or 1470G wheeled harvesters equipped with an 8.6 m boom and with tracked harvesters.

It features excellent single-pass debarking with the patented Vario feed rollers.

John Deere harvester heads are known for their productivity and reliability. The excellent measuring accuracy and ease of maintenance are properties valued by forest machine professionals. John Deere harvester heads are designed to operate seamlessly with John Deere harvesters. The harvester hydraulics, automation and engine properties enable maximum harvester head performance

225E is an excellent tool for efficient eucalyptus tree harvesting The H225E is a completely new harvester head designed for eucalyptus tree harvesting. The range of the new H225E head is 30450 mm and the optimal diameter at breast height is 150-300 mm.

It features excellent single[1]pass debarking and can easily process also crooked trees. It has the same PEvo harvester head valve found in most John Deere harvester heads as well as the recently introduced SC100S saw unit.

The harvester head’s four moving delimbing knives, the fixed upper and lower knives, together with the fixed debarking tools in the frame and two feed rollers, ensure excellent debarking and delimbing regardless of tree diameter. Long component life,

PEvo harvester head valve The H225E’s PEvo-harvester head valve minimizes the cavitation tendency in varying loads and thereby reduces stress on components. It also offers excellent performance and operational control. The valve maximizes the durability of the harvester head components, fuel economy and productivity.

any need for back and forth feeding and the quality of debarking is excellent with a single pass. With the Vario feed rollers, the feeding speed is faster with the smaller tree diameters.

Reliable and accurate length measuring In 2020, all John Deere harvester heads switched to the new SuperCut 100S saw unit. The saw unit’s next[1]generation chain tensioning unit, automatic chain tensioning, and mechanical bar locking give it added efficiency and reliability. The improved chain release makes it easier to replace the saw chain. The new saw unit enables also a bigger selection of saw motors and saw bars.

Design goals and new look The H225E harvester head product development and product improvements were made based on customer feedback in the eucalyptus market. The design goals were ease of use, durability, performance, efficiency, carefully considered hose routings, and easy access to service points. The new and modern look was designed by BMW Design Works

Optional patented Vario debarking rollers With the Vario feed rollers, debarking eucalyptus trees is efficient and is done in a single pass. The patented surface pattern of the Vario feed rollers and the variable rib angle rotates the tree trunk at different speeds based on the diameter of the trunk. This results in maximal debarking of eucalyptus trees Thanks to the Vario feed rollers, there is hardly

Come to the world’s forestry fair – Elmia Wood 2022 On 2–4 June 2022 the world’s leading forestry fair, Elmia Wood, will be held in Sweden. Elmia Wood is organised in the forests outside the city of Jönköping, welcoming visitors and exhibitors from across Europe to southern Sweden. The 2022 event focuses on innovative, International sustainable forestry methods for theKey future.Trade Fair for Forestry

and Forest Technology with Scientific

2-4 JUNE 2022

Elmia Wood is a meeting-place for forest owners, contractors, forest conferences and Special Shows officials and other forest stakeholders.

See the latest new products and innovations, and lay the foundation for new business and commercial relations.

July 17–20, 2022 | Messe München New on this year’s programme is the Wood Square, a forum where guests inform, discuss and debate on interesting topics, as well as the Wood Knowledge LOOP.

6 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Welcome to Elmia Wood.

DO YOU STILL CALL IN THE CAVALRY IF THEY’RE ALREADY EN ROUTE? Filling a fleet with rugged machines is just one step to winning in the woods. There’s the hustle of experienced technicians. Having parts at the ready. Or leveraging time-saving tools from cutting-edge technologies.

Your local John Deere dealer is always near for support, helping you to keep timber moving, and quotas filling.

#

1

IN THE WOODS

JohnDeere.com/OneInTheWoods

Ponsse opened a new service centre in Oulu The expansion of operations in Oulu is driven by the desire to bring Ponsse’s services closer to the customers in the area. Spare parts, forest machine accessories and maintenance services will now be available to the customers in Oulu even faster. The personnel in machine sales will also provide services to the customers.

“The service centre also allows us bring spare parts and our services closer to our customers in Oulu. The range of spare parts we offer at the Oulu centre is based on the machinery working in the area.

This helps us to provide a better level of service to local customers”, says Jani Liukkonen, Country Manager, Finland.

We offer a comprehensive package of Ponsse services to the customers in Oulu. The services at the centre include a wide range of spare parts and forest machine accessories, machine sales, extensive field maintenance and Ponsse Shop. In addition to the forest machine accessories, Ponsse Shop sells high-quality clothes for work and leisure.

Two experienced forestry service technicians and a spare parts salesman assist the customers at the centre. Since 2017, Ponsse Northern Express service has also been operating in the area. It is a customer-friendly freight service for delivering spare parts for forest machines.

The Oulu’s new customer service centre is located in Rusko, a suburb of Oulu, at Laakeritie 7B. The site is conveniently located near Kuusamontie (highway 20).

Ponsse’s service network in Finland includes a total of 24 offices, employing about 200 experts. Ponsse’s market share in Finland is more than 45 per cent.

The international Ponsse maintenance network consists of 235 service centres. All PONSSE service centres are situated in central locations to accommodate our both customers’ operations and logistics.

Jani Liukkonen, Country Manager, Finland

PONSSE services in Chile have been transferred to Ponsse Chile S.p.A Ponsse Plc has completed the sale of asset items related to its business activities in Chile.

On 5 November 2021, Ponsse announced that it will move its sales, spare parts and maintenance services in Chile under its new subsidiary Ponsse Chile S.p.A. To this end, Ponsse and its local retailer F.C. Ventas Y Servicios Limitada (hereinafter “FC Ventas”) signed, on 5 November 2021, an asset purchase agreement related to Ponsse’s forest machine operations.

The conditions set for completing the transaction have been fulfilled, and the sale has now been completed. The FC Ventas service centre in Chillan, including its spare parts stocks and maintenance vehicles, has been transferred to the ownership of Ponsse Chile S.p.A, Ponsse Plc’s subsidiary in Chile.

Ponsse’s business in Chile amounts to approximately ten million euros. The purchase price was not made public by the parties’ mutual agreement, and the

purchase price has no impact on the valuation of Ponsse.

Area director Martin Toledo to run Ponsse Chile SpA’s operations Area director Martin Toledo will run the operations of Ponsse Chile SpA, Ponsse’s new subsidiary in Chile, being responsible for Ponsse’s operations in Uruguay, Argentina and Chile. Toledo started as the managing director of Ponsse Uruguay in 2010. He started his career at Ponsse in 2005 working

PONSSE services in Czech Republic have been transferred to Ponsse Czech s.r.o.

Ponsse Plc has completed the share transaction related to its business activities in the Czech Republic. On 4 February 2022, Ponsse announced that it has signed a deed of sale, in which it undertakes to purchase all shares in Křenek Forest Service s.r.o., its PONSSE forest machine and service dealer in the Czech Republic.

The conditions set for completing the transaction have been met, and the transaction has now been completed. Ponsse Czech s.r.o., a subsidiary wholly owned by

Ponsse, is responsible for Ponsse’s sales, spare parts and maintenance activities in the Czech Republic.

Employees of Křenek Forest Service s.r.o., Ponsse’s previous dealer, will continue in Ponsse Group, ensuring the positive continuation of local business activities.

The transaction price was not made public by the parties’ mutual agreement, and the price has no impact on the measurement of Ponsse’s value. Ponsse’s local market share is appro–ximately 20 per cent in cut-to-length harvesting.

8 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Jakub Hacura appointed managing director of Ponsse Czech s.r.o.

Forestry engineer Jakub Hacura has been appointed managing director of Ponsse Czech s.r.o. starting from 1 April 2022. Hacura, a Czech national, has worked in managerial positions in PONSSE forest machine sales and maintenance at Křenek Forest Service s.r.o. since 2017.

Area director Martin Toledo will run the operations of Ponsse Chile SpA, Ponsse’s new subsidiary in Chile

as a sales manager at Ponsse Latin America Ltda in Brazil, and transferred to run Ponsse Uruguay’s operations in 2007 when the company started operating in Uruguay.

MORBARK HORIZONTAL GRINDERS DENIS CIMAF MULCHING ATTACHMENT

MORBARK DRUM CHIPPERS

MORBARK CHIPARVESTOR®

You begin each day before dawn with a drive and determination to do more than the day before. When you move at this pace, you know to do mor you need equipment that is made for more. That’s why our forestry, biomass, and recycling equipment is built from the ground up to meet your needs, delivering: More Power and Production Consistent, Quality End Product Lower Operating Costs Ease of Maintenance Greater Longevity and Resale Value Find your local Morbark, Denis Cimaf, and Rayco Dealer at www.morbark.com/b/international-dealer-network

Horizontal Grinders • Tub Grinders • Whole Tree Drum & Disc Chippers • Flails • Mulching Attachments International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 9

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS Pictured left: Governor Tate Reeves, Enviva Chairman & CEO John Keppler, Stone County EDP Executive Director Betsy M. Rowell, Stone County Board of Supervisors President Lance Pearson, and other attendees at press conference in Stone County, MS.

Enviva announces $250 million investment in new production plant for Bond

E Fully contracted plant will serve international demand for secure sources of renewable energy and help decarbonize difficultto-abate industries such as steel, cement, lime, and sustainable aviation fuels

nviva Inc the world’s leading producer of sustainable wood bioenergy, has announced it will invest approximately $250 million in Bond, Mississippi to build a new wood pellet production plant. The facility is a key component of the company’s growth strategy to double production capacity from the current 6.2 million metric tons annually to approximately 13 million metric tons annually over the next five years.

“Markets for our renewable products have been growing rapidly as countries look for new ways to reduce their dependence on coal, natural gas, and other fossil fuels for heat and power generation.

Demand from manufacturers driving to reach ‘net-zero’ by decarbonizing industrial production of steel, cement, lime, and sustainable aviation fuel is also growing rapidly for us,” said John Keppler, Enviva’s Chairman and CEO. “And in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment, countries and companies around the world are seeking security of supply from stable partners like the U.S. This new facility, the community in which it operates, and the tremendous people who support it every day will continue Mississippi’s strong tradition of helping friends across the globe secure energy independence and win the fight against climate change,” he added.

The facility site, directly off Highway 49 in Bond, was selected in close collaboration with Governor Tate Reeves, the Mississippi Development Authority, and Stone County officials.

10 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Governor Tate Reeves and Enviva Chairman & CEO John Keppler The plant is fully contracted under long-term take-or-pay supply contracts with customers around the world, providing for durable, positive economic impact to the community. In addition to creating around 100 local jobs with wages projected to be approximately 70 percent higher than the county average, the Bond plant will generate more than $1 million in taxes per year for the county and school district and deliver over $250 million annually in economic impact in the region. Once operational, the plant will support more than 350 jobs, including those in related industries such as logging and transportation.

The new plant in Stone County joins two other Enviva facilities in Mississippi, one in Amory, which is Enviva’s first production plant in the state, and the company’s most recent manufacturing facility in Lucedale. The company also owns and operates a deep-water marine terminal at the Port of Pascagoula from which pellets are shipped to customers in Europe and Asia. Combined, Enviva’s total investment in the Magnolia State is more than $600 million and supports over 850 direct and indirect jobs in Mississippi.

“We very much appreciate the skilled workforce and great business environment in the state.

I want to thank Governor Reeves, his team, and the Stone County community for being such great partners during site selection,” Enviva’s John Keppler said.

“Enviva’s decision to invest a quarter of a billion dollars and create 100 new jobs in Mississippi is another tremendous win for our state’s economy. It’s further proof that Mississippi is a prime location for manufacturing.

I’m incredibly proud that these wood pellets, produced right here by hardworking and skilled Mississippians, will be distributed and used around the globe. I’d like to thank Chairman and CEO John Keppler and the entire Enviva team for their dedication to our state and all that they have done to bolster Stone County and its residents.

We look forward to our continued partnership for many years to come,” said Governor Tate Reeves.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2023, subject to receiving the necessary permits, and is expected to take approximately 18 months. The Bond plant is expected to have a production capacity of more than 1 million metric tons of wood pellets per year.

Mississippi has a robust fiber supply basket, and the plant intends to use low-value and low-grade softwood and hardwood fiber sustainably sourced within 75 miles of the facility, creating durable markets for local landowners and incentives to keep land as forests. The facility will use state-of-the-art environmental control technology to minimize any impact from the plant’s operation on the community.

“Stone County was founded on the timber industry more than a hundred years ago. Our citizens have long respected the woods and the natural resources they provide. With the announcement of Enviva, we have an opportunity to produce a record number of new jobs because of the plentiful resources in Stone County. Our most important asset, our people, will benefit from the growth we will experience for decades to come,” said Lance Pearson, President of the Stone County Board of Supervisors.

Introducing

Smart Crane for harvesters

For a harvester operator, an easily operated crane is important for ensuring a productive working day. Every movement that can be simplified contributes to increased production. Now we are taking simplified crane control to the next level with the introduction of Komatsu Smart Crane Harvesters, which automatically takes care of the telescopic function. The crane acts like a single unit.

The result is faster and easier crane operation as well as a more relaxed and effective operator.

See more at komatsuforest.com/smartcraneharvesters

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

CRJ Services Ltd is announced as the exclusive dealer for JENZ GmbH throughout the UK & Ireland

CRJ Services Ltd announces an exclusive dealership agreement with German machine manufacturer JENZ GmbH Maschinen- und Fahrzeugbau, for the UK and Ireland. This announcement comes off the back of a period of sustained growth for CRJ Services, and further establishes them as a market leading recycling machinery

solutions provider. The new dealership agreement commenced on the 1st February 2022.

I am sure that with CRJ we have a strong partner by our side and I am pleased that we can guarantee our British and Irish customers exceptional support.” - Hans Heinrich Hermeier, Managing Director at JENZ GmbH JENZ GmbH is a leading manufacturer of mobile and static high-speed shredders and chippers. The addition of these machines to the CRJ Services sales portfolio will allow them to offer a comprehensive range of machinery solutions to the forestry, waste management, recycling, and biomass industries.

Speaking on the announcement, CRJ Services Director, Ben McQuaid said; “CRJ Services is looking forward to supporting new and existing JENZ customers with machinery requirements, including equipment sales, servicing, and parts. The JENZ brand is renowned for its quality and has a dedicated customer base that we will look to support and expand over the coming years.”

The JENZ high-speed shredders and mobile chippers will complement CRJ Services existing shredder offering alongside the HAAS TYRON which has long been a market leading slow-speed shredder.

Aside from the addition of JENZ to their sales portfolio, CRJ Services will be adding the JENZ high-speed shredder range to their existing hire fleet of over 100 mobile machines.

“We are very pleased to be adding the JENZ brand to our machinery portfolio, in both our sales, hire and parts divisions.

As a company, we have a lot of experience with high-speed shredders having run them in our hire fleet for many years, and the expansion into the chipper market is something we are all very excited for. - Rob Symons – Director at CRJ Services Ltd

Hans Heinrich Hermeier, Managing Director, JENZ GmbH

Rob Symons, Director, CRJ Services Ltd

Ben McQuaid, Director, CRJ Services,

SEPPI M. completes new HQ and manufacturing facility Increased Production Is Projected for Worldwide Distribution The Italian based company Seppi M. recently announced the completion of its new headquarters in Mezzolombardo, Italy. The company is planning to relocate to the new facility over the next few months. With this expansion, the company will be positioned for consistent growth to meet the increasing demand worldwide for its mulching equipment.

“Seppi’s strong point has always been to focus on what we really know how to do best and to get better at it,” notes Lorenz Seppi, president of the company.

“For this reason we offer more than 70 models of mulchers, stone crushers and tillers to professionals across a variety of industries across the world.

We restrict our products to only implements and attachments.

Our goal is to provide greater power, longer life, and increased productivity for our customers.”

12 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

The new 270,000 ft² (25,000 mq) facility will provide greater automation and improvements in efficiency to increase the availability of Seppi products.

A large prototyping area will be included to serve the R&D department, so that ideas can quickly be converted into products.

The number of employees at the new facility is projected to exceed 120.

New address: SEPPI M. SpA Via Trento, 111

Waratah to offer Moipu branded products in Europe and Asia-Pacific

Waratah and Moisio Forest Oy, a Finland-based forest machine attachment and accessory manufacturer, have signed a cooperation agreement for sales, marketing and distribution of Moipu branded products.

Waratah will begin marketing and selling the well-known Moipu energy wood solutions through its global distribution network primarily in Europe and AsiaPacific, with some sales in other global markets. Moipu products sold through Waratah dealers will be supported by Waratah dealers and field teams, with spare parts available through Waratah’s distribution network.

“With the addition of the Moipu brand, we’ve added new solutions to our portfolio, which will help

our customers get more products for their forestry operations – plus they have the added benefit of our extensive dealer and field team for parts and support,” said Markku Ojaniemi, manager, Waratah distribution Europe, Russia, South America, and Japan.

Moisio Forest Oy will continue to sell products jointly with Waratah in Nordic and Baltic countries as well in the UK and Ireland. The new collaboration will expand the Moisio Forest Oy distribution as well the Waratah portfolio.

“We are very pleased with this co-operation. Waratah has a strong, world-wide sales and support network that gives us access to many new market areas without the need to invest in our own dealership network,” said Petrus Moisio, CEO, Moisio Forest Oy. “The partnership between our brands will not only drive sales but also allow us to provide more solutions to our customers.”

Moipu energy wood heads were first built in the 1990s and have proven to serve customers in many

applications, including energy wood harvesting, early thinning, roadside cleaning, rail side cleaning and riverbank cleaning.

Moipu products are designed to be installed on practically any carrier and most of the products operate without a control system or electricity. Compatible carriers include forwarders, harvesters, excavators, timber trucks, or any carrier with a crane and suitable hydraulic oil flow.

“We are proud to offer our customers a wide variety of harvester heads, processor heads, forestry cranes, grapples and control systems – this new agreement allows us to continue expanding on that product offering to provide solutions for energy wood harvesting,” Ojaniemi said.

Distribution of Moipu-branded products will begin in Europe.

During the transition, customers from anywhere in the world are free to contact their Waratah dealer or Moisio Forest Oy directly. F

Petrus Moisio, CEO, Moisio Forest Oy

Markku Ojaniemi, manager, Waratah distribution Europe, Russia, South America, and Japan.

From waste to money.

Use JENZ Shredders.

www.jenz.de International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 13

3400X WOOD HOG HORIZONTAL GRINDER One of the most important features of the 3400X is that it can be made as narrow as 8’4” (2.53 m), making it within the legal transport width in any country, no matter what engine is used.

With 800 horsepower (596 kW), this model is ideal for a broad range of applications in a wide variety of markets worldwide.

Like all of Morbark Wood Hog models, the 3400X also is available with electric power. The size of the 3400X allows the model to be configured for multiple applications and global markets without additional design considerations.

Vtection system offers added protection from catastrophic damage Morbark recently introduced a new, patent-pending Vtection® Vibration Detection System.

T

he Vtection system monitors rotor vibration in their 6400X, 3400X, and 3000X series of horizontal grinders to reduce damage from contact with ungrindable objects or other causes of damaging vibration like an outof-balance rotor, broken insert, or defective bearing.

When coupled with Morbark’s Break-Away Torque Limiter, dual hammermill protection - both mechanical and electrical - is achieved.

To use the VTECTION system, the operator sets an acceptable operating vibration level through the electronic controller. Since different feedstocks produce different vibration levels, the operator can quickly fine-tune the trip point to match the grinding application. Adjusting the trip point based on the feedstock can help

avoid unnecessary stopping of the infeed from normal operating vibration.

Once the VTECTION system is triggered, Morbark’s Integrated Control System (MICS) initiates several actions to remove the tramp material out of the rotor area. The sequence of these actions includes: reversing and stopping the infeed, bringing the

engine speed to idle, disengaging the clutch, and a warning message is displayed on the MICS screen.

At this time, the operator can inspect the grinder and remove the object that caused the trip before resuming operation.

With feedstocks ever-changing, the Vtection equipment modes allow the operator to have settings tailored to that day’s grinding application. The Vtection system will stay tied to those modes allowing the user to have various vibration profiles. The system

cannot guarantee a machine is without a defect. Operators should always use caution after the system trips, and service work begins, as other components may have experienced damage.

Ship-out kits are available for in-field installations on preexisting 3000X, 3400X, and 6400X horizontal grinders. Please contact Morbark sales at 800.831.0042 or your local Morbark dealer (www. morbarkdealers.com) for additional information and pricing.

6400X WOOD HOG HORIZONTAL GRINDER Ideal for processing wood waste, land clearing and storm debris into saleable products, the 6400XT Wood Hog weighs in at less than 96,500 lb (43,772 kg) and measures 11’5.5” (3.49 m) wide with the standard Caterpillar 325L undercarriage with 600mm double grousers, allowing the unit to be transported to nearly all domestic and international markets. The infeed bed is 24 inches (60.96 cm) longer than previous Morbark grinders in the 1,000-plus horsepower range and has sloped sides. This configuration improves operator sight lines for more efficient loading of material.

14 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

John Deere 904 P-Tier wheel loader fills trucks in two passes John Deere’s new 904 P-Tier wheel loader, on display for the first time at World of Asphalt 2022 in Nashville, is designed to load trucks with aggregate in just two passes.

Available soon, the new 904 P-Tier provides the durability and reliability to take on processed aggregate stockpiles and more efficiently load trucks or rail cars all day long.

The 904 P-Tier replaces John Deere’s 844L aggregate handler.

“It gets trucks in and out of the site a lot quicker,” said Luke Gribble, solutions marketing manager, John Deere. “This machine has increased counter weight. It’s got larger tilt cylinders, the engine’s got more horsepower and it’s got more breakout force.

With all that, it’s more capability to really do handle truck-loading applications.”

Based on proven components and designs, the new 904 P-Tier offers obstacle intelligence features, such as the Advanced

Vision System — an industry first for loaders, according to John Deere. This allows increased visibility to sides of the machine by integrating two digital cameras on the rearview mirror platform and combines views into a dedicated single display in the cab.

The 904 P-Tier also offers an improved rear object detection system. This feature overlays a projected vehicle reversible path within the same dedicated monitor, enhancing the operator’s situational awareness.

“We’re introducing dynamic reversing line, similar to what you’d see in the automotive industry,” Gribble said. “So if you’re articulating back, the lines are going to move with you instead of staying straight the whole time.”

The 904 P-Tier comes equipped with 9.8- and 9.3-cubic yard material-handling buckets with integrated spill guards and curved side cutters, and seat-mounted hydraulic controls for easier and more intuitive operation.

The John Deere 904 P-Tier has increased counter weight and larger tilt cylinders than the 844L it replaces High-capacity, heavy-duty axles with standard axle cooling filtration deliver durability in difficult conditions compared to previous models. With advantages such as fuel-efficient engines, lockup torque converters and a dedicated steering pump, the machine is designed to help operators do more while burning less fuel.

In addition, the 904 P-Tier is JDLink compatible, providing real-time machine data and alerts, leveraging a suite of dealer and factory tools to deliver increased productivity, uptime and lower daily operating costs. JDLink is now available without a subscription and no cost.

The machine will be available later this year.

Luke Gribble, Solutions Marketing Manager

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International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 15

LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS

C3 Limited, part of the broader LINX Cargo Care Group, has officially unveiled the new C3 Log Vessel Grapple (LVG) at the Port of Tauranga, a first in Australasia.

Held exclusively by C3 Limited, and developed in collaboration with industry partner, Page Macrae Engineering and customers, the revolutionary log loading technology is set to deliver unparalleled levels of safety and provide greater flexibility with no requirement for specialised infrastructure.

The new grapple loading system – which is wholly designed and built in New Zealand – is a shift away from the industrynorm of a plunger style Cranston and log wires which can present safety and efficiency challenges.

Instead, the C3 LVG, which is easily transportable and can be operated in any port, removes the need for wharf hands to sling loads reducing significant risks.

Gavin Hudson, C3 New Zealand

and Pedersen Group COO, said after a series of extensive trials the C3 LVG had already proven its worth, so much so that C3 has commissioned a further 22 units to be delivered in 2022.

“The initial results across the board were very impressive.

The decreased level of exposure to risks for our people was immediately clear and there was a significant improvement on the traditional loading methods,” said Hudson.

“Our first four C3 Log Vessel Grapples have gone live at Port of Tauranga and a further four will be commissioned in Wellington in March. Others will then follow as the year progresses,” he added.

The development and delivery of the C3 LVG has also been of benefit to New Zealand’s domestic

engineering and manufacturing sector with Page Macrae Engineering proving to be an excellent partner on the highly technical and bespoke project.

“The entire PME team is proud to be involved in this project with C3. Although we have innovated a number of products for customers in the past, the C3 LVG’s are a real step forward for PME given the level of automation and ‘smarts’.

We look forward to building on our already strong relationship with C3 through assisting them to effectively meet their customer’s needs,” said Dave Body, Page Macrae Engineering CEO. While safety and overall efficiency gains were significant drivers in the development of the C3 LVG, the flexibility, cost effectiveness and compatibility the technology can provide make it a complete and compelling offering compared to other industry alternatives.

“The arrival of the C3 LVG is exciting for our team, our customers and the industry. It’s a terrific piece of needs-based innovation that makes a real difference in the overall operation.

The design of the C3 LVG means it’s easily deployed and can be operated from a standard crane.

It’s self-powered and remote operated and is designed to work with current standard trailers and

Gavin Hudson, C3 New Zealand and Pedersen Group COO

Dave Body, CEO, Page Macrae Engineering

log bunks, minimising additional infrastructure costs,” said Hudson.

Sumitomo Forestry setting up new forests fund A major Japanese homebuilder says it’s going to establish a new fund aimed at acquiring forests around the world amid the country’s effort to become carbon-neutral by 2050.

Sumitomo Forestry says the fund will invest in preserving forests overseas as well as harvesting and replanting them in Japan. It is expected to be worth about 100 billion yen, or 867 million dollars. The company says the

fund will eventually own a total of 5 thousand square kilometres of forests in Japan and abroad including Southeast Asia and North America.

Mitsuyoshi Toshiro, President of Sumitomo Forestry said “By protecting and expanding forests and peatlands around the world, we want to contribute to companies whose goals are carbon-neutrality.” Sumitomo

16 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Forestry already owns parts of forests that absorb more than the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the company. It plans to turn CO2 reduction from tree planting into credits. It will then issue and distribute them to businesses based on their investment in the fund.

Mitsuyoshi Toshiro, President Sumitomo Forestry

T H I N N I N G

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A SMALL, FAST AND RELIABLE THINNING HEAD The unit is small, just over a meter high and weighs about 420kg, but can cut down trees with a diameter of up to 41 cm. It feeds about 4 m/s and has the very best performance to withstand a tough everyday life in the forest.

Log Max 2000T complements our thinning units in the T-Series.

Contact your local dealer for more information or visit logmax.com International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 17

SAWLINES

Moelven Valåsen invests in small-log saw line with online system from SPM Condition monitoring for more efficient maintenance Barked timber on the way into the sawmill at Moelven Valåsen

Moelven Valåsen AB sawmill in Karlskoga, Sweden is part of the Norwegian wood and building materials group Moelven. The company is now investing in a new saw line for small logs, where Finnish Veisto OY will supply the HewSaw R200 1.1 V4 saw machine. When the machine is delivered and commissioned at Moelven Valåsen in the spring of 2024, the online system Intellinova Parallel EN will also be installed to monitor the mechanical condition of the saw line.

SCAN NEW JS 50 HEAD

M

oelven Valåsen is the Group’s largest sawmill in production capacity and sales. In recent years, Valåsen has made significant investments in developing the sawmill’s capacity and efficiency, such as a new energy center and the upcoming new saw line. With a 70–250 m/ minute feed rate, the saw machine HewSaw R200 1.1 V4 from Veisto is an efficient machine for processing small timber. HewSaw Sweden has recently equipped similar sawing machines from Veisto with Intellinova Parallel EN at Swedish sawmills Vida Wood Nössemark and Setra Skinnskatteberg.

SIMPLY BETTER 18 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

The online system Intellinova Parallel EN – with thirty-seven DuoTech accelerometers and ten temperature transmitters installed on reducers, sawing, and edging units – will be an essential component in ensuring the saw machine’s mechanical condition.

Thanks to the system’s patented measurement technologies HD ENV and SPM HD, high-resolution machine condition data can be integrated into the HewSaw MP maintenance system.

Thomas Haglund, CEO of Moelven Valåsen, justified the investment: “Moelven Valåsen has two saw lines: one for large and one for small timber. The latter is now being replaced with a machine line with the highest capacity. High personal safety, flexibility, sorting possibilities, and availability are keywords for the decisions made during planning.”

In a comment, Claes Backlund, CEO of HewSaw Sweden, said: “It is very satisfying that both R200 1.1 machines we will be commissioning in 2024 will be equipped with online condition monitoring from SPM. We will be able to monitor these machines efficiently and compare the machines in parallel in their production. Our maintenance system HewSaw MP will have better input, and we will be able to provide even better feedback to these R200 1.1 customers.”

About Moelven The Moelven industrial Group is one of Europe’s most significant players in sawn wood products, with approximately 3,500 employees and a turnover of just over SEK 11 billion. The production units are located in Sweden and Norway and are organized into three divisions: Timber, Wood, and Building Systems. Together, the fifteen sawmills produce about 2 million m3 of spruce and pine annually.

Moelven Valåsen produces 375,000 m3 annually of sawn wood products from large and small diameter logs. The raw material is pine and spruce from nearby forests. The sawmill has 107 employees and a turnover of SEK 750 million

Thomas Haglund, CEO of Moelven Valåsen

About Veisto Oy and HewSaw Finnish family business Veisto Oy plans and manufactures production lines under the HewSaw brand. About 80% of production is exported to other markets. In addition to Finland, the most prominent export areas are Sweden, the Baltics, North America, Russia, Central Europe, and the planted forest areas in the southern hemisphere. Veisto has over 250 employees.

Claes Backlund, CEO of HewSaw Sweden,

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

SPM Instrument Finland delivers Leonova Diamond to Koskisen Finnish wood products and processing company Koskisen has chosen Leonova Diamond and Condmaster Ruby as its new condition monitoring tools at the chipboard mill in Järvelä, near Lahti in southern Finland. System implementation took place in December 2021.

In competition with another supplier to replace existing instrumentation and software, SPM Instrument Finland was awarded the contract because of the many advantages in the SPM

product portfolio, including HD technologies and the possibility of combining handheld measurement, online, and wireless sensor data into one system. Koskisen has had separate handheld and wireless sensors systems, which they want to upgrade in the coming years.

In addition to the Leonova Diamond, SPM Instrument Finland also recently delivered a LineLazer alignment set to replace Koskisen’s outdated alignment sensors.

Regarding the reasons Koskisen found SPM a good choice for them,

Heikki Sutinen, Maintenance Supervisor at the chipboard factory, said: “We now have capable equipment for our condition monitoring needs for years to come. The solution offers a greater resolution, more functions, and much better software than our old system. Its versatility also enables us to commission new equipment.

We can now monitor slow rotating machines, and balancing tools are also a new feature for us. The new software is a huge improvement to its predecessor.”

Established in Finland in 1909, Koskisen is a forerunner in the sawn timber and panel industry.

Roughly 900 employees make an annual turnover of close to EUR 311 million at the family-owned company.

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International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 19

More than the sum of our parts

define what we could be rather than what we are now. Both of our businesses are technology leaders in our individual submarkets, and our opportunity is to integrate these technologies to create new products that provide even higher quality and greater throughput for our customers.

As the dust settles from the announcement of the merger of USNR and Wood Fiber Group, the synergies are becoming clearer and gaining focus, though the full impact of this combination has yet to be realized. To give our readers a sneak peek, we introduce you to Craig Tompkins and Dale Brown, leaders of their combined company, and their vision for the future.

MI – What will be your focus for the coming 12 months in moving the companies forward?

CT – Initial stages of any merger or acquisition are similar. As a management team we will be integrating our culture and our systems. While we work internally, we will be aggressively addressing the R&D opportunities created by coming together.

Craig Tompkins, CEO Tompkins is responsible for developing growth strategies and organizational structure while overseeing finance, human resources, and mergers and acquisitions that support the overall company. He came to the wood processing industry when he joined Burton Saw and Supply as President and CEO in 2015. In 2019 he was named President and CEO of the merged Burton Saw and Simonds International.

Prior to joining, Tompkins held key positions in a variety of other sectors, including Pfingsten Partners, a Chicago based private equity company; Marlen International, a capital equipment manufacturer supplying the food processing industry; and Sun Chemical and then Ryerson, heading up engineering and manufacturing for the specialty chemical industry. One of his most impactful contributions to his past organizations has been driving strategy and integrating acquired businesses.

He earned a degree in Chemical Engineering in 1983, and an MBA in Finance at Chicago Booth School of Business in 1987.

College, he joined USNR in 1986.

Over many years he held roles in accounting, then moved on through mid-level management in the areas of capital and parts sales. In 2009 he was appointed Vice President, responsible for all of USNR’s operations related to mechanical products.

In 2016 he was named Senior Vice President with added responsibiliy overseeing USNR’s newly-acquired European business.

In 2018 Dale was appointed President of USNR. Through his years at USNR, Brown has met and worked with key leaders across the wood products industry. His industry and business knowledge is both substantial and intimate. His dedication to employees and customers has earned him the respect of sawmill and plywood producers everywhere.

Dale Brown, President

Q&A

As president, Dale Brown’s focus is the day-to-day operations of the combined company.

H is a long-standing member of the USNR team. A graduate of the business program at Linfield

Millwide Insider (MI) – What prompted the merging of USNR and Wood Fiber Group?

MI – What is the major benefit for customers of both companies?

Craig Tompkins (left) and Dale Brown at the Wood Fiber Group

Craig Tompkins (CT) – The combined companies’ reputations for quality, integrity, innovation,

20 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

technical service, and value are well aligned and a great cultural fit. The combination will provide better customer coverage and improve our ability to serve the market. Our combined capabilities create a complete product offering to sawmill and plywood customers globally.

MI – What excites you about this merger?

CT – The most exciting part of this merger is the opportunity it will create not only for our employees but our customers. Contrary to most merger and acquisition activity where companies have overlapping operations and products, our combination is complementary with adjacent rather than overlapping submarkets. Coming together we immediately become the most comprehensive supplier in our industry with the ability to provide our customers with everything from the equipment to all of the parts, consumables, and filing room equipment necessary to produce the highest quality products.

Beyond where we are today, the greatest future opportunity is to

Dale Brown – Many customers are common to both entities.

This new relationship will foster easier access to equipment, parts, consumables, service, and more.

On the technical side, we now offer an even wider depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in the solid wood, panel, and secondary wood processing sectors.

As a combined company we have incredible industry expertise in all facets of what it takes to supply the best wood processing operations in the world. It is our mission to ensure that our customers always recognize and appreciate our role as a critical business partner to their future success.

LUMBER PROCESSING NEWS

BSW Group unveils new brand

BSW, the UK’s largest integrated forestry and sawmilling group, has unveiled its new brand, with an expanded vision of ‘seeing timber in new light’. The brand launch sees the group uniting its capabilities under a new, overarching, BSW Group brand, forging an integrated supply chain to create value and sustain longterm growth.

Tony Hackney, CEO, BSW Group, said: “As the sector’s biggest integrated business, with capabilities including tree nurseries, forestry management, harvesting, production and energy,

we believe we have a responsibility to drive positive change.

“Following a period of intense acquisition activity, we commissioned a robust, independent review of our brand and market positioning to guide the actions needed to support a more sustainable future. The feedback we gained has been invaluable. It has inspired our vision to become the most innovative, technologically advanced and sustainable timber business in the UK.” As part of the launch, BSW Group is committing to ensuring

a seamless, circular supply chain, to investing in innovation and education, and to giving people more stability and choice.

“By growing markets, increasing efficiency and resilience, and elevating our craft, we can help secure the future of our industry and our planet. We have a shared will to create value and achieve sustainable growth,” added Tony.

The brand launch follows BSW Group’s acquisition by Binderholz, which completed on 5th January 2022, strengthening the brand’s positioning in the value-added timber market.

It’s businesses – Maelor Forest Nurseries, Tilhill, Dick Brothers, BSW Timber, BSW Timber Solutions, Bayram Timber and BSW Energy – will continue to operate in their own specialist areas under the new overarching BSW Group brand, with a shared vision to create value and achieve sustainable growth.

As the sector’s biggest integrated business, with capabilities including tree nurseries, forestry management, harvesting, production and energy, we believe we have a responsibility to drive positive change Tony Hackney, BSW Group, CEO

Boise Cascade MERCHANDIZER Boise Cascade is a leading manufacturer and distributor of building materials for North America and beyond.

Boise chose Springer’s screw technology, merchandizer system, and block handling equipment for its Florien Mill located in Louisiana.

The stems are fed to the Nicholson debarker via the Springer screw system. Then the stems are scanned and optimized by the Microtec Logeye. Depending on the optimized solution the stems are accurately kicked to either side of the merchandizer backlog transfer. The merchandizer backlog transfer sequences stems to a positioning roll case system that optimally shifts each stem to remove defects when the saws cut the stems into blocks. The blocks are then sorted north or south to bins.

Parts and service support for all our customers are provided directly from our Springer USA office and warehouse in Greenville SC. Springer USA Inc. | office@springer-usa.com | www.springer-usa.com | 550 Brookshire Rd, Ste A | Greer, SC 29651 | T +1 (864) 908.3822

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 21

SAWLINES

Jukka Pahta, CEO, Koskisen

The world’s first fully wood-based furniture board is a circular economy product born from the cooperation of Koskisen Oy and Stora Enso Koskisen is the first company to start using the bio-based binder NeoLigno® by Stora Enso – in its new sustainable product family. The two Finnish companies’ cooperation results in the world’s first new entirely wood-based furniture board, all the way to its adhesives. Both the raw and the binding materials are sourced from the production process flows of both companies, making this a complete circular economy product.

T

he Finnish wood industry is doing an exemplary job in providing sustainable solutions that push the industry towards a more environmentally friendly future, one product at a time.

Koskisen, the Finnish little giant of the wood processing industry, is the first in the world to produce a furniture board sourced entirely from wood-based raw materials.

Named Zero boards, the products replace fossil-based resin with NeoLigno® – the bio-based lignin binder developed by Stora Enso.

In addition to its environmental friendliness, NeoLigno® is also free from formaldehyde and isocyanate. ” Our new Zero product family answers the rising demand for bio-based solutions from both

22 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

domestic and export markets.

These new products allow furniture manufacturers to offer alternatives with better sustainability and health security”, sums up Koskisen Head of Product Management and R&D Timo Linna.

Optimising wood utilization The Zero Furniture Board, the firstborn from the Zero product family, is produced at the Koskisen panel factory in Järvelä – a onehour drive from Helsinki. The basic material for all Koskisen furniture boards is sourced from the process flows of the company’s panel factory and sawmill. With all Zero products, the lignin used in the NeoLigno® binder has been extracted in Stora Enso’s pulp process at its Sunila Mill into its own process flow. This results in all raw materials of the board being entirely wood-based. ”At the core of our environmentally responsible

Timo Linna, Koskisen Head of Product Management and R&D

Lauri Lehtonen, Head of Innovation of Stora Enso’s Biomaterials division

strategy is to not only develop better products together with our partners but also to take our operations towards a more sustainable and carbon-neutral future. We can achieve this, for instance, by exchanging fossil-based raw materials with renewable alternatives, and by utilizing wood as optimally as possible. The Zero product family stands as a concrete action that takes our strategy into everyday reality”, says Koskisen CEO Jukka Pahta.

Industry-scale test runs with final optimisation for the furniture boards are already underway, with the process being near completion.

Significant cooperation for Stora Enso Previously, as a byproduct of the pulp industry, lignin has been typically utilised as bioenergy in energy production. NeoLigno® serves as an example of how Stora Enso increases the value added of lignin without increasing the use of wood.

0322Limab_1pg_4cTIFFe_TP.qxp_Layout 1 2/16/22 1:42 PM Page 1

“Stora Enso has been refining lignin commercially since 2015.

NeoLigno® is our first own binder product that replaces fossil-based adhesives”, says Lauri Lehtonen,

Head of Innovation of Stora Enso’s Biomaterials division.

Koskisen is the first company to utilise NeoLigno® in industrial production.

Currently being at its finishing phases, the Zero Furniture Board will enter markets in the autumn of 2022. After the furniture board, the next member of the Zero family will be the plywood board.

Continued on p48

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 23

SAWLINES On the saw line, white line-up rollers align to help orient the block for feeding between the Smart Gate’s press rolls and linebar (located behind the block shown at center).

RMC-Driven Position & Force Control Increases Production A circulating bandmill resaw is certainly not a new component of a hardwood mill.

Oregon state manufacturer Salem Equipment manufactured their first bandmill resaw line in 1951, using the contemporary technology of the time. The resaw is particularly tough on equipment – the backup (or press) rolls must exert enough force to keep the cant flush to the linebar, but not so much force as to damage the wood on the backup side. The recirculation carriage speed must be kept high to keep the product moving through. Add to that poor pressure control on the press rolls, and the result is heavy impact after heavy impact, day after day for years.

B

ack in 1988, Salem Equipment helped to install just such a resaw at one of its client’s mills. By 2020, the machine had plenty of life left in it but desperately needed a controls upgrade to the vertical resaw.

The client already had a motion controller in its system, but it needed more. Salem Equipment turned to Delta Computer Systems and its RMC151 motion controller to get smoother, more precise motion.

Adding Pressure to Position The ongoing desire to innovate and consistently improve on its sawmill equipment, generation after

24 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

generation, ultimately led Salem Equipment to Delta Computer Systems RMC controllers. They knew that the traditional air pressure press roll approach to vertical resaws lacked the functionality and precision needed to evolve the tool’s performance and durability.

One key issue was the constant variability of block width with each pass. One block might be 24 inches wide, the next six inches, and the next anything in between. To cope with this variability under the original resaw design, air cylinders were open or closed. Air pressure needed to remain constantly high to make contact with the block and press it to the linebar in the shortest time, and that pressure had to keep the block solidly in position against the linebar as it moved past the saw.

“Say I know the block width is 12 inches and I’m using a standard servo cylinder, which will be position-driven,” notes Salem Equipment. “If I tell the press roll to go to 12 inches and my measurement is slightly off, there’s no way to make sure that I’m fully up against it unless I continue to drive towards that linebar. And when you do that, you end up overpressuring.”

With a move to hydraulics backed by the Delta RMC150, though, things changed. Because block width can be detected with an upstream sensor, press roll positions can be pre-staged. In other words, the rollers can be advanced to a position very close

to where the block edge will be just in time for its arrival and for this application a two-inch distance is often optimal. Once the block is sawn and exits, the rolls only retract to pre-staged positions, not completely open, and the prestaging process can begin again for the upcoming block.

However, positioning is only half of the process. Salem Equipment installed Temposonics position transducers and Bosch pressure transducers in the cylinders to sense cylinder pressure. By integrating with Delta’s RMC151, Salem’s team could monitor position and pressure simultaneously in realtime. For example, a 12-inch block would approach, and the press roll would pre-stage to 14 inches. As the block rolls through, the press roll moves down to 12 inches. The RMC commands the cylinder to move against the linebar, but if a given amount of pressure (250 pounds, for example) is detected, stop moving, and maintain that pressure until the block exits.

The ability to control position and pressure with microsecondlevel accuracy through the RMC151 made all the difference, and so, through this client upgrade, Salem Equipment created its new Smart Gate offering.

A Better RMC at the Core Smart Gate was not Salem Equipment’s first attempt at using a servo cylinder in this way. In a prior effort, the company kept system pressure at roughly 1800 psi until the block entered the cut, whereupon pump pressure would drop to 200 pounds at the valve.

However, position control with Salem’s previous controller was extremely hard to control. Salem Equipment states that not until the implementation of Delta’s RMC150s did they have an effective solution.

The RMC151 supports up to eight motion or pressure/force axes, of which Salem Equipment used five in its resaw design. One

SAWLINES Performance on the Line

Salem Equipment’s new Smart Gate resaw block positioner. The yellow and orange elements are press rolls that hold the block against the line bar.

axis controls the linebar position. A second axis synchronizes with the first axis to control a series of lineup rollers that align to the linebar.

The remaining three axes link to three six-inch cylinders mounted on a pivot that controls the press roll position, which can achieve a 24-inch stroke.

“Because we know what the pressure is on each side of the piston, we can take the differential and calculate how much force is being applied,” says Salem Equipment. “If you were to do this in a PLC, it would be very complicated, because there are so many things happening at once.

PLCs would have a lot harder time trying to get your position and then maintain pressure with any real accuracy. The RMC151 runs considerably faster than a PLC would ever process that.”

Salem Equipment also found the software tools that accompany Delta RMCs made development and deployment remarkably easy.

Delta’s pre-installed tools and plots streamlined troubleshooting, including providing an event log to see step by step how the RMC handles PLC instructions. Delta had already provided a host of shortcuts, such as automatically calculating applied force from transducer input and handling scaling through RMC wizards available in an intuitive graphical menu interface. Additionally, Salem Equipment notes that both the help files and Delta’s tech support “is by far better than anybody I’ve ever dealt with — and I’ve been doing this for 20 years. If I don’t understand it, or if I want to do something a little different, they’re really good at helping me.”

Salem Equipment’s client wanted to feed 300 block feet per minute.

With the old resaw system, when an operator could see that a block wasn’t flush with the linebar, he would have to slow the line to give the block time to get square. Now, with the precision of the RMC151 and its position/force control capability, there’s far less need to command speed changes. The operator can then spend his time confirming that he’s cutting the right face and getting the right grade out of the log.

In throughput terms, Salem’s client usually got eight block 2022_IFI_DeltaStackFaster_7.375x4.975.pdf 1 1/21/2022 1:22:49 PM cuts per minute. With the new

Delta-driven Smart Gate system, the client is up to ten or 11 cuts per minute — at least a 25 percent improvement in productivity.

“With our new Smart Gate system,” says Salem Equipment, “our customer drastically improved performance as well as the overall maintenance of their line. And with the Delta controller, I can see uses well beyond what we’re using it for in the sawmill industry. There are a lot of areas where we can use it, pretty much any machine with press rolls. This will help Salem Equipment continue to innovate and do what we do best.”

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International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 25

SAWLINES

Pölkky Oy, a Finnish wood processing company, has awarded AFRY an engineering and consulting services assignment for the renovation projects of its sawmills in Kajaani and Taivalkoski.

AFRY provides engineering services for sawmill renovation projects in Finland

W

ood is a natural, renewable, and durable raw material with unique material properties. Renewable, responsibly produced wood is the only sustainable building material. The use of wood as a raw material is increasing in the building industry as companies are encouraged to adopt more sustainable construction methods to reduce high CO2 emissions.

Pölkky Oy is the largest private wood processing company in Northern Finland. As part of its long-term growth strategy, Pölkky’s production plant in Kajaani will be rebuilt in 2022–2024. The sawing capacity will increase to 450,000 cubic meters per year, amounting to a sawn wood usage of around 900,000 m3 per year.

Pölkky will also renew the sawing technology of the Taivalkoski unit. The sawmill capacity in Taivalkoski will increase to 300,000 cubic meters during 2023 after the first phase of

investments. About 600,000 m3 of sawn wood will be used per year.

AFRY will provide multidisciplinary engineering work for the modernization of the sawmills and new sawing lines. In addition, AFRY conducts various studies related to logistics, infrastructure, and emissions. The value of the order is not stated.

“AFRY, with its extensive expertise and strong industryspecific knowledge, was a safe choice for us as a partner,” says Petteri Virranniemi, Managing Director of Pölkky Oy. “We are honored to be Pölkky Oy’s partner in this sustainable wood processing project of the future. Our operating model, where local presence and knowhow is supported by global competencies, enables us to deliver world-class consulting and engineering services to Pölkky,” says Kalle Rasinmäki, President, Process Industries Finland at AFRY.

Kalle Rasinmäki, President, Process Industries Finland at AFRY

Petteri Virranniemi, Managing Director of Pölkky Oy

For further information, please contact: Nicholas Oksanen, EVP and Head of Process Industries Division e-mail nicholas.oksanen@afry.com Kalle Rasinmäki, President, Process Industries Finland and Asia Tel. +358 40 566 4250 e-mail kalle.rasinmaki@afry.com

Business of Kissakoski sawmill will transfer to Versowood in july 2022

T Veisto Oy and Versowood have entered into a contract on 15 March 2022 to acquire the business of Kissakoski Sawmill owned by Veisto Oy and to transfer its operations to Versowood in July 2022.

26 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

he business, machineries and buildings of the Kissakoski unit will be transferred in the acquisition. Approximately 20 employees of the company will be transferred to Versowood as old employees.

In the future, the unit will continue sawing small-diameter logs, which will also make sawing more efficient in the Versowood’s Otava, Vierumäki, Hankasalmi and Riihimäki sawmills, where the average tree size will increase.

The turnover of the Versowood Group in the financial year ending in June 2022 will be approximately

EUR 650 million and the amount of sawn timber 1.5 m3. The company employs a total of approximately 850 people.

Versowood manufactures sawn timber and its various further processed products, planed, painted, strength-graded and impregnated products, glulam products and structures, wooden packaging products, telephone and electricity poles, wooden bridges and bioenergy products.

SAWLINES

Hekotek supplies equipment to Finland’s leading wood processing company As a result of long-term cooperation, Hekotek AS has entered into a supply agreement with Koskisen OY, one of the largest privately owned wood processing companies in Finland.

E

quipment for feeding logs to the sawmill, together with a conveyor system for transporting sawdust (bark, wood chips and sawdust), will be delivered to the new wood processing unit in Kärkölä, Järvelä.

Koskisen will carry out an investment in Kärkölä worth EUR 48 million, with production scheduled to start up in summer 2023. The new unit’s annual production will initially be

400,000 cubic meters of softwood sawn timber. The investment is a continuation of the further processing capacity expansion carried out in 2020 and the power plant investment in which heat production was converted entirely to biofuel.

The equipment supplied by Hekotek ensures the supply of logs at different speeds, first to the log peeler and then to a stateof-the-art saw line. Log handling

speeds range from 70 to 200 m / min, which corresponds to a feed of up to 40 logs per minute.

The entire set of equipment supplied by Hekotek is designed and manufactured on the basis of particularly high technological requirements, where the share of human labor in the entire production process has been minimized.

Koskisen’s production facilities in Järvelä form Finland’s biggest mechanical wood processing integrate, where almost 100% of the wood raw material is used in its own processes. Koskisen’s products are shipped to qualityconscious customers around the world.

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 27

SAWLINES

The Holmen Timber sawmill in Braviken outside Norrköping, Sweden is one of Scandinavia’s largest and most modern sawmills. Since putting the plant into operation in 2011, Holmen Timber has made several investments at the sawmill to increase the production of wood products. The Intellinova Parallel EN online system was recently installed on the Linck saw line to ensure maximum availability.

I

n an initial phase at the end of 2021, the Intellinova Parallel EN measuring system was installed along with twenty-nine DuoTech accelerometers. The system monitors mechanical and lubrication condition on saw and

Holmen Timber Braviken invests in online system from SPM for saw line milling units using the patented HD technologies SPM HD for shock pulse measurement and HD ENV for vibration monitoring.

SPM Instrument service engineers are responsible for remote condition monitoring with alarms and monthly reports via the SPM ServiceNet web portal, where all reports are presented in an easy-to-understand way for the sawmill’s maintenance department.

The remote condition monitoring service also covers trimmers with fifteen DuoTech accelerometers connected to two units of the online system Intellinova Compact with eight measuring channels each. As soon as a new report is posted in the web portal, the relevant sawmill staff receives an

email that a new report is available.

In addition to monitoring the measurements directly in the Condmaster Ruby 2022 analysis software on a local server at Holmen Timber Braviken, the sawmill personnel can also easily monitor the development of measuring results via the Condmaster.NET web application on smartphones, tablets, or PCs. Measurement data can also be integrated into process control systems or CMMS software using Rest API and OPC UA. Jörgen Seropian, Production Manager Raw part, is a strong supporter of condition monitoring: “My employees and I are satisfied and feel secure with the services

that SPM delivers. To date, we have managed to locate several potential bearing breakdowns that we have succeeded in repairing and replacing in a planned manner – breakdowns that would otherwise have been very costly in both downtime and parts. I sincerely believe in the idea and concept of monitoring and the service that SPM offers with educational reports for the typical person to understand.”

Holmen Timber is one of the Holmen Group’s five business areas. It supplies high-quality wood products to the joinery and construction industry as well as directly to the construction trade and timber importers. The raw material from own sustainably managed forests is processed into building materials at five chain-ofcustody-certified sawmills.

The Braviken Sawmill produces construction and joinery timber from spruce and pine. All parts of the wood raw material are utilized in a cycle where wood chips from the sawmill go to pulp production at the adjacent Holmen Paper Braviken paper mill. The final residual products become biofuel, which provides energy and district heating.

Meet MiCROTEC at the following Trade Fairs & Congresses planned for 2022 COFI - Vancouver, CAN - April, 27-29 WOODTECH - Rotorua, NZL - May, 18-19 MONTRÉAL WOOD CONVENTION Montréal, CAN - May, 24-25

INTERNATIONALE HOLZMESSE - Klagenfurt, GER - August, 31-September, 03

WWPA - Stevenson, USA - May, 24-26

NHLA - Cleveland, USA September, 21-23

LIGNA.CONFERENCE - Rosenheim, GER - June, 01-02

TIMBER PROCESSING AND ENERGY EXPO - Portland, USA September, 28-30

EUROBOIS - Lyon, FRA - June, 14-17 DEUTSCHER HOLZKONGRESS Berlin, GER - June, 29-30 MLMA - Biloxi, USA - July, 16-18 SLMA - Colorado Springs, USA July, 20-23 IWF - Atlanta, USA - August, 23-26

28 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

TRÄ OCH TEKNIK - Gothenburg, SWE - August, 30-September, 02

SAWMILL INDUSTRY DAYS Hämeenlinna, FIN - November, 02-03

SAWLINES

Carrier Lumber the first to install 2 Lucidyne 900 transverse scanners

C

arrier Lumber has purchased a pair of Lucidyne 900 transverse scanners for installation in their Prince George, BC sawmill mill. These will be the first installations of the new Lucidyne 900 transverse scanner in North America. The scanner purchases come two years after Carrier installed a Lucidyne GradeScan in their planer mill.

After being extremely satisfied with the GradeScan results, Carrier chose to invest in Lucidyne again for their sawmill; one Lucidyne 900 will be installed ahead of the trimmer, the other ahead of the edger. Dylan Tobin, Sawmill Manager for Carrier, says they are continuing their partnership with Lucidyne largely because of Lucidyne’s artificial intelligence, the scanner having almost no downtime and grade turn out, trimming, and the overall excellent ease-of-use. These systems will be installed and started up in mid-2022. For more information about the Lucidyne 900, please visit https://www.lucidyne.com/ products/lucidyne-900/.

The Lucidyne 900 combines the world’s number one multi-sensory quality transverse scanner with Lucidyne’s deep learning artificial intelligence. The Lucidyne 900 determines the overall quality of green, dry or planed lumber in

one pass on all four sides, Further, the Lucidyne 900 can optimize for value before or after kiln drying because it grades both rough and planed lumber.

Lucidyne Extras • Transverse scanning • One scan solution on all 4 sides • O ptional full-length X-ray scanning • S imple installation, no elevation changes • G rades planed and rough lumber, softwood, and hardwood • A ccurately recognizes, localizes and sizes knots and other defects such as cracks, pitch pockets, and discoloration • I mplements customer-specific grading, trimming and sorting rules • M odular design (6 to 26 ft) Each board surface is viewed by at least 2 camera

UK bandsaw blade manufacturer unveils plans for £10m expansion project Dakin-Flathers, bandsaw blade manufacturer and manufacturer of the Ripper37 sawmill blades, has unveiled plans to expand their existing state-of-the-art facility by over 7,500m2 covering 3 floors at its current premises in West Yorkshire, England.

Due for completion in early 2023, the Featherstone site will allow Dakin-Flathers to service its customers, in over 100 countries globally, more effectively. The new scheme will allow Dakin-Flathers to maximise production capacity and improve efficiencies across the product range.

The new extension, which can accommodate over 150 employees,

will also boast charging points for multiple electric vehicles, improved staff facilities, flexible workspaces and a much larger warehouse that utilises new picking and storage systems.

Oliver Garside, managing director of Dakin-Flathers, explains “Dakin-Flathers has enjoyed rapid and sustained growth, doubling in size three times over the last 20 years, which has led us to become a market leader in our sector.

“We have invested heavily, and will continue to do so, in the business and our employees. Our continued growth will be supported by a range of exciting new ventures and an investment programme in

excess of £10m over the next 24 months.

“These really are exciting times for Dakin-Flathers, our employees, customers, and for UK manufacturing.”

Dakin-Flathers’ growing green credentials will also benefit from an expansion of our PV solar range.

Renewable energy generation will increase from 265,000 kWh per annum to more than 900,000 kWh. Making their factory as environmentally efficient as possible.

Oliver Garside, Dakin-Flathers MD

September 28-30, 2022 PORTLAND, OREGON

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 29

SAWLINES Edger system

BoardProfiler 3D - Best measurement performance producing the highest yield for Edgers & Trimmers

LIMAB was founded about 40 years ago and has a long tradition of developing and manufacturing laserbased technology. They supply 2D ProfiCura and 1D PreciCura laser sensors and complete systems for dimensional and profile measurement in sawmills, panel production and steel mills.

B

oardProfiler is the system for the wood industry that was developed more than 30 years ago, and it has to date been sold to more than 250 customers.

The latest version of the system BoardProfiler 3D, is available in four versions.

The great thing about their system is that the software is almost identical for all versions, which has proved interesting for several customers as they have invested in both edger and trimmer in their lines. All versions are also available for transverse and longitudinal processes.

640 measuring points across the line. The number in the series indicates the length they have on the laser line that measures the block or board. In that way, they can optimize the measurement and use the sensor that provides the best measurement performance and consequently the highest yield.

• B lock control (optimization for chipper or ripsaw)

Case study 1. ”Block line”

• E dgers • Trimmers • C lassifier (Sorter, Dimensional control) BoardProfiler Block Control system builds on their Edger which has been a success since the first system was sold about 10 years ago. The system is easy to install, takes up little space in the process, is easy to integrate with sawmill automation systems and has a simple and easy-tounderstand software. The sensors used in Block Control and Edgers are normally their own 2D sensor, ProfiCura 600, 700 or 800. Each sensor with a high resolution of

30 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Block Controls functions include • Ripsaw, up to 8 sawblades • Positioning for chipper • Dimensional positioning of block • Dimensional control of block.

From a sawmill in France where they had a line for thinner blocks, lack of space was a crucial point when deciding on systems.

LIMAB advantages: • F lexible solutions where they can place sensors more or less wherever they want in the line.

• S ensors transmit data for block positioning for chipper and rip-saw • S ystem will transmit data to superior system (sawline/ trimmer) to optimize correct and increase yield.

• L IMAB BoardProfiler 3D-L Block Control was the best and most flexible solution for the mill.

LIMAB Edger is more or less the same system as the Block Control system. It has the same functions and includes skewing and trimming if necessary.

Case study 2. “Edger” From a sawmill in Sweden their customer uses our BoardProfiler 3D both in edger and trimmer.

LIMAB advantages: • O ld and obsolete parts to continue run to present edger.

• With LIMABs solution, the customer did not have to change mechanics.

• O ld frame was dismantled and LIMAB standard frame was installed together with system.

• Q uick and easy installation gave an effective edging with top yield results.

Result of case studies: • B ecause of the accuracy of the system, customers can use smaller blocks to optimize bigger boards than before. Yield saving!

• C ustomer can decide how much/ little of the wane that should be left on each board.

• H arptests shows better than 98% or similar to human test results.

Headquarters and manufacturing plant is located in Gothenburg, Sweden. LIMAB has regional offices in the USA, UK, and Germany as well as approved distributors and partners in other regions.

BoardProfiler 3D-LE. Lineal scanning system for edger and ripsaw optimization

In both case studies the BoardProfiler 3D is used. Just different versions but with almost the same screenview and position for input data. Easy to learn and handle for operators!

West Fraser, Angelina mill complex going strong

Investors saw a great opportunity when they decided to build a new mill complex at Lufkin, TX. HALCO AD:Layout 3

3/8/10

The Texas A&M Forest Service assisted the company to validate this project that draws on logs from the region. The mill was started up in 2019, with USNR and Mid-South Engineering as major vendors in this endeavor. Today targets have been met, and production is rolling along as anticipated.

“West Fraser, Angelina is pleased with current performance throughout the operation. USNR’s 17:22

support in our journey of process excellence is appreciated. The team is confident in the choice for our business relationship and has trust for our future.” Wiley Quarles, mill manager.

Wiley Quarles, Manager, Angelina Mill

Page 1

Optimise your production plan...

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25

Whatever your mill...

Maximize profit by resolving trade-offs between recovery, production rate, and value

SYSTEMS SOLD

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Vancouver, Canada • Tel: 1 604 731 9311 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 31

SAWLINES

The various tools and views in BID’s Universal Console allow operators to control equipment remotely and easily

New

Universal Console: Remote Control of Equipment Made Easy

Sometimes, the manual remote control of transfers, conveyors, and other equipment in a mill can be a guessing game because you need to know the exact name or ID number of the equipment to solve an incident. With a traditional console, there is also a risk of selecting the wrong motor which can cause equipment breakage or product damage, not to mention downtime. That’s why BID Group developed a unique, operatorfriendly console for the remote control of equipment in your mill.

32 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

T

he new Universal Console is connected to several cameras that allow you to monitor a critical mill area, find the cause of a problem on the line and control the equipment easily with joysticks and visual cues displayed in the camera view. The cameras allow you to see things a human could not see on the line due to access constraints and they also facilitate operator maneuvers for the control of equipment.

You can monitor a partial section or a complete area where a console is required to move pieces, logs, or residues. It is also possible to dedicate a camera to monitor the state of motors or photocells.

The Universal Console can be installed and used anywhere in the mill because it doesn’t require much space and the cameras allow you to have a complete overview or a detailed view of the area without physical proximity.

One of the major advantages is that the operators don’t need to know the equipment names or ID

numbers anymore. They can simply identify and select the equipment visually in the camera view or the layout displayed in the software user interface.

All these operator-friendly features reduce the time required to train new operators. Therefore, operator replacement during breaks, lunchtime, and vacations is much easier.

Simple Operation with Joysticks, Cameras and Augmented Reality When a problem arises or when the line stops in the monitored area, the operator can easily identify the cause of the problem with the camera views. For example, a piece of wood fallen from the conveyor. The operator can simply click on the applicable equipment displayed on the monitor. The camera view will automatically zoom in on the equipment and its surrounding and provide a view with Augmented Reality. In the monitor display, the selected

Top left corner: The cross pattern on the console with joysticks. Top right corner: The section layout with the selected equipment as displayed in the software user interface. Bottom section: Augmented reality as shown in the camera view. The combination of these views facilitates operator maneuvers considerably

Virtual Desktop Version

equipment is identified with a transparent shape to confirm selection.

Other visual cues are also displayed to facilitate the manual remote control. For instance, the colors of the console cross are visible in transparency on the camera display. In each colored square, the console cross symbol is shown. It serves as a visual reference for the joystick movements, and it also highlights the current joystick position. The equipment ID number is also displayed as well as an arrow to indicate the direction of the flow.

The operator can then take control of the equipment with confidence using a joystick on the console while viewing his actions on a monitor. This facilitates the

operation considerably and helps to solve problems faster.

For example, it is possible to use several joysticks simultaneously so you can move a bundle from one equipment to another. Once the bundle is in the proper position, you can simply restart the automatic operation.

If for some reason the cameras are disabled, you can refer to the area layout displayed in the software user interface. Even without cameras, it is easier to control equipment with joysticks than with a traditional console.

Installation and Camera Locations The installation and configuration of the Universal Console is done according to your needs. This is

an add-on, so line interruption is not required for the installation.

However, you must determine the location and number of cameras required for the overview and detailed view of the selected area.

Prior to installation, it is possible to find the best camera locations using a 3D virtual layout of the mill area. This allows you to see in advance the camera’s view. The catwalks and building structures are identified in the layout so this avoids surprises at the installation phase.

The hardware for the Universal Console stand-up desk consists of approximately fifteen cameras, one or two monitors to display the camera views, the console with joysticks, a computer, and a local network video recorder (NVR).

A complete virtual desktop version of the Universal Console is also available. In this version, there is no physical console. The console cross is displayed in the software user interface and instead of using joysticks, the equipment control is done using keyboard keys. There is also a pane that displays the overview and detailed view of the area with the transparent overlay of console cross color pattern. In this version, it is possible to add virtual buttons as required. The virtual console can be installed easily in an office or a conference room. This enables a supervisor or a qualified operator to assist other operators remotely.

BID Group’s objective is to meet the client’s current and future needs in an outstanding manner with its brand portfolio and offer a return on investment unparalleled by competition. All of this is supported by its renowned 24/7 service.

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 33

Feller Bunchers L-Series II Wheeled Feller Bunchers The L-Series II Wheeled Feller Bunchers were designed based on extensive customer input, resulting in a lineup of machines that improve operation, maintenance, and reliability.

The simplified L-Series II models incorporate several part changes to reduce complexity.

Changes to the electrical and hydraulic systems and improvements to component placements enhance the logger experience when servicing the machines. “The two-piece wiring harness makes it easier to work on the machines,” said Wayne Sugg of Sugg Logging. “Wiring is rerouted, so it is not bunched up in the machine, which reduces rubbing wear. The cylinder guards protect the hoses from falling limbs. These changes help make the machine more reliable, which saves time and money on maintenance.”

803M Tracked Feller Buncher

From the L-Series wheeled machines to the 959ML and M-Series Tracked models, the John Deere feller bunchers deliver productive, reliable machine solutions built with loggers’ needs top of mind.

M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers Ongoing input from customers has helped to make the 800M- and 900M- Series Feller Bunchers more productive and user-friendly. The

spacious operator station was designed by loggers for loggers and includes ergonomically designed controls. Other features include fully adjustable armrests with mounted keypads, a sealed touchpad allowing longer switch life, and floor-to-ceiling front windows to improve visibility. “The guys in the cab, they can see so much better off of the visibility.

And that visibility should equate to better productivity… if the guy can see better, he can do a better job,” said Cory Isley of D&J Isley and Sons.

The 800M- and 900M- Series are equipped with a Final Tier 4 engine, increasing overall

34 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

performance and reliability by minimizing fluid consumption. This latest Final Tier 4 engine meets EPA regulations in emissions without sacrificing power or torque. The optional Rapid Cycle System (RCS) allows for faster, low-effort joystick control of all boom functions. This helps operators of 800M- and 800MH-Series machines to be more productive by combining automated felling head arm cycling with simple boom controls. RCS significantly reduces operator fatigue while increasing efficiency and productivity.

The two-piece wiring harness makes it easier to work on the machines,” “Wiring is rerouted, so it is not bunched up in the machine, which reduces rubbing wear. The cylinder guards protect the hoses from falling limbs. These changes help make the machine more reliable, which saves time Wayne Sugg, Sugg Logging

643L-II Wheeled Feller Buncher The guys in the cab, they can see so much better off of the visibility.

And that visibility should equate to better productivity… if the guy can see better, he can do a better job

John Deere’s goal was to improve the overall user experience based on customer feedback. They made over 1,600 component changes, including more robust electrical harnesses, fittings, hoses, and cylinder guards. And they made subtle changes under the hood, such as improving component placement and dramatically reducing the complexity of the electrical and hydraulic systems

Cory Isley , D&J Isley and Sons

The heavy-duty axles on the 643L-II and 843L-II Wheeled Feller Bunchers provide the operator with the stability and hill-climbing power they need to navigate challenging forest conditions. The higher-ply tire options are available from the factory, increasing tire strength for carrying heavier loads and powering through rugged wood conditions.

New steering sensors enable operators to control articulation speed for frameto-frame contact, cushioning impact during full articulation, and improving operator comfort.

Further enhancing operation, the electrohydraulic controls can be configured to personal preferences for the operator. The optional

843L-II Wheeled Feller Buncher joystick and foot controls deliver smooth, low-effort control to decrease operator fatigue over long shifts.

The TimberMatic™ Maps and TimberManager™ map-based production planning and tracking

systems are available for the M-Series Tracked Feller Bunchers and the L-Series II Wheeled Feller Bunchers. Optimizing productivity and efficiency, TimberMatic Maps helps eliminate guesswork for operators related to routes

and the location of the timber.

TimberManager provides complete visibility to the operation from the land harvested to the machines at work, allowing operators to streamline communication and increase efficiency.

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

more Cooling

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less Downtime

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 35

The XT465L-5 sets high industry standards of excellence for Track Feller Bunchers Improved service access, reliability and durability means increased productivity for the Komatsu XT465L-5 feller buncher.

Built for ease of serviceability, a gull-wing style engine hood folds down, providing an elevated service work platform. Four additional service doors provide easy access. The innovative hydraulic tank design features two tanks, requiring 55% less total hydraulic oil.

Operator comfort and convenience are premium with a state-of-the-art cab, which has been relocated to the left of the boom. The design changes provide superior lines of sight to each track. The intuitive IQAN-MD4 digital control system puts machine control at the operator’s fingertips.

The rugged undercarriage significantly increases service life, including rugged, stronger track chain links that resist twist and longer-wear track roller and idler bushings. The new triple labyrinth floating seal housings protect the final drive seals against mud packing.

Fuel consumption is up to 5% lower due to advanced engine and hydraulic system control designs with the 331 peak hp (247 kW) Cummins QSL9 9-liter engine.

Lift capacity at full reach has been significantly increased and the XT465L-5 now readily operates the Quadco 24-inch (610 mm) cutting capacity disc saw heads.

Features Gull-Style Engine Hood Gull-wing engine hood folds down providing an elevated service platform.

Hydraulically-actuated with backup manual hand pump.

Robust design provides a secure footing with 500 lbs (227 kg) load capacity.

• T rack rollers & idler bushings are made of high-density material

• C rawler Box improvements include: • R emoveable track guards have larger roller side openings to reduce mud packing

Offers excellent visibility and access to all engine-related components.

Provides full access to engine oil filter, air filter, fuel filters, coolant, DEF fluid and hydraulic filters.

Relocated Operator’s Cab Increased Track Visibility State-of-the-art cab relocated to the left side.

Tracks are now highly visible through the side door and boom side windows • L arger Door window has an “L-shaped” flat bottom • E ngine/pump compartment is set-back; top 2/3 portion is indented rearward Rugged New Undercarriage Rugged new Komatsu undercarriage provides longer service life due to: • H eavier 8.5“ track chain links have a thicker bushing strap which is stronger at resisting “twist”

Built for ease of serviceability, a gull-wing style engine hood folds down, providing an elevated service work platform

• N ew track sliders have a reduced angle providing 30% lower contact • F inal drives use a new triple labyrinth seal to protect from mud-packing

• A dditional set of steps has been added to each crawler box 16% Greater Lift Capacity Increased lift capacity at full reach vs. XT-3 due to improved boom & arm geometry and larger cylinders.

Provides better balance between boom lift & arm holding capacity.

Broad line of Quadco high speed disc saws available.

36 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

The new operator’s cab has been mounted on the left side for industry and Komatsu commonality.

The layout is ergonomically efficient, spacious and quieter. Its sloped roof line provides excellent headroom above and forward of the seat.

• L arge quiet ROPS/FOPS/ TOPS/ FOG/OPS /WCB /Oregon OSHAcertifi ed cab with an adjustable high back operator seat.

• H igh-capacity heater, air conditioner and defroster provide a comfortable operator climate regardless of the season.

• I QAN-MD4 control system provides ability to custom tune vehicle response to meet individual operator preferences.

The XT-5 is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art IQAN-MD4 Programmable Digital Control System.

Komatsu was “1st in the Forest” with the advanced IQAN-MD4 technology on the XT-3 series machines and continues to be a leader

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 37

Chippers

Astec Peterson Products Provide Biomass Solutions The need for innovative and clean energy has skyrocketed in recent years as more sustainable solutions are needed to preserve the environment and its natural resources.

T

he fast-growing industry of biomass, or bioenergy, has delivered promising results as an environmentally friendly solution for clean power.

The demand for long-term renewable energy has presented forestry producers with an increasingly popular and profitable division of work, and this demand is expected to rise.

Not new to the biomass industry, Astec Peterson forestry products have been utilized in biomass production for over 40 years, playing a leading role in the progression towards clean energy.

With these years of experience, Astec forestry machinery is equipped with the most modern and innovative technology for producing biomass, taking the lead towards a more sustainable future.

Biomass Production Producing biomass to be converted into energy begins with processing plant-based materials that will eventually become fuel to create biomass. Wood waste, forest debris, crops, agricultural waste and stumps are just a few commonly used materials. In addition to producing energy, the

process of biomass production also allows for the recycling of organic waste, which also benefits the environment. In order to convert organic material to energy, the chips are burned to create electricity and other forms of power.

Astec drum chippers are a highly efficient tool for processing organic waste into biofuel. The Peterson 4310B drum chipper is designed for high volume biomass producers and accepts a wide variety of feed material, from small brush to large logs up to 24-inches in diameter. This machine provides

On extreme terrain, Astec offers the 4310B Highwalker model, providing an additional ground clearance of 5-inches for added stability and mobility

38 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

(Left) Astec Peterson 4310B Whole tree TRACKED drum chipper for biomass and land clearing (Below) Astec Peterson 4300 Whole tree WHEELED drum chipper for biomass and microchips Both machines make chips from ¼” to 1 ¼” (6 to 32mm) and have CAT C18 Tier IV, 755hp (563 kW)

all the elements producers are seeking in biomass production, including precise end-products and high productivity.

The Peterson 4310B Drum Chipper The 4310B drum chipper is trackmounted, making it especially suited when on-site mobility and frequent moves are required.

Additionally, when even more versatility is needed on extreme terrain, Astec offers the 4310B Highwalker model, providing an additional ground clearance of 5-inches for added stability and mobility.

One of the many advantages of the 4310B chipper is that it delivers superior and accurate product sizing. For instance, the grate system easily fractures twigs and small stems; and the solid AR400 steel anvils provide long-life and consistent sizing, essential elements in biomass production. Additionally, the 4310B is designed with an adaptive feed system that adjusts the chipper speed to maintain a consistent speed ratio with the drum, which results in high quality and exact end-products.

In biomass production, consistent end-products are crucial. Fines, like twigs and branches, can cause material blockages in the augers of a

biomass plant, making product consistency essential to biomass chip customers. Astec drum chippers feature a secondary screen that processes twigs or branches and heavy-duty adjustable knives that create material with clean-cut edges and more consistent product sizing.

Astec Peterson drum chippers come standard with an end-load spout, but the 4310B is also available with an optional top-load spout, which allows chips to be loaded quickly into a top-load truck for faster and efficient hauling.

The efficiency of Astec equipment allows for low operating costs, an important advantage for producers seeking high profits.

The 4310B chipper is highly effective for biomass producers, with many cost savings features, including higher torque rates that deliver fuel efficiency, longer wear parts life that reduces downtime, a chip accelerator that increases load density which lowers transportation costs and the adaptive feed system, which reduces engine load and increases fuel efficiency.

the wood species, chip length and tree size will determine the exact production rate. The 4310B configured with a six-pocket drum producing 7/8” (mm) length chips will make approximately 80-tons per hour, and with the microchip configuration with a 12-pocket drum set at .25” (6 mm) chips will produce roughly 5-tons per hour.

An additional advantage of the 4310B is its productivity in processing tops, un-merchantable wood and residue from logging for biomass creation. Depending on the configuration, the machine can produce chips from 1/8” to 1 ¼” (3-31 mm).

The high production rates of the 4310B drum chipper make it one of the industry’s leading machines for biomass creation, and Astec is a technology-driven manufacturer committed to providing users with the most innovative and productive

equipment on the market. Astec also offers many other valuable machines that are productive for biomass, including horizontal grinders, screening systems and stacking conveyors.

The Future of Energy As the need for renewable energy sources quickly increases, Astec is a crucial partner to the biomass industry. Astec forestry equipment is leading energy solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable future, with technology at the forefront and innovation as a leading core value.

Astec Peterson 4310B Highwalker

High Production Rates Biomass processing requires high production rates because of the high fuel consumption needed to create energy and for profitability to the producers. Depending on

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 39

What really counts in a chipper driver’s day-to-day work: Smooth cutter change thanks to swivelling tool box. This necessary cleaning and maintenance tool is located directly on the rotor.

Handling the machine correctly Requirements for professional chipping work The shortage of skilled workers is also omnipresent in the forestry sector, and at the same time the pressure is increasing for companies to use woodchippers economically and efficiently. All the more reason for woodchip producers to concentrate on fully utilising the potential of their machinery. Because only those who understand the effect of the individual machine parameters can ultimately achieve the required woodchip quality.

40 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

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roducing quality woodchips is all about the right machine setup,” explains JENZ product manager Dominik Meden. How this should look depends on which material is to be processed taking into account the required woodchip quality.“A good chipping is the result of the right interplay between feed-in speed, drum speed and defined pre-grip,” explained the Product Manager.

The most important requirements for this are sharp cutters which are correctly adjusted to the counterblade and regular replacement of blunt cutter blades, even during chipping operations.

Changing cutters and blades is quick and easy thanks to the toolbox located directly on the rotor and also additional storage space, which means waiting times during chipping work in the forest can be used productively.

The product manager is also keen to point out an essential feature regarding installation of new chipping blades: “The optimum distance to the

counterblade is decisive in order to produce consistently high-quality material. Because it’s the clean cut that produces the quality.

“The chipping size, on the other hand, is defined by the pregrip, not by the screen basket.”

In the chipping process the screen basket actually only has the important task of avoiding overlengths. However, a correctlyselected screen basket also makes itself conspicuous in lower fuel consumption. This is logical because the easier the chippings can flow off, the more economical the machine can work.

In addition, smart systems and smartphone-like controls help compensate for the shortage of skilled workers. “In other words, the machine has to offer simple solutions which correspond to the everyday problems of a chipper driver,” said the 33-year-old manager.

This starts with quick readiness for use of the machine and ends with self-regulation of the relevant machine settings. “For example, it is possible for the machine to produce the first chip only a few seconds after reaching the chipping area,” Mr Meden emphasised.

That’s not just good for the driver, but also improves the machine efficiency thanks to

Whether set-up assistants or feed control systems: smart systems and smartphone-like control take the strain off the driver and improve chipping quality

A good chipping is the result of the right interplay between feedin speed, drum speed and defined pre-grip Dominik Meden, Product Manager, JENZ optimised/shorter setup times.

The feed-in speed also has a massive effect on the end product depending on the material to be processed. “During shrub cutting and light wood applications the CFA system takes over selection of the correct feed-in speed, and thus relieves the driver,” explained Mr Meden.

This is because the feed-in speed in this system is regulated by the rotor speed with the aim of achieving optimum wood

Additional screen basket: A screen basket holder at the rear enables the transport of an additional screen basket.

The change is carried out by the driver using a crane and offers more flexibility during order processing

chip quality. The feed-in speed is adjusted in such a way that reversing is avoided, but the pregrip still remains almost constant.

As the rotor speed drops, the feedin speed decreases and, ideally, the motor can permanently maintain its maximum torque.

Unnecessary reversing or stopping of the feed-in at the expense of the drive motor can virtually be avoided, which leads to a uniformly high and machinefriendly utilisation. Those who have

a lot of logs to process will benefit from the CFA2 system extension.

This is because the feed-in speed is not only controlled by the rotor speed, but also by the opening of the top roller. Dominik Meden made it clear: “The machine effectively recognises what is coming into it. It can react in time to avoid running at full intake speed on 60 cm beech logs, for example.”

In combination with this, care should be taken to ensure a low

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FAE introduces the RCU55: the compact remote controlled tracked carrier FAE is expanding its product line with the RCU series, a compact and professional, remote controlled tracked carrier that is the result of merging FAE’s extensive experience in designing tracked carriers for the PT series and remote-control systems for the vehicles in our Demining line.

he RCU-55 is designed to work on hard-to-access areas and steeply sloping terrain that requires dedicated equipment to ensure operator safety and operating efficiency. It’s excellent for working in hilly wooded areas, near railroad tracks, power lines, gas and oil pipelines, gardens, roadsides, highways, canals, rivers and lakes.

The new FAE tracked carrier is powered by the Kohler Common Rail electronic fuel injection engine — a compact, powerful and fuel-efficient 56-hp propulsion system that complies with the most stringent emission standards.

The heavy-duty undercarriage features a hydraulic extendable & retractable independent track system and an automatic tensioning system that is built to work in the toughest conditions, thanks to a rubber track structure, oscillating rollers system and triple-flange style idlers. High-tech solutions give the RCU unbeatable traction, enabling it to work on steep slopes up to 55°.

A dual hydrostatic transmission provides better traction and optimal management of the attachment. Electronically

drum and blower speed when processing logs, otherwise a higher fines content would result.

To sum up, the product manager referred to feeling the machine: “Machine and driver must become one - this is the only way to meet the different requirements in the forestry sector, always react flexibly to orders and keep skilled workers. At the end of the day, that’s what makes a company profitable.”

controlled piston pumps combined with a dedicated electronic control unit provide an integrated technological system. The result is high performance and reliability that lasts, plus simple and intuitive operation.

The RCU-55 is guided by an ergonomic remote control with a large 3.5” display for superior management of all vehicle and attachment functions and with customizable function keys. A 2.4 GHz transmission frequency ensures reliable communication.

The RCU-55 can be paired with two specialized FAE forestry mulchers. The BL1/RCU mulcher, designed to mulch vegetation up to 5” in diameter. This mulcher features a fixed tooth rotor and Bite Limiter technology that provides higher productivity with even less horsepower due to low power absorption. The PML/RCU is a swinging hammer forestry mulcher ideal for mulching vegetation up to 2” in diameter.

The FAE RCU product line will be further expanding in the coming months with the introduction of the RCU-75, FAE’s remote controlled compact tracked carrier that can take on the more demanding jobs.

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 41

CHIPPERS

30/36 Track Whole Tree Drum Chipper

Morbark Drum Chippers

Morbark offers a full line of whole tree Drum Chippers in a range of sizes and in several configurations – with cab and loader (WCL) or no cab and loader (NCL), on tracks or tires, diesel or electric powered

A

dd to these choices a wide variety of available options, and you’ve got the flexibility to customize the perfect chipper for your particular needs. With their rigid structural frame and powerful internal-drive, single-feed-wheel infeed system, Morbark chippers are the best you can get. They can chip small, unmerchantable material, giving you access to more markets – and higher profits. These are just some of the reasons that Morbark is the largest and most respected name in chipping.

50/48x Whole tree drum chipper 42 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

50/48x whole tree drum chipper The Morbark 50/48 whole tree wood chipper is the largest, most productive drum chipper on the market.

The 50/48X was updated to a similar design layout as Morbark’s other industry-leading industrial drum chippers with a sloped infeed, externally adjustable anvil and large work platforms for easy access for routine maintenance.

The reverse pivot yoke

produces more down pressure than the conventional style yoke for aggressive feeding of a variety of material.

Morbark’s Advantage 3 Drum produces more consistent chips, while the heat-treated, AR-450 steel drum skin provides longer wear life for lower replacement costs and less downtime. The Advantage 3 drum assembly can come as 10-knives for fuel chip or 20-knives for micro-chip application .

40/36 Whole tree drum chipper The Morbark 40/36 Whole Tree Drum Chipper is a compact, affordable, productive drum chipper designed with the biomass industry in mind.

Equipped with the same internal drive perfected on Morbark horizontal grinders, along with an extra wide feed opening, the 40/36 aggressively feeds brushy tops and limbs, quickly and effortlessly filling a chip van to maximum legal load capacity.

Morbark’s Advantage 3 Drum produces more consistent chips, while the heat-treated, AR-450 steel drum skin provides longer wear life for lower replacement costs and less downtime. The feed system is more efficient due to a staggered knife configuration and contains fewer moving parts, reducing maintenance.

With low fuel consumption per ton produced, this unit is economical. At 8’6″ (2.59 m) wide this compact unit is easily transportable and requires no permits to move.

40/36 Whole Tree Microchipper

30/36 Whole tree drum chipper The Morbark 30/36 Whole Tree Drum Chipper’s high production rate lowers operating costs by increasing fuel efficiency.

The aggressive live floor feeding system with two strands of durable WHD-120 chain and a large top and bottom feedwheels ensure positive feeding of material, including brushy tops and limbs.

Morbark’s Advantage 3 Drum produces more consistent chips, while the heat-treated, AR-450 steel drum skin provides longer wear life for lower replacement costs and less downtime.

30/36 Whole tree drum chipper

M20r forestry whole tree drum chipper The hard-working, aggressive M20R Forestry chipper provides optimal performance for in-woods chipping.

Easily filling a 53′ (16.15 m) trailer and sustaining up to four to five loads per day, this hardworking, aggressive chipper is the perfect option for those looking to enter the biomass market with low startup costs.

This machine features the Advantage 3 Drum and electronic flow control to control feed speed from the remote. Tough, abrasionresistant AR-450 steel is used for the drum skin, replaceable belly band, discharge chute and wear strips beneath the bed chain, providing strength and long wear life.

M20rforestry Whole Tree Drum Chipper

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 43

Swedish forest industry develops tomorrow’s sustainable forest machine A new type of forest machine is currently driving around the forests of Sweden. It combines a low-impact

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he concept machine is called Centipede and it has been developed by eight Swedish forestry companies and a forest machinery manufacturer.

The machine is currently being test driven and the results are promising.

Swedish forestry is facing major challenges and the issue

of sustainability is the focus of attention. For this reason, Södra, Sveaskog, SCA, Holmen, Norra Skog, Mellanskog, Stora Enso and BillerudKorsnäs, as well as the forest machinery manufacturer Komatsu Forest, have jointly developed a new forest machine for low-impact forestry. With its innovative technology, the machine

– called Centipede – is designed to ensure the most sustainable possible management of forests for both the environment and people.

Low-impact, productive and comfortable work environment Centipede has been developed to meet the challenges of forestry and

approach, increased productivity and an improved operator environment and is the result of a major cooperative project that has been under way since 2019.

Södra, Sveaskog, SCA, Holmen, Norra Skog, Mellanskog, Stora Enso and BillerudKorsnäs, as well as the forest machinery manufacturer Komatsu Forest, have jointly developed a new forest machine for low-impact forestry.

44 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

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FAE is upgrading the PT-300 to be more productive and efficient FAE is upgrading the PT-300 tracked carrier with the debut of two technologies that increase productivity and improve uptime in any working condition: Sonic and Active Power Management

offers three important benefits: Lower soil compaction, increased productivity and better work environment.

“This is a comprehensive project, in which the parties are taking a long-term approach to promote sustainable forestry. In the project, we have fundamentally challenged today’s technology and taken a step into the future,” says Erik Nilsson, CTO of Komatsu Forest.

The machine is built to reduce the risk of ground damage, to increase transport speed and to reduce whole-body vibrations for the operator. The machine has a newly developed forestry track system, with a large support surface to minimize ground impact.

It also has a fully suspended chassis to handle uneven ground conditions, enabling the speed of the machine to be increased significantly without the corresponding increase in vibrations.

With this newly developed technology, Centipede can be driven both on sites that are normally regarded as winter sites and on sites that are significantly

impacted by precipitation. In addition to being able to satisfy timber supply throughout the year and thus provide better prerequisites for profitable harvesting operations, Centipede has a number of characteristics that will directly increase production.

As a result of its innovative design, Centipede can move around the terrain significantly faster and can carry a larger load than the Komatsu 855, which was used as the benchmark. Both of these characteristics create conditions for significant increases in productivity. In addition, Centipede has demonstrated in simulations that fuel consumption is reduced by up to 15 percent in soft terrain, which is also positive for both the environment and profitability.

An extensive preliminary study was implemented and a new machine concept was developed during the project. The machine has been thoroughly evaluated through simulations and test drives. The comprehensive testing will continue in spring 2022 and decisions will thereafter be made about the project’s continuation.

ombined with the 200/U/ SONIC and 300/U/SONIC heads, FAE’s exclusive Sonic technology enables the forestry mulcher to work at maximum capacity at all times. The Sonic technology adjusts the torque in real time according to the force required, for up to 30% higher productivity.

The 2022 model can also be equipped with Active Power Management, an intelligent FAE system that automatically manages the machine’s travel in relation to resistance absorbed by the rotor.

This feature also helps the machine automatically adapt to the contour of the terrain allowing the operator to concentrate on the job at hand, ensuring higher productivity.

The FAE PT-300 tracked carrier can stand up to any challenge, whether managing woodlands and forests, creating firebreaks, or working near electrical lines or oil and gas pipelines. Its solid structure and oscillating undercarriage make it compatible with a wide variety of FAE hydraulic

units, including forestry mulchers and tillers, stone crushers, stump cutters and dozer blade.

The PT-300’s powerful engine and lighter operating weight allow it to work on steep slopes and soft ground. The hydraulic system guarantees reliability and efficiency. The spacious cab is unrivaled when it comes to comfort, ergonomics and operator safety.

Participants’ views on Centipede, tomorrow’s forest machine

Development at Södra: “Those of us who are active in forestry know how important it is to cultivate the forest without damaging the ground. Our members who own their forests want to hand over land to the next generation that is managed with a low-impact approach. This enhances the forest’s financial, social and cultural values. By being involved in the development of the next generation of forest machine, we are doing something that is highly valued in family-owned forestry.”

Anders Järlesjö, Head of Forest Technology at Sveaskog: “Minimizing ground impact in our managed forests is an important issue. This is therefore a significant and long-awaited development and it is also fully in line with Sveaskog’s long-term orientation for more sustainable forestry. With this, we can see an opportunity for us in the forest industry to jointly take a major step forward with an efficient forest machine that is gentler on both the environment and the operator.

Magnus Bergman, manager for technique and digitalization at SCA Skog and Chairman of the project’s steering committee: “The forest industry and Komatsu are now jointly taking a major technology leap with

a machine that is more gentle on the environment and the operator, at the same time as it enables a more efficient flow of timber. With Centipede, we can meet the challenges arising from increasingly shorter periods of frozen ground and, for this reason, the machine is one of the most important development projects in forestry.”

Magnus Petersson, Head of Contractor and Technology

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 45

Field testing the new Scania 560 R XT More fuel-efficient, more comfortable and simply much more driveable than before. The new Super powertrain has made life easier for haulier Fermgruppen AB and driver Frida Lautin in the daily transport of timber in the forests of northern Sweden.

T

ree after tree after tree. It’s all you can see for miles around when you travel through the countryside of Västernorrland and Gävleborg County in northern Sweden - because this is one of the main hubs of the forestry industry in a country that is the world’s third-largest exporter of wood pulp, paper and sawn timber.

Sundsvall-based haulier Fermgruppen AB is one of the many haulage companies that link together the supply chain of the forest products sector, which in 2018 generated 145 billion Swedish kronor in exports.

Each day, Fermgruppen’s trucks drive deep into the forests surrounding Sundsvall, picking up sixty-ton loads of logs from the nimble wood grabbing machines that follow in the wake of the heavy loggers that cut down trees with surgical precision. The timber loads are collected and delivered to the depots of the SCA group, the largest private forest owner in Europe.

Richard Ferm is the owner of Fermgruppen, which he started in 2004 when he bought the nine Scania trucks belonging to his father Lars and went out on his own.

“According to my parents, ever since I was very little, I was always saying to them that I wanted to have my own truck. And now, I have 26, all Scania,” he says with a smile.

46 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

“The truck has to be reliable” He’s fulfilled an ambition, but Richard is under no illusions. It’s a demanding business, where margins are getting tighter all the time. He says it’s essential that the trucks are fuel-efficient, but that they also have all-weather reliability on rough, unpaved forest tracks that are constantly changing according to the conditions: “The most important thing about a timber truck is that it has to get you into the forest and back again. The truck must be reliable.

We’re often driving without phone coverage and have to use a radio link between the trucks in case one of them has problems.

“The vehicle must work when it’s hot and dusty, and it must also work when it’s cold, icy and snowy.

It’s also about security for the driver. They need to be safe on the road, and there are often narrow

roads with loose shoulders.”

The truck that Fermgruppen is testing is a 13-litre Scania 560 R XT, with G33 Gearbox. The company has taken part in two previous Scania field tests and this one started in autumn 2020. So far, Richard Ferm is happy with how it is going.

“Everyone strives for reduced costs and a higher degree of utilisation. And this truck has shown that during this time. In terms of fuel consumption, it’s 20 percent lower than our other trucks on the same route,” he says.

“I have been out driving the truck several times and the main positives I can see apart from the better fuel consumption are the driveability and the driver environment – it runs very quietly in the cab. I also find the new gearbox to be a benefit.

“All in all, it’s a very nice truck,

Frida Lautin, driver for Fermgruppen, would have been happy to keep driving a truck like this one once the field test was over.

and I think the field test is a great interaction because your feedback is really taken on board.”

High mileage, bad roads: the importance of skilled drivers and good driveability Another key ingredient for coping with the demands of forest transports is the truck drivers themselves.

“The driver has to have a strong psyche, to be a self-starter but able to work in a group; a team player who can act independently. It’s a complicated mix, but those who can achieve it thrive,” says Richard Ferm.

One of those Richard can rely on to meet the demands of these transports is 25-year-old Frida Lautin, who has been driving for Fermgruppen for three years.

Frida’s slight frame belies a strength of character that sees her deal with the late starts, tough roads and long days with no fuss. Neither has she suffered any adverse treatment by being a female driver in a traditionally masculine industry.

“I think it’s even easier now to get into the timber industry or to get into others like the construction industry or mining,” she says.

“You do hear horror stories from others that some do not accept women, but it hasn’t been like that for me. Everyone has been very welcoming, and now there have been many more women getting into the industry as well.

It is becoming more and more

common.”

For Richard Ferm, the question of driver gender is a non-issue. If the driver is good enough, he’ll employ them. Today, there are nine female drivers in his crew of 49.

Frida feels that the importance of the new Super powertrain’s driveability cannot be overstated.

After all, her daily drives involve high mileage, bad roads and frequent stops and starts, as she waits in the middle of the forest for other trucks to be loaded with timber.

“The most important thing is that this truck gets me around when I’m driving in the woods. The good thing is that it ́s very quiet in the cab, and that it’s stable to drive and does not bounce, which is nice for the body as well. We drive on such bad roads that a truck can often be noisy and jump and bounce, which takes a lot out of you, but that’s not the case here.”

Frida has also been impressed by the increased fuel efficiency and the extra power that comes from the new powertrain and gearbox.

“It is rare to get over 400 litres in two shifts. It almost never happens with this truck,” she says.

“It’s quite low geared. You can go down quite far on the revs, which was a bit unusual in the beginning. You have to trust the gearbox as well, that it has the strength, and you get to test yourself. It still feels like it has the strength.”

Another key aspect of the truck is the liftable and disengageable tandem bogie, which answers one of Fermgruppen’s prayers. Not only does this new option save up to six percent on fuel, a substantial saving on return legs that can be 100 kilometres, it also reduces the vehicle’s turning radius, which is very useful on narrow forest tracks Lifting takes less than 25 seconds, with ground clearance of nearly 70mm. Most of the fuel savings can be attributed to the reduced friction inside the second (disconnected) axle gearing.

“Because we have to load so much, the tandem means the trailer becomes lighter,” says Frida.

“We have been waiting for the liftable tandem for several years, so we’re happy to have it now,” adds Richard.

A MOST DRIVEABLE TRUCK Truck: Scania 560 R Application: Timber transports Engine: DC13 173 (560hp) Gearbox: G33 No Retarder; Compression Release Brake Gross Train Weight: 64 tons when, after returning from delivering to depots that have massive piles of logs as long and high as a row of two-storey houses, the driver has to clean the truck inside and out. But she really enjoys her job.

“You get a sense of freedom when you are out driving. Sure, you have to drive to certain industrial areas, and your route is predetermined, but it is still freedom with responsibility. And it’s great to be in the woods. You get to see many nice places,” she says.

And, Frida adds, she’d be happy to keep driving a truck like this one

Richard Ferm is the owner of Fermgruppen

once the field test is over.

“That would be great,” she says. “There’s nothing negative about this truck!”

This test was conducted before the launch of the updated powertrain. Due to confidentiality this R 560 vehicle is disguised as a R 540.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4VpQiS4j6s

“There’s nothing negative about this truck!”

Sometimes Frida finishes a shift in the early hours of the morning,

The new Super powertrain has made life that bit easier for haulier Fermgruppen AB and driver Frida Lautin in the daily transport of timber in the forests of northern Sweden.

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 47

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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: Shigeru Kobayashi Japan Advertising Communications, Inc. Star Bldg., 3-10-3 Kanda Jimbocho Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051 Tel: 81-3-3261-4591 Fax: 81-3-3261-6126 Email: Shig-kobi@media-jac.co.jp

Western USA (AZ, CA, NV, UT) Australia, & New Zealand CONTACT: Bob Warren International Forest Industries Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com

Western USA (MT, ID, OR,WA) & Canada

Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com Continued from p22

US Mid-West, Central & Mountain CONTACT: Kevin Lapham

Additional information:

J.P.Media Inc

Stora Enso

Riitta Ahokas, R&D Manager, riitta.ahokas@ koskisen.com, tel. +358 40 553 4410

Part of the bioeconomy, Stora Enso is a leading global provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden construction and paper. They employ some 23 000 people and our shares are listed on the Helsinki (STEAV, STERV) and Stockholm (STE A, STE R) stock exchanges

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: 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: editec@editec.cl

48 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022

Satu Härkönen, Head of Communications, Finnish media relations, Stora Enso tel. +358 40 832 7458

Koskisen Oy Koskisen is a century-old international expert of wood processing, comprised of 900 dedicated industry professionals. Their products are sold to 70 countries with an annual turnover of €300M. In Finland they have wood procurement unit and they produce sawn timber products, plywood, particle boards and veneers. They also have production facilities in Russia and Poland.

International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2022 IBC

2-4 JUNE 2022

Come to the world’s forestry fair – Elmia Wood 2022 On 2–4 June 2022 the world’s leading forestry fair, Elmia Wood, will be held in Sweden. Elmia Wood is organised in the forests outside the city of Jönköping, welcoming visitors and exhibitors from across Europe to southern Sweden. The 2022 event focuses on innovative, sustainable forestry methods for the future.

Elmia Wood is a meeting-place for forest owners, contractors, forest officials and other forest stakeholders.

See the latest new products and innovations, and lay the foundation for new business and commercial relations.

New on this year’s programme is the Wood Square, a forum where guests inform, discuss and debate on interesting topics, as well as the Wood Knowledge LOOP.

Welcome to Elmia Wood.

Secure your place and buy a ticket now!

elmiawood.com