Machines-Supplies-Technology

John Deere announces its latest operator assistance control feature, Intelligent Boom Control (IBC), for the 900 MH-Series tracked harvester. The development of this model is a result of global collaboration between the John Deere wheeled cut-to-length and full-tree forestry teams, aiming to implement IBC’s field proven technology into MH-Series of tracked harvesters.

With IBC, operators no longer need to control each independent boom function separately. One joystick moves the boom tip horizontally, while a second guides it vertically, for faster cycle times and more precise control. IBC’s smooth and fluid motion actively dampens functional change of directions, protecting boom structures and increasing wear life. IBC also automatically controls swing speed based on the overall position of the attachment.

“The continuous product development, new features, and the updating of systems and solutions are an integral part of John Deere’s way of operating,” comments Jim O’Halloran, product marketing manager, John Deere. “Intelligent Boom Control is an example of an important operator assistance feature that we will continue to evolve throughout full-tree forestry. IBC is an example that helps the overall productivity and profitability for the whole machine life cycle.”

Improved productivity, compared to the same machine without IBC, is another benefit for customers. IBC allows the operator to focus on controlling the attachment, helping improve efficiency.The controls used for reaching and securing trees for harvest intuitively mirror how the equipment might function if it were the operator’s arm.

IBC is now available on the 953MH and 959MH. Visit deere.com/en/trackedharvesters

The capabilities of the 6-wheel drive 635H in steep terrain and cable assist applications have been taken to the next level with the integration of a Tigercat designed and built swing boom system initially introduced on the 635G series skidder. The additional working envelope and ability to position the grapple well outside of the working track of the machine increases productivity in applications where skidder travel is restricted or limited by terrain characteristics.

With the ability to lock the seat and operate the machine from any position with full drive controls, the Tigercat Turnaround 220° seat is an important advantage for swing boom skidding applications. It allows the operator to position the seat at any rearward-facing angle to align the field of view to the working area of the grapple.

The slew system at the base of the boom is field-proven, using components that are common to Tigercat track machines. In addition to the increased working envelope, the boom has a more powerful lift-

ing capacity compared with a conventional dual function arch.

For cable assisted applications, the skidder can be factory-equipped for tethering with optimally positioned frame lugs and through-theblade cable routing. The lugs attach to the frame structure behind the front axle, closer to the payload. Visit tigercat.com.

Diamond Mowers, a leading manufacturer of industrial mowing, mulching, and brush cutting equipment for the municipal, skid-steer, and excavator markets, has announced an increased commitment to the professional mulching market by heralding “a new generation of Diamond drums” starting with the introduction of a revolutionary open drum mulcher that combines the best performance features of depth control and open drum designs into one powerful and versatile attachment. The new SK Drum Mulcher OD Pro X is the first in a series of high-performance mulching tools set to be launched by the attachment leader this year.

First out of the gate is the new Drum Mulcher OD Pro X, an innovative design that fuses open drum versatility with depth control precision. Ideal for users requiring power and flexibility for harsh mulching needs, this easy-to-operate tool is made for a wide range of heavyduty applications from land clearing and vegetation management to utility and roadside maintenance. It is strategically engineered to allow heavy ground engagement for maximum productivity while producing a smaller finished product than conventional open drum models.

Designed to process material up to 9” in diameter continuously, this new drum is differentiated in the marketplace by its optimized infeed system. Directional rake tines deflect vegetation back to the rotor and shredding chamber for smaller mulch after the first pass. Optimum shredding performed in the drum chamber reduces the need for backdragging and produces a uniform mulch with a smaller particle size than typical open drum options.

Available in 60" and 72" cutting widths, the OD Pro X accommodates three tooth options, allowing users to interchange teeth for different applications, all while maintaining drum balance.

The drum attaches to most skidsteers and compact track loaders. Upon purchase, the attachment is factory-set to match each carrier’s specified pressure and flow. Diamond Mowers’ dealers have the ability to fine-tune the motor settings to achieve peak performance. Visit diamondmowers.com.

Tigercat Industries has developed a forestry dozer. The new TCi 920 will be making the rounds at several U.S. forestry industry trade shows this year.

The dozer will be branded under the new TCi badge, as Tigercat Industries continues to design machines for applications beyond forest harvesting systems. All products falling under the TCi brand are and will continue to be designed, manufactured and supported by Tigercat Industries.

Seeking to overcome shortcomings that harvesting professionals have experienced when applying standard-build, mass production dozers to forestry operations, the new 920 is designed specifically for use in logging applications.

The 920 is powered by the Tigercat FPT N45 Tier 4f engine rated at 101 kw (135 HP). It is equipped with a 190 mm (7.5") pitch heavy duty undercarriage, a responsive and efficient closed loop track drive system, strong, impact-resistant belly pans, and durable structural components throughout. The 920 provides the power, durability and versatility for deck clearing, road building and cleanup activities on logging sites.

The carefully designed forestry cab offers the operator clear sightlines augmented by the sloped front hood and rear-mounted exhaust. The cab is quiet and comfortable with a heated and cooled air ride seat, ergonomic armrest mounted joysticks, and a large touchscreen machine control system interface. Visit tigercat.com.