e
VOL ONE
Peterson ad 10.2012_Layout 1 30/10/2012 16:30 Page 1
ELMIA REVIEW ISSUE – PART ONE
CONTENTS
44
J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 3
20 Forwarders Forwarding technology has turned a corner in the past 12 months, as manufacturers churn out a new set of innovations led by groundbreaking crane technology and evolving communication systems. By Chris Cann
38
60 44
60 Morbark Demo Day:
38 Operation Focus – Scandinavia:
44 Elmia Review:
John Deere’s new Intelligent Boom Control is a milestone in forwarder technology: child’s play to use, accurate, timesaving and considerably reducing the stress of the boom components. Once the Intelligent Boom Control has been switched on, you’ll never want to switch it off again. By Kimmo Kiimalainen
R EG U L A R F E AT U R E S
International Forest Industries was on hand at Elmia Wood in Sweden this month for one of the largest unveilings of new technology in the industry’s history. We’ve gathered a selection of the most pressing news
44 Debarkers: Two leading sawmill suppliers tour International Forest Industries through their premium products for debarking in the mill
4 Sawpoints
12 World Markets
US chipper heavyweight Morbark showcased its 40/36 biomass microchipper at its Spring Demo Days event in May, which features a new configuration aimed at pellet mills
64 Woodmiser Ligna launch: The wealth of new and high demand products on the Wood-Mizer stand at Ligna this year prompted the company to book more square meters than ever before in an effort to accommodate the expansive range on show
69 Cutting Edge
72 Advertising Index
COVER: PONSSE Scorpion – A real beast of a Harvester The totally new Scorpion is the latest addition to the Ponsse range of harvesters. Offering a fully open cabin view, and unbeatable stability and power, the machine operates with the environment in mind and minimum surface pressure. The revolutionary triple-frame structure ensures a low axis point for levelling, and makes the machine extremely stable and comfortable.
The new 4F engine and the improved hydraulics have extended the service intervals to 900/1,800 hours. PONSSE Scorpion raises productivity and ergonomics to a whole new level and sets a new standard for the driver’s working environment. www.ponsse.com
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 1
IFI_PG02_Ed Comment_01 04/07/2013 17:42 Page 2
OPERATION FOCUS ISSUE 34 JUNE/JULY 2013
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 Editorial Director John Chadwick john@internationalforestindustries.com Editor Chris Cann chris@internationalforestindustries.com Editorial Board Dr Patrick Moore – Chairman and Chief Scientist of Greenspirit (Canada) Darren Oldham – Managing Director Söderhamn Eriksson (UK) Allan Hansard – Chief Executive of the National Association of Forest Industries (Australia) Professor Piotr Paschalis-Jakubowicz – Warsaw Agricultural University (Poland) Andre de Freitas Forest Stewardship Council Head of Operations Eduardo Morales South American Forestry Consultant ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONS Lansdowne Media Services Ltd Advertising Manager Phil Playle phil@internationalforestindustries.com Group Advertising Manager David Lansdowne david@internationalforestindustries.com +44 (0)1442 87 77 77 Design & Production CSDA – csims@nildram.co.uk 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 monthly by International forest Industries Ltd GBR and distributed in the USA by SPP, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe NJ 08831. Periodicals postage paid at New Brunswick, NJ. Postmaster: send address changes to International Forest Industries, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe NJ 08831. © International Forest Industries Ltd 2007 – 2012 IFI uses, as preference, SI units throughout. All dollars are US unless otherwise stated.
2 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
EDITOR’S COMMENT
The aftermath of the storm Well, it’s July, and Elmia Wood (forestry) in Sweden and Ligna (wood processing) in Germany have been and gone. They were the focus of several years of preparation and planning and they did not disappoint. Both shows recorded strong numbers but, more importantly, the quality of visitors to each exhibition was high – the kind of professionals looking to actually buy equipment. It seems as much as suppliers have been biding their time to bring out new equipment to coincide with these major forestry shows, forestry and wood processing professionals have been equally patient and were finally ready to commit cash to their businesses. This made for an extremely upbeat mood at both Ligna and particularly at Elmia, where manufacturers of all varieties reported a huge amount of interest. The technology being quite literally crawled over at Elmia included improved dexterity for forwarder booms, lower ground pressure across entire equipment ranges, more affordable and comfortable cabs, and continued compliance with reduced emission technology in the engines used. Of course there was also a large step up in the size of machine available – a clear sign that quantity is returning as a priority to add to the need for lower costs and greater efficiencies. At Ligna, the focus was on more versatile sawmilling units, greater accuracy and limiting waste. The sawmill industry was not overly enthusiastic about the future but there was an understanding amongst sawmillers and suppliers that the only way was up and that reasonable margins were returning for those companies still around to take advantage. The next few months will be all about following up on opportunities created over
the previous few. That will take some time and effort but with potential buyers and sellers of kit on the same page we are optimistic that the effort will translate into sales for suppliers and better performing harvesting/sawmilling operations. It would surprise few if the next round of financial reports is punctuated by not only greater sales figures but also swollen order books. I know for a fact that at least one major supplier is facing a serious problem with its ability to produce enough machines to meet current demand. For IFI, we have our own list of leads that need to be followed up and would encourage any companies out there with a story to tell to get on the phone or email and ensure that we’re kept busy. This buoyant mood in the industry coincides with an increasing degree of confidence in the global economy, as the US dollar strengthens and quantitative easing packages prepare to scale back, and China pulls back on its investmentdriven growth to avoid the bursting of a major credit bubble. And so, finally, the path forward is clearer. Maybe people are not as optimistic as they were midway through the last decade when the sky really did seem to be the limit, but perhaps that’s a good thing. After all, look where that got us. Moderate progress fuelled by efficient practices, hard work and sensible upgrades to existing technologies is the order of the day. We look forward to reporting more success stories that fit this model over the next couple of years. Enjoy Chris Cann E D I TO R
TigerCat ad 06.2013_Layout 1 04/07/2013 17:43 Page 1
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 4
SAWPOINTS
Setting up shop in Africa Narrow bandsaw manufacturer, Wood-Mizer, has cemented its African presence with the formation of an African Operations division, which will consolidate and expand the company’s influence on the continent. By Etienne Nagel
W
ood-Mizer, the global leader in narrow band sawmill technology since 1982, has announced the formation of an African Operations division that will coordinate future sales and service efforts on the continent as a part of its continuing strategic efforts to meet global demand. Wood-Mizer’s portable and industrial thin-kerf sawmills and secondary processing solutions together with its in-house range of narrow band saw blades have served as the key building blocks of the group’s successes recorded in the global sawmilling sector to date. Wood-Mizer’s presence on the African continent dates back two decades before the 2011 decision to launch a Wood-Mizer subsidiary branch based on the continent. Key drivers of this move were to improve pricing, increase range, provide better service and spare parts availability and to build an experienced team that understands the needs of the African market. Wood-Mizer’s commitment towards sustainable
resource management and the benefits that its range holds for broad socio-economic development on the continent also encouraged the decision. The impact that Wood-Mizer Southern Africa has had on the continent under the leadership of its managing director and WoodMizer Africa Regional Manager, Jean-Jacques Oelofse and his team, has now culminated in the decision by Wood-Mizer to restructure the company at a global level to allow for an African Operations division. Speaking to Wood-Mizer Chief Executive, Richard Vivers, and Wood-Mizer Industries Managing Director, Robert Bagiński, they shared that the restructuring was underpinned by two basic driving points. “The continued growth recorded on the continent has convinced the Wood-Mizer board that Africa will become a key priority for the group going into the future,” Vivers said. “The successes achieved by JJ Oelofse and his inspired team also made it clear that they are the vehicle
JJ Oelofse, the recently appointed Chief Operating Officer of the African Operations Division of Wood-Mizer through which Wood-Mizer will be able to strengthen the brand on the continent. “JJ Oelofse’s appointment as Chief Operating Officer of the African Operations Division and the vested successes of WoodMizer Southern Africa to date, will allow us to exploit the opportunities that we’re now presented with further.” Oelofse is a graduate from UKbased Montford University, and after playing rugby for UK-based Leicester Tigers entered the timber equipment industry and gained experience with the African timber market. Exposure to harvesting, beneficiation, manufacturing and export of hardwood manufactured timber products from Africa to international markets as well trading timber on the international stage, paved the way for his 2011 decision to join Wood-Mizer.
The decision to entrust Oelofse with Wood-Mizer’s direct involvement on the continent has provided for stellar results. Since 2011, the Wood-Mizer dealership network on the continent has expanded and continues to do so. More than half of the 55 countries in Africa now deal directly with Wood-Mizer Southern Africa while 30% of those countries have dealers servicing sawmillers located there. End-users on the continent can expect increased service delivery and multiple benefits in the near future - expanded locations, a growing staff, and an invigorated media presence spanning a variety of communication platforms will be the initial precursors of this new chapter in Wood-Mizer’s support for African sawmillers.
Fellow Canadian consumes Comact The BID Group of Companies, based in British Columbia, has acquired a controlling interest in Quebec-based sawmill supplier, Comact. With the combined sawmill equipment design, manufacturing and delivery capabilities it is now one of the largest North American companies of its kind. “This acquisition tremendously strengthens the opportunities for both groups to serve our very busy domestic and international forestry-based markets,” BID Group Chief Executive Brian Fehr said. “For our western operations in BC, this provides not only greater geographic flexibility for
product delivery, but also access to Comact’s highly-experienced and well regarded business development team serving Canadian, USA and international markets.” Together, the companies will operate more than 76 km2 of manufacturing plants and employ some 750 employees. Comact will continue to be based out of Quebec and operate under the Comact brand. All other operating divisions of the BID Group, including Nechako Construction, Nechako Mechanical, Sawmill Equipment Company (SEC) and Deltech Manufacturing will also continue business as usual under
4 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
their respective operating names. Fehr will continue on as CEO of the parent company BID Group. As part of the transition, Pierre Morency assumes the role of Chairman of the Board of BID Group. As well, Simon Potvin becomes Senior VP Manufacturing and Eric Michaud becomes Senior VP Sales & Marketing of BID Group, respectively. “We are very excited for Comact to be part of the BID Group family,” Potvin said. “Much like BID, Comact now has greater flexibility for manufacturing and shipping on the other side of the continent, with the added benefit of expanding its business by
leveraging BID’s extensive turnkey experience and capabilities.”
November 6-8 2013
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 5
IFI_PG04_11_Sawpoints_01 08/07/2013 17:03 Page 6
SAWPOINTS
UPM flogs forestry hectares to fund
T
aaleritehdas, a Finnish wealth management company has acquired some 1,100 ha of forest land from UPM. The two forest estates purchased are located in North Karelia in the Polvijärvi area. The contract also covers a long term wood trade and forest services agreement. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The contract, now closed, is the second forest estate purchase contract between UPM and the Taaleritehtaan Metsä fund. In January 2012, Taaleritehdas acquired 6,000 ha of forest land in Pyhäntä, Kiuruvesi, Ilomantsi and Utajärvi in Finland. The fund plans to acquire more forest land during
the next two years when suitable estates are available. Investors in the fund are private Finnish investors as well as institutional investors and organisations. “The Taaleritehtaan Metsä fund offers the investors an easy solution because we take care of all practicalities,” Taaleritehdas Managing Director Jyrki Ketola said. “All matters related to forest ownership like purchases, sales and forest management are handled by Taaleritehdas and its forest professional.” UPM Forestry Vice President Sauli Brander said the company was pleased to have closed another “big forest estate agreement” with Taaleritehdas.
“For us this is a sign that our service including the sales of the forest estates and the wood trade and forest service agreement is functional and fits well with the needs of investors,” he said. Taaleritehtaan Metsä is a totally new way to own forests. It offers investors an easy and effortless way to buy a piece of Finnish forest land without any forest management responsibilities normally related to forest ownership. Nearly 1 million Finns own one or more forest estates in Finland. Forest management as well as sales and purchase operations require expertise. Timely harvesting, regeneration and
selection of tree species are not easy for ordinary people. Taaleritehdas Chief Executive said forest as investments fitted well for Finnish investors. “It is a concrete investment with ownership which spreads the risk in the portfolio well,” he said. “The earnings from forest ownership have not correlated with the other investment categories like shares and interest rates. Additionally forest ownership offers an inflation hedge as the wood price has traditionally followed the inflation rate.”
Doppstadt – Big Screen production for biomass experts GP Green Recycling GP Green Recycling is probably one of the largest producers of biomass from waste in Scotland and generates around 1,800 cubic metres of biomass every week from their stateof-the-art facilities in Blantyre. GP provides a green waste management system and recycling service to private contractors and municipal authorities, producing a range of high quality EU compliant biomass materials. GP has continually invested in cutting edge recycling plant and machinery, which it has sourced from Blue Machinery Scotland for many years and the latest additions to the GP production machines are Doppstadt SM trommel screeners, for which Blue is an appointed distributor.
The ever-increasing scale of the GP operation has necessitated additional production capacity and, to achieve this, owner Jim Gilchrist once again called in Blue Machinery Scotland who recommended changing from a flatbed screener to a trommel drum-screen configuration for cost-effective and efficient screening of material to the various different sizings required. GP now uses an “array” of Doppstadt machines in their production line. A Fuchs MHL 320 materials handler (also purchased from Blue) feeds the incoming waste stream into a slowspeed pre-shredder, which discharges into a Doppstadt AK-435 mobile shredder. This then feeds the reduced size shredded material into
Indo to extend clearing ban The president of Indonesia, home to the world's third-largest tropical forests and a powerful palm oil industry, has agreed to extend a ban on forest clearing, according to a government official quoted by Thomson Reuters. Southeast Asia's largest economy is under international pressure to curb deforestation and destruction of carbon-rich peatlands and forests that palm oil and mining companies say they need for expansion. The world's biggest producer of palm oil imposed a two-year moratorium on clearing forest in May 2011 under a $1 billion climate deal with Norway aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation, covering 65 Mha of forests, but this was due to expire on May 20. “The president has agreed... It should be
6 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
signed in one or two days. It may have been already,” an official said, referring to a revised moratorium and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Another source with direct knowledge of the matter said the revised moratorium document would be signed before the existing ban ends, extending it to October or December 2014. Earlier, Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, a technocrat who oversees forestry sector reform and heads a presidential delivery unit aimed at cutting through red tape, said he had recommended Indonesia extend the ban.
Jim Gilchrist (left) and Kieran O’Kane - from Blue Machinery (Scotland) Ltd (right) the first of two Doppstadt SM-620 trommels. The trommels are equipped with two screen sizes (12mm at the front of the drum and 10mm at the end) to produce and stockpile 10mm compost material. This, in turn, feeds the oversize to the second SM-620 with an 80mm drum screen where 10mm-80mm is screened off for biomass, with any oversize being recirculated for further processing. GP Green Recycling reports a most satisfactory uplift in the tonnage produced through their system. Jim Gilchrist commented “We enjoy an excellent and mutually beneficial partnership with Blue Machinery Scotland and can count ourselves as being very satisfied customers for many years. Their advice and expertise, coupled with the ready availability of the superb Doppstadt range, makes our choice of machines and supplier all the easier. We are delighted with the two new trommels which have transformed our operations both in terms of volume and end-product quality”. The Doppstadt SM-620 trommel features the well-proven screening drum construction. Replaceable screens, a variety of ancillary equipment and a wide choice of mesh sizes allow this flexible machine to be easily adjusted and reconfigured for the wide variety of screening tasks and feed materials encountered in the GP Green Recycling operation. The trommel screen drum is 6m in length with a 2m diameter and a rotating speed of up to15rpm.
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 7
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 8
SAWPOINTS
Wood flow management on agenda for ForestTECH 2013
B
etter management of wood flows within the wood supply chain has been a clear priority for the majority of forest products companies over the last couple of years. The pressure has been on to squeeze as much out of each segment – and across the entire wood supply chain – from harvesting and transport operations through to market. With a big jump in both the quality and type of data available that’s now being made available, significant inroads have been made in the last 12 months into capturing some of these inefficiencies. For the first time in the Pacific North West, a one-day conference, ForestTECH 2013 – Improving Wood Transport & Logistics, has been set up for forest managers, technical foresters, forestry consultants, forest logistics and supply chain managers, harvest planners and transport operators. The innovative program will provide a long overdue insight into some very clever technologies being used by forest products companies to improve their planning, logistics and operations within the wood supply chain. The well-known US forestry association, the Western Forestry and Conservation Association (WFCA) is joining forces with Australasia’s leading provider of forest products technology programs, the Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA). This combining of resources likewise is a first with the inaugural event set up specifically for forest products and transport
companies in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Alberta and British Columbia. In Sweden, smart data to improve decision making, much better collaboration and improved exchange of information between companies within the wood supply chain, utilising options for back loading and new tools for truck scheduling and fleet management are reducing transport costs for the country’s forestry industry by around 5-15%. Similar efficiencies are being gained in other countries by careful planning and application of a range of new tools developed by technology providers, communications specialists and those working in the forest. Elsewhere in Europe, the European Space Agency (ESA) is supporting a pioneering 3D forestry data initiative being led by Irish forestry technology startup TreeMetrics. The company’s been developing a real-time forest intelligence (RTFI) service, with the goal of bringing live 3D forestry data to mobile devices and machinery across the globe. The use of intelligent data, realtime analytics and a simple-to-use web platform are at the core of TreeMetrics developments. Through TreeMetrics, the use of air-borne LiDAR with terrestrial LiDAR data is already providing accurate assessments of standing wood volumes. This inventory system is being rolled out in Europe and has been trialled in Australia. In conjunction with the ESA, the company has now taken it one
step further. Taking the collected stand inventory data they’re looking to provide real-time information to harvesting machines with cut instructions. A device is being installed on board harvesting machines to transmit real-time information about the trees being felled. In recent trials on over 20 machines, the details have been relayed back to foresters through ESA’s Inmarsat IsatM2M satellite and communications system. Harvesting workflow is expected to be managed in nearreal time, which means forest managers will be able to further refine their cutting strategies quickly if needed, and change the instructions for the harvesters. Other new initiatives to improve efficiencies within the wood supply chain include; transportation planning through centralised dispatch, systems
which are now being used extensively in New Zealand, Australia and successfully trialled recently in Idaho) and new tools for improving fleet management and communications. In other countries such as Canada, Brazil, Sweden, Australia and New Zealand, the wood supply chain is complex. Presentations will be given at ForestTECH 2013 from experts working in each of these countries. They, along with US forestry companies, will be outlining how some of the strategic, tactical and operational planning issues are being resolved and more importantly, how efficiencies have been achieved and some of the tools that have been developed for wood supply chain design and management. ForestTECH 2013 is set to run in Portland, Oregon on Wednesday October 9 this year.
HALCO celebrates 25 years HALCO Software Systems of Vancouver, British Columbia , celebrated 25 years in business in June this year. Founded in 1988 by Howard Leach, HALCO is best known for the SAWSIM Sawmill Simulation program. Over the years, HALCO has provided mill design studies and production planning optimisation systems for hundreds of clients in North America and around the world. Following Leach’s retirement in 2009, HALCO has been led by the next generation of principals: Tim Sargeant, Brad Turner, and Alex Rapoport. To mark the anniversary, and to celebrate Leach’s 80th birthday, HALCO has established the Howard A. Leach Scholarship in Operations Research at the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Forestry (Wood Products Processing department).
8 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 9
IFI_PG04_11_Sawpoints_01 08/07/2013 17:02 Page 10
SAWPOINTS
Tigercat strengthens Russian footprint
….and appoint Forest Pro in Virginia
Forestry Machines, Tigercat dealer for Russia, has opened a new warehouse in the town of Bratsk in the Irkutsk region
Tigercat has announced that Forest Pro Inc, based in Scottsville, Virginia has joined the Tigercat dealer organisation. Forest Pro is operating out of a new 14,000 square foot facility with five mechanics and four service trucks. Industry veteran, Mike Barton, is sales manager. Tigercat US sales manager, Kevin Selby feels that the addition of Forest Pro will be beneficial to Virginia loggers and will further strengthen Tigercat support in the region. Bullock Brothers will continue to do business out of Dillwyn, VA as well as Garysburg, North Carolina and the main store in Smithfield, NC. "I am excited to be the new Tigercat dealer in Virginia, comments Forest Pro owner, Binky Tapscott. "Being in the logging business for 30 years, we hope to give the support other loggers expect. We will do our best to give the customers the parts and service that they deserve."
Forestry Machines retailed its first Tigercat units in 2006. Today, the logging equipment market in Russia has matured and Tigercat machinery has become an integral part of the industry. Tigercat logging machines operate in an enormous geographic area, from the most western point
to the eastern part of Russia (Siberia). The largest population of machines is located in eastern Siberia in the northern parts of the Irkutsk and Krasnoyarsk Regions. More than 150 units operate in the most difficult landscape and climate conditions. Forestry Machines’ head office,
The new Forestry Machines facility in Bratsk (L-R) Alex Chornyy, Tigercat District Manager, Russia; Yuri Torokhov, Chairman, Forestry Machines; Alexander Fetyukov, Managing Director, Forestry Machine; and Ken MacDonald, Tigercat CEO
stock-house and mobile technical unit are located in the city of Perm – Ural’s logging and wood processing centre. However, the most important area of development for the company these days is Siberia. The new warehouse in Bratsk is 500 m2 (5,400 ft2). The Siberian forests occupy an enormous area. Bratsk is located significantly north from Irkutsk, so it is in close proximity to the large commercial logging areas where Forestry Machines’ customers operate. Highly qualified technicians are in a constant duty in the area. This helps to provide fast and efficient service in case of any planned or unforeseen requests from the customer base. In addition, the existing stock and service centre in Krasnoyarsk was revamped last year and the number of spare parts and consumables has increased.
Lord’s replica ordered from modified wood producer
A
ccoya, the world-leading modified wood product, has been selected to construct replica benches of those found at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Showcased at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in England by bespoke joiners Scotts of Thrapston, the bench design features Accoya wood sitting on cold rolled steel legs incorporating the iconic ‘Father Time’ image from the famous weather vane at Lord’s. Manufactured by Accsys Technologies, Accoya is one of the most advanced wood products on the market, modified using Accsys’
proprietary wood acetylation technology. During the acetylation process, reactions are set up to alter the chemical structures of the natural wood to reduce the wood’s water absorption and digestibility, resulting in outstanding levels of stability and class 1 durability. Combining ease of machining with performance that outstrips that of tropical hardwoods, Accoya also boasts excellent environmental credentials by using wood sourced from FSC certified and sustainable forests – while being 100% nontoxic.
10 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
Modified wood product manufacturer has been employed to deliver replica benches based on those found at the historic Lord’s cricket ground in London, England David Scott, Chairman of Scotts of Thrapston – the joinery company which is to construct the benches under agreement from Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), said: “Accoya’s Class One durability and outstanding dimensional stability makes it the perfect material to construct the replica Lord’s benches, which will take plenty of weathering from their external settings. “The benches will allow gardeners and cricket fans alike to
bring the prestigious nature of Lord’s into their own gardens, and we expect demand for the benches to be high. “The high importance placed on sustainability by Accsys Technologies, and the FSC certification attributed to Accoya, matches our company values and makes Accoya a material we’re very proud to work with.”
IFI_PG04_15_Sawpoints_01 04/07/2013 17:44 Page 11
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 05/07/2013 06:17 Page 12
WORLD MARKETS
Nordic non-EU wood exports up
L
Sawmills in Sweden and Finland have expanded shipments of lumber to markets outside Europe from 27% to 43% of total exports the past five years, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly
umber exports from the Nordic countries have changed quite dramatically in recent years. The European market has become relatively less important than it has been in the past, according to the WRQ (www.woodprices.com). Just five years ago, sawmills in Finland and Sweden exported as much as 73% of their total export lumber volumes to countries within Europe. By 2012, this share had fallen to 57%. Finnish sawmills currently export over 55% of their shipments to non-European markets, with Japan and Egypt having become the two largest markets in 2012, ahead of the traditional markets of the United Kingdom, France and Germany. During the first four months of
2013, Finland was the second largest softwood lumber supplier to Japan behind Canada, but ahead of Sweden, Russia and the US. The MENA countries (Middle East and Northern Africa) have become a large and very important region for Swedish sawmills over the past 10 years, with the export value increasing from $160 million dollars in 2002 to 730 million dollars in 2012. This region accounted for 28% of the total export volume (23% of the value) for Sweden in 2012. Even though demand for lumber has fallen during the first few months of 2013, the MENA countries will continue to be major buyers of wood products from Sweden in the future.
Another interesting development for shipments from Sweden is that although volumes are still relatively small, exports during the first four months to China were up 130%. Volumes shipped to the improved US wood market were more than four times higher this year than in the same period in 2012, as reported in the WRQ. China and the US, the world’s two largest lumberimporting countries, are likely to increase the import volumes of softwood lumber from both Finland and Sweden in the coming years as the demand for wood products is expected to go up.
Italian woodworking production down in 2012 Italian industry body Acimall has published the 2012 final figures for woodworking and furniture production technology, tools included, which have shown a 7.5% drop in production on 2011 to €1,571 million Acimall described the result as a “substantial decrease”, which confirmed the decline recorded in recent years – a period characterised by demand levels that “do not allow the Italian industry to fully leverage its production capacity”. Italian technology production might gain much more success and achieve higher values, but weak demand does not allow a new virtuous cycle to start, the group said. More evidence for the state of play is the fragility of the domestic market, which has influenced and
will continue to influence the achievements of the industry represented as by Acimall. “Some €500 million of apparent consumption from ‘made in Italy’ companies processing wood and wood-based products (13.7% lower than in the previous year) immediately validate this remark and highlight the stagnation of Italian demand at increasingly worrying levels,” the group stated. “Especially if we also consider that import stopped at €130 million, minus 16.5% compared to 2011.” In 2012, imports accounted for 26.6% of national consumption, a
Italian woodworking machinery: 2012 final balance (Tools included, in million Euros) 2012
Δ% 2012/2011
Production
1,571
-7.5%
Export
1,231
-3.7%
Import
130
-16.5%
Trade balance
1,101
-2.8%
Apparent consumption
488
-13.7%
Export/Production
78.3%
Import/Apparent consumption
26.6% Source: Acimall Studies Office, June 2013
12 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
relevant figure, with a clear predominance of entry-level solutions for low value-added processing, or high-technology and innovative machinery. The relationship with the two main supplier-countries is essentially stable: in 2012, again, import from Germany amounted to €70 million, while China totalled €20 million. Export has always represented the real, strong vocation of Italian companies in the woodworking industry. The trend can be defined as “basically stable”, according to Acimall. In 2012, Italy sold machinery for €1.231 million all over the world, down by 3.7% on 2011 levels. Such percentage variation should not be viewed with
excessive pessimism – it is much more important to see that, despite the efforts by entrepreneurs and their sales partners, the trend is not reversing, yet. The percentage of machines, tools and equipment sold to foreign customers is constantly increasing, however, and in 2012 it reached 78.3% of total national production. An opportunity on which everybody is working with much more determination and engagement, trying to minimise the impact of problems inevitably generated by a weak domestic market, with an increasing number of companies having an export share just few decimal points below 100%.
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 05/07/2013 06:17 Page 13
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 08/07/2013 17:02 Page 14
WORLD MARKETS
Global chip trade up over decade The global pulp industry has increased its importation of wood chips over the past 10 years, reaching the second highest import levels on record in 2012, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly. Japan, China, Finland and Turkey were the largest importing countries last year
W
ood chips are one of the few forest products commodities that have seen a steadily increasing trend in globally traded volumes the past decade. With the exception of 2009, when global production of pulp fell by about 10% and the demand for wood fibre was down, international trade of wood chips has increased every year from 2000 to 2011, as reported in the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ). From 2009 to 2012, global chip trade increased by 6.5 Mt to just over 31 Mt, valued at over $5 billion US dollars, slightly below the alltime high reached in 2011. Much of
the increase in chip imports has been because of the expansion of MDF production capacity in Turkey and due to major investments in pulp capacity in China. The top ranking of chip-importing countries has changed quite considerably the past five years. Although Japan is still, by far, the largest chip importer in the world, import volumes have declined from a record-high of almost 15 Mt in 2008 to just over 11 Mt in 2012. China, on the other hand, has gone from being a net exporter of chips less than ten years ago to become the second largest importer of wood chips in the world. With the
expansion of pulp production capacity in China and the lack of domestic fibre sources, it is likely that China will surpass Japan as the world largest chip importer within two-three years. Japan and China are the two dominant consumers of globally traded chips. Their dominance is particularly accentuated for hardwood chips, where they imported 83% of the world’s total imports in 2012. Pulp mills in Finland, the third largest chip importer, have for a long time relied on residual chips from Russian sawmills with close proximity to the border and on chips from the Baltic States, as reported
in the WRQ. This trade has increased in recent years. The fourth on the import ranking list for 2012 is Turkey, which has become a major chip destination in just the past few years. It is likely that global trade of wood chips will continue to go up in the coming years for two main reasons: there are limited forest resources in some of the countries, which are expanding industry capacity; and some forest companies are making the strategic decision to diversify their supply sources and import wood chips rather than procure marginal fibre supplies locally.
Sawmills in Sweden and Finland have expanded shipments of lumber to markets outside Europe Sawmills in Sweden and Finland have expanded shipments of lumber to markets outside Europe from 27% to 43% of total exports the past five years, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly Many sawmills in Northern Europe have expanded their lumber sales outside the Europe market the past few years resulting in an increase in non-European exports from 27 % of total exports in 2007 to 43% in 2012, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly. The biggest changes have been in shipments to Northern Africa, Middle East, Japan, China and the US. Lumber exports from the Nordic countries have changed quite dramatically in recent years. The European market has become
14 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
relatively less important than it has been in the past, according to the WRQ (www.woodprices.com). Just five years ago, sawmills in Finland and Sweden exported as much as 73% of their total export lumber volumes to countries within Europe. By 2012, this share had fallen to 57%. Finnish sawmills currently export over 55% of their shipments to non-European markets, with Japan and Egypt having become the two largest markets in 2012, ahead of the traditional markets of the United Kingdom, France and Germany. During the first four months of 2013, Finland was the second largest softwood lumber supplier to Japan behind Canada, but
ahead of Sweden, Russia and the US. The MENA countries (Middle East and Northern Africa) have become a large and very important region for Swedish sawmills over the past ten years, with the export value increasing from 160 million dollars in 2002 to 730 million dollars in 2012. This region accounted for 28% of the total export volume (23% of the value) for Sweden in 2012. Even though demand for lumber has fallen during the first few months of 2013, the MENA countries will continue to be major buyers of wood products from Sweden in the future.
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 05/07/2013 06:17 Page 15
WORLD MARKETS
Chinese demand bounces back Chinese demand for lumber and logs has had a resurgence, with importation during the first four months of 2013 being over 10% higher than the same period in 2012, reported the Wood Resource Quarterly. The total value of North American imports was up 30% from 2012
C
hina’s hunger for wood was less acute in 2012 than in the previous year. In particular, importation of softwood logs fell substantially from the record levels of 2011. Importation of lumber was also lower in 2012, but the decline was much less than that of logs. The biggest changes in log and lumber imports between 2011 and 2012 were the sharp decline of Russian log volumes crossing the Chinese border and the reduced lumber shipments from the US to Chinese ports, as reported in the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ). During the first four months of 2013, import volumes of both logs and lumber picked up and were 12% and 19% higher, respectively, than in the March quarter of last year. The housing sector, a major consumer of imported lumber, has been strong in early 2013, and prices for new houses in 70 cities rose on average by over 4% in April, up from 3.1% in March, 2013, according to national statistics. So far this year, the housing construction sector has outperformed better than the manufacturing, trade, investment and personal consumption sectors. North America is a major supplier of softwood products to China, with the market share for lumber and logs in the March quarter this year, accounting for 51% and 23%, respectively. In 2012, Canada and the US exported logs and lumber valued at just over $3 billion, which was down 23% from 2011. During the first four months of this year, the import value for softwood logs and lumber from North America totalled $940 million billion dollars, an increase of over 30% from the same period in 2012. New Zealand’s log-exporting companies continue to expand their presence in China. In 2012, New Zealand was the only country that expanded shipments when total Chinese log imports fell by 15%. Russia has for many years been the major log supplier to China, but in the
first quarter of this year, Russia and New Zealand both had a market share of close to 33% after year-over-year shipments were up almost 50% from New Zealand and down by 18% from Russia, reports the WRQ. The biggest change in the Chinese buyers’ sourcing of lumber has been the doubling of
importation from Chile and the almost tripling in shipments from Sweden and Finland. Although these three countries still account for less than 10% of all imports, it is likely that their presence in China will expand in the coming years.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 15
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 08/07/2013 17:01 Page 16
WORLD MARKETS
Deere nets record second quarter despite poor construction and forestry sales
N
et income for Deere & Company was $1.084 billion, or $2.76/sh, for the second quarter ended April 30, compared with $1.056 billion, or $2.61/sh, for the same period last year. For the first six months of the year, Deere’s net income was $1.734 billion, or $4.41/sh, compared with $1.589 billion, or $3.91/sh, last year. Worldwide net sales and revenues increased 9%, to $10.914 billion, for the second quarter and rose 9% to $18.335 billion for six months. Net sales of the equipment operations were $10.265 billion for the quarter and $17.058 billion for six months, compared with $9.405 billion and $15.524 billion for the periods last year. “After a record-setting second quarter, John Deere is well on its way to another year of strong performance,” Deere Chairman and Chief Executive Samuel Allen
said. Second-quarter sales and income were the highest for any quarterly period in company history, he pointed out. “Deere’s results are a reflection of positive conditions in the global farm economy, which continues to show impressive strength. The company’s performance also offers further proof of the adept execution of our operating and marketing plans, which are aimed at expanding our global market presence.” Specifically, construction and forestry sales decreased 6% for the quarter and six months mainly due to lower shipment volumes. Operating profit was $81 million for the quarter and $153 million for six months, compared with $119 million and $243 million last year. The decline in operating profit for both periods was due primarily to lower shipment volumes, increases in production costs and higher selling,
administrative and general expenses, partially offset by price realisation. In addition, an unfavourable product mix and higher research and development expenses affected year-to-date results. Deere’s worldwide sales of construction and forestry equipment are forecast to
decrease by about 5 percent for 2013. The decline reflects a cautious outlook for U.S. economic growth, cool, wet weather conditions in North America, and flat sales in world forestry markets. In forestry, further weakness in European markets is expected to offset higher US demand.
The global forest industry in the 1Q of 2013 Global Timber Markets Sawlog prices were up in practically all regions covered by the WRQ in the 1Q/13, but they were still generally lower than they were in the 1Q/12. The biggest increases from the previous quarter occurred in Western US, Latvia, Finland and Sweden. The Global Sawlog Price Index (GSPI) was up 2.4% to US$86.33/m3 from the 4Q/12, the biggest quarter-to-quarter increase since early 2011.
Canada (-12.4%), Japan (-8.6%), Western Canada (-7.8%) and the US Northwest (-4.2%). The biggest increases came in France (+10%) and Germany (+6.9%). Hardwood fiber prices were down in Asia and Eastern Canada in the 1Q, while they were slightly higher in Europe and Latin America as compared to the 4Q/12. The Hardwood Wood Fiber Price Index (HFPI) fell by 1.1 % to $103.66/odmt in the 1Q/13, which and was 12 percent below the alltime high in the 3Q/11.
Global Pulpwood Prices Wood fiber prices were generally down in North America and up in the rest of the world during the 1Q/13. The Softwood Wood Fiber Price Index (SFPI) in the 1Q/13 was practically unchanged at $99.90/odmt from the 4Q/12. The SFPI has inched downward for seven consecutive quarters and is currently down 8.8 percent from the most recent peak in 2Q/11. The biggest changes in US dollar terms in the 1Q/13 were the declines in chip prices in Eastern
Global Pulp Markets Global production of market pulp was 2.7 % higher the first two months of this year than for the same period in 2012. Prices for softwood pulp (NBSK) have trended upward for six months and were in April about $845/ton in Europe. Hardwood pulp (BHKP) prices have moved up at about the same rate.
Global Lumber Markets Lumber production in the US and
16 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
Canada improved during 2012 and early 2013, with total output in 2012 being 6 % higher than in 2011. During the first two months of 2013, production levels continued to go up by 9.5 % in the US and 7.2 % in Canada as compared to the same period in 2012. The US lumber price developments during 2012 and into early 2013 have been quite remarkable with the Random Length Lumber Price Index increasing by almost 85% from late 2011 to April 2013. Sawmills in British Columbia have become the largest suppliers of lumber to China in recent years, surpassing Russia in 2010. The value of Canadian shipments was about 1.1 billion dollars in both 2011 and 2012. Lumber imports to China fell 12% to 3.3 million m3 from the 4Q/12 to 1Q/13. This was still 7 % higher than in the 1Q/12. Canada and Russia continue to be the major suppliers, accounting for 78 % of the total imports.
Consumption of softwood lumber in Japan has been higher this year than in 2012 and the rise in demand has been met both by higher domestic lumber shipments (+6%) and by an increase in importation. Sawmills in both the Nordic countries have expanded shipments to non-European countries during the first quarter. Export volumes to Japan were up 8 and 11 % for Sweden and Finland, respectively.
Global Biomass Markets The wood pellet export industry in North America has grown exponentially in a relatively short period of time. The export value has increased from an estimated 40 million dollars in 2004 to almost 400 million dollars in 2012. Pellet prices were close to, or at, record-high levels in all the major markets in Europe in the 1Q/13. Excerpts from the Wood Resource Quarterly www.woodprices.com
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 05/07/2013 06:17 Page 17
WORLD MARKETS
Lower pulplog prices aid paper producers Prices for wood chips and pulplogs have fallen worldwide over the past two years, resulting in lower production costs for the world’s pulp and paper industry, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly. Both the HFPI and SFPI price indices have fallen by over 10% from their peaks in 2011. The biggest declines in wood fibre prices have occurred in Brazil, Canada, the US and Japan
T
he costs of wood fibre for the world’s pulp mills have trended downward the past two years because of reduced pulp and paper production, and in some regions, as a result of higher supply of lower-cost fibre. This trend continued in the March quarter this year when the Hardwood Wood Fiber Price Index (HFPI) fell by 1.1% to $103.66 per oven-dry metric ton (odmt), which was 12% below the all-time high in the third quarter of 2011, as reported by the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ). However, the price trends were mixed in the first quarter of this year, with hardwood fibre prices
lower in Asia and Eastern Canada and slightly higher in Europe and Latin America as compared to the fourth term last year. Eucalyptus pulpwood prices in Brazil have fallen more than in most other regions the past two years, with first quarter prices this year down over 30% since 2011. This dramatic decline has resulted in Brazilian pulp mills now enjoying the fourth lowest wood fibre costs in the world, behind Russia, the US South and Chile, respectively. The Softwood Wood Fiber Price Index (SFPI) in the first quarter of this year was practically unchanged from the December quarter of last year at
$99.90/odmt. The SFPI has inched downward for seven consecutive quarters and is currently down 8.8 percent from the most recent peak in second quarter of this year, according to the WRQ. The biggest changes in the first quarter in US dollar terms were the declines in chip prices in Eastern Canada, Japan, Western Canada and the US Northwest. The biggest increases occurred in France and Germany. There has been an increased supply of residual chips from the
sawmilling sector that has turned up the production levels over the past six months. This is the major reason for the declining prices in Canada and the US. Prices for wood chips in Canada have fallen more than 15% in just over a year. With improved markets for softwood lumber in the US, it is likely that the availability of lowercost wood fibre for the pulp industry throughout North America will continue through the rest of 2013 and into 2014.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 17
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 08/07/2013 17:01 Page 18
WORLD MARKETS
German Pellets increases group turnover in 2012 to more than €500m German Pellets GmbH, largest producer of wood pellets worldwide, has expanded its leading position in the 2012 business year. Based on provisional figures, Group turnover grew from €286 mo to €519 m. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) grew to a level of €39.6 m (2011: €29.6 m. Euro); earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) increased by 8 m. Euro to reach €23.4 m.
T
he positive development in business results from the strong demand for wood pellets in almost all Western European countries. Double-digit growth rates for pellet-based heating units and pellet stoves have led to increasing demand for wood pellets in the private consumer market. The corporate client sector has also recorded substantial growth, for instance in supplying heating to residentialproperty companies, as well as clinics and industrial enterprises.
The power-station sector should also be named as a driver of growth, due to the expansion of biomass-fuelled power stations in the United Kingdom, producing electricity and heating from wood pellets. Likewise, the takeover of the Austrian Glechner Group, effective as of 1 January 2012, contributed to the growth in turnover. In acquiring the Glechner Group, German Pellets expanded its production and sales capacity in Austria, an important market for pellets. Overall, German Pellets
18 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
proved to be in a position to expand its leading position in its Western European sales markets over the last business year. For the first time, FireStixx Holz-Energie GmbH, taken over in the middle of business year 2011, was also consolidated 100 %. "The development in turnover and earnings in 2012 fulfilled our expectations. Our sales network, and thereby also sales in our core markets – Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy and Belgium – have grown more rapidly than expected. Added to this, the power-station sector in the United Kingdom has become a further important market. At the same time, in expanding production capacity in the USA, we are ensuring a secure supply of pellets", notes Peter H. Leibold, Managing Partner of German Pellets GmbH. Positive prospects for the pellet sector The global pellet market continues to offer good growth opportunities. Pöyry Management Consulting concludes that the
demand for pellets is growing by approximately 15 % p.a. on average, and is set to reach 58 m. tonnes in 2020. Key drivers in the private-customer sector are pellets' price advantage compared to fossil-based fuels (up to 40 % in relation to oil and gas) and the trend towards sustainable and crisis-proof supply of heating. The high number of old and inefficient heating units in Western Europe, needing to be substituted in the years to come, will further fuel the market for wood pellets. Take Germany as an example: more than 3 m. heating units are more than 24 years old and attain low levels of efficiency. In the medium-sized customer segment (industry and trade), there is a continued expansion in the numbers of wood-pellet-based heating systems installed. Beyond this, large energy-supply companies in Europe, above all in the United Kingdom, are to an increasing degree completely converting their power stations to pellets, or respectively it is specifically planned to do so. Overall, German Pellets is taking it as its basis that the course of growth will continue. The quantities produced by German Pellets in its facilities in the USA are taking on strategic significance. They will contribute to covering the demand for pellets in Europe. The first site, in Texas, is currently entering the production stage. Construction will start in the near future for a second facility, in the wood-rich state of Louisiana. Long-term supply contracts have already been concluded for both sites with European energy-supply companies. The complete Group accounts for the German Pellets Group will be published at the end of June 2013. Source German Pellets GmbH
IFI_PG12_19_World Markets_HR 05/07/2013 06:17 Page 19
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:18 Page 20
Pressing forward
The new Komatsu 855 forwarder
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 21
FORWARDERS
Forwarding technology has turned a corner in the past 12 months, as manufacturers churn out a new set of innovations led by ground-breaking crane technology and evolving communication systems. By Chris Cann
S
everal new trends in mechanised cutting are now being seen in various markets around the world according to global equipment heavyweight, Komatsu. It could be argued that the harvesting sector has been in a glut over the past five years. Technologies that were in the process of being developed when the economic crisis hit were finished off but efforts since have yielded only incremental improvements to existing designs. This year, things have changed. Manufacturers have shifted up a gear and there are finally several new developments that may cause genuine excitement amongst forest contractors. Leading the way must be John Deere’s
Intelligent Boom Control system, which scooped up the Innovation of the Show gong at Elmia Wood in Sweden in June. But that is far from the only new product. Rottne has introduced fresh cab and communication technologies, while Caterpillar has delivered greater fuel efficiencies with its latest engines. Across the board, all manufactures featured in this review, which also includes Tigercat, Komatsu, TimberPro, and Ponsse, have made real advances in the quality of their forwarding products. John Deere Forestry has introduced what it considers an “industry breakthrough” with its intuitive boom tip control for forwarders along with a fixed cabin option and “industry leading” automation solutions.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 21
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 22
FORWARDERS The John Deere 1210E forwarder can be equipped with IBC
“These solutions arise out of a genuine desire to know our customers’ business needs and to boost our customers' business with the help of the most productive, reliable and intelligent machines and support solutions,” Deere said. The company described its Intelligent Boom Control (IBC) system as “a long-awaited breakthrough in forwarder technology which makes the work easier, faster and more productive” and had been on the forest machine feature wish list for 30 years. IBC makes the boom operation accurate, fast and easy, as the operator now directly controls the boom tip instead of controlling each independent boom joint movement. When extra movements are eliminated, IBC will also increase the durability of boom structures and hydraulic cylinders. IBC is exclusively available from John Deere. In the test machines, this new control system has significantly
increased even experienced operators’ working speed. The productivity of unseasoned operators has also improved enormously. “IBC provides it all in one package: more productivity with the best possible fuel economy and boom lifetime,” the company stated. The IBC innovation will be available on new IT4 models for the E series 1210E and 1510E forwarders. The new John Deere 1210E IT4 forwarder offers more power and torque as well as improved boom control. It comes equipped with forest-tough bogie axles, V-groove axle mounts, strong frames and a durable middle joint, which provide “exceptional” uptime throughout the life of the machine. The 1510E IT4 forwarder is among John Deere’s most powerful forwarders, now with more capacity and power with a larger hydraulic pump and a stronger drive motor. Similar to 1210E IT4, it features productivity and uptime enhancing bogie axles, V-groove
The large John Deere 1510E goes to work in the snow
IBC provides it all in one package: more productivity with the best possible fuel economy and boom lifetime – John Deere
axle mounts, strong frames and a durable middle joint. The 1510E IT4 showcases excellent transport capability, combined with trustworthiness. Both of these new E-series IT4 forwarders feature a new headboard design that significantly improves the operator’s visibility of the load area. The unloading speed is in particular enhanced, as you see better where to grab. The 1210E IT4 forwarder offers increased cross-sectional area of 4.7 m for the wide load space option. The 1510E IT4 forwarder’s crosssectional area has been increased to 5.3 m2 for the wide load space option. Both forwarders are equipped with John Deere 6068 PowerTech Plus series turbo-charged 622 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
cylinder 6.8 litre engines. Depending on the market, 1510E is also available with an EPA tier III and stage 2 engine, and 1210E with a stage 2 engine respectively. In response to customer requests, John Deere is now delivering an alternative for the revolutionary rotating and levelling cabin in its E-series forwarders. The fixed cabin option features the same control panels and the same seat options as the rotating model. Also other components and optional equipment are similar to the rotating cabin, which secures easy maintenance and good spare part availability. Despite a different machine concept, the fixed cabin also offers good visibility to the work area and an ergonomic operator environment.
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 23
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 24
FORWARDERS
In addition to IBC, John Deere is presenting a series of other innovations in the E-series forwarders’ measuring and control system. The new TimberMatic F-12 (forwarders) control systems focus on customers’ productivity, uptime and daily operating costs by offering, for example, the following new features: • Smooth Boom Control (SBC): a new control system feature that enhances the boom precision of the E-series harvesters and forwarders and reduces vibration. SBC makes the operator’s work easier, loading faster and boosts the machine productivity • Cruise Control makes it possible to drive a John Deere forwarder at a constant speed similar to passenger cars. This option is also available as a retrofit kit • Configurable User Interface is a new shortcut display in the PC, ultimately increasing uptime and productivity for operators. The advanced display makes the control system navigation easy • Sub Shifts Work Statistics enables two machine operators to be active in Work Statistics at the same time, providing better follow-up of the machine and operators during equipment service and repair. For powering John Deere forwarders, Deere engines provide the right technology and are simple to operate and maintain while delivering power, fuel efficiency, reliability and a low cost of ownership. The IT4 engine meets the EPA Interim tier/EU stage 3B emission regulations without DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid), based on proofed EGR and added exhaust filter (ATD = After Treatment Device). To put it simply, the IT4 engine provides more power and torque, and less emission. On top of this, you will benefit from numerous other features, such as reduced daily maintenance efforts and costs, better engine power, responsiveness and cooling. Depending on market specific
The view from inside the cab of a John Deere 1210E forwarder requirements, the engines are adjusted to meet EPA tier 3 and EPA Interim tier 4 emission standards. The software from John Deere complements the forwarder designs through the completely renewed TimberOffice 5 fleet management system, which is “the most developed solution on the market for forest machine performance data management”, according to the company. “TimberOffice makes decisionmaking faster and business operations more competitive and profitable. It can also support data gained from other than John Deere machines. “The JDLink machine and fleet management system enables our customers and distributors to remotely connect to the equipment by providing real-time alerts and other machine information such as location, utilisation, fuel consumption and maintenance data. JDLink also enables automatic engine software updating and improves service support. Machine information is transmitted wirelessly to the JDLink server which can be accessed through the internet. JDLink is currently offered free-of-charge for a period of three years to E-series IT4 machine owners.” The exclusive John Deere TimberLink monitoring system –
24 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
an integrated suite of information services for optimising equipment and total productivity – now features an operator report with even more detailed comparison to other harvester operators working under similar conditions. The system also provides the operator with individual guidance for working method development. The Rottne F10B is a further development of the popular thinning forwarder F10 and has all the features demanded of a genuine thinning forwarder with extra emphasis placed on stability, flexibility and good tracking. The cab also has enlarged windows and low bottom edges to provide fantastic visibility for optimum results when hauling logs, and can be equipped with the COMFORT LINE cab suspension system for smooth and jolt-free operation in any terrain. The Rottne D5 control system meanwhile allows operators to use personal settings to achieve the best work results.
The forwarder computer provides detailed information about daily production with coordinates for the position of roadside timber stacks and accurate follow-up of times for loading, unloading, transport, servicing and repairs, etc. Rottne describes its F13C forwarder model as the “smoothest in the forest”. It has an articulated wagon, which increases the machine's steering angle from 43° to 54°, making this medium-sized forwarder a versatile, high capacity thinning forwarder. “The F13C is an all-round machine with high performance and high load capacity for those performing both thinning and final felling,” Rottne stated. “The forwarder has eight wheels and a load capacity of a full 13 t, a hydraulically-controlled front gate and front bunk and a heightadjustable gate that makes it more flexible for different timber lengths. [It] has a powerful chassis
The F13C is an all-round machine with high performance and high load capacity for those performing both thinning and final felling – Rottne
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 25
FORWARDERS
that can cope with the demands of final felling, but it is also ideal in light, dense thinning areas because of its unique wagon steering. Good service availability, and maintenance-free bearings in the wagon steering gives faster maintenance and shorter downtime, which reduces costs. A newly designed cab provides the operator with a high level of comfort and well-being.� Wagon steering is normally linked to the forwarder’s frame steering but can also be controlled separately with a joystick. This improves manoeuvrability, for example, when being reversed along a strip road. When frame steering and wagon steering are synchronised, the tractor vehicle and wagon follow identical paths to reduce the risk of damage. The Rottne F15C is suitable for thinning and final felling, which is well-suited to operations seeking good overall economy. It is an 8wheel forwarder with portal-type
bogies and the wagon is made with a tapered central frame to provide additional ground clearance under the articulated joint. The cab offers good visibility with large windows and low and modern instrument line. The power train has a higher-output engine and a new generation of hydrostatic components that provide increased tractive force and potential for higher speeds with heavy loads. The Rottne F18, with a load capacity of 18 t, is the largest forwarder in the range and has been designed for efficient transport over long forwarding distances. The portal bogies, with large wide wheels, provide excellent bearing capacity and smooth and gentle travel. The wagon is available in two frame lengths and the load area has a very low centre of gravity. An adjustable load area is available as an optional extra. The transmission is hydrostatic with
The Rottne F10B thinning forwarder two hydraulic motors in a 3-speed automatic gearbox that allows gear changing when fully loaded. The tractive force is 22 t. Across the forwarder range, a newly-developed cab features a modern design where the operator actually sits in the centre. The
large windows and low-set instrument panel provide an uninterrupted view of the immediate and overhead surroundings. The cab offers full standing height, is spacious and well insulated to ensure low noise levels. It is equipped with a
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 26
The versatile F13C is suitable for operations from thinning to final felling
The F18 is the largest forwarder in the Rottne range seen here in Canada number of storage compartments as well as a heated compartment for food containers. The ergonomically-designed lever panels feature all the functions used most frequently, which means that hauling work can be performed safely and smoothly. The air conditioner, with filters for both fresh air and re-circulated air, has a high fan capacity and 16 air inlet vents in
26 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
the lower part of the cab, as well as adjustable vents in the roof. The air-sprung operator’s seat is equipped with air-vent and infinitely adjustable armrests. As an option, the forwarder can also be equipped with the COMFORT LINE system. “This unique cab suspension system reduces shock and impact and makes driving in terrain significantly
smoother,� Rottne said. Also in all machines is the Rottne D5 machine control system, which is based on CAN bus technology and controls and monitors the engine, transmission and loader. A number of control units are located on the machine close to the functions to be controlled and communicate with the main computer.
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 27
Elmia 2013 – F15 as chipper platform
The articulated wagon available in some Rottne models
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 27
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 28
FORWARDERS
Settings, monitoring and troubleshooting are performed via the touch screen that is mounted on the armrest. Alarms are indicated by visual and audible signals and are displayed in clear text on the display. Following on from improved operator comfort and information systems comes Rottne’s commitment to communication systems, which it says are crucial for forestry operations to be “rational and productive”. “Information about daily production and timber positions will soon be a part of all operators’ everyday life,” the manufacturer stated. “The forwarder computer is an option that simplifies reporting and provides accurate follow-up. The forwarder computer consists of a computer and colour monitor with touch screen. This equipment enables information such as production files and maps with working routes to be automatically transferred from the harvester to the forwarder to ensure that all felled timber is collected. There is also a program for daily production with coordinates showing the position of roadside timber stacks as well as an operations follow-up program with times for loading, unloading and servicing.” Caterpillar told IFI that its design philosophy was to make machines that are structurally superior and by looking at the Cat 584HD, it is clear that this forwarder has done everything possible to live up to that mantra. “When we set the criteria for the design of the 584HD, first and foremost was the goal to uphold Caterpillar’s reputation of building structurally superior carriers,” Glenn Brown, Product Specialist for Caterpillar Forest Products said. “That meant a forwarder built for extended hours of usage, with a robust structure making it worthy of a rebuild when the time came to give it a second life. It’s not a throw away design.” Manufactured in North America, the 20 t capacity, 8-wheel drive forwarder is solid and stable. The rugged front and rear frame structures, heavy duty cast
The Cat 584HD is a heavy duty machine that aims to be the most structurally sound on the market
articulation and large oscillation bearings are built for long service life in demanding forest applications. High stress areas have been reinforced for more durability. The optional blade with wear resistant front cutting edge is purpose-built for clearing trails and pushing forest debris out of the way. “In addition to a robust machine and carrying capacity, the most important factors for productivity are a fast loader and tractive effort that can move large, heavy loads uphill, cycle after cycle,” Brown said. The crane is one of the fastest, strongest and
most reliable on the market. A field-proven hydrostatic propel system provides maximum power on grade through a wide engine RPM and ground speed range, resulting in infinitely variable speeds at peak power and dynamic braking on steep terrain. The forwarder is powered by the 147 kW (274 hp) Cat C7 engine with ACERT Technology providing fuel efficiency through high torque in the 1,400-1,600 rpm range. Fuel efficiency is enhanced by the oversized cooling fan, which has its own hydraulic pump that includes a speed control modulated by the forwarder control system. The fan
When we set the criteria for the design of the 584HD, first and foremost was the goal to uphold Caterpillar’s reputation of building structurally superior carriers – Caterpillar
Cab comfort and safety have been prioritised in the design of the Cat 584HD forwarder
28 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 29
FORWARDERS
requires less horsepower and cools more quickly, allowing loggers to haul bigger loads, faster. The variable-speed cooling fan also helps to maintain component life. “Our cooling system is much larger than what you’ll find in other forwarders. Our expertise with cooling systems comes from many years of experience designing hydrostat systems for wheel feller bunchers, where constant flow reversing comes into play in high heat conditions,” Brown explained. Besides the oversized cooling fan that turns more slowly, other “parasites” that can waste power needlessly were removed from the system to further increase fuel efficiency. For example, pumps are mounted inline as opposed to on a gearbox. And the large hydraulic pump doesn’t have to rotate as much as a smaller pump to keep oil flowing. The 584HD was built with operator safety in mind. “Safety is extremely important at Caterpillar and operators tell us they feel really safe in the 584 forwarder,” Brown said. Stability is one reason. The 584HD has a wider stance than many other forwarders, giving it better stability on steep hills. Research shows the majority of equipment-related injuries occur while entering and exiting cabs or from falling from machines. The hydraulic lift stairs and cab walkway platform of the 584HD provide best-in-class access to help prevent these injuries. “The operator does not have to climb onto the tires to access the cab and the steps are wide enough for work boots,” Brown said. The cab structure has been designed and ROPS (roll-over protective structures) certified for the entire weight of the machine, not just the front tractor section, resulting in a more robust cab. The comfortable, quiet cab features automatic temperature controls, low-effort ergonomic joystick controls and storage compartments. Side windows extend below seat level for ground visibility close to the cab. The cab is roomy enough for the operator to easily swing around in the seat
to run the loader. All major components and systems are accessible through the forward-tilting engine canopy and hydraulic tilt cab. The valve banks are located beneath the rear window where they’re easy to access. Canadian manufacturer Tigercat’s two forwarder models are powered by the Mercedes 906.
The 1055B is a heavy duty 14 t forwarder built to handle both selective and final felling applications. “Offering 228 hp, up to 10 m of crane reach, extendable bunk options and a choice of two wagon frames, the 1055B is an excellent all-around forwarder,” the company stated. The 1075B meanwhile is an extreme duty 20 t forwarder for
final felling applications, long distance forwarding and scarifying applications. “Offering 275 hp, wide spread bogies, an extendable bunk option and a choice of two wagon frame lengths, the 1075B excels as the largest, most productive, and lowest impact forwarder on the market.” The bogies on Tigercat forwarders are enhanced with
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 29
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 30
FORWARDERS
Tigercat forwarders are world class machines known largely for their durability and serviceability
Offering 228 hp, up to 10 m of crane reach, extendable bunk options and a choice of two wagon frames, the 1055B is an excellent all-around forwarder – Tigercat
thicker gear sets, thicker walking beam wall thickness (1075B) and stronger wheel mounting areas. The outboard planetaries allow for larger gears. The 1075B forwarder bogie has the largest differential (20 t) and gear train on the market, making it more durable than competing machines. Tigercat forwarders feature onthe-fly differential lock shifting that is easily engaged and disengaged. The extra-long centre to centre walking beam distance (1.89 m) greatly reduces ground pressures and outperforms
competitors in deep snow and soft terrain. The increased wheel stance allows the bogie to roll over bumps gradually, reducing abrupt movement in the cab and in turn improving ride comfort for the operator. The Tigercat centre joint is extremely durable. It is constructed with thick steel plate and the articulation and oscillation joints feature oversized, sealed, tapered roller bearings with large pins and sacrificial bushings all held together with reliable shim adjustment that is designed to stay tight for the life of the machine. The bearings are preloaded to prevent play. The unique centre section design does not require an oscillation lock, allowing the operator to reach out and pick up a load of logs while the machine is still in motion. The 1055B comes standard with an oscillation lock. Both models are equipped with a modern, well finished and spacious cab with extended windows for excellent visibility to the load area as well as the ground. The cab has reverse sloping windows on the front and rear to reduce the need for wipers in wet conditions. The cab tapers
30 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
out at knee height providing exceptional space for rotating the seat as well as providing site lines down the sides of the engine enclosure to the ground. The large window area provides an open feeling, reducing the perception of being confined machine cab for long periods. A quiet environment is important for better operator comfort and productivity. The forwarder cab is insulated and isolation mounted for reduced noise levels and vibration. Sound insulation is used under the cab, on the engine wall area, and the engine hood to reduce driveline and engine noise. All connections to the cab use bulkhead fittings to reduce noise transfer. The interior finish is impressive and exceptionally durable due to the use of high impact strength materials throughout. All windows are 12 mm thick polycarbonate with hard coating for scratch resistance. The B-series forwarders are equipped with an automatic variable speed reversing fan system that provides minimum necessary fan speeds to maintain optimal operating temperatures. This feature dramatically reduces fuel consumption when high fan speed is not necessary. The fan is
driven hydraulically with a manual ‘purge’ function that reverses the fan direction to clean debris from the heat exchanger area without exiting the cab or halting production. In cold conditions the fan runs at low RPM, allowing the machine to come to operating temperature quickly at start up. The generously sized heat exchangers contribute to lower fan speeds and allow the machine to work through a broader ambient temperature range with a given oil viscosity. The reversing feature of the fan contributes to keeping the heat exchangers clean, further reducing the need for high fan speeds. Tigercat forwarders are equipped with a large drive motor, allowing the motor to constantly work within its optimal efficiency range. This provides excellent drive performance characteristics and allows maximum engine HP transfer to the drive system for improved tractive effort. The manufacturer uses larger crane pumps to produce the required flow at lower engine RPM. This saves fuel and improves crane performance. All valves are centralised for quick and easy access in a single location at work bench height on the side of the
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 31
FORWARDERS
wagon frame. Tigercat forwarders have “unsurpassed” service access to all electrical, mechanical and hydraulic systems. Access to the engine, driveline and pumps is through the tilt-out hood enclosure and tilting cab. All the hydraulic valves and computer control modules are located in one compartment in the wagon frame. Easily accessed from ground level, hydraulic adjustments are
simple to perform. Electrical reliability is excellent due to short wire runs between the control modules and valves located immediately beside them. Further enhancing reliability, all electrical grounding is done through protected and sealed wires and connections that run from each component to the battery ground terminals. The Komatsu forwarder range
is part of a long Nordic forestry tradition and incorporates more than 50 years' experience. Komatsu forest machines are the second largest brand in the world, today. “High productivity, low operating costs, innovative technology, and a good operator environment are qualities that all our forwarders have to give to the user,” Ola Boström, Head of
The Komatsu 865 JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 31
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 32
FORWARDERS
We have taken the lead when it comes to developing efficient forwarders – Komatsu
The Komatsu 895 forwarder Marketing at Komatsu Forest, said. High load capacity and fast transport speed are key characteristics of any highly productive forwarder, as is a truly ergonomic operator environment – a large cab that enables operators to perform at their best throughout each shift. Profitability also rests on good fuel economy and high reliability. Demands for sustainable and effective forestry provide the foundation for Komatsu forwarders. During the last year, Komatsu
Forest has launched three new forwarders: Komatsu 895, Komatsu 865 and Komatsu 855. “We have taken the lead when it comes to developing efficient forwarders,” Boström said. Komatsu 895 is a forwarder that Boström says takes the definition of a 20 t forwarder to a whole new level. The entire construction is designed for heavy-duty usage and its performance is higher in just about every area. One example is the new chassis design and power train. The shape of the frame, the high-tensile steel of the underside of the rear frame,
32 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
and the bogie's portal design provide the best ground clearance in the industry and cope well with obstacles. The boat-shaped underside prevents the forwarder from catching on high rocks and stumps, allowing it to simply slide over them. The front blade can be raised extra high, contributing to the ability to pass obstacles. “The modular frame design enables the Komatsu 895 to be assembled with four different frame lengths to suit different market needs,” Boström said. The new power train with its high tractive effort is adapted for
20 t forwarders. The green E3 Power engine delivers high performance with good handling characteristics combined with effective combustion for low fuel consumption. The transmission system adapts to the load, slopes, and any obstacles. This means that the system automatically adjusts the traction and provides high torque at low engine speeds. The operator can adjust the continuously variable speed range for both high and low gear without stopping the machine. In order to better use the diesel engine's performance and to improve the new forwarder's handling in steep terrain, the transmission can further increase traction when the going gets tough and speed drops. This enables the forwarder to climb obstacles with considerable ease compared to machines with the previous generation of hydrostatic transmission systems. “The wheels on the Komatsu 895 are the new 28.5 inch (61.25 cm) type, which is larger than on any other forwarder on the market,” the company said. “The larger diameter reduces the risk of the rims spinning inside the tyres, which is important for transferring the high traction to the ground,” Boström explained. The Komatsu 895 also has a new crane that is reliable, and delivers higher lifting and slewing torque than its predecessor. It has a new, durable slewing motor with a highly reliable pillar solution. ProTec protected hose routing in the tip of the crane is fitted as standard.
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 33
FORWARDERS
The Komatsu 895 has a new bunk system with different configurations for handling timber of different densities and different size loads. The new bunk system is crowned by the FlexGate that flexes out the way when making contact with the crane, protecting both the gate and the crane. The Komatsu 895 is incredibly powerful – 28.7 tonf (255 kN) of tractive effort and 60.8 tonf-ft (165 kNm) of gross lifting torque for the crane make it a giant among comparable forwarders. The Komatsu 895 also has a new large cab, which is spacious in all directions. “Visibility and storage have been improved considerably, and no expense has been spared on the new cab's interior fittings and equipment. Among other things, it features a light and exclusive interior, the market's most ergonomic driver's seat, a new smart radio with Bluetooth and
handsfree functionality for cell phone connectivity, and new ergonomic hand controls, Komatsu Comfort Controls, with added functionality at the finger tips,” Boström said. The two new forwarders, Komatsu 855 and Komatsu 865, are ideal for everything from thinning to final felling. Komatsu 855 has a load capacity at 13 t and Komatsu 865 has a load capacity of 15 t. Both forwarders are equipped with the eco-friendly E3 Power engine that gives the machines their immense power. The engines in the forwarders do not just have a high performance and good working characteristics, but also unmatched combustion efficiency, which results in low fuel consumption. The engines in Komatsu 855 and Komatsu 865 also interact with a transmission system that adapts itself to the load, slope and obstacles. The hydrostatic
transmission system and diesel engine’s characteristics are optimised with each other to provide maximum traction. With really good tractive effort it is possible to increase the driving speed, even when the terrain is challenging. Komatsu 855 and Komatsu 865 also features the new cab, which is spacious in all directions and the visibility is good both sideways and upward, making crane operations easier and more relaxing. The operator environment is also quiet. The seat is ergonomically designed and specially developed for forest machines. Both Komatsu 855 and Komatsu 865 are equipped with the bogie solution, Komatsu Comfort Bogie that gives right mobility due to high ground clearance and stability. The brains of all Komatsu forwarders are found in the
control system MaxiXplorer 3.1, which is already found in Komatsu harvesters. MaxiXplorer 3.1 is a fully integrated machine control and reporting system that communicates with the operator in a user-friendly manner. This involves, for example, providing the operator with functions for controlling the engine, transmission, and crane, thereby maximising the new forwarders’ productivity. Ponsse has an “extensive forwarder” family for all loadbearing classes, according to the company. “Key factors that drive product development in the Ponsse forwarder range include power, comfort of use, environmental friendliness and the favourable ratio of net weight to load-carrying capacity,” the company said. The powerful engine and effective loaders make all eight
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 33
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 34
FORWARDERS
The Ponsse Buffalo Ponsse forwarder models some of the most productive on the market. Dimensions that deliver the load evenly across all wheels
The effectiveness, reliability and usability of Ponsse forwarders are based on development work according to users’ wishes – Ponsse
and the smallest turning radius of their size categories minimise the load of the forwarders on soil. At the same time, they
The Elephant-King (20 tonnes) is designed for the most challenging conditions 34 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
have sufficient power for challenging harvesting conditions and difficult terrain, such as steep slopes and deep snow. “The effectiveness, reliability and usability of Ponsse forwarders are based on development work according to users’ wishes,” the company said. “Due to its great tractive force and excellent cross-terrain performance, loads can be moved quickly and smoothly. The efficient Mercedes-Benz engine provides high tractive force and hydraulic power,
which results in lower fuel consumption, a lower noise level and more comfortable working conditions.” The machine frames endure heavy loads and are made with high-quality components to provide the machines with long service lives. The sturdy bogies and cylinder-powered frame locks of the larger machine models provide additional reliability also under extreme conditions. The machines offer a comfortable work environment thanks to the spacious cabin, ergonomic controls and excellent serviceability, and all machine models are designed for maximum ease of servicing. Ponsse’s forwarder family covers all size categories, starting from the 10 t Gazelle to the 20 t Elephant King, with a tractive force of 24 t that ensures efficient short-distance hauling, especially on slope sites and long transport distances. While the Elephant King is designed for extremely challenging conditions and heavy loads, the smaller forwarder
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 35
FORWARDERS
The Ponsse Elephant (18 tonnes) load volume as necessary in harvesting both industrial and energy wood, making it possible to better use the capacity of the machine. The same harvesting equipment can be used flexibly for harvesting both industrial and energy wood. Equipped with stump plates, raw wood along with fuel wood and stumps are effectively transported using the same machine. The Ponsse LoadOptimizer loader scale can be used for weighing forest energy and reporting. Eco Log’s latest forwarder concept ELGP (Eco Log Low Ground Pressure) solves one of the biggest challenges in forestry. The concept was demonstrated by Eco Log for the first time at Elmia models are excellent for fragile terrain. The Buffalo continues to be the most popular forwarder model. It is an effective machine in the 14 t load-bearing class for regeneration felling and thinning sites. Both 6 or 8-wheeler models are available. The Ponsse 10w is an effective and reliable solution for productive harvesting on soil with poor carrying capacity. The 10 wheel forwarder makes harvesting possible with normal equipment,
Wood 2013 and the company believes it will update attitudes with regard to modern forwarders. Increasing demands on productivity in the forest have so far resulted in bigger and heavier machines; resulting in high ground-pressure and subsequently increasing damage to the ground. Eco Log, with its concept ELGP, has solved one of forestry’s major challenges with regard to forwarding. The machine provides higher productivity than comparable forwarders and also lower ground pressure and less damage to the environment, the manufacturer claimed. “On a conventional forwarder without any load, most of the weight is above the front bogie
protecting the terrain and environment all year round. The simple solution is based on an additional pair of wheels and longer tracks that make the forwarder’s ground contact area very wide, and normal loads are carried effortlessly even in boggy stands. Ponsse’s forwarder range also includes solutions for harvesting forest energy. Mechanically or hydraulically expanding Ponsse VLA load spaces increases the
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 35
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 36
FORWARDERS
Eco Log’s latest forwarder concept ELGP (Eco Log Low Ground Pressure)
casing because the engine and crane are positioned at the front end,” Eco Log said. “The opposite applies with a full load. The rear bogie casing will be subjected to most of the weight and consequently the ground pressure
will be concentrated on one point. This increases driving damage in the forest. Eco Log’s ELGP has practically evened out the ground pressure – unloaded and loaded.” The two heavy components, i.e., engine and crane, are positioned
36 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
at opposite ends of the forwarder. The crane is fitted as far as possible forward of the front bogie casing. The engine is fitted as far as possible behind the rear bogie casing. Fuel, hydraulic reservoir and other technical items are positioned in front of the engine, underneath the load. The low centre of gravity and distribution of load give optimum conditions to achieve even ground pressure. Eco Log ELGP also has double load carriers, which is unique and in tune with other features of the machine. The rear load carrier can be moved hydraulically one metre lengthwise to optimise ground pressure and facilitate loading. The crane does not have to work at maximum extension and can take more timber in its grapple in each work cycle. The result is much faster loading. Double carriers also mean that much more timber can be transported with less impact on the environment. “The ground pressure using Eco
Log ELGP is 20% lower than for a comparable, fully loaded conventional 14 t forwarder,” the manufacturer said. “Eco Log ELGP can load an additional 6 t and the ground pressure will still be 20% lower than a conventional 14 t forwarder.” North American forestry specialist TimberPro manufactures two different sizes of 8-wheel forwarder machines that are differentiated by the size of the N.A.F. bogie axle with the smaller model having a 20 t capacity and
IFI_PG20_37_Forwarders_01 05/07/2013 06:19 Page 37
FORWARDERS
TimberPro machines are known for their ability to switch from cutting to forwarding applications
the larger one 24 t. These machines are available with either a feller buncher boom with a reach of 7.15 m or a forwarder boom with a reach of 7.8 m. The forwarder boom also has a squirt boom available that will stretch out an additional 2 m. Width can be 2.95 m or 3.2 m with either 700 or 750 tyres. The levelling option allows 22° of flexibility to the front. “The continuous swing and an ability to work directly over the front of the machine without obstructing visibility has made TimberPro forwarders the most versatile machine on the market, especially as a dual purpose machine,” the manufacturer claimed. “One man, in less than 10 minutes can change from a cutting attachment to a grapple or vice versa. “Doing either job, processing or forwarding, is not being compromised compared to the single purpose machine. It will be completely efficient in either capacity. The continuous swing also allows the operator to easily fix or mat heavily used skid trails and retrieve wood from difficult to reach areas.” Another rather important feature is that the hinge point or steering joint of the 8-wheel machine is equal between the front and rear frame. This means the rear wheels track perfectly with the front wheels, which is crucial when forwarding from a selective cut area. Maintenance is made easier with gullwing access to all major engine and hydraulic components, while all grease points have been
made easily accessible area whenever possible. Fuel consumption is low relative to machine capacity. Operator comfort is excellent with low sound level, AC heater, XM radio, and filtered pressurised cab and operator friendly IQAN controls. TimberPro has been building forwarders for over 15 years and over the years “quite accidently” developed a log yard application. Because the machine is heavy and stable enough to handle a boom with high lift capacity it is able to be used for sorting logs, loading
TimberPro forwarders are some of the largest in the industry at 20 t or 24 t capacity
Doing either job, processing or forwarding, is not being compromised compared to the single purpose machine – TimberPro
or unloading trucks, decking logs and feeding a saw mill in feed deck. “TimberPro has pretty much finalised the design of their machine to meet the tier IV emission standards,” the company said in conclusion. “The problem is that Cummins has not started producing a tier IV engine in the size required by TimberPro. When this engine is available, we shall start production of the new C model machine which will have both the tier IV and tier III engines available.” IFI
Smart lifting Crane manufacturer, Cranab, has been busy working on its Intelligent System (CIS) – a system comprising of built-in sensors for slewing, lifting, boom and telescopic functions. This makes the cranes safer and more efficient and can also mean a shorter learning process for new operators. The system meets the higher requirements of environmental consideration, productivity, safety and flexibility. The advantage of sensor technology is to constantly know where all the parts are, from the slew out to the crane tip. The system consists of noncontacting analogue or digital sensors, and is protected by being fully integrated in the crane. It is available on all cranes in the new FC series in both single and double telescopic versions.
A safer working environment Automating recurring movement patterns In its most advanced form, the sensor technology gives intelligent control of all the crane’s functions, so-called crane-tip control. Certain recurring movement patterns can be fully or partly automated to make things easier for the operator, creating a good working environment.
The sensor technology increases safety in the working environment, preventing collisions with, for example, the cab or poles in the cargo space. It also allows cylinder end-cushioning that reduce machine wear and contributes to a better working environment.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 37
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:20 Page 38
FORWARDERS – OPERATION FOCUS
Total control John Deere’s new Intelligent Boom Control is a milestone in forwarder technology: child’s play to use, accurate, timesaving and considerably reducing the stress of the boom components. Once the Intelligent Boom Control has been switched on, you’ll never want to switch it off again. By Kimmo Kiimalainen with photos from Erik-Jan Ouwerkerk
A
s a part of Swedish forest association, Södra Skogägarna Södra Avverkning has already experienced John Deere’s Intelligent Boom Control (IBC) on one site for several hundreds of hours. And the results are compelling: the ease of use has boosted productivity, it has gained nothing but positive feedback from the test phase operators, and there have been virtually no running problems. This is all good news for both Södra’s 51,000plus members and John Deere, as both are collaborating closely on future solutions in the changing and challenging Swedish forestry business environment. Södra recently took responsibility for hands-on educating of new generations of machine operators, while John Deere provides them with state-of-the-art solutions like the new IBC-equipped forwarders.
Finding the right spot Even though Södra is one of the biggest players in Swedish forestry business, there is no such thing as a typical Södra member. It includes young and old, men and women from estates large and small. But they all have one thing in common: the need to get a good price on the market for raw 38 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
forest materials. This has been a major driving force since the early beginnings of the association in the 1920s. Since the 1980s, Södra has been cooperating with John Deere. It is now running a total of six green machines at Södra Avverkning – two 1510Es, one 1010E and one 1910E forwarder plus 1170E and 1270E harvesters. The first operator to have hands on John Deere’s IBC-equipped 1510E was Södra’s Rickard Larsson. With more than 400 hours of experience working with the IBC, his verdict is clear. “The Intelligent Boom Control really is a very, very good feature indeed,” he said. “The boom feels stronger and it is much easier to find the right spot when grabbing the stems.” He has worked with other manufacturer’s machines, too, but considers the IBC-equipped John Deere 1510E as “The” forwarder. “There is nothing negative to say about this machine.”
Operator sets the limits According to John Deere’s Instructor Erik Östergren, responsible for Denmark and Sweden, the 1510E IBC was actually ordered by Södra mainly because of the IBC system. “IBC makes it much easier to learn boom handling
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:20 Page 39
Rickard Larsson says the IBC-equipped 1510E makes forwarding more relaxed in every situation: more accuracy when grabbing stems, more power when lifting and more comfort when driving
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:20 Page 40
FORWARDERS – OPERATION FOCUS
The people in the forestry business here work really hard. But the hard way isn’t always the most effective; even though hard work is considered very honourable here, we can help them with an easier way of operating
xx
and enables speedy work – even for beginners,” he said. “Now it is not the machine that sets the limits, but the operator.” Actually, there are not one but two IBC-equipped forwarders operational in Sweden – a 1210E is working for SkogsAhl and the 1510E is operational in Södra’s business. But because of the need for truly reliable feedback, they are located about 100 km away from each other. “This guarantees that we are able to gather independent data and information about the performance, usage and usability of the machines and the IBC boom. Neither operator is even aware of the other one doing the same kind of testing. But they have both asked why they didn’t get the IBC system earlier,” Östergren said.
them, they haven’t switched it off – it has been on the entire time. For the layperson, the IBC might not look like a big thing, as you can hardly see it from the outside. Only a very experienced eye can tell the difference in boom
Never switch it off Östergren said the IBC made forwarding more relaxed and easier for the operators at both testing sites. The most convincing fact has been seen in the operator’s behaviour: ever since the system was introduced to 40 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
movements. But when you get your hands on it, it is a completely new experience. “It feels strong and fast, as the IBC intelligently utilises the right combination of functions and power in every situation,” Östergren explained. He is especially proud of the Crane Tip Control known in Swedish as “kranspetsstyrning” – a feature many manufacturers tried to implement, but is in use in John Deere forwarders. As the IBC now makes forwarding easier, faster and more effective, it also requires a slight adjustment to the attitudes in Sweden. “The people in the forestry business here work really hard. But the hard way isn’t always the
most effective; even though hard work is considered very honourable here, we can help them with an easier way of operating,” Östergren said.
Listening to the customer For Södra Avverkning, the testing phase has shown the advantages of John Deere’s machines and services. According to Tobias Nilsson, Manager at Södra Avverkning, the cooperation is successful. “The cooperation works really great, as John Deere can provide us with all the service needed,” he said. “I know we pay for that, but it really is worth it.” Nilsson strongly emphasises the importance of communication between the partners as one of
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:20 Page 41
FORWARDERS – OPERATION FOCUS
The Intelligent Boom Control system uses the right combination of functions and power in every situation
the main factors in Södra’s decision making. “John Deere listens to what we say and responds to our enquiries. Our reason for choosing John Deere was the unique support that no other manufacturer can provide.” Listening to the customer is just what John Deere wants to do here. “Södra played a key role in numerous related projects and has proven to be a very cooperative and reliable partner,” Östergren said. “We appreciate especially the very direct and honest feedback we get from Södra.”
Responsible for the future According to Nilsson, not even the best technology can provide the foundation for Södra’s future success if the human resources are not taken care of. That’s why the association is taking the responsibility for educating future forest machine operators, too. To achieve this, Södra maintains cooperation with the nearby Naturbruksgymnasiet Osby and Naturbruksgymnasiet Ryssby forestry schools, providing students access to the newest
technology and real working environments. “There was a lengthy discussion in the newspapers claiming no one really was responsible for educating the new operator generation,” Nilsson explained. “Håkan Svensson, Director of Forestry at Södra, then grabbed the initiative and kicked the cooperation into gear.” For students, this means a period of one or two weeks of guided working with professionals at Södra’s sites. For students and Södra’s contractors alike, this
We appreciate especially the very direct and honest feedback we get from Södra.
move provides true advantages. “It is rather expensive to train new operators. Now Södra Avverkning – instead of the contractors – takes the responsibility for it and pays some of the training costs,” Nilsson said. On the other hand, the guided
working period gives the student very important skills and knowledge needed in real working life.
Give the IBC a try According to Östergren, calculations and explanations can shed light on the advantages of
Working with customers According to Contractor Marko Hakamäki, the best thing about the IBC system is that it controls the boom as a whole and the operator doesn’t have to think about each individual movement separately. “The boom functions smoothly as a complete entity without jerking, since the pump supply is automatically divided among the different movements,” he said. “For example, driving and loading simultaneously is easier when you don’t have to put as much focus on controlling the boom.” As one of the test users, Hakamäki has been actively refining and developing the system since last autumn. When asked how he thinks the work has gone, his response was: “Very well. All the issues that emerged were fixed during the winter.” Marko Hakamäki is with Markon Metsäkone Oy,
from Finland. He has actively participated in developing the system. The IBC system has been in use in his 1210 forwarder since September 2012, and has now logged over 1,500 operating hours. According to Operator Keijo Räsänen from the Finnish PMT Mäkelä Oy, the IBC system showed how the extension should actually be used. “The system is great at dividing the pump flow among different movements. Additionally, controlling the boom feels easy and productive. It is very good.” Keijo Räsänen is with PMT Mäkelä Oy, also from Finland. Has worked as an operator and operated a John Deere Forestry test machine for a few hundred hours during the development phase.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 41
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:21 Page 42
FORWARDERS – OPERATION FOCUS the IBC. TimberLink data can help in this, too. But just looking at the numbers requires a lot of expertise with costs, productivity and the overall performance of a machine. An exceptionally low fuel consumption of a certain machine, for example, is worth nothing if the productivity of the unit is exceptionally low, too. It is all too easy to get confused when comparing litres/h, litres/m3 and litres/t. “I hear arguments saying ‘my new machine needs 2 litres/h more than my old one did, there must be something wrong’ – with no consideration at all to how
much more timber has been forwarded with the new machine,” Östergren said. “What can you do here? “I tend to say let your machine idle over the weekend and then we have solved the litres/hour issue,” he laughed. If numbers are that difficult, the only way to know all the advantages of the IBC system – like end damping in boom up, jib in and out, extension in and out movements – is with hands-on experience. The best way to be convinced about the IBC is to give it a try IFI
42 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
IFI_PG38_42_JD OP focus_HR 05/07/2013 06:21 Page 43
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 44
An industry inspired International Forest Industries was on hand at Elmia Wood in Sweden last month for one of the largest unveilings of new technology in the industry’s history. We’ve gathered a selection of the most pressing news
M
aybe it was the weather or maybe it was an improving macroeconomic environment, but something definitely got into delegates and exhibitioners at this year’s Elmia Wood show in Sweden. Almost 55,000 people turned up across the four days of the exhibition including a record 18,400 visitors on day three. But according to several leading companies, it wasn’t just the numbers through the turnstiles that made Elmia Wood 2013 the most important international forestry fair in many years. “This was the vitamin injection the whole industry needed,” John Deere Information Manager Dieter Reinisch said. He praised Elmia for a well-organised fair with more foreign visitors than before. 44 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
“Our impression is that half of the people who came to our stand were from countries other than Sweden. This year’s Elmia Wood was also proof that forest professionals have a pentup need to update their machinery. So far the economic situation is preventing that but when that improves the sales will come.” His view was shared by Roland Lundqvist, his Komatsu Forest counterpart. Lundqvist has exhibited at Elmia’s forestry fairs since the mid1970s. He sees a trend that the fairs are increasing in importance and also that customers have different expectations than before. “Ten or 15 years ago foreign visitors came and were amazed at the advanced technology. Now the cut-to-length method is so widespread that it’s more important for them to meet the
company behind the fancy website,” Lundqvist said, adding that Elmia Wood has once again shown itself to be the world’s most important forestry fair. His comments were echoed by another company with a long history with Elmia Wood, Haglöf. “It’s been really great every day. Elmia is our most important exhibiting event and this year the interest has been even greater than all the previous times we’ve been here,” CEO Stefan Haglöf said. One of the exhibitors was Hans-Åke Elofsson, a true veteran exhibitor. His first Elmia was in 1971, when he was invited to lunch with Sweden’s then Crown Prince, now King Carl XVI Gustaf. This year Elofsson returned as an
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 45
ELMIA REVIEW – PART ONE
Almost 55,000 people attended Elmia Wood 2013 across four days of exhibition exhibitor through his involvement with Malwa, a manufacturer of small machinery. He was at the fair for two days and walked around the whole site. He gave his assessment of the event: “This one might well be the best forestry fair at Elmia ever. I’ve never before been to a fair with so many innovations. Elmia really succeeded with its innovation theme.” Elmia Wood’s business area manager, Torbjörn Johnsen, was satisfied with the result. “We regard it as a challenge to become even better at future fairs,” he said. The next forestry fair for the Nordic region will be SkogsElmia from June 4-6, 2015. Elmia Wood will return on June 7-10, 2017.
Show stopper John Deere pulled out all the stops for Elmia Wood 2013 and it paid dividends with the manufacturer pulling in the award for Best Innovation from the show organiser for its Intuitive Boom Tip Control (IBC) for forwarders. The IBC stole the show and features heavily in IFI’s Forwarder review (pp. 20) along with other advances in its forwarder range, but it was not the only development John Deere was crowing about in Sweden. 1270E 8-wheel harvester The company presented an 8-wheel version of its established 1270E harvester. The 8-wheel option is especially designed for steep slope and soft soil conditions and offers more power,
higher ground clearance and strong Duraxle bogie axles with customised balancing gear units for excellent climbing ability and traction. Outstanding stability and large approach angle enable the best possible performance in demanding terrain conditions. The agile and powerful John Deere 1070E and 1170E IT4 harvesters are equipped with bigger work pumps for more power and torque in comparison to the corresponding Tier-3 models. The 1170E IT4 harvester is equipped with a 175 cm pump and the 1070E IT4 harvester has a larger 160 cm pump for increased oil flow which enables efficient use of the new Processing Power Control (PPC) feature (see next page). Both of these new models are powered by John Deere 6068 PowerTech Plus JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 45
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 46
ELMIA REVIEW
series turbo-charged 6-cylinder 6.8 litre engines. In terms of durability, precision handling and speedy processing, John Deere harvester booms and harvester heads are well known. For even faster and more productive pulp and energy-wood harvesting, harvester heads can be optionally equipped with multitree handling (MTH) devices. Processing Power Control Processing Power Control (PPC) is another innovation by John Deere. PPC comes as standard in all new harvesters and enhances the productivity and fuel economy with three different power levels for different logging conditions. The PPC levels range from an energy saving mode to a boost mode. In the energy saving mode, machine performance is optimised with regard to maximum fuel economy. The middle level optimises machine performance for operating at its nominal timber size. The boost mode provides full power performance for harvesting exceptionally large and heavy timber. PPC provides optimised fuel economy and maximum productivity for varying logging conditions. It offers “unwavering processing power” for all situations but also economically reasonable downshifting options for nominal tree size and thinning tasks.
The 8-wheel version of John Deere’s 1270E harvester was on display at Elmia Depending on market specific requirements, the engines are adjusted to meet EPA Tier3 and EPA Interim Tier 4 emission standards.” After-sales solutions now feature longer maintenance intervals John Deere is strongly responding to the customers’ request to cut down the operating costs of their
The IT4 engine
IT4 emission solution with the proven PowerTech Plus engines John Deere engines provide the right technology and are simple to operate and maintain while delivering power, fuel efficiency, reliability and a low cost of ownership. The IT4 engine meets the EPA Interim Tier/EU Stage IIIB emission regulations without DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid), based on proven EGR and added exhaust filter. “To put it simply, the IT4 engine provides more power and torque, and less emission,” Deere stated. “On top of this, you will benefit from numerous other features, such as reduced daily maintenance efforts and costs, better engine power, responsiveness and cooling. 46 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
machines. “We are introducing extended maintenance intervals for the new E-series IT4 models,” the company said. “Instead of the previous standard of 500, 1,000 and 2,000 hour maintenance intervals, we now offer the longest maintenance intervals in forest machine industry: 750, 1,500 and 3,000 hours.” The extended intervals are made possible by the filter and
fluids development as well as the product design. Longer maintenance intervals will be available for the customers who are using John Deere Fluids and Lubricants, John Deere Genuine Filters and the John Deere Fluid sampling program. With the extended maintenance intervals, the John Deere customers can achieve a 25% maintenance cost reduction and gain 30% more uptime, thanks to fewer maintenance interruptions to the logging work as well as lower maintenance related transportation costs. John Deere has also expanded the TimberCare service product offering to meet the E-series IT4 machine requirements. Tuning Day, Operator coaching and TimberLink Machine Performance and TimberLink Operator Performance reports have been modified to better serve the Eseries IT4 machine owners. A variety of new Performance Plus consumable products are also available to meet customer demands at “attractive prices”.
Scorpion harvester has plenty of sting The recently released Scorpion harvester unveiled at Elmia is the latest member in the Ponsse product range and will available from the start of next year. “Incredible visibility and steering, unbeatable stability, power and productivity” describe the new model, according to the manufacturer, while also considering the environment through minimum surface pressure. The Scorpion raises the productivity and ergonomics delivered through the Ponsse range and “sets a new standard for the driver’s working environment” for the industry. The service points have been repositioned to keep costefficiency low and convenience high, while the new 4F engine and improved hydraulics have enabled increased service intervals from 600/1,200 hours to 900/1,800 hours. The Scorpion is a generalpurpose harvester with a powerful and eco-friendly Euromot 4F-level
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 47
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 48
ELMIA REVIEW
• Unique three frame structure – the best possible cabin levelling • Low axis point of levelling – minimised sideways movement of the driver and crane.
The Scorpion from the inside looking out 6-cylinder Mercedes-Benz engine, and a large 210 cm3 working pump. For those who need maximum power, the ScorpionKing offers the same ergonomics with two-circuit hydraulics. The machine’s stability, the driver’s visibility, and cabin and crane levelling have been built without any compromises: • Excellent visibility to all directions, in all conditions • Levelling of the cabin and crane • Stability of the machine • Smooth and logical crane control • Long-term comfort and ergonomics. Excellent visibility to all directions, in all conditions • Fully symmetric crane and cabin
on a single slewing ring for good visibility to the harvester head, also at denser thinning sites • Ponsse C50 double arm lifting boom reaches over the operator – the best possible visibility to all directions: front, both sides, rear and up • Visibility does not limit harvesting: selection of felled trees, felling directions and pile locations can all be selected on terms of efficiency and quality • Large windows with narrow pillars, including a roof window.
as possible because of the tripleframe structure so that the cabin and crane not only remain levelled, but also the sideways movement is minimised. This adds to the comfort of the driver, and always keeps the balance point of the crane and cabin at the machine’s centre line, improving stability.
Stability of the machine • An intelligent stabilising system follows the position and load of the crane • Stabilising cylinders press the rear frame and wheels down towards the crane direction, giving support to the machine while working on its sides • Stabilising works also when driving, allowing the driver to work when the machine is moving • A safety logic stops driving if the system recognises that stabilising can no longer keep the machine upright. Smooth and logical crane control The Ponsse C50 crane with its smooth controls and logical movements is easy to adapt. As it has been built with the hydraulic parallel function familiar from the
Levelling of the cabin and crane The Scorpion claims to have significantly better levelling than competing solutions. The axis point of lateral levelling is as low
Visitors at Elmia were literally climbing all over the Ponsse Scorpion harvester The Scorpion harvester is the latest in the Ponsse range 48 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 08/07/2013 17:00 Page 49
ELMIA REVIEW
The Komatsu forestry range has improved ergonomics
The Komatsu C144 harvester head C22 and C44 models, it has a light and simple structure and is economical to use. The double arm lifting boom of the C50 is fully symmetrical regarding visibility, manoeuvrability and the lateral point of gravity so that felling and processing are equally easy on both sides of the machine, and stability is excellent in all positions. The parallel function of the C50 crane is implemented with a multichamber cylinder which pumps oil to lifting cylinders according to the extension boom movement direction. As a result, the structure is even simpler and stronger. Reach Ponsse H5 or Ponsse H6: Ponsse H7: Lifting moment, gross
11 m 10 m 252 kNm
cause tiredness for the driver, both comfort and productivity can be raised to a whole new level,” the manufacturer stated. Euromot 4F-level Mercedes-Benz engine The Scorpion is powered by a 6cylinder 210 kW Mercedes-Benz engine that meets the upcoming emission regulations for off-road use. The engine is equipped with an SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment system and cooled EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system that significantly lower NOx and particulate emissions. Benefits of the new technology include a better response to sudden needs of power and better fuel economy, along with a cleaner environment.
280°
New models, more comfort and better serviceability from Komatsu
Long-term comfort and ergonomics As customer feedback has proven, the Scorpion offers undisputed smoothness during operation. “By removing all major factors that distract the flow of the work or
A new forwarder, harvesting heads, a strong focus on ergonomics and improved preventative service and maintenance were on the menu for anyone visiting the Komatsu stand at Elmia this year. Never shy in putting its best foot forward,
Slewing moment, gross Slewing angle
57 kNm
Komatsu matched the overall mood of the show with several breathtaking machine demonstrations each day, which left audiences in awe. Anyone within 100 m of the Komatsu stand could not have failed to be impressed by the demonstration of a complete range of forestry machines from one of the industry’s leading and longest standing suppliers. The only complaint some may have had was the use of an explosive fire cannon during the show, which removed the eyebrows of anyone in the first three rows. New products on show included the 845 forwarder, which is described as a “small, gentle, but tough” machine designed to meet the challenges faced by smaller forwarders. Three new harvesting heads were premiered, starting with the C93, which is designed to face the challenge of thinning forests and is based on wellproven technology that has resulted in high reliability and effective production. The Komatsu C144 is designed to handle the most demanding harvesting of large trees, where the need for a powerful feed is great and
measurement accuracy must be world class, while the S92 is a reliable all-round harvesting head with a low weight and strong traction. And on the software front, MaxiXplorer 3.1 was unveiled as the group’s new software suite for forwarders and harvesters. The suite features new functions that provide “major added value in terms of productivity, fuel economy, crosscutting, and reporting”. Also on the improve was the overall work environment within Komatsu’s forestry range, which the company described as a “decisive factor in optimising forest machine productivity”. “As such, Komatsu Forest intends to lead the way and takes ergonomics very seriously,” the company said. One example of this is the unique Komatsu Comfort Ride cab suspension that was presented at Elmia Wood, where operators had the opportunity to test drive a forwarder fitted with the new system. The new forwarder cab was also on display. The new cab is more spacious, offers better visibility, and is quieter. “Quite simply, [it’s] a world-class cab
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 49
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 50
ELMIA REVIEW
The aftermath of Komatsu’s fire cannon during its demonstration
environment.” Service and maintenance, training, and planning are other important parts of the puzzle to make a forest contractor's business profitable and these were not ignored by Komatsu. ProAct 2.0 is a completely new concept for service and support to proactively increase profitability. ProAct 2.0 has four important components – inspection, maintenance, training, and followups – and was premiered at Elmia. Komatsu Forest's three new simulators for harvesters, forwarders, and forestry excavators were also on display, showing off a clear focus on operating technique and work planning, while visitors were also able to take a closer look at the new MaxiFleet system, which can easily follow machines almost in real time. “Machine service and maintenance work is considerably simplified as all information can be used for preventative and planned service and maintenance.”
foot pedals or four levers and two foot pedals. The servo control reduces the expenditure of operator energy, as control is exercised without links. Operation of the crane is characterised by extremely accurate reaction to operator instruction. One of the more interesting
developments from Epsilon has been the development of more suitable physical controls. The result is a wide variety of electrohydraulic joysticks: mini joysticks with three proportional functions, mini joysticks with three proportional and additional functions, large joysticks with
New link program for protected hose routing
Epscab sets new standard for cabin comfort and operability Epsilon’s Epscab is the only cabin available with an air-suspended seat, which when added to the seat heating function sets an unprecedented standard. Cabins can also now be ordered with a hydraulic servo control, instead of the conventional manual control – machine control used to be provided by two joysticks and two
additional functions and joysticks with trigger for the third proportional function. Maintenance has been improved and comfort is also better with air conditioning. All cabins are available with LED lights with 2,600 Lumens each. Even the paintwork is of an industry-leading standard, painted in a three-stage system comprising KTL prime coat, powder coating and white top painting of the whole cabin with exception of the door, which is being painted in black. The latest cabs will commercially available September/October.
The Epscab solution from Epsilon on show
50 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
The new patent pending Y-link enables protected hose routing and is considered to be a new standard for the whole business, according to manufacturer, Indexator. The new links have multiple benefits, according to the company. “It is now possible to have external hose routing on the crane,” Indexator stated. “It is also a cost effective solution, where the links are offered in different price ranges and with different technical solutions. Indexator already find that the new Y-link, together with their market leading swingdamper system MPB, is the most demanded solution.” Sales and Marketing Manager Erik Svensson said that the new Ylinks were already a success before Elmia, with a number of customers showing them on off on their machines during Elmia. “It is a totally new solution compatible with our standard rotators which pleases our customers very much,” he said.
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 51
ELMIA REVIEW Indexator Rotator Systems can also offer a scale with the new link solution. “We already have customers ordering the new Y-link with scales,” Svensson said.
SP Maskiner launches heavy duty head with light touch Two years after the launch of the SP 751 LF, Swedish head manufacturer SP Maskiner brought the new and improved SP 761 LF to Elmia. With a stronger frame, more efficient hydraulics and improved component protection, an excellent head has become even better. “The SP 761 LF is truly an impressive harvester head,” Timberpro Europe distributor Erich Hütsch said. “The awesome power in combination with the LF principle really makes it a productive and easy to work with harvester head.”
Haglöf delivers light weight, versatile calliper at Elmia Haglöf Sweden presented its new computer calliper model at Elmia this year. The DP II calliper is a light weight and versatile calliper especially developed for timber measuring and log scaling. The jaws are designed for easy placing in narrow spaces such as timber stacks, and the powerful computer
terminal can be placed on the operator’s wrist as a bracelet. The operator can work with the calliper SmartScale equipped with a remote enter button as a standalone unit, sending diameter data wireless to the terminal for storage and processing in the terminal. “This work mode will simplify measuring where vegetation and branches are thick and where logs are stacked in piles,” the manufacturer stated. The DP II SmartScale can also communicate with other handheld computers by using the DP232 accessory. Serial data is sent from the SmartScale to the handheld with parameters Baud 1200, 8, N, 1. The format is compatible with the Haglöf Mantax Digitech digital calliper, where the first digit refers to tree species (1...8) and the following digits refer to tree diameter (0...999 mm). The DP232 is synchronised with the SmartScale and the DP remote enter button, and once the radio button is synchronised with the DP 232, this enables registering of tree species by pressing the button ‘x’ numbers of times (1 press = tree species 1; 2 presses = tree species 2; 1 short press + 1 long press = tree species 5, etc). Joakim Nygren, Chief Developer and Technician at Haglöf Sweden, claims that the DP II is the best
Products displayed at the Indexator stand
The SP Maskiner 761 LF head on display at Elmia computer caliper Haglöf have made so far. “The DP II will work for any type of measuring with its
low weight and rugged but functional design,” he said. “We know that the market needs smooth solutions for logs and timber, and this is our response. “Even if we made the DP II with log scaling in our mind, we have tried it with great results for inventory of standing trees as well. Since it is so light – the terminal weighs less than 140 g, and a complete DP II caliper with scale and terminal is just under 900 g – and so easy to use, we hope it will attract also those foresters that still believe that computer callipers are difficult to operate.” The DP II is compatible with the unique accessories the Digitech Tape, the Gator Eyes, the Digitech Keyboard, the brand new DP DME for distance measuring. Haglöf’s readymade software applications will need only small adjustments for use in the DP II. “The difference with the DP II is the design and the prestanda. We have made a caliper with great capacity and that actually feels as
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 51
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 52
ELMIA REVIEW light and easy to use as a manual precision calliper,” Nygren continued. The DP II has built-in rechargable batteries and a sealed measuring system with many different graduation and length options from 500 mm (18 in) to 1.020 mm or (40 in). It will work temperatures from -20°C to 60°C. Great communication possibilities with smooth contact surfaces to protect from dirt and moist and a display that has been especially developed to withstand extra tough conditions are some of the incorporated features in the DP II, that are made to make life easier for every timber cruiser. “We have gone through some efforts to present not only the latest and lightest computer calliper on the market, but also the fastest and best adapted unit,” Nygren said. “The DP II has great communication capacities and can be customised and accessorised. I think we’ve learnt one or two things for these two decades of computer calliper development and programming.” The DP II callipers will be ready for full production in September.
One head, multiple purposes The Lako 2-series heads presented at Elmia are designed for complete versatility. The new product family is intended to offer a comprehensive range of harvesting heads for the traditional range of operations – from the first thinning and energy wood cutting, to final felling – but in a modern way.
The Tigercat 610C Mountain skidder on show at Elmia with dual winch especially for the European market The structure of the new harvesting head series is modular, which means that optional features can be added afterwards. Length measurement is centred on the feed rollers and diameter measuring is controlled by encoders in cylinders. An optional measuring wheel is available, as is the third feeder motor, twin aggregate concept. The wide-ranging, asymmetric feeding geometry combines the benefits from 2, 3 and 4-wheeled harvester heads and is also suited for handling and hardwood debarking of multiple trees. The heads use different feeding rollers for different applications, which include hardwood debarking, and benefit from an advanced, energyefficient hydraulic system. Brush cutting and clearing is achieved with the harvester saw bar made possible by a “special saw design”. A Powerboost 19 ccm saw motor is a central component of the head with a 3⁄4" saw and guillotine blade cutting optional.
Tigercat brings leading skidder to Elmia
Turkka Lastunen explains the Lako 2-series head to visitors at the Lako stand at Elmia, including Editor Chris Cann and Publisher David Lansdowne 52 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
Tigercat toured IFI around a leading product from its line of hydrostatic skidders at Elmia. The Tigercat 610 model fits into a skidder market segment that has the highest unit sales and very stiff competition from entrenched market players, the company
stated. “Tigercat decided to enter this market because it was thought that improvements could be made over the existing product offering,” the manufacturer explained. To that end, Tigercat has designed a “technically and structurally superior” machine. The 610 uses the same electronichydrostatic drive control system found on all other Tigercat skidders. With automatic variable speed engine RPM, the system is extremely fuel efficient and makes the operator's job easier as there is no throttle control or gear
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 53
ELMIA REVIEW
shifting necessary when operating the machine. The engine house is well laid out for easy access to engine components and service points, while the tilting cab accesses the hydraulic and drive line components. The 610 is available with a single or dual function arch and continuous rotation grapple. The operator's station is spacious and well finished. The seat and all controls are rotated 400 to the right for reduced neck strain. Visibility to the rear tyres and the load is excellent making the machine ideal in tight selective cut or plantation thinning applications. “Structurally the 610 has no equal,” Tigercat said. “The machine is hinged with Tigercat's signature centre section, which is constructed with thick steel plate, large pins and tapered roller bearings.” The 610 skidder is ideal for selective cut and final fell applications where a smaller, quicker, agile machine is required. The 610 is also available in the C series class with greater HP and upgraded wheel base for “classleading payload capacity”. The engine has been upgraded to a Cummins QSB6.7 delivering 142 kW (190 hp) at 2,200 rpm. The frame has been lengthened by 100 mm (4 in) to improve weight distribution and take better advantage of the new 1.21 m2 (13 ft 2 in) Tigercat dual cylinder grapple and the pulling power made possible by Tigercat's revolutionary hydrostatic drive system.
Logset enjoys heavy footfall at Elmia Finnish manufacturer of logging equipment, Logset, enjoyed a huge crush of people at its stand during Elmia, mainly to check out the GT range, with a few stopping in purely to discuss the product range with the promotional staff
A Rotochopper B66 on show at Elmia hired specially for the occasion. During the fair, Logset presented its new dealer network in Sweden and Germany. Logset sales and service in Sweden is taken care of by Lögenäs Maskin, D. Olssons Maskin, JC Teknik and Gustafs Maskiner. On the German market, MHD – Forsttechnik Müller-Habbel, is in charge of sales and service. The Elmia exhibition started with success for the Logset team with three machines sold on the very first day by the Swedish dealer D. Olssons Maskin. Logset is convinced that the new dealers together with the old dealers form a professional network worldwide can take care of Logset customers in their own country in the “best possible way”. The new GT range was on display at the Logset stand. The latest model in the GT range is the new Logset 5F GT, which was launched during the show. It is a compact 12 t forwarder that combines the best features of a small machine for thinnings with the capacity for final felling. The 6F GT was also on display at the stand. It is a 14 t forwarder, with a 6-cylinder engine with SCR technology and 150 kW. The machine at the show was also equipped with an expandable load bay for increased loading capacity and the Mesera 91 crane with protected and integrated hoses for the telescope.
Tier IV engines provide grinding market confusion, opportunities The premium wood fibre market continues to grow, bringing new opportunities and new challenges. One of the challenges but also an opportunity is the graduation to Tier 4 engines and what it means for grinding equipment owners. “The transition to Tier 4 / Stage 4 exhaust aftertreatment systems marks a noticeable change in regulations and engine maintenance,” North American grinding and sizing equipment manufacturer, Rotochopper states. “The impact of this change on heavy equipment owners also highlights many of the advantages we offer through our focus on customer needs and fibre market demands.” Specifically, the transition to Tier 4 engines is causing grinding equipment owners to place a greater emphasis on simplified maintenance, a central goal in the design of both diesel and electric Rotochopper grinders. Over the last few years, engine manufacturers like Caterpillar, Cummins, and Scania have poured enormous resources into developing Tier 4 solutions that are as reliable and user-friendly as possible. Rotochopper has worked closely with its OEM representatives to ensure that it is using Tier 4 engines to their optimal potential. “Yet there’s no escaping the simple fact that Tier
4 engines are more complex to maintain and more expensive to own,” the company admitted, which is why it will supply Tier 3 engines for 2013 and is helping to prepare its customers for the supply of Tier 4 grinding equipment. “We’ve been able to remain under Tier 3 ‘flex’ guidelines longer than most equipment manufacturers because we are focused exclusively on equipment that turns your raw resources into profitable end products,” Rotochopper said. “We manufacturer an extensive line-up of grinding equipment and one portable bagger – that's it. Almost half of our product line is electricpowered. Using lower engine volumes has allowed us to stay within Tier 3 flex guidelines until 2014.” Long before Tier 4, when diesel averaged less than $1.25/gallon across the USA, Rotochopper began manufacturing one of the industry’s most comprehensive line-ups of electric-powered grinders. For companies concerned about the complexity and maintenance costs of diesel engines, Rotochopper electric grinders offer an efficient and simple solution that maintains uptime expectations without the complexity of Tier 4 compliance. “If you have access to a 3-phase power supply and no need for frequent mobility, nothing simplifies your grinding operation
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 53
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 54
ELMIA REVIEW
self-tensioning standard cutting chain fitted to a circular saw disc. The Bracke C16.b is versatile and easily manoeuvred in dense forest stands. The saw box exterior has a smooth shape with rounded corners on the front to minimise the risk of damaging the remaining trees. The cutting area has a flat surface that provides increased capacity. The open saw box allows quick and easy maintenance. The head also uses the same hydraulic cylinder for accumulation and grappling, which means fewer spare parts. The Bracke C16.b is now also equipped with a junction box as standard. Bracke Forest is introducing a service and performance tracking program for the Bracke C16.b. The program simplifies servicing and measures, for example, the number of accumulations and The Bracke C16.b head like a stationary or semi-portable Rotochopper electric grinder.”
Versatility key for Bracke head The Bracke C16.b was presented to crowds at Elmia as an efficient head for both silviculture and biomass applications. The head has a unique cutting solution, high capacity and an open saw box for easy maintenance. It also introduces software for service and performance tracking as an option, allowing service personnel to remotely carry out trouble shooting operations. “The Bracke C16.b combines highly efficient clearing with the
ability to make use of valuable assortments such as biomass,” the company said. “This makes it a head suited to all types of mechanised logging, such as plantation cleaning, corridor clearing, pre-commercial thinning, thinning in problem stands and clearing along roadsides and power lines. The Bracke C16.b can be installed on harvesters and other machines equipped with a crane. The head has efficient grapple arms that make it possible to easily gather and stack valuable assortments. The C16.b has a patented cutting solution that results in extremely quick cuts. The cutting solution comprises a
C16.b Specifications Prime mover Harvesters and other prime movers equipped with a crane Weight
570 kg
Saw disc diameter
795 mm
Cutting capacity
Up to 260 mm
Cutting chain
chain
Hydraulic requirements Pressure
170 bar
Flow
100 litres/minute
Control system Accessories
PLC-based GPS system: FC-GIS, Service and performance tracking programs
54 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
The Log Max heads lined up at Elmia
bundles. The program also provides the operator with information about the head's functions. Adjustment of parameters and trouble shooting in the electrical system can be carried out remotely via service personnel connecting directly to the software in the Bracke C16.b. The program assumes a PC with an operating system of Windows XP or later, and an Internet connection. The program saves the contractor both time and money.
Log Max in complete control Jesper Lofgren, in charge of market support at head manufacturer Log Max, took time out of his busy day at Elmia to talk IFI through the latest control system for Log Max heads. The new rugged and compact
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 55
ELMIA REVIEW
Log Mate 500 is built from high quality components and is described as a “state-of-the-art control system” that is “ready to meet the future of logging”. By developing a highly advanced control system especially for Log Max heads, Log Mate 500 becomes the perfect match for getting the most out of all Log Max products and accessories. Running features such as Active Friction Control and Four Point Measuring natively on Log Mate or having the ability to test and control all I/O are crucial features for Log Mate 500. The use of rugged hardware ensures the Log Mate 500 will withstand the rough outdoor environment. The computer is IP65 standard compliant and has a Solid State Drive eliminating moving parts. New communication modules are all built according to the tough IP standards. Log Mate 500 works together with the new StanForD 2010 forest standards. One module is mounted on the head, two in the cabin to transfer and receive data and power to the harvesting head. They all feature standard M12 and Deutsch contacts. All communications are made over a two channel CANbus system. As the computer is Windowsbased it allows the operator to install programs for example GPS and internet connection. It’s also therefore easy to administrate and update/upgrade the Log Mate 500 system. Powerful production reporting consists of: the market's most powerful multi-stemming reports; production per operator; monitoring and optimisation of the machine's performance; average stem volume; StanForD 2010 standard; online support; and four robust components.
The companies had each had a minority position in relation to major international producers, with costs remaining relatively high to develop and produce a range of products that would be able to meet the demands in the market for each company alone. “By combining the parties' product lines, we cover the [production] of thinning-toharvesting machinery [and] will also be able to leverage the resources of the respective companies significantly better,” Gremo said. Cooperation means that the companies will market and sell this combination in different countries under their own brand, starting with their home countries Sweden and Denmark. Gremo is responsible for the sales and marketing in German,
Suisse and Austrian markets, while Silvatec is responsible for the French market. Spare parts and service will be handled the same way. “We believe that this cooperation will bring benefits to [both] firms [and our] our customers, [while] we [improve out ability] to meet the market requirements.”
Peterson beats the drum Leading chipper and grinder manufacturer Peterson Pacific from North America was at Elmia in force through dealer, Recycling Technique Europe, which chose to showcase Peterson’s impressive 4310B drum chipper and 5710C horizontal grinder. A team of representatives from Peterson were on hand ready to meet existing and potential customers.
Gremo boast market cooperation at Elmia Swedish harvesting supplier, Gremo, has its best foot forward at Elmia through its newly formed relationship with fellow manufacturer, Danish group Silvatec.
A satisfied Gremo customer next to his new 1350H
The 4310B is suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material from brush and small feed stock to logs up to 61 cm (24 in) in diameter. It is powered by a 765 hp (570 kW) C18 Caterpillar engine and at 24,950 kg, the track mounted 4310B is designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. The chipper uses a 900 mm (36 in) diameter by 1.14 m (45 in) wide drum with either six or 12 knife pockets. Traditional babbitt type knife systems are standard equipment. Chip length can be set from 3-32 mm (1/8-1-and-1/4 in) depending on rotor and knife configuration. Other key features include a hydraulic clutch, sloped feed deck for ease of feeding the chipper, and wear resistant AR 400 wear surfaces on the drum pockets and shell. Optional material sizing grates further reduce oversize twigs and branches in the chips, and an optional chip accelerator helps with loading. The end load spout is standard, and an optional top loading spout is available. The 4310B’s new generation of controls includes Peterson’s Adaptive Control System. The control panel provides selfdiagnosis for faulty sensors and open circuits. Fault indicators make troubleshooting easy. The 4310B control panel features an LCD display that provides the operator the complete engine and system parameters to simplify setup and efficiently operate the machine. In addition to the 4310B drum chipper, Peterson brought a tracked, 5710C horizontal grinder to the Elmia Wood show as well. Quickly becoming one of the most popular grinders in its product line, the Peterson 5710C has the ideal combination of horsepower, machine weight, and throughput that has proven to be a winner in this size category. “The 5710C was a definite hit at the 2013 Elmia Wood show” said Michael Spreadbury, marketing manager for Peterson. “We had a
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 55
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 56
ELMIA REVIEW The Recycling Technique Europe stand at Elmia with the Peterson 4310B in action
large pile of stumps and other mixed biomass that the show organizers had brought for us to grind—many people would not want to run that kind of material through the machine, but that is exactly the kind of product that
people use these machines for every day. I think we really opened some eyes with how quickly the 5710C could process the stumps into biofuel. We equipped this machine with a mix of standard and knife edge bits,
and the processed material coming off the end of the conveyor was clean and consistent—just what biomass fuel buyers are looking for.” Powered by the Caterpillar C27 or C32 engine, this grinder
The Peterson Pacific Team (left to right) Neil Peterson, Board Chairman, Derek Izworski, Regional Sales Manager, Michael Spreadbury, Marketing Manager, Charlie Bagnall, Regional Sales Manager, Brian Gray, Eastern Sales Manager, Larry Cumming, President 56 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
provides the highest power to weight ratio of any Peterson grinder. At approximately 86,000 pounds (39000 kg) the 5710C was designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. With a feed opening of 60 x 44 in. (152 x 102 cm) combined with Peterson’s high lift feed roll, the 5710C can readily reduce a wide range of material including stumps. The 5710C features a large grate area that enables the 5710C to produce materials to exact specifications. Our quick-change multiple grate system makes it easy to customize grate configurations to produce a wide variety of finished materials. Grates are removed through an access door on the side wall of the 5710C. Another major innovation included on the 5710C is Peterson’s Impact Cushion System. Urethane cushions allow movement of the compression roll/anvil housing pivot shaft, cushioning impacts due to contaminants in the feed material. Shear pins above the cushion and a sensing circuit that stop the
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 57
ELMIA REVIEW Peterson 5710C
bestseller amongst JENZ mobile chippers. The success is built on the chippertruck’s ability to provide optimum conditions for economic woodchipping production, as confirmed by satisfied customers all over the world.
engine help protect the shaft from catastrophic damage in the event of a severe impact.
Mobile chipper ‘simply the best’ Bruks has added to its popular 800 series with the mobile chipper 806 chipper. The 806 is available with its own engine or as a truckmounted machine and is described by the manufacturer as “simply the best”. “It is designed for the production of biofuel chips with superior chip quality and best cost
efficiency,” Bruks said. “Our chippers are known for their high capacity and reliability, long machine and great flexibility. The 806 was new for Elmia and Bruks but is already in commercial production with multiple orders in the books.
JENZ presents 3,000th machine at Elmia German chipper manufacturer JENZ presented a range of innovations at Elmia, where it also presented its milestone 3,000th machine sold.
Centric blower for the HEM 582 R chippertruck JENZ now has the HEM 582 R chippertruck with a centric blower and a hydraulic drive as an optional extra. This results in considerable advantages during daily use. The first chippertruck was delivered six years ago, and this was the starting gun for a success story with few equals. The compact dimensions coupled with enormous power, high mobility and a unique drive concept has made this machine into a
More flexible material outfeed One of the biggest plus points for the HEM 582 R chippertruck is flexibility during material outfeed: The customer has the choice of driving the rear-mounted ejector blower mechanically or hydraulically. If the woodchipping quality is more important, an outfeed conveyor can also be ordered in addition to the blower. This combination facility is only available with chippertrucks from JENZ. The rear-mounted ejector blower is not the optimum solution for all uses. As every chipper driver knows, producing woodchippings in the forest on narrow tracks is a challenge. The chipper draw-in is on the righthand side in the driving direction and as long as the wood stack is to the right of the chipper, there is no problem – the chipper driver positions his machine on the track, the transport vehicle parks
Bruks new mobile chipper 806
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 57
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 58
ELMIA REVIEW
behind it and can drive off immediately after loading because the chipper is not in the way. It's a completely different matter when the material is on the other side of the road. Because the chipper can only be loaded from the side or from the rear, the transport vehicle has to park in the cul-de-sac and the chipper is positioned in front of it. After loading, the chipper then has to move out of the way so that the transport vehicle can leave the forest. These continuously repeating procedures cost a lot of time, obstruct the operational sequence and are an accident risk. Centric blower JENZ has confronted this problem and, at Elmia-Wood 2013 in Sweden, presented a further pioneering new feature for the chippertruck – a hydraulicallydriven ejector blower mounted between the HGV driver's cab and the chipper instead of at the rear
as was previously the case. To do this, the chipper did not even need to be relocated towards the rear. This arrangement results in a previously unknown freedom during daily deployment. It doesn't matter at all which side the material to be processed is located. When working on narrow tracks, the woodchippings can either be blown to the rear as previously or, in the new version, forwards over the chippertruck driver's cab. Irrespective of what side the transport vehicles come from, the chipper driver can load in both directions and no longer has to move his machine to allow an HGV or a tractor to pass. Hydraulic blower drive The hydraulic blower drive has further advantages: the blower speed can be regulated irrespective of the chipper rotor speed. This means that woodchippings are still reliably ejected even if the chipper speed
58 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
reduces to dangerously low levels. This reduces the risk of blocking the machine. This is completely different if the blower is driven mechanically – in this case, the blower speed is directly linked to the chipper rotor speed. A further bonus is the high efficiency and low wear. The blower speed can now be adapted to suit the conditions. Higher speeds are used if the woodchippings need to be thrown over longer distances, lower speeds are used if the chippings are to be blown into an adjacent vehicle. This reduces the wear on the ejector blower, protects the woodchippings and reduces the power requirements and therefore the diesel consumption. Furthermore, the hydraulic blower has larger dimensions in comparison with the mechanically-driven version. The components are taken from the larger HEM 820 chipper series. This ensures that the
woodchippings are reliably ejected even at low blower speeds. Local Swedish group Rottne added to its impressive equipment range with the massive H21D harvester, which it unveiled at Elmia for a unanimously positive response. The H21D has been described by the company as “a big harvester with an entirely new dimension for clear cutting” that is typified by its stability, reliability and capacity. The latest harvester model is built with either six or eight wheels and has a diesel engine with the latest technology to meet the Tier IV (FT4) emission regulation. The harvester has a new hydrostatic transmission with a very high tractive force. The H21D has been fundamentally redesigned for big wood, with a new stronger loader with a higher lifting and slewing torque. The harvester head has
IFI_PG44_59_Elmia_HR 05/07/2013 10:03 Page 59
ELMIA REVIEW
Rolf Andersson MD (far right) and his management team at the launch of their new Harvester H21D also been upgraded and, to cope with the upgrade, the hydraulic system is equipped with two pumps. The Forester bucking system is a new generation of technology with improved software that adheres to the new standard
StanForD 2010. The cab is swivelling and levelling and has a redesigned foundation that provides a softer turning movement and larger angle of rotation. Also on show at Elmia were advanced cab comfort systems,
H21D FEATURES Loader RK250 Lifting torque Slewing torque Tiling angle out Tilting angle in Reach
which centre on an air sprung seat, wide armrests and individually adjustable lever panels for harvester cabs. The operator has “fantastic” visibility if the swivelling and levelling cab is chosen, which is controlled automatically through the D5
computer or manually with joysticks. The cabs can also be supplemented with Rottne cab damping system ‘Comfort Line’, which means that vibrations are reduced further. IFI
The new Rottne H21D 280 kNm (206,500 lb/ft) 62.4 kNm (46,000 lb/ft) 21˚ 20˚ 10 m (33 ft)
Hydraulic system The load sensing hydraulic system has separate pumps for the loader, head and transmission. Cab Upgraded levelling and swivelling cab with added swivel foundation for +/- 90˚turning angle. Engine John Deere 6090 HFC09 Power Tech PPS Tier IV (FT4) Output Torque
1,700 rpm: 227 kW (305 hp) 1,600 rpm: 1,351 Nm (996 lb/ft)
Transmission New “super strong” transmission with three gear steps. Tractive force 230 kN (51,700 lb/ft) Wheel equipment 8 WD 6 WD 710/70 x 34 (rear)
750/45 x 30.5 750/45 x 305 (front)
Head New upgraded head EGS706 with robust length measuring system and diameter measuring in upper knives. Control systems Machine control system Bucking system
Rottne D5 with 9 in touch screen Rottne Forester with 15 in touch screen JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 59
IFI_PG60-63_Morbark Demo Day_01 08/07/2013 16:51 Page 60
COMPANY FOCUS – MORBARK
Whole tree chipper takes centre stage US chipper heavyweight Morbark showcased its 40/36 biomass microchipper at its Spring Demo Days event in May, which features a new configuration aimed at pellet mills
orbark opened its sixth Demo Days event for current and potential customers, along with members of the company’s industrial dealer network. On the agenda were factory tours, networking opportunities, vendor booths and
M
information seminars. The event concluded with demonstrations of equipment for the forestry and recycling markets with the 40/36 as the centrepiece (see full report in Cutting Edge – page 71). The seminars featured American Loggers Council
60 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
President Danny Dructor, Delton Alderman from the USDA Forest Service, and C&D World Editor Bill Turley, who spoke about the current trends and opportunities in the forestry and biomass, housing, and construction and demolition markets, respectively.
More than 150 people from six countries attended and a similar turn-out is expected for the
IFI_PG60-63_Morbark Demo Day_01 08/07/2013 16:51 Page 61
Morbark 30/36 NCL
“With new biomass plants being built in the United States and the rapid expansion of wood pellet exports to Europe to meet the European Union’s mandate that 20% of its energy come from renewable sources by 2020, our customers need a cost-effective system for making microchips.” John Foote, Morbark VP of Sales and Marketing second of this year’s events due in October (October 10 and 11). The highlight of the event was the equipment demonstrations, which showcased innovative machines for biomass production, including the new configuration of the 40/36 whole tree drum
chipper. The new look 40/36 produces “superior microchips” for use by pellet mills and as supplemental fuel for cogeneration at coal facilities. Another new product demonstrated was the 3200 Wood Hog horizontal grinder,
created to fill the gap between Morbark’s 2600 and 3800 Wood Hog models for the recycling market and mulch producers. Completing the demonstration line-up were: the Beever M20R forestry chipper; the 30/36 NCL and 50/48 WCL track whole tree
drum chippers; the 23 WCL Chiparvestor; the 4600XL and 6600 Wood Hog horizontal grinders; and the 1600 tub grinder.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 61
IFI_PG60-63_Morbark Demo Day_01 08/07/2013 16:51 Page 62
Day One: Factory Tours
Industrial Sales Specialist, Charlie Stahl, takes customers and dealers on a guided tour of Morbark’s factory The intricacies of the hammermill on a Morbark chipper are explained to a customer
The factory tour gave customers the opportunity to closely inspect the manufacturing processes through which each Morbark machine passes
Seminars
Featuring (left) Delton Alderman, USDA Forest Service – Research & Development, Danny Dructor (right), ALC Executive Vice President and William Turley
Dealer Parts Sales Lead Dave Daymon Jr provides an explanation for the Wearwolf Insert,(see page 71 for full report) which allows customers to break down palm, chop frozen wood and produce chips in industrial grinders 62 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
The Spring Demo Days event gave customers and dealers an opportunity to network
Industrial Sales Specialist Bob Miller imparts his expertise to customers and dealers interested in the inner workings of the Morbark production lines
IFI_PG60-63_Morbark Demo Day_01 08/07/2013 16:51 Page 63
Day Two: Demonstrations The new horizontal grinder 3200 Wood Hog has added a mid-range option for recyclers (see full report in Cutting Edge page 71).
23WCL Chiparvestor shows what it’s capable of. A full line of Morbark Chiparvestor whole tree chippers means different sizes and configurations are provided so customers can customise their machine with options such as a cab and loader (WCL), no cab and loader (NCL), on tracks or tyres, and diesel or electric power
The 1600 tub grinder is the largest tub grinder on the market, with a 3.4 m (11 ft 2 in) tub diameter, 4.57 m (15 ft) tub opening and a capacity approaching 20 m3. With HP ranging from 1,050-1,200 hp, this machine literally powers through tonnes of raw material
The Beever M20R brush chipper is ideal for entry-level biomass production, lot and land clearing contractors, contractors and large tree services. It is a high-capacity, high-production chipper with an extensive number of standard features for its class. The Beever can be configured in a variety of models for greater versatility
The 50/48 WCL track whole tree drum chipper are one of the largest, most productive drum chippers on the market. Equipped with Morbark’s exclusive Advantage 3 Drum, the 50/48 creates more uniform chips while keeping operating and maintenance costs low. The reverse pivot yoke produces more down pressure than the conventional style yoke for aggressive feeding of a variety of material JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 63
IFI_PG64_65_Woodmizer_HR 05/07/2013 06:26 Page 64
COMPANY FOCUS – Wood-Mizer
Wood-Mizer makes most of Ligna The wealth of new and high demand products on the Wood-Mizer stand at Ligna this year prompted the company to book more square meters than ever before in an effort to accommodate the expansive range on show
W
ood-Mizer filled its stand with so many new and popular products that it had to reserve more space than ever before at Ligna 2013, with the display of personal and professional sawmills drawing continuous attention. WoodMizer’s LT70 sawmill is a popular choice among professional sawmillers who process logs into green lumber in high output, and like all Wood-Mizer equipment, the LT70 features narrow band blades that remove minimal kerf, resulting in maximum yield from every log. Computer setworks and hydraulic log handling make sawing lumber with the LT70 an efficient process that is easy for a small crew of workers. Also demonstrated at the show were the LT20B (similar to the LT35 manual and LT40 manual models in North Amercia) and the LT15 sawmills. These are two of Wood-Mizer’s smaller mills and are designed to be economical solutions for smaller enterprises. The LT15 was featured at the show
As the wood products industry looks for ways to
Wood-Mizer’s premier new product, SLP II system of conveyors, saws, and waste removal works together to seamlessly process small logs into lumber
increase profitability, Wood-Mizer is offering more and more products designed to help businesses meet those goals
with a new planer/moulder head option. This new option allows an end user to turn a rough log into a finished planed or moulded beam, without ever having to remove the log from the machine. The premier new product exhibited at Ligna was the new small log processing line (SLP ll) that generated great interest from visitors who attended from around the world. Large crowds gathered each time the system was demonstrated, impressed by the speed and ease at which low value logs were turned into lumber with minimal waste due to the narrow
64 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
band blades being used. The SLP ll has been redesigned to provide enterprises that have an excess of small logs with a more effective, efficient, and profitable system for using them. “Dozens of SLP installations around the world are proving their effectiveness daily,” Wood-Mizer said. “[And] the new SLP ll offers even more benefits – only two or three workers are needed to run the system, waste is removed at all points in the line, and the whole line is operated from one central command console.” Also debuted at the show was a
so-far unnamed wide band sawmill that represents a first for Wood-Mizer – larger capacity, wide-band machines. This heavy duty sawmill was well received by attendees to the show. According to Wood-Mizer, the project was developed in cooperation with a well-known and highly respected European wide band sawmill manufacturer. Wood-Mizer plans to have this model on the market for 2014. It runs a 90 mm (3.5 in) band blade, and can cut a 900 mm (36 in) log in half. Bed capacity is rated at 4 t. Yet more advancements were displayed in Wood-Mizer’s ‘Blades’ tent, where a new line of sawmill blade sharpeners and tooth setters were unveiled. The range of models was designed to meet the needs of the professional wood producer, down
IFI_PG64_65_Woodmizer_HR 05/07/2013 06:26 Page 65
COMPANY FOCUS – Wood-Mizer
What’s on offer
Wood-Mizer’s new flagship industrial headrig, the WM4000, features extensive productivity enhancements in software, hydraulics, and log handling
A trailered LT70 with diesel engine demonstrates the portability option that is a popular method for sawmill enterprises in North America and Europe
Also debuted was a yet unnamed wide-band sawmill designed for even more extreme sawing conditions. This mill will not be released until 2014.
The SLP II, is operated fully with only two or three workers and is designed to create profitable margins the processing of small logs
The LT20B sawmill combines powered, computerized head controls with a log bed without hydraulics to create a sawmill designed for economical lumber processing
The LT15 sawmill supports many low volume wood producers worldwide and creates opportunities for economic growth in developing markets
The LT70 sawmill is designed to minimise operational costs, while maintaining higher volumes and yields due to the narrow band blades it uses
to the needs of the small scale enterprise. Although not present at Ligna, Wood-Mizer also announced another new industrial sawmill for 2013, the WM4000, which they are calling the ‘next generation’ in
narrow band blade sawmills. The WM4000 combines the profitability enhancements of thinkerf blades with productivity advances in automated sawing technology to create an ideal solution for forward thinking wood
producers. Similar in overall design to Wood-Mizer’s popular WM3500 sawmill, the WM4000 features are more heavy duty and more productive in many ways. “As the wood products industry looks for ways to increase
profitability, Wood-Mizer is offering more and more products designed to help businesses meet those goals,” the company stated. IFI
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 65
IFI_PG66_68_Debarkers_HR 05/07/2013 06:32 Page 66
DEBARKERS
Ring debarkers in focus Two leading sawmill suppliers tour International Forest Industries through their premium products for debarking in the mill
U
SNR manufactures three types of ring debarkers that are fully customisable to fit a mill’s specific needs. USNR debarkers can be designed with single, double or triple rotor configurations to accommodate various log diameters and feed speeds. “One of these rugged and reliable machines is right for almost any application,” the manufacturer said. The popular Cambio design was originated in Sweden in the 1950s and Kockums and Forano (now part of USNR) were granted licenses to manufacture and sell this type of debarker in North America. USNR has continued to develop the Cambio debarker, dramatically improving its performance over the years. USNR also has two other debarker models: the MV Debarker, a modular, high performance machine derived from the original Cambio technology; and the HSSeries High-Speed Debarker, designed to meet the needs of high production mills.
USNR Cambio ring debarker The USNR Cambio debarker is designed and built to stand up to the rigours of high-volume production. Cambio debarkers are reliable for logs as small as 1.83 m (6 ft) in length and 5 cm (2 in) in diameter, and for logs up to 75 cm (30 in) in diameter, depending on the model. USNR offers a complete line of new and rebuilt rotors for Cambiotype debarkers. These heavy duty rotors provide increased flexibility and can accommodate a variety of tool tips and tool tensioning systems. Air-Bag Tensioning (orange) controls tool positioning and cushioning by adjusting air pressure in rotor mounted air bags. Spider Tensioning (yellow) is the most economical, using industrial rubber bands to maintain tool contact with the log. Hydraulic Tensioning (red) combines industrial rubber bands and hydraulic cylinders to maintain and control tool contact with the log.
66 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
USNR’s Cambio Ring debarker is an economical solution that offers outstanding, reliable performance USNR Tenax Tool Tips enhance the geometry of the tool to obtain an optimal degree of debarking without damaging the fibre. Each tool tip has distinct characteristics to achieve precise degrees of aggressiveness and durability. All USNR tool tips are indexable so you get more work life from each tip. When one face gets worn out, you can simply turn it and continue working, repeating the process until all four sides are used.
USNR MV ring debarker The Cambio-derived MV debarker provides better debarking quality than a standard Cambio because the unit includes dual sets of infeed and outfeed rolls to maintain a better hold on the log. The feedrolls also improve centring of the log, so it is more stable as it passes through the rotor. The MV debarker uses a Cambio style rotor and can be configured
with multiple rotors to achieve a balance between desired feed speed and debarking quality. USNR also offers the option of air seal rotors for remote control of tool pressure according to log diameter. Double rotor configurations on the MV debarker can be either inline or side by side. In general, a double rotor with an inline configuration significantly increases debarking quality and permits operation at higher feed speeds because both sets of tools are simultaneously engaged. A double rotor inline configuration is often used where the wood chip bark content is critical. This configuration also provides good results in dry or burnt wood applications. A side by side configuration can use either the same or different rotor sizes. Using a side by side configuration with the same rotor size permits maintenance on one rotor while the other is running.
IFI_PG66_68_Debarkers_HR 05/07/2013 06:32 Page 67
DEBARKERS USNR’s MV ring debarker is modular and versatile; it is fully customisable to accommodate individual specifications
The ability to effectively process a wide range of species, shapes and sizes with varying moisture content and temperature immediately made it the preferred choice by operators throughout Asia – Carmanah
PLC via photocells. On the air-sealed rotor, tool opening and pressure are remotely controlled via PLC according to the log diameter. The result is extremely high quality debarking at a higher Using different rotor sizes in a side by side configuration is particularly useful for mills that process a wide range of log diameters because they can use one rotor or the other depending on the size of the log.
USNR HS-Series ring debarker Specifically made for high feed rate applications, the HS-Series debarker is designed to withstand the abuse of today’s high-speed operations. It features a solid double-box ‘S’-shaped structure to
resist torsional strain, reducing vibration and improving fatigue resistance. The HS-debarker has four pairs of interlinked self-feeding and self-centring feedrolls that are powered through 12 hardened steel gears, helping to make them both shock and wear resistant. No other auxiliary feeding system is required. An infeed scanner provides log diameter information. The first set of feedrolls are pre-opened, and then closed on the log. All other feedrolls are sequenced by the
feed rate. Like the MV, the HS-Series rotor module slides out of the machine for maintenance and quick and easy tool changes. Large panels give complete access to other components while protecting components from debris. Carmanah’s Fuji King Debarker has been a leader in rotary debarking since its introduction in the early 1980s by the Fuji Kogyo Company of Japan. The technology was initially developed to process fibre materials not suitable for
ring or drum debarking. “The ability to effectively process a wide range of species, shapes and sizes with varying moisture content and temperature immediately made it the preferred choice by operators throughout Asia,” Carmanah said. Carmanah (and its predecessor company, CAE Machinery) licensed the King debarker in the early 1990s introducing rotary technology to the North American market. The King has continued to evolve to meet customer’s needs with low operational and maintenance costs while achieving target throughput and bark levels without excess fibre loss. Mills in Canada, the US and Mexico have endorsed the technology with sales of over 50 machines (global sales exceed 250 machines). These units have been installed at OSB and pulp woodrooms, sawmill and pellet plants, many
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 67
IFI_PG66_68_Debarkers_HR 05/07/2013 06:32 Page 68
DEBARKERS
One of these rugged and reliable machines is right for almost any application – USNR
operating around the clock in very tough conditions. The latest installation is a fourmodule, KD6/120DT debarker at the AV Nackawic operation in New Brunswick, Canada. “The King replaced a pair of rotary debarkers supplied by a Quebec-based manufacturer five years earlier that in appearance were similar to the Fuji King, but lacked the robustness and design attributes necessary to meet the customer’s needs,” Carmanah said.
Installation at the AV Nackawic operation The debarking process in a rotary debarker uses a combination of log-to-log abrasion and mechanical contact from block impact. The degree of log-to-log
The Fuji King debarker contact is a function of rotor speed, debarking block placement, and log fill level. The magnitude of debarking block impact is primarily dictated by rotor speed and the profile of the block itself. As conditions change and bark-to-fibre bond varies, the ability to easily change debarking blocks is necessary to ensure the targets for bark removal and fibre recovery are efficiently met. The Fuji King employs a closedbottom approach to achieve the highest fibre retention and low operational and maintenance costs. In a closed-bottom machine, debarking block
placement is chosen to optimise log movement and impact frequency, unlike open bottom machines that require a much larger volume of blocks in order to minimise the open area and retain fibre. Blocks eventually need to be replaced, either due to wear, or when tuning the debarker is required to suit changing seasons or wood conditions. The reduced volume of blocks in a closed bottom machine simplifies this task, translating to lower operational and maintenance costs. Additionally, all Fuji King debarkers come equipped with bolt on, replaceable blocks,
further minimising maintenance time. In most competitors’ installations, the blocks are not replaceable. The open bottom design has its roots in screening technology as it is very similar to a disc type screen or debris processor. This is particularly effective if there are materials other than bark that need to be removed or separated from the fibre, such as processing landfill material, but when the task is strictly the removal of bark from logs and branches, the opening between adjacent discs referred to as the “disc interface opening” can be an opportunity for fibre to pass through to the bark conveyor as well. As a leader in rotary debarking technology, the Fuji King continues to evolve – one of the latest developments is the QuickChange debarking block that allows operators an even speedier change out of blocks due to wear or to adjust debarking aggressiveness.
Quick-Change debarking block Carmanah recently shipped a KD6/60DT Fuji King Debarker to be installed at the ORIS OSB plant in Tchaikovsky, Russia. The two module machine will debark both hardwoods and softwoods which will be processed downstream by a Carmanah 28/81 SmartRING Strander. IFI
68 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
IFI_PG69_71_Cutting Edge_01 05/07/2013 10:02 Page 69
CUTTING EDGE
Bandit brings the Beast up to XP standard When Bandit Industries unveiled the enhanced line of XP-series hand-fed chippers in the early 1990s, the company was attempting to reset the bar for efficiency, production and longevity in the hand-fed chipper industry. Now, the legendary line of Beast Recyclers will carry the XP badge to reflect over 35 specific enhancements and addons in eight different categories, making the world’s best line of horizontal grinders even better. “Our customers are facing new challenges every day, so we are constantly working to develop and implement the changes they need to stay competitive and profitable,” Bandit Industries President Jerry Morey said. “This has been the case since the first Beast Recycler in 1995, and with so many enhancements added in just the past year, we knew it was time to christen a new line of Beasts. XP stands for extra power, extra performance, extra production and extra profit, and that’s exactly what our customers can expect with the new XP-series Beast.” Model 2680XP, 3680XP and 4680XP Beast Recyclers now feature angled front infeeds with larger infeed drive chains. Track Beasts feature height-adjustable
pans for adjusting feed angle. A new rail system on the return side of the infeed replaces the roller system, significantly reducing load on the tail shaft. These machines also offer a new ‘Big Mouth’ option that increases the height of the opening into the mill. An extralarge 800 mm (32 in) diameter feed wheel is optional and includes a brush deflector to better direct material into the machine. Changes continue inside the mill housing. Base door openings are now larger for easier removal of the cuttermill. Replaceable wear plates are now standard on the left side (radiator side) of the mill base, and optional on both sides. A convenient trap door allows for cleaning in the auger area, while the auger itself is redesigned and easier to change. Several new teeth styles are available, and they are subjected to a new proprietary strengthening process delivering longer tooth life. Five centimetre (2 in) wide sizes are available for most teeth, allowing operators to run a 30-tooth setup. New teeth mounts are now compatible with knife cutterbodies, eliminating the need to change cutterbodies when switching between chipping and grinding. Freeze-hardened teeth,
The Beast 3680 is now available as an XP model screens and wear items are also optional. For customers exclusively chipping with the Beast, a new chipping drum is available. For engines, adjustable pitch fans are now standard, enhancing engine cooling and fuel efficiency. Mill shafts are larger on the Model 1680XP and 2680XP to accommodate higher horsepower engines, which are now available for these machines. Numerous convenience options and enhancements include redesigned fuel tanks on track machines for better steep-terrain performance, with increased fuel capacity on the Model 1680XP. Warning lights for clutch and engine operation are relocated for easier monitoring. On-board air compressors are repositioned for more convenient operation, and upgraded impact wrenches are standard. An over-band magnet is
optional and recommended for both shingle and pallet grinding. These are just some of the enhancements found in the new XP-Series Beast Recyclers. “We have customers all around the world using Beast Recyclers, and there isn’t an application where the new XP-Series won’t make a big difference in performance and production,” Morey claimed. “Beasts will easily handle everything from waste wood to shingles and plastic, and there isn’t a better machine on the market for turning bulky chunk wood into a quality, saleable product,” he said. “Whether you are grinding or chipping, the new Beast XP-Series can make a big difference in your operation.” www.banditchippers.com
Metriguard grading system takes another step forward The newest Metriguard machine grading system, Model 2350, sorts lumber for stiffness using density and sonic velocity. This system is designed for a planer mill to machine grade lumber and for a sawmill to sort material for resource allocation before drying. Metriguard’s Sonic Lumber Grader is ideal for mills that have limited space for installation. Using sonic velocity, piece size and piece weight, the Metriguard Model 2350 accurately determines
the average E (modulus of elasticity) of each piece. E and operator- set criteria are then used to assign a machine grade. Lumber length and width are determined by sensors included with the 2350 or they can be automatically input from upstream measurement devices. Key features of the Model 2350 include quick and simple installation in a transverse lug chain, stable and reliable calibration, innovative striker
69 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
Metriguard model 2350 design to initiate sound waves in each piece, proprietary spring suspension weigh system, ability to handle random lengths and
cross-sections, and accurate and reliable grading by average E at speeds up to 250 lugs/minute. www.metriguard.com
IFI_PG69_71_Cutting Edge_01 05/07/2013 10:02 Page 70
CUTTING EDGE
Rayco dealer meeting hits the mark Rayco’s 2013 Dealer Meeting at its facility in Wooster in April has been hailed as a “great success,” by Matt August, Rayco National Sales Manager. “We had strong attendance from both our North American and international dealers.” In fact, the two furthest travelled came from South Africa and Australia. Among the topics discussed at the meeting were Rayco’s upcoming new logo, website, and marketing campaign, new product introductions, and sales training. Afternoons were spent in the field with hands-on training sessions and new product demos. There was also time to mix in a little fun, including a trip to the nearby NFL Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. August summed it up: “The dealers who attended this meeting learned a lot, had fun, and got to meet a lot of Rayco employees. Our dealer network has been growing and this event helps them become a better
resource for the customers they serve.” Meanwhile, the company has also released an updated compact horizontal grinder on tracks. Rayco’s RH1754 horizontal grinder is now available in a self-propelled version that rides on a heavy-duty, steel track undercarriage. This adds another element of versatility to the RH1754, making it easier to move the machine around job sites and to perform tasks like windrowing material or sorting material into different piles. The 240hp, RH1754-240 on tracks weighs just 9.3 t (20,500 lb) and is just under 2.44 m (8 ft) wide, to avoid permits when trailering. A wireless radio remote operates each track independently,
The Rayco dealer meeting in April to provide precise control and two speed final drives allow for creep speed or high speed travel. The RH1754 is an economical solution
for producing high quality mulch from a variety of wood waste materials, pallets, wood chips, etc. www.raycomfg.com
The Rayco RH1754
Tigercat refines skidder range with EHS Tigercat is continuing to develop and refine its skidder product line, constantly striving for greater productivity and reduced cost per tonne. The latest technology is the EHS drive system. Similar to the field-proven and revolutionary hydrostatic drive system that Tigercat initially developed and released in 1996 with the first 630 skidders, EHS consists of two variable displacement motors as inputs to the Tigercat transfer case. Front and rear output shafts are connected directly to the front and rear axles. While the current electronically controlled hydrostatic drive system found in the D-series skidders performs exceptionally well, EHS is capable of providing the tractive effort of the deepest gear ratio offered in Tigercat's standard transfer case as well as the top speed of the shallowest gear ratio offered in the
The Tigercat 615C comes standard with EHS standard transfer case. This is accomplished with more sophisticated computer logic and the ability to take one of the drive motors offline when high tractive effort is not required. In this case, all pump flow is directed to one hydraulic motor, increasing both travel speed and motor efficiency. When operating conditions demand high tractive effort, both hydrostatic motors are
working. When tractive effort requirements are minimal – for instance, when travelling empty – all of the pump flow is directed to one motor for higher travel speeds. Tigercat is offering EHS standard in the 610C and the new 615C and expects end users to see higher productivity and improved fuel efficiency in the majority of applications. www.tigercat.com
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 70
IFI_PG69_71_Cutting Edge_01 05/07/2013 10:02 Page 71
CUTTING EDGE
Morbark delivers new microchipper, wood hog and Wearwolf Insert for Spring Demo Days Morbark prepared and released three new or redesigned products to show off to dealers and customers at its recent Demo Days event in the US. The redesigned 40/36 whole tree microchipper is the latest in design enhancements to make the machine perfect for microchip producers. The 40/36 was first introduced in 2008 as a compact, affordable and productive biomass chipper. The model was improved by the addition of the Advantage 3 high performance chipping drum in 2011, which significantly improved chip quality. The latest model includes an enhanced drum set with 16 knives using standard hardware, an operator-friendly slide-in forestry grate system to reduce oversized chips and a mechanically driven chip accelerator to fully load vans with the microchips. John Foote, Morbark VP of Sales and Marketing, said the EU’s mandate for more green energy had created opportunities for manufacturers of high quality chips and hence made the Morbark 36/40 an extremely attractive option. “This newly reengineered 40/36 microchipper is the solution,” he said. “We are able to produce a far superior product, producing 95-98% acceptable microchips at volumes of more than 70 t/hour.” With an average fuel consumption of 2.25 t/gallon of
microchips produced, the Morbark 40/36 microchipper allows owners to reduce costs and maximise profits. In customer tests, 95-98% the microchips produced passed through a 1⁄2 in grate, and 72-74% passed through a 1⁄4 in grate. These microchips are vital for pellet mills, eliminating the need to regrind the wood fibre prior to pelletising. Meanwhile, a new mid-range HP horizontal grinder, the 3200 Wood Hog, was introduced. Aimed at wood and green waste recycling applications, the 3200 is a compact and aggressive unit. “We saw a need for a horizontal grinder in the 400-600 hp range that was smaller than our 3800 Wood Hog and more powerful than our 2600 Wood Hog,” Foote said. “This is a smaller, lighter, and more affordable unit with all of the benefits of our larger grinders.” The 3200 Wood Hog can handle green waste, regrind sawmill residue, pallets, and logs up to 350 mm (14 in) in diameter with ease. The 750 mm (30 in) diameter feedwheel is powered by an internal drive Fairfield torque hub with no chains or sprockets for more torque, greater durability and less maintenance. Other
Wood Hog 3200
4036 Microchipper
standard features include a Poclain infeed chain drive, dust suppression, remote control, air brakes and hydraulic oil cooler. Available as a tracked unit for greater mobility or with electric power, the 3200 can be built with Morbark’s most popular options, including an externally adjustable break-away torque limiter to protect the driveline and the hammermill, magnetised end pulley for ferrous metal removal, or the Quickswitch 12 and 16-knife drum assembly to easily convert from making mulch to making chips. In addition, the Wearwolf Insert was promoted to attendees at the Spring Demo Days event. The Wearwolf Insert is the newest addition to its line of inserts for industrial grinders. With heat-treated, knife-like edges on a solid, forged-steel insert blank, the Wearwolf cuts material rather than beating it into mulch. Therefore, customers can make chips out of hard and soft woods without needing another machine. The Wearwolf’s greatest advantage may be in its handling of stringy material such as palm.
Wearwolf Insert
Morbark customers had been asking for a way to break down palm waste and other stringy material effectively. “Morbark has a tradition of listening to our customers and addressing their needs,” Morbark Dealer Parts Sales Lead, Dave Daymon Jr, said. “We met with our engineers and our vendors to design a new insert to help our customers break down palm, and we came up with the Wearwolf. The Wearwolf chops the palm, so it doesn’t wrap around the hammermill of the grinder like it does when using standard inserts.” In customer tests, the Wearwolf not only efficiently chopped and broke down palm waste when processing hardwood or soft wood, it also provided a denser end product yielding two to three additional tonnes/load than a standard insert. Due to its knife edge, the Wearwolf even handles frozen wood with ease. Sun Recycling, a C&D processing facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, saw a 30% increase in production, according to Facility Manager Paul Valenti. “We never once went into reverse with the Morbark Wearwolf Inserts,” he said. “They save us maintenance time, downtime and allow us to increase our overall production.” Like all Morbark inserts, the Wearwolf is made of a forged material, which is stronger, more durable and scores better on a Rockwell tester than a casted material or tooled steel. The Wearwolf Insert is the newest addition to the Wolf Pack line of genuine Morbark inserts. www.morbark.com
JUNE/JULY 2013 | International Forest Industries 71
IFI_PG72_ADV INDEX_01 08/07/2013 16:50 Page 1
ADVERTISERS INDEX SALES OFFICES
ADVERTISERS INDEX
UK, Europe, South Africa, US East Coast
AHWI Prinoth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 www.ahwi.com
Morbark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 www.morbark.com
CONTACT: Phil Playle or David Lansdowne
Bandit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 www.banditchippers.com
MTU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 www.mtu-online.com
Lansdowne Media Services Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: phil@internationalforestindustries.com or david@internationalforestindustries.com
Japan CONTACT: Yuko Ishihara Japan Advertising Communications, Inc. Star Bldg., 3-10-3 Kanda Jimbocho Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051 Tel: 81-3-3261-4591 Fax: 81-3-3261-6126 Email: ishihara@media-jac.co.jp
Western USA (AZ, CA, NV, UT) Australia, & New Zealand CONTACT: George Roman
Barko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 www.barko.com CONEXPO – CON /AGG. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 www.conexpoconagg.com CLEANFIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 www.cleanfix.org John Deere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 www.deere.com/forestry Halco Software Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 www.halcosoftware.com Indexator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 www.indexator.se Komatsu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 www.komatsuforest.com Lako Forest Oy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 www.lakoforest.fi.
Las Vegas NV 89129, USA Tel: +1 (702) 515 7247 Fax: +1 (702) 515 7248 Email: george@roymcdonald.com
Western USA (MT, ID, OR,WA) & Canada CONTACT: Bob Warren Lansdowne Media Services Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777 Fax: +44 (0)1442 870 617 Email: bob@internationalforestindustries.com
US Mid-West, Central & Mountain CONTACT: Kevin Lapham J.P.Media Inc 1163 E.Ogden Ave, Ste. 705-359 Naperville IL 60563, USA Tel: +1 (630) 420 9752 Fax: +1 (630) 420 9763 Email: lapham@jpmediainc.com
South America CONTACT: Ricardo Cortés Editec S.A. Avda del Cóndor 844 Of. 205, Cuidad Empresarial Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile Tel: +56 2 757 4200 Fax: +56 2 757 4201 Email: rcortes@editec.cl
72 International Forest Industries | JUNE/JULY 2013
Ponsse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F/C www.ponsse.fi Prime Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 www.prime-tech.com Rottne Industri AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 www.rottne.com Tamtron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 www.tamtron.fi Tigercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 www.tigercat.com USNR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC www.usnr.com
Lucidyne Technologies Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 www.lucidyne.com
WoodEXPO 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC www.woodexpo2013.com
Microtec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 www.microtec.eu
Wood-Mizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 www.woodmizer.com
Roy McDonald Associates, Inc 4779 Luna Ridge Court,
Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC www.petersoncorp.com
Fecon hydraulic attachment enters the market Fecon has introduced the FMA8039 Hydraulic Powered Milling Attachment rated at 260-550 hp, to process soil, stumps, and roots up to 500 mm (20 in) below grade.
A
massive weight of approximately 5 t (11,000 lb) (depending on options) keeps the attachment engaged as carbide tools cut through an 2 m (80 in) wide path of material. The 8039 is ideally suited for treating land already cleared of standing vegetation, often through logging, mulching, or traditional land clearing methods. Applications include pipeline construction, commercial tree farm construction and preparation planting, converting land into tillable acreage, or land clearing for new construction. A 975 mm x 2 m (39 in x 80 in) large diameter rotor has an innovative structural design and abrasion resistant steel for durability and performance across a wide
range of soil conditions. Sixtyfour carbide cutting tools provide a balance of performance, wear life, and impact strength in sub-soil applications. Dual hydraulic motors deliver power to the belt-over-gear box driveline to slow the rotor speed, reduce abrasion, and multiply torque to power through material. The standard trap door can be used to help contain and
direct material downward, or an optional compacting roller can smooth out and compact the finely milled material. The FMA8039 milling attachment can be configured with custom mounts, hydraulic motors, and belt ratios to fit many brands of track or wheeled carriers including Fecon’s FTX400 and FTX600 track carriers. www.fecon.com
The Fecon FTX600
woodexpo2013_ad 10.2012_Layout 2 29/10/2012 10:54 Page 1