TP 0321 digimag by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc.

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 3/2/21 1:31 PM Page 1

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 2

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 3

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/26/21 9:48 AM Page 4

A Hatton-Brown Publication

Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. Street Address: 225 Hanrick Street Montgomery, AL 36104-3317 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2268 Montgomery, AL 36102-2268 Telephone: 334.834.1170 FAX: 334.834.4525

Volume 46 • Number 2 • March 2021 Founded in 1976 • Our 471st Consecutive Issue

Publisher: David H. Ramsey Chief Operating Officer: Dianne C. Sullivan Editor-in-Chief: Rich Donnell Senior Editor: Dan Shell Senior Associate Editor: David Abbott Senior Associate Editor: Jessica Johnson Associate Editor: Patrick Dunning Publisher/Editor Emeritus: David (DK) Knight Art Director/Prod. Manager: Cindy Segrest Ad Production Coordinator: Patti Campbell Circulation Director: Rhonda Thomas Online Content/Marketing: Jacqlyn Kirkland Classified Advertising: Bridget DeVane • 334.699.7837 800.669.5613 • bdevane7@hotmail.com Advertising Sales Representatives: Southern USA Randy Reagor P.O. Box 2268 Montgomery, AL 36102-2268 904.393.7968 • FAX: 334.834.4525 E-mail: reagor@bellsouth.net

Renew or subscribe on the web: www.timberprocessing.com

NEWSFEED

SFPA Expo Atlanta Is A Go

GP ALBANY KICKS IN

MASS TIMBER IN N.A.

SECOND LOOK

“The Third In A Trilogy” So To Speak The Stakes Are Getting Higher

More Photos Of Charles Ingram Lumber

LOG MERCHANDISING

Taking Care Of Business Out Front

MACHINERY ROW

PRODUCT SCANNER 10

Sawmill Equipment Orders Are Strong New Products From John King, Linck

COVER: Georgia-Pacific has pushed through the pandemic and started up its greenfield SYP sawmill in Albany, Ga. Story begins on PAGE 20. (Photo courtesy of GP and Todd Stone Photography)

Midwest USA, Eastern Canada John Simmons 32 Foster Cres. Whitby, Ontario, Canada L1R 1W1 905.666.0258 • FAX: 905.666.0778 E-mail: jsimmons@idirect.com

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.timberprocessing.com Member Verified Audit Circulation

Western USA, Western Canada Tim Shaddick 4056 West 10th Avenue Vancouver BC Canada V6L 1Z1 604.910.1826 • FAX: 604.264.1367 E-mail: tootall1@shaw.ca Kevin Cook 604.619.1777 E-mail: lordkevincook@gmail.com

International Murray Brett 58 Aldea de las Cuevas, Buzon 60 03759 Benidoleig (Alicante), Spain Tel: +34 96 640 4165 • + 34 96 640 4048 E-mail: murray.brett@abasol.net

Timber Processing (ISSN 0885-906X, USPS 395-850) is published 11 times annually (January/February issue is combined) by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc., 225 Hanrick St., Montgomery, AL 36104. Subscription Information—TP is free to qualified owners, operators, managers, purchasing agents, supervisors, foremen and other key personnel at sawmills, pallet plants, chip mills, treating plants, specialty plants, lumber finishing operations, corporate industrial woodlands officials and machinery manufacturers and distributors in the U.S. All non-qualified U.S. Subscriptions are $55 annually: $65 in Canada; $95 (Airmail) in all other countries (U.S. Funds). Single copies, $5 each; special issues, $20 (U.S. funds). Subscription Inquiries— TOLL-FREE: 800669-5613; Fax 888-611-4525. Go to www.timberprocessing.com and click on the subscribe button to subscribe/renew via the web. All advertisements for Timber Processing magazine are accepted and published by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. with the understanding that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will defend, indemnify and hold any claims or lawsuits for libel violations or right of privacy or publicity, plagiarism, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or lawsuits that may arise out of publication of such advertisement. Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. neither endorse nor makes any representation or guarantee as to the quality of goods and services advertised in Timber Processing. Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to reject any advertisement which it deems inappropriate. Copyright ® 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Ala. and at additional mailing offices. Printed in U.S.A.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to Timber Processing, P.O. Box 2419, Montgomery, Alabama 36102-2419 Other Hatton-Brown publications: Timber Harvesting • Southern Loggin’ Times Wood Bioenergy • Panel World • Power Equipment Trade

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:13 PM Page 5

THEISSUES

Rich Donnell Editor-In-Chief

GEORGIA-PACIFIC FINISHES STRONG

hen the largest privately held company in the U.S., Koch Industries, purchased publicly-held Georgia-Pacific Corp. in 2005, the lumber leadership at GP who came to Koch with the deal soon found out that the Koch business philosophy brought long-term vision, profit reinvestment in operations and no limitations that typically govern a public company. Hello cash flow! A series of acquisitions got the ball rolling, such as the purchase of lumber and plywood mills from International Paper and then the purchase of TempleInland Building Products from IP including five lumber facilities. Then it bought the RoyOMartin timbers mill in Alabama. All of that activity turned out to be at a leisurely pace, compared to what happened next. GP decided to put the pedal to the metal and build three new southern yellow pine sawmills, and do it quickly. This issue features the third of those three sawmills, at Albany, Ga., which was a true greenfield build. The first one to start up, at Talladega, Ala., was built on a GP plywood mill site that had been idled for 10 years, and number two at Warrenton, Ga. was at the site of GP’s existing sawmill there dating back to the early 1970s. Think about it. GP made the announcement in September 2017 that it was building the sawmill at Talladega. In 28 months it proceeded to construct three sawmills. When the dust had settled, including production upgrades at mills in Gurdon, Ark. and at Rome, Ga., GP had added more than a billion BF of lumber production capacity. It’s a great understatement to say that a lot had to come together to make this happen within the GP organization while forming partnerships with turnkey provider BID Group as well as the communities involved. Should I add that these three mills came on during one of the most bizarre chapters in American lumber manufacturing history. Lumber markets and housing were meandering along and then signs of real activity sparked in early 2020, only to be smothered by the pandemic beginning early that spring. For a moment in time, the economy came to a screeching halt as everyone tried to figure out which segments should attempt to continue operating under the shadow of the virus. The building products industry emerged as one of them, and then housing rebounded and lumber pricing went up, and up, and up… Indeed the Koch version of GP is more about vision, value and workforce culture than the old GP could afford to entertain. And it doesn’t hurt to have an extra TP billion BF of production at the table when the cards fall your way.

Contact Rich Donnell, ph: 334-834-1170; fax 334-834-4525; e-mail: rich@hattonbrown.com TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:31 PM Page 6

NEWSFEED REGISTRATION OPENS IN APRIL FOR SFPA EXPO n April 12, 2021, attendee registration housing blocks will open for the 36th O Forest Products Machinery & Equipment

portion of EXPO will take place August 1112, and will be co-located at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. The conferExposition – EXPO 2021. This three-day ence will offer a variety of speakers, educaevent will be held in-person August 11-13, tional sessions and seminars. The Confer2021 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress ence schedule is expected to be posted and Center. Advance attendee registration will open for registration June 1. be available on SFPAexpo.com starting on “It is extremely fortunate that the April 12, and costs just $20 per person. COVID-19 vaccine distribution timeline The housing block for EXPO includes SFPA plans to host its in-person EXPO allows us to move forward with planning 750 rooms at the Omni Hotel at CNN Cen- on schedule. for an in-person event,” states SFPA Expoter, which is connected to the Georgia sition Director Eric Gee. “EXPO is such an World Congress Center. important event for the sawmilling industry, and we are lookSponsored and conducted by the Southern Forest Products ing forward to seeing everybody in person in August. Planning Assn. (SFPA) every two years since 1950, EXPO includes a show at the tail end of a global pandemic presents certain many of the biggest names in the business. Expo 2019 featured challenges, but we are prepared to follow all state and local more than 54,000 square feet of exhibit space and 181 exhibitCOVID-19 guidelines to provide exhibitors and attendees with ing companies. a show floor that prioritizes their health and safety.” The show for 2021 is shaping up to be a record event. Not “More than 81% of the floor plan is under contract,” Gee only will EXPO be one of the first large events in the industry to notes. “Many exhibitors returning from the 2019 show have take place in-person in over a year due to COVID-19, SFPA and expanded their displays for EXPO 2021.” Hatton Brown Publishers, Inc.—publisher of Timber Processing Complete registration information, housing details and other magazine—have announced a collaboration on a sawmill conshow facts are available by visiting sfpaexpo.com. For quesference to be held in conjunction with EXPO. The conference tions about the show, e-mail Eric Gee at egee@sfpa.org.

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 7

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 8

NEWSFEED HAMPTON CEO REFLECTS ON 2020 “2020 will undoubtedly go down in history as a year most people would like to forget. One steeped in uncertainty, fear, anger, and division and marked by tragic and terrible events,” comments Steve Zika, CEO of Oregonbased Hampton Lumber in his annual end-of-the-year blog. It will likely take us years to fully realize the impact this year has had both socially and economically.” Like most businesses in the natural resources sector, Hampton has remained largely operational during these difficult times, while making significant changes to help keep people safe. “I could not be more proud of how our employees have risen to the challenge. In Portland, most em-

■

MARCH 2021

■

ployees have been teleworking since March with great success. At our manufacturing facilities, we’ve adopted governmental guidelines and implemented new protocols and a tracing program to help prevent infections from spreading in the workplace. While we have had COVID-19 cases at most of our locations, spread has been limited and, thankfully, all of our employees have recovered,” Zika says. Zika points to the hardships of many of the businesses that contribute to the quality of life in the communities—particularly those in leisure and hospitality. In addition to its regular giving programs, Hampton has significantly increased charitable donations to support COVID-19 relief activities in its communities. It has purchased gift cards from local restaurants and made donations to local food banks, senior cen-

ters, and rental assistance programs. In Tillamook County, Ore., Hampton is a proud sponsor of a broadband access program, helping to connect rural students who lack good internet access for online learning. Sawmill employees have also continued their community giving efforts, supporting Adopt-a-Family and other youth programs. COVID-19 was just one of many challenges in 2020. With summer came heightened tensions in communities across the U.S. resulting from systemic racism, Zika notes. “Protests that erupted in the wake of the appalling treatment and subsequent death of George Floyd at the hands of police led many, myself included, to reflect on the inequalities that exist in our society.” Last fall, a group of volunteers in Hampton’s Portland

office formed a Social Justice Team to examine ways Hampton can help people of color in the Portland area and promote diversity and antiracism within the Hampton company. Then came September and wildfire. While wildfires are increasing in size, frequency, and severity throughout the West, the Labor Day fires were an important reminder that all forests are vulnerable, even those in wetter areas west of the Cascades. “Lives, livelihoods, homes and infrastructure were lost in these tragic fires,” Zika says. “Hampton was fortunate in that our lands were spared, but many of our neighbors were not so lucky. Unsurprisingly, our industry played an important role in the wildfire response and recovery efforts.” Foresters and loggers formed ad hoc firefighting

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 9

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 10

NEWSFEED crews and worked alongside state forestry and emergency managers to help protect their communities. Hampton supported fellow landowners with fire trucks. These volunteer efforts more than doubled the Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s firefighting capacity. The Labor Day fires serve as a tragic reminder of the importance of forest management, before and after fire, Hampton emphasizes. Private timberland owners who suffered wildfire losses are moving forward with restoration, which involves removing burnt timber and replanting. State forest managers are also offering limited restoration timber sales. Mills can recover lumber from burnt timber and some salvaged logs have been making their way to Hampton’s Oregon facilities. In spite of the difficulties and the uncertainty, Zika says

■

MARCH 2021

■

Hampton weathered 2020 remarkably well. Demand for wood products remained high, driven largely by home centers and a surge in home improvement projects. “It is good to see that single-family home construction demand is finally back to the levels we saw prior to the Great Recession,” Zika says. I remain confident that as vaccines become more widely available and COVID-19 risk abates, pent up demand for travel, dining and other service will lead to a very strong economy in 2021.” Despite the political divisiveness that dominated state and national headlines, there were remarkable acts of bi-partisan cooperation on forest policy this year, Zika points out. In Washington, legislators passed a Forest Sector Carbon bill that recognizes the carbon benefits of the forest industry. In Oregon, Hampton and a

dozen other forestland owners formed an agreement with environmental groups to establish common sense reforms related to a number of contentious issues. This agreement resulted in legislation that included expanded water quality protections and mandated development of a real-time notification system for forest herbicide applications—the first of its kind in the nation. Over the next year, signatories to this agreement will examine opportunities to develop additional protections for vulnerable aquatic species on private forestland. “I’m proud of our involvement in this historic agreement and hope the cooperative atmosphere around forest policy continues long into the future,” Zika says. Zika adds: So while we have endured countless challenges, the year has also been punctuated by innovation, en-

lightenment, resilience and remarkable acts of kindness and service to community. I’ve been inspired by the acts of generosity and understanding exhibited both within the company and in the communities in which we operate. We surely have more difficult months ahead, but I know we will get through the challenges that confront us today and come out stronger on the other side.”

ROSENGARTH IS NEW COLLINS CEO Collins has appointed TJ Rosengarth as President & CEO. Rosengarth succeeds Eric Schooler and assumed responsibilities on February 15. Rosengarth is well known for his extensive background in the wood products industry, including stints with Willamette Industries in com-

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 11

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:31 PM Page 12

NEWSFEED posite panels (1985-2000), Weyerhaeuser as VP of Composite Panels (2001-2006), Flakeboard as Chief Operating Officer (2007-2011), and Northwest Hardwoods as President and CEO (2011-2018). Most recently he served as a partner with a private equity firm where his focus was acquiring companies. “TJ is the right and best choice for our company to lead us forward,” states Cherida Collins Smith, Board Chair. “He has a depth of experience and success in our industry, which is especially important during these challenging times. He embodies the ethics and values that have been and continue to be core to our company.” Rosengarth received an Operations Management degree from Portland State University as well as Executive Management Studies from Stan-

■

MARCH 2021

■

ford University. Based in Wilsonville, Ore., Collins has been familyowned since 1855. It operates softwood sawmills in Chester, Calif. and Lakeview, Ore., hardwood sawmill in Kane, Pa., particleboard and siding/trim operations in Klamath Falls, Ore. Collins upholds its longstanding commitment to land and resource stewardship with more than 311,000 acres of FSC-certified forestlands. Collins was the first privatelyowned forest products business in the U.S. to be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

KESSLER RETIRES FROM SFPA After serving the southern pine industry for nearly 45 years with the Southern

Forest Products Assn. (SFPA), the board-level role of SFPA Tami Kessler will retire on secretary and director of AdApril 2, 2021. ministration. In January Kessler began her life-long 2014, Kessler became SFPA’s career with SFPA after gradu- Executive Dierctor. ating from Soule Business She is one of the longestCollege in December 1976, serving employees in SFPA joining the association as sechistory. During her service at retary to the Forest Resource SFPA she served under many Div. Her path to Executive influential SFPA leaders inDirector began as she moved cluding Lionel Landry, whom into SFPA’s Accounting Deshe considers her mentor durpartment following the retireing her early years with the asment of Elsie Wichterich. In sociation. In addition, she en1982 she was promoted to ofjoyed the opportunity to work fice manager and then to diclosely with SFPA’s Board of rector of Administration in Directors, all of which became 1986 as she quickly great friends. ascended through Kessler’s planning the ranks. In skills were integral in 2002, she was the development and named as expositransformation of tion director for EXPO as well as the the association’s execution of countless Forest Products SFPA spring and anMachinery & nual meetings. Many Equipment Exposiof Kessler’s favorite Tami Kessler tion, followed by memories of her time

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 13

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 14

NEWSFEED at SFPA come from those meetings, which she enjoyed both planning and attending. In particular, she recalls many fishing excursions and pictures with a Texas Long- horn. In addition to the annual meetings, one of Kessler’s fondest memories was the grand opening of SFPA’s new building in Kenner, La. in the late ’70s—a showcase for southern pine lumber products on a raised foundation. Kessler leaves a legacy built on relationships and trust. Her contribution to the faithful carrying out of SFPA’s International Program continued SFPA’s reputation as a dependable cooperator for USDA funding. “Tami’s thoughtful and purposed leadership will be greatly missed,” remarks Alaina Hanson, SFPA’s Director of Administration. “On behalf of all mem-

■

MARCH 2021

■

bers, I want to recognize Tami for her many contributions to our industry and thank her for her dedication and service to SFPA throughout her career,” comments SFPA Chairman Craig Forbes. “Her contribution and wonderful personality will truly be missed.” Kessler plans to join her husband, Kerry, in retirement and hopefully spend more time at the beach with her family. She will greatly miss the southern pine family that she has grown to love. “I am fortunate to have served a great industry with wonderful people I can call friends for a lifetime! It has been a pleasure and honor to serve the industry,” Kessler says. As part of an orderly transfer of leadership, Eric Gee assumed the role of Executive Director on February 1, 2021.

VDMA UPBEAT IN OUTLOOK Despite the second lockdown and the associated restrictions, German-based VDMA Woodworking Machinery Assn. still sees good chances for a rebound in demand and has started 2021 with optimism. “We still expect a 3% increase in the current year,” states the new chairman of the woodworking machinery trade association, Markus Hüllmann, of machinery manufacture production. “In view of the many problems caused by Corona, this is quite ambitious.” Hüllmann notes the obstacles encountered in international business, especially when it comes to the delivery of larger machines. “Where our employees cannot travel to assemble and commission, or

can only do so under the strictest regulations, we try to use digital tools to enable the operators to take their own measures. Sometimes this succeeds, but often it does not. If the final machinery acceptance at the customer’s site does not take place, the revenues are then received with great delay. Without highly flexible and committed employees, nothing works in such a situation,” Hüllmann explains. For the past year 2020, VDMA still assumes a negative 15% in production. According to figures from the German Federal Statistical Office, the production value during the first three quarters decreased by almost 17% to 1.9 billion euros. “Due to the improved order situation in the fourth quarter, we are optimistic about our forecast,” says Dominik Wolfschütz, market analyst of

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 15

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 16

NEWSFEED VDMA woodworking machinery department. Especially in Germany, order activity have gone up significantly. In addition, selected larger projects and standard machine business were also good. Exports of woodworking machinery fell by 15% from January to November 2020. Only slight declines have been recorded in China, Austria, Brazil and Turkey, while aboveaverage declines occurred in the U.S., Great Britain, Italy and Spain markets.

The currently good capacity utilization in many sub-segments of the wood and furniture industry is also stimulating their willingness to invest. Examples continue to be the sawmill sector in large parts of Europe, the further processing of sawn timber into products such as glulam (GLT) and cross-laminated timber (CLT), as well as the pellet plant at the sawmill site, which has become commonplace. After many months without almost any

order activity, the order volume for equipment suppliers to the wood-based industry has finally returned to a satisfactory level thanks to orders from China and Turkey. Additionally, new markets such as North Africa have picked up. Manufacturers of wood fiber insulation panels have also placed some orders. In the secondary sector, the construction-related segments are scoring particularly well: The window and door industry is investing; in the furniture industry the kitchen manufacturers are standing out. The carpentry and joinery trades also continue to buy new machines and tools. The association’s Managing Director, Bernhard Dirr, refers to the positive registration numbers and the ongoing preparations of exhibitors for the industry’s leading trade show LIGNA in Hannover, Germany, which has been postponed from this May to September 27-October 1, 2021. “We do expect a drop in exhibition space and in the number of smaller international exhibitors. Nonetheless, it is important that practically all the relevant players will be there and that the vast majority of exhibitors will be available for dialogue with the visitors. And it is precisely these face to face contacts that we urgently need and desperately miss,” Dirr explains. He expresses optimism that by the end of the summer the global vaccination campaigns that are starting up will pick up strongly and make a proper LIGNA possible.

DRAX-PINNACLE ALTERS LANDSCAPE Drax Group, the major United Kingdom-based electricity producer, which has converted much of its generation from coal-fired to wood pellet fuel, has entered into an agreement to purchase major Canadian-based industrial wood pellet producer Pinnacle Renewable Energy Inc. The all-cash transaction is valued at $657 million (U.S.) (C$831 million), including the assumption of net debt. Duncan Davies, Pinnacle CEO, comments, “The combination of Pinnacle and Drax will create a global leader in sustainable biomass with the vision, technical expertise and financial strength to help meet the growing demand for renewable energy products around the world.” The transaction is subject to closing conditions, including governmental and regulatory approvals as well as the approval of the Supreme Court of British 16

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 17

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 18

NEWSFEED Columbia. The transaction is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2021. Pinnacle is the second largest producer of industrial wood pellets in the world.The company operates nine production facilities in Western Canada and one in Aliceville, Ala., with one additional facility nearing startup in Demopolis, Ala. The company also owns a port terminal in Prince Rupert, BC. Pinnacle has entered

into long-term, take-or-pay contracts with utilities in the U.K., Europe and Asia. Drax notes the transaction more than doubles its biomass production capacity and significantly reduces its cost of biomass production. Specifically it adds 2.9 million tonnes of biomass production capacity. Pinnacle’s existing joint venture minority partnerships carry over to Drax in the transaction, including relationships with Westervelt and Two

Rivers Lumber in Alabama, and Tolko Industries in Canada. Through scale, operational efficiency and low-cost fiber sourcing, Pinnacle reportedly currently produces biomass at a lower cost than Drax. This reflects the use of high levels of low-cost sawmill residues. British Columbia has a large and well-established commercial forestry industry, which has in recent years seen increased harvest levels, in part associated with management of a pine beetle infestation, producing good levels of residue material availability for the production of biomass. This infestation has now run its course and alongside other influences on the forest landscape, including wildfire, is resulting in a reduction in the annual harvest and sawmill closures. The industry is adjusting to this with some production curtailment as well as developing approaches to fiber recovery and use that is expected to result in some increase in fiber costs. Seven of Pinnacle’s sites are in British Columbia (1.6 million tonne nameplate capacity) and two are in Alberta (0.6 million tonne nameplate capacity). Pinnacle also operates a U.S. hub at Aliceville, Ala. (0.3 million tonne nameplate capacity) and is developing a second site in Demopolis, Ala. (0.4 million tonne nameplate capacity), which Pinnacle expects to commission in 2021.

IDAHO MOVES ON SALVAGE When the Woodhead Fire broke out near Cambridge, Id. in early September and moved toward the town of Council, state forestry officials began evaluating and analyzing salvage operations for the timber damaged by the nearly 100,000 acre fire before it was even put out. Logging began on some of the stateowned land impacted by the fire in October. According to state officials, about 20,000 acres of Idaho Endowment Land—where timber sale revenues are used to help fund Idaho schools and other programs—were affected. Timber sales from the fire will generate $2.1 million for Idaho Endowment beneficiaries. Timber salvage operations will continue in the area for roughly two years. The Idaho Department of Lands is working with the Payette National Forest through the Good Neighbor Authority partnership to help expedite and provide more resources for timber salvage and forest restoration. 18

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 19

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/26/21 8:54 AM Page 20

By Jessica Johnson

Saving the best for last, GP starts up Albany Lumber during a pandemic—its final of three startups in less than three years.

ALBANY, Ga.

hen Georgia-Pacific Lumber decided to build three new sawmills, two at brownfield sites and one completely greenfield, the industry watched closely. Partnered with BID Group, the first two startups were not without challenges, in Talladega, Ala. and Warrenton, Ga., but were overall great successes, especially aided in 2020 by aggressive lumber prices just as the mills hit their stride. Then it came time to build, from the ground up, Albany Lumber in Albany, Ga. The groundbreaking for the $150 million, 320,000 sq. ft facility was in February 2018. GP and BID Group collaborated on a similar turnkey formula. Mill leadership was getting its collective feet wet, spending time training at the other two startups, gathering information to make Albany stronger. And then things ground slowly to a halt as the coronavirus pandemic ransacked the world about a year after groundbreaking and a few months after lumber production began. 20

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/26/21 9:11 AM Page 21

Because of the pandemic, information sharing has taken many forms, including small group chats with masks.

Plant Manager Johnnie Temples, a 21year veteran GP employee and Florida State University engineering grad, joined the Albany Lumber team in September 2018, before construction even started, and was there through the uncertainty the pandemic created. “Well, they didn’t tell me before I took the job,” Temples manages a chuckle as he thinks back on those last few weeks of March 2020—especially given that the city of Albany gained national attention as an original virus hot spot and continued to have record numbers of cases per capita. Temples says it was a challenge that continues, but feels confident in the decisions made at the beginning to help mitigate risk as best as it could be done. Driven by plant leadership, supported by corporate staff, Temples says communication was key. Protocols were estab(Photos courtesy of GP and Todd Stone Photography)

Mill Manager Johnnie Temples

lished and followed to maintain a high level of hygiene and keep everyone safe—not a small task given 140 employees who are trying to bring a sawmill online. Meetings were moved outside when possible, or held in smaller groups. A group of people was hired specifically just to continuously clean

surfaces. Adhering to CDC guidelines and GP protocols, Temples says, helped tremendously and during startup. Only one employee tested positive for COVID19, and no one was exposed at the plant. Starting up a plant with brand new machines is hard enough, but doing so during a pandemic means there had to be unchartered and innovative interaction between leadership and personnel to do so effectively. Temples explains: “We had quarantines and took the conservative approach; if they had symptoms, employees were asked to stay home. We were not going to split hairs; we would work with them, quarantine and they would still get paid. It most definitely brought us together, getting in front of them and being as transparent as we possibly could, taking their feedback as well. It strengthened the family.” But the mill couldn’t start up without support from its main supplier, BID Group. With BID’s headquarters and resources split between South Carolina and British Columbia, Canada, Temples admits it was a challenge to bring resources to south Georgia from Canada. Based on the Canadian government’s approach to the panTIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 22

A Few Faces Of Albany Lumber

Joey Sanders

Scotty Green

Roderick Ross

Bre’Shuna Faison

Tangee Lowe 22

■

MARCH 2021

Todd Steiner

Octavious Crittenden ■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 23

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 24

Albany Lumber’s dimension lumber capacity is north of 300MMBF.

demic a large group of people were not able to travel down and instead had to remote in, only sending a small team. Using Microsoft Teams technology, support personnel in Canada and elsewhere were able to remote into the mill and see exactly what those on site saw to try to help resolve issues. Temples

■

MARCH 2021

■

says the team could definitely tell the difference but in the end it was “ok.” “We adapted,” he says succinctly. “During startup you have some challenges that are physically unique to startup, and you’ve got to be there to physically see exactly what’s going on, as an advantage. But we just used the newer

tech to be able to tell us how to resolve it,” he says. Temples is incredibly proud of his team, who all worked gracefully and courageously he says during an otherwise stressful time that was simply compounded by COVID-19. A big advantage on-site leaders had was being able to

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 25

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 26

train and learn from colleagues at the two other turnkey BID Group mills GP had started up, which allowed for employees that were onboarding to be trained by those that had previously trained on the specific equipment. As Albany was the last build, Temples and his team were able to take learned lessons and apply them to Albany. But, for Temples, the biggest challenge of startup was not necessarily the COVID19 pandemic, but intentionally starting up a good culture. “Everyone that was hired was selected for their skill set and the

probability of being successful,” he details. “At one point we weren’t bringing candidates on-site to interview and trying to select good candidates based on conversations over the phone and letting them see what they were agreeing to was definitely a challenge.” While the interview process for staff was different than what might be considered “normal,” it was a tremendous effort from recruiting and HR. Temples believes it has paid off tenfold. He’s cautious though, admitting there’s still a long way to go to see the results from selecting the right people.

CHANGES While it is easy on the outside looking in to compare the three startups for GP, each were a stand-alone project. Overall, the opinion on Albany is that the project was well planned and well managed. Temples, hired early, served as operations manager and said one of the most notable differences between the three builds was the physical location of Albany. Before anything could happen, a substation had to be built through Georgia Power, as Albany had no existing infrastructure. All concrete, structures and power lines had to be erected, and Albany dealt with the additional initial challenge of having to level the property off, as one side was higher than the other. Existing storm drains had been on

“If you look at the Albany location there are a lot of similarities but there are a lot of differences, too.” the property for some time, so they had to be dug up and replaced before foundation work could begin. BID bore the brunt of the responsibilities, supported by GP’s internal engineering group. Temples says GP was clear on what needed to be done, but there were some challenges around coordinating capabilities because BID had so many projects going at the same time. “We were doing everything we could to make sure it was a successful startup,” Temples explains. “We had Talladega up and running and just were finishing Warrenton, and a few other bigger projects that were on the schedule to be done. In the end we reprioritized. That was the key to making sure we had limited resources focusing on areas where they could have the greatest impact.” He’s quick to point out that while it is easy to group the three projects together, they were by no means a cookie cutter situation: “We learned a lot at Talladega and we learned more in Warrenton. That was all applied to Albany, but Albany is all location, location, location. If you look at the Albany location there are a lot of similarities but there are a lot of differences, too.” The two biggest differences between the three are the decision for Albany to have a two bridge crane on 1000 lineal ft. crane railing system, and the process 26

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/26/21 9:11 AM Page 27

flow into shipping. The other two locations use a physical check-in system, while Albany is fully automated. The use of a kiosk means Albany can optimize turnaround times. In late 2020, Temples had the mill gaining on capacity, a pace he was okay with at the time while focusing in on continued improvement. Running at the full capacity of more than 300MMBF came recently, still managing to enjoy high lumber prices. “I would say it was a successful startup; rates were captured early on according to our projected and anticipated startup curve,” he adds. “We look at things long term, getting things fundamentally right, not just do something because the market is strong. We want to capture value, but also create long-term value with fundamental practices.”

tals of reliability” following established daily, weekly and monthly PMs. The mill operates on five 24-hour periods, with two down days to handle PMs or work on corrective actions that necessitate the machines to be taken down. Saw filing is contracted out, though Albany does internally produce saw guides. While this trilogy for GP might be done, GP Lumber President Fritz Mason couldn’t be prouder of the collective efforts to get to where the facilities are today. “It has truly been a team effort to accomplish this. Our team did an amaz-

ing job to make everything come together successfully. A big part of what made this possible was our ability to leverage talent, knowledge and skills from across all of our business in Georgia-Pacific and Koch Industries to help get the job done. That is one of our strengths that few others can duplicate.” Mason adds: “I think our Albany Lumber facility has been the biggest beneficiary of the knowledge since we started up two similar sites prior to getting Albany on-line and the lessons TP learned have paid dividends.”

MILL FLOW Logs are trucked in over the scales and unloaded using a log crane with 1000 ft. runways and two 120 ft. bridges with double bite grapple. Cranes load the product on the stem deck conveyor, where logs step up to feed the belt that passes through the reject saw, for removing crook or other abnormalities. Logs are debarked with a 22 in. Comact single ring debarker before moving through scanning to the bucking saw, Comact’s multi-saw stem trimmer and positioner. For gap control, Albany uses a step/wave feeder pocket after the merchandizer. Two wave feeders feed a scanning conveyor ahead of a flying log turner. Logs are positioned and run through an optimized length infeed (OLI-CS3) chipper canter profiler and quad circle saws. Profiled logs fall away while the remaining cant continues down the line to the TBL3, a 12 in. double arbor curvesawing gang. A double unscrambling setup leads to the trimmer followed by a 70 bin drag chain type sorter and a MoCo sticker stacker. Lumber is dried in three continuous dry kilns from DelTech. Once dried, lumber moves into the planer mill via a tilt-hoist and is unscrambled through the Miller planer and run through the Comact GradExpert lumber grader, with moisture reading and machine stress rated data. Lumber passes through a multi-saw trimmer with outfeed transfer for cut-in-two through a grade mark printing system, preceding a 65 bin drag top sorter. Two Comact double fork sticker stackers lead to three Signode strapping machines and three label applicators from Samuel. Maintenance is based on “fundamenTIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 28

BUILDING MASS

TIMBER By Dan Shell

Market growth awaits but challenges remain for producers.

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 29

uilding for years, mass timber construction and cross-laminated timber (CLT) products are on the cusp of a boom as the economy seeks to recover from the COVID 19 pandemic and housing and commercial and institutional construction grows. The upside for mass timber building expansion is bright indeed, but challenges remain as the industry seeks to grow the product and the overall market for mass timber construction.

According to Paul Kremer, a member of the XLam Australia senior executive team and a professor and research fellow at the University of Melbourne, while the global mass timber market was valued at $700 million (U.S.) several years ago, projections are that the global market for mass timber building products will approach $2.3 billion by the end of 2025. Industry analysts Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) project that global nominal CLT capacity is expected to reach 6.8 million cubic meters (roughly 5.5 billion BF) by 2024. More than 95% of CLT capacity will be in Europe and the U.S., says FEA’s Art Schmon. The industry’s fast growth before the pandemic will pick back up afterward, Schmon says. Drivers include new building codes, government incentives, expansion of modular construction in general and concern over the environment. Schmon believes mass timber building is moving from the West Coast and

spreading eastward, and he expects annual CLT production capacity growth of 34% through 2024. Used in Europe for 20+ years, CLT and mass timber building techniques are more advanced and embedded there, but North America is catching up. The first North American plants were certified under APA—The Engineered Wood Assn.’s CLT PRG 320 standard only in 2012 (Nordic Structures and SmartLam in Canada) and the U.S. in 2015 and 2016 (D.R. Johnson and SmartLam North America, respectively). But now there are 11 CLT plants operating in the U.S. and eight in Canada, with more waiting in the wings to announce. In an interesting paper from early 2020 titled “So you want to build a CLT plant? Understanding the investment options,” Kremer noted that according to information from Oregon State University, worldwide CLT output for 2019 was

from 60 registered production lines amounting to approximately 1.44 million m³. “Of the reported production, 75% of all installed CLT presses worldwide were supplied by three different European manufacturers. Whilst CNC processing machines, also from the three biggest suppliers, represent 80% of the total supplied globally,” he stated. Kremer gave an overview of plant types and varying levels of automation, noting that “a 50,000 m3 plant can produce a 10storey building (1,000 m3) a week, that’s a lot of buildings for a start up in a niche market.” He added that a very basic production line that included a single mechanical press, full automated layup system, feedstock in-feeders, finger jointer, curing deck, extraction systems and one CNC would be approximately $10 million (US). And that’s just basic equipment and doesn’t include a myriad of other costs. The paper also includes a chart that showed examples of a variety of plants, their capacities and costs, ranging from a 10,000 m3 Sodra plant in Sweden that cost $20 million to the massive Katerra plant in Spokane, Wash., with capacity of 185,000 m3 and $150 million price tag. The 2020 Mass Timber Report, a collaborative effort by The Beck Group, Forest Business Network, Treesource and Kaiser + Path that includes input from multiple CLT and mass timber producers, the U.S. Forest Service and Softwood Lumber Board, WoodWorks and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities, forecasts exponential growth for the mass timber building industry. Mass timber demand is greatest in California, with more than 100 mass timber

Cross-laminated timber is not all about tall multi-story structures. Rex Lumber’s new sawmill in Troy, Ala., opposite page, recently completed a mechanics shop built with CLT produced at SmartLam’s operation in nearby Dothan, Ala. (photos courtesy of Rex Lumber). Meanwhile, Europe continues to invest in capacity and new technology as in this Swiss plant, above.

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:14 PM Page 30

buildings either complete or in design as of 2019. Other high demand states include Washington (more than 70 mass timber structures in place or in design) and Texas (more than 50). According to the Mass Timber Report, there were 248 mass timber buildings completed and 460 in design in the U.S. by the end of 2019. The report notes that the number of U.S. mass timber buildings is expected to double every other year through 2034, to more than 24,000 structures. Mass timber building is gaining another boost this year as the 2021 International Building Code includes three new construction types allowed for the use of CLT in buildings up to 18 stories. “I think the industry is expanding quite a bit now into more commodityand developer-based projects,” says Charles Gale, strategic business analyst for SmartLam, which operates two CLT plants and is well-positioned with its Dothan, Ala. plant to tackle East Coast projects. Gale, a contributor to the Mass Timber Report, adds that industry is growing beyond the custom, one-off nature of initial projects. Gale says that the “level of education and experience” of working with CLT and mass timber materials and building skills has grown tremendously in recent years. “More and more you’re able to find experienced local guys who can work with it.”

BENEFITS The benefits of working with mass timber products are becoming better known in the construction industry. Also, building code changes mean CLT is being used to expand scarce space in cities by building higher. Construction time is quicker than pouring concrete on site, resulting in lower labor and equipment costs. A 2019 APA case study of new First United Bank buildings in Fredericksburg, Tex. and Shawnee, Okla., 8,500 sq. ft. and 12,500 sq. ft., respectively, reported that architectural firm Gensler estimated the build phase was 50% to 60% faster than with concrete or steel, according to Gensler project architect Taylor Coleman. Gensler and contractor Kendnel Kasper Construction, Inc. recruited local home builders who had experience working with mass timber elements in area residential construction. According to the APA report, International Beams, the manufacturer of CLT and glulam for the Texas branch, sent an expert to help train those workers on panel installation, and by the third panel, 30

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 31

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 32

they had it down cold. CLT-Mass Timber Plants in North America It’s that kind of commitment that is Canada putting CLT and Nordic Structures Chibougamau, Que. mass timber building on the map and winStructurlam Okanagan Falls, BC ning converts. StructureCraft Abbotsford, BC WoodWorks’ cost optimization checklist Element 5 Ripon, Que. shows that the fourSt. Thomas, Ont. story Candlewood Leaf Engin. Wood Prds. Devlin, Ont. Suites at Redstone Arsenal near Huntsville, Kalesnikoff Lumber South Slocan, BC Ala., covered 62,700 White River Forest Prds. White River, Ont. sq. ft. and had an overall construction schedU.S. ule of 12 months. That included 16 weeks to SmartLam North America Columbia Falls, Mont., Dothan, Ala. erect the mass timber structure. Sterling Solutions Phoenix, Ill. A Kremer paper D.R. Johnson Riddle, Ore. from 2018 shows that in addition to having Freres Lumber Lyons, Ore. standard economic Vaagen Timbers Colville, Wash. concerns, the various stakeholders in a typiKaterra Spokane, Wash. cal mass timber conSterling Solutions Lufkin, Tex. struction project view the “value” of mass Texas CLT Jasper, Tex. Magnolia, Ark. timber in different ways: Structurlam Conway, Ark. (’21) Developers have reimagined opportunities thanks to new building codes for dust, etc., and the end user enjoys reduced mass timber; architects have an opportuenergy costs and maintenance while maknity to be on the leading edge of sustaining a socially conscious investment. ability and optimize designs for cost and The paper noted that any analysis of a operation; while engineers can use the project should take into consideration latest building technology and push the these values as well as purely economic frontiers of engineering. concerns such as cost per square foot. Builders see program savings, fewer first-aid incidents and labor savings; conCUSTOMERS tractors see reduced manpower requireAn interesting research paper from ments, faster build times and increased Shafayet Ahmed and Ingrid Arocho of site safety. the Oregon State University College of Local public officials see reduced duraCivil and Construction Engineering that tion of disruption during the project and was released summer 2020 and updated fewer calls from neighbors about noise,

Builders are attracted to mass timber's lower labor requirements, shorter timelines. 32

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 33

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 34

Mass timber construction offers different values for each segment of the building team.

■

MARCH 2021

■

in October looks at mass timber’s current position in the U.S. construction industry, current awareness levels, construction-related challenges and recommendations to increase mass timber acceptance levels among builders. In addition to performing their own surveys and research, the paper also cites many of the technical articles and research papers surrounding different aspects of mass timber construction, from carbon sequestration and materials to economic feasibility and costs and everything in between. In addition, the research team surveyed more than 100 construction industry companies, including contractors, subcontractors, engineering firms and consulting companies. Some 94% of respondents said they had heard of mass timber building, only 45% said they were involved at any level in a mass timber project. Of those who were experienced working with mass timber, 56% said they had less than a year’s experience. Mass timber availability is also an issue for those in the survey, with only 26% saying mass timber construction materials were “readily available,” while 73% said such materials were “somewhat available.” The survey noted that 35% of respondents said the smaller workforce requirement is the most dominant safety attribute of building with mass timber, with 22% noting less risks of accidents thanks to simpler work tasks and shorter on-site work duration. On the negative side 14% of respondents reported some type of coordination issue during construction that dropped productivity. Another 13% reported design and installation difficulties. Interestingly, the research paper notes that survey participants “indicated that the unavailability of customizable timber panels makes it further difficult for contractors to use this product in a holistic manner.” To overcome market- and construction-related challenges, respondents urged more mass timber case studies to develop familiarity and expertise, further development of industry-wide standards and more education efforts. Availability and location are also factors, as the relatively small number and location of plants make it more difficult for mass timber building to take hold, respondents said, due to transportation costs. The research paper also cited previous studies from around the world that had shown mass timber building costs are generally more expensive than tradition-

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 35

al stick and frame or steel and concrete designs, though multiple benefits offset direct construction costs. As an example, the authors cite another one of their research papers, a recent study on a building in Canada that was 6.4% more expensive designed with mass timber instead of concrete. Meanwhile, a 2015 study of 18 CLT projects in Europe, Australia and North America found overall costs savings of 4% when using mass timber instead of concrete. In addition to well-known benefits of lower energy inputs and emissions during production than carbon and steel, plus the carbon sequestration aspect of using CLT, two respective studies have shown wood-based materials require 15% less energy over the life cycle of a building and also that mass timber buildings have 10% lower operational energy demands compared to similar concrete buildings. Studies have also shown that CLT construction sites produce far less particulate emissions than steel building construction sites.

Ybbs, Austria plant into the U.S. market. A recently announced new $93 million CLT line in Czech Republic will also seek certification for the U.S. market as well. ● TimberLink Australia recently announced the location of its new CLT plant at its sawmill in Tarpeena, South Australia. This is Australia’s second major CLT plant and it will also produce glulam. TP

The mass timber movement is looking at exponential growth the next few years.

ISSUES, NEWS Growing the mass timber building concept and developing markets and distribution takes time, and some issues crop up. ● Some North American producers are chafing that offshore suppliers with established supply chains and production facilities have been able to come to the U.S. and gain business with imported product. Transporting CLT halfway around the globe negates the product’s claim to a smaller carbon footprint, domestic producers say. ● Lumber prices. Though leveled off after an amazing run into the third quarter 2020, lumber prices remain high and such costs impact mass timber’s selling proposition. Also, competing building materials interests are always quick to pounce on any perceived lack of competitiveness. ● Major European CLT producer Binderholz’s recent purchase of sawmills in Florida and North Carolina has many believing it’s only a matter of time before the company announces its first U.S. CLT plant. ● Freres Lumber’s mass timber Mass Plywood Panel (MPP) beams and columns are APA certified as of late October. Using its innovative MPP product, Freres is able to produce beams and columns up to 24x48. ● Finnish forest products giant Stora Enso has received APA PRG 320 certification to sell CLT panels from its TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_cs.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:11 PM Page 36

SECOND LOOK

INGRAM If you read our coverage of the Charles Ingram Lumber sawmill operations in Effingham, SC in the last issue of Timber Processing, you most likely got the same impression we did upon our visit—there’s a lot going on between two sawmills, a large filing room, five dry kilns (three of them continuous) and a planer mill. And more projects are in the works at the longstanding southern yellow pine lumber producer. While that article included plenty of photos, we felt we left a lot of photos on the table, until now. Enjoy! (Patrick Dunning photos)

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_cs.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:12 PM Page 37

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 38

LOGMERCHANDISING EDITOR’S NOTE: The following companies submitted these editorial profiles and images to complement their advertisements placed elsewhere in this issue. All statements and claims are attributable to the companies.

BID GROUP Every time we install a BID Group optimized log bucking system, it is configured according to the sawmill priorities. We ensure the bucking executes optimal stem cutting by considering the anticipated value of the pieces as well as yield. The configuration of each installation combines “L” shaped scanners equipped with 3D Pro laser heads for fast and efficient optimization of logs on the V-belt conveyor. The system also includes a split transfer to improve performance and flow. The latest generation of BID Group’s optimized log bucking systems offers several options to maximize efficiency and sawmill flow. ● Reduced sawing time The distinctive feature of this new generation of bucking systems is the saw sequence. Unlike previous generations, the saws position themselves while the stem is approaching. Then, the stem is pushed BID’s new generation optimized log bucking towards the saws to be cut. The required sawing time is reduced while maintaining the same accuracy as with the previous generations. A camera now detects stem presence during positioning. As opposed to photocells, which could sometimes fail at detecting small diameter logs, the camera ensures reliable, accurate stem positioning. The two-way outfeed conveyor also allows diverting logs meant for the manufacturing of special products from the standard production line. ● Solutions for veneer Optimized veneer solutions, based on new algorithms, are also among the latest bucking options. Once a stem is scanned, the software assesses both its shape and roughness to anticipate the presence of large knots. If the surface and shape meet the criteria, the optimizer attempts to position the veneer patterns at various places on the stem. The veneer solution is retained only if its value is greater than the standard sawing solution. ● Detection of metal in stems The bucking optimizer can now receive PLC input when metal is detected in the stem. Therefore, the optimizer will avoid cutting the metal and it will find an optimized solution to reduce loss. If you value the quality of your logs and better recovery, contact BID Group to find out more about our bucking optimization options.

FIBERPRO FiberPro specializes in high speed/high recovery merchandising/ roundwood handling systems for corporate and independent clients in softwood and hardwood applications. The company’s history and expertise reflect a customized approach so each client has a system designed for their specific needs and future mill production/recovery expansion plans. Our priority is to supply our clients with the highest performing engineered solution that has the highest safety standards and reliability standards in the industry. FiberPro’s latest generation of merchandiser systems have redundant safety systems integrated into the design and oversized components for increased reliability/uptime compared to past designs. It has taken more than 25 years of constant development and improvements to reach the speeds and productivity the latest generation systems are currently achieving. FiberPro brings years of experience to its merchandiser system. The latest innovative design changes are new stem and log singulation systems that utilize a new drive design and are now self-cleaning on the infeed side of the feeder system with either a full plated design or screw technology. The Log Trimmer saw gallery has an updated lineal guide system that allows the traveling saw modules to be guided on a large center mounted solid steel roundway assembly with a single high efficiency direct interlocking mechanical drive system; this allows the modules to travel at speeds in excess of 100 FPM with accel/decel times in less than a quarter of a second for unparalleled shifting performance, safety and repeatable accuracy. Saw modules are designed with advanced materials such as aluminum and advanced drives like servos for added speed/strength with less mass to move. FiberPro’s goal is to help the industry with solutions through experience and new innovative designs allowing Fiberpro to be the go-to guys for wood yard technology and lumber handling solutions. 38

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 39

LINDEN FABRICATING

LOGMERCHANDISING

Linden Fabricating Co.’s sawmill machinery ranges from quadrant log feeders and step feeders to patented log merchandising systems. Linden’s Single Acting step feeders unscramble, singulate and feed logs one at a time using only one moving section activated by two hydraulic drives handling up to 30 logs per minute, while clearing debris as it unscrambles and singulates logs. The revolutionary Log Ladder from the designers of the step feeder features simple mechanical electric drives which eliminate hydraulics. Options can include ending systems and laser gap control. Linden’s Self-Cleaning Double Acting step feeders unscramble and singulate logs using two moving sections and are electric driven with Linden offers high speed custom log merchandising systems speed up to 40 logs per minute. and retrofit. Linden’s patented, high speed custom log merchandising systems range in sizes to suit log lengths from 8 ft. to 60 ft. and log diameters 3 in. to 30 in. to deliver the competitive edge. Accurate and stable high performance bell crank saws travel at high speeds up to 137 in./second and shift to the required position before the stem arrives in the Cut Cradle where high speed traveling merchandiser saws cut in under two seconds. The entire merchandiser system can be operated with electric motors and drives, avoiding the need for any hydraulics. Other combinations of Linden’s proven one-at-a-time log unscramblers, step feeders and merchandiser saw systems are adaptable to suit many different log merchandising applications and mill requirements.

MEBOR Mebor, a leading manufacturer of a wide range of sawmilling machines and complete sawing lines for small, medium and bigger scale sawmills, offers the SLH 1200 log debarker. The heavy-duty, high-capacity machine features remote control and automatic operation, so constant presence of the operator is not required. The 10-14 tonne (22,000-31,000 lbs.) machine is equipped with a simple scanner to recognize the position and diameter of the log. This allows the machine to work automatically and is controlled using a remote control unit. The debarking speed is set automatically according to the log diameter. After the log is debarked, the debarking head automatically returns to its initial position. In case of badshaped logs, the operator may also operate the debarking head manually. Large log rotating wheels include a dented surface that provide good grip on the logs. Mebor high-capacity SLH 1200 log debarker The SLH 1200 may optionally include a butt-end reducing unit. It allows simultaneous debarking and butt-end reducing, normally with no extra operation time needed. The reducing head automatically detects the size of the butt-end and works without the constant presence of the operator. The Mebor SLH 1200 can take logs up to 1200 mm (4 ft.) in diameter. The debarking head with knives is powered by a 22 kW (30 HP) motor. Hydraulic pressure and debarking depth can be adjusted. Wide range of additional options and equipment includes log loading decks, different sorting systems, metal detecting system, waste conveyors and more. The SLH 1200 debarker can be combined with an automatic loading and unloading system for logs, which means that presence of the operator when debarking straight logs is not constantly needed, only remote supervision.

MELLOT Mellott Manufacturing Co., Inc. is well known for innovative designs. By customer request Mellott is introducing the Model 70E log flare butt reducer—designed and built with the same rugged quality as the LMR debarkers and across all the Mellott product lines. Adding a log flare butt reducer to your mill infeed system will vastly reduce log handling problems and improve productivity. The Mellott log butt flare reducer standard unit will handle 12 in. to 48 in. diameter logs with a maximum flare diameter of 60 in. and log lengths of 8 ft. up to 17 ft. The Mellott cutterhead design is 14 in. diameter x 28 in. wide sectional steel with 48 teeth and a 3-15/16 in. shaft. The cutterhead is driven by a 100 HP, 1200 RPM, electric motor direct coupled to the drive shaft. The

Mellot log flare butt reducer with innovative design TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 40

LOGMERCHANDISING overhead hold down wheels can be operated with hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders. As featured on the Mellott LMR debarkers, the log butt flare reducer also has solid cast steel alloy bullwheels with Browning HS1 hubs and bushings. The bullwheel shafts are 3-7/16 in. diameter with split urethane lined pillow block bearings. The bullwheels are driven with a 10 HP Sumitomo helical bevel reducer. The machine has an automatic control system with the option of a wireless remote control. The log butt flare reducer can be a stand-alone machine or can be supplied with infeed decks or log trough conveyors. Mellott manufactures equipment for throughout the mill from log handling and merchandising systems to band headrigs, linebars, resaws, tilt hoist package breakdown systems, drop saw trimmers, grading and lumber sorting and conveyors to efficiently handle waste wood material. Mellott also offers a line of tie handling equipment that includes stackers, sorters, a newly redesigned tie dapper and mat drilling machine. Mellott systems are custom designed as required. Customers benefit by having manufacturing along with in-house engineering and design capabilities and a willingness to work together to provide the best options for each project.

METAL DETECTORS INC. MDI is proud to introduce its most advanced metal detector system to date, the TWA5000-X. The technology in the new TWA5000-X provides more consistent targeting of contaminants, better interference rejections due to environmental noise and product effect. However, the most exciting feature of the TWA5000-X metal detector is the highly successful MDI View-Link Remote Diagnostic Module. The View-Link allows MDI to remotely connect to your MDI metal detector to monitor, diagnose and calibrate your system—optimizing your metal detector for maximum sensitivity and stability right there in your own unique environment. Many happy customers already know “It’s like having an MDI technician right there in your mill, but only a phone call away!” The TWA5000-X metal detector can scan up to 60 inches in diameter softwood or hardwood logs and comes with a threeyear product warranty and a three-year View-Link remote service package. In addition, MDI offers unlimited lifetime telephone technical support for all of its products at no additional charge. Established in 1965 and located in beautiful Eugene, Ore., Metal Detectors, Inc. has been a proven leader in providing state-ofthe-art metal detection solutions for the forest products industry for more than 50 years.

TELCO SENSORS Telco Sensors, a leading manufacturer of high performance infrared photoelectric sensors and accessories, is excited to announce that the SpaceScan SS 02 Series measuring light curtain is now available with IO-Link. The SpaceScan series is a rugged, high-performance light curtain system designed for reliable operation in harsh environments. The SS 02 offers a sensing range of 10+ meters, high excess gain, and 100,000 lux light immunity. Housed in a sturdy aluminum profile with IP 67 rating, the series is available in lengths ranging from 300 to 1980 mm with beam spacings of 5, 10 or 20 mm. The SS 02 IO-Link series supports a wide range of geometrical analysis functions that may be used for measurement, positioning and monitoring. IO-Link PC software allows an extensive range of programmable parameters and diagnostics to be configured. These selectable/adjustable settings include: scan mode, operation mode, gain control, hysteresis, blanking function, and smoothing (pre-filtering) function. The light curtain offers a 2-wire analog output (0-10 VDC or 4-20 mA) and up to four individual digital outputs which can be individually configured with a wide range of measurement and output conditions. Telco enhances light curtain technology.

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 41

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 42

LOGMERCHANDISING

TIMBER AUTOMATION

More sawmills continue to choose Timber Automation’s LogPro log bucking system than any other due to its track record of performance, superior accuracy, and the highest production rates in the industry. With thicker steel and oversized bearings and gear boxes, this heavy-duty system is designed to withstand the impact that comes with bucking stems up to 36 in. in diameter. Redundancies and mechanical safeguards ensure your operators will be able to safely operate the equipment for years to come. Key benefits include: ● Achieve peak throughput with piece rates of up to 12 stems per minute, based on debarker speed. LogPro merchandisers build on history of success. 1 ● Infinite positioning ensures accuracy within ⁄4 in. and minimal waste from defect trims. ● Unlimited travel allows for the addition of more shifting saws at a later date. ● Natural retracting saw arms and safety brakes protect your operators and equipment in the event of a power failure. ● Full-fit modeling, based on machine center capabilities, optimizes the entire stem in less than one second.

TS MANUFACTURING TS Manufacturing has been delivering log merchandising solutions for more than 30 years. With a diverse range of offerings, TS can work with you to discover the ideal log merchandising layout and machinery offering to accommodate your log diameter, length ranges and production rates. With our application specific focus, we can offer a large log, low production chain saw solution, all the way up to a servo operated circular, multi-saw shifting merchandiser system. As a company that can supply design, machinery, controls, and optimization in a turnkey approach, we can utilize the variety of log conveying products to suit the system needs. This includes scanning flight conveyors, deep pile log decks, step feeders, spiral log rolls, singulation and multiple kicking options. With systems in operation processing hardwood and softwood TS Mfg. offers a range of log merchandising equipment and logs, producing sawlogs, and bolts as short as 33 in., these systems solutions. can be integrated with simple photocell scanning all the way to 3D log merchandising optimization from Automation & Electronics, using JoeScan JS50 heads, or your optimization vendor of choice. The latest log merchandisers utilize electric servo actuation and position control coupled with position verification to provide lowered maintenance, increased performance and accuracy.

LES ACIER JP Les ACIER J.P. Inc. (AJP) provides dependable and robust rotary debarkers, mobile or fixed units, electric or diesel powered. We can debark all species from hardwood to softwood. Our debarking efficiency rate exceeds all of our customers’ expectations. Our results can reach up to 0.01% bark remaining per ton, even when debarking species like cedar or eucalyptus, characterized by their filamenAJP rotary debarker for mobile and fixed applications tous bark which causes a lot of problems in certain equipment. The results of our debarking tests have proven superior removal of bark and the high quality of our products. With more than 40 years of experience in design, engineering, transport and debarking of logs, we can offer you all the transfer equipment: transfers, log conveyors, bark conveyor, chip and waffle conveyors, step feeders, chain sorters. AJP has designed and supplied various equipment in forestry, mining and other industrial projects. AJP has made a name for itself regionally, provincially and internationally. Collaboration, trust and respect are at the heart of the business. 42

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:30 PM Page 43

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 44

MACHINERYROW Pan Pac Selects Springer Feed System The Springer Group has landed a major new order in New Zealand. Pan Pac, which is owned by the Japanese OJI Group, and is a leader in sustainable radiata pine products, has selected Springer’s cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions once again. Together with local partners like Lakeland Steel

■

MARCH 2021

■

Ltd. and Design Manufacture & Installation in Rotorua, Springer will be the main contractor for the new, earthquakeproof, heavy-duty sawmill feed system at Pan Pac’s Whirinaki (Hawke’s Bay) site. The investment totals around NZD 13 million (EUR 7.8 million). “The investment in the replacement of the sawmill feed system, which was originally installed in the early 1980s, underscores the continued commitment

by OJI Holding, Pan Pac’s shareholder. These types of strategic investments have helped turn Pan Pac into New Zealand’s biggest exporter of high-quality premium appearance lumber throughout Asia,” explains Pan Pac Managing Director Tony Clifford. Springer had already started to help Pan Pac develop the new heavy-duty sawmill feed system back in 2017. “The order again proves that Springer is a reliable, quality-driven partner when it comes to technologically demanding projects. We’re delighted that this project allows us to continue the long-standing collaboration between Pan Pac and Springer,” comments Timo Springer, Springer Maschinenfabrik GmbH CEO. In order to minimize downtime, system integration, commissioning and project hand-over are scheduled during a planned shutdown of the plant at the end of 2022. Other details about the project include: —System capacity: 15 cycles/minute, unsorted mixed operation, length of the log 3.4-6 m, LED 0.9 m and max. log envelopes of up to 1.1 m —Annual log feeding capacity 950,000 tonnes/1,100.00 m³ —Radiata pine logs supplied by the company’s own forestry enterprise and from its own forests. —Heavy-duty sawmill feed system with two parallel double-feed decks (deep pile 2.5 m) —Consecutively alternating log feed from the two 2-stage feed decks to ensure seamless feed to the saw line according to the production specifications, as well as symmetrical utilization of the sorting systems —LOGEYE 301 with WiNLOG recording at the saw infeed, sorting, production data capture/logging/statistical analyses —The new generation of screw conveyor technology as a heavy-duty version —Smart sensor technology: continuous fill level scanning of the feed decks as well as constant log position detection in the whole separation and infeed area —Earthquake-proof design of all the system and control technology —Modular system and control concept guarantees uninterrupted assembly and partial/pre-commissioning without additional downtime. Pan Pac is headquartered in the Hawke’s Bay region and has its own forestry enterprise with 33,000 hectares of pine plantations. It has more than 400

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 45

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 46

MACHINERYROW full-time employees and belongs to the Japanese OJI Group, a leading pulp and paper producer worldwide.

Harrigan Plans For Trimmer Line Harrigan Lumber in Monroeville, Ala. is investing in a sawmill trimmer line from USNR to ramp up its production. Harrigan’s operation is a southern yellow pine dimensional lumber mill, and the new trimmer line is designed to operate at 150 lugs per minute. The trimmer line includes a double trimmer unscrambler, ElectraTong lug loader with backlog controlled by the Milltrak lumber flow management system, Multi-Track fence, Clamshell line shaft trimmer, dual articulating Smart Gate, 62-bin pusher lug sorter, WinTally sorter management system, and Stick-NFork stacker system. This line is scheduled to be installed in the fourth quarter.

IFG At Lumberton Goes With BID Group BID Group has received an order from Idaho Forest Group to deliver IFG’s first greenfield sawmill complex in the Southern U.S. In addition to managing engineering, design and construction of the facility through its Integrated Solutions Team, BID will supply a complete range of technologies and reliability services including OPER8, a purpose-built Industrial Internet

■

MARCH 2021

■

of Things (IIoT) solution platform. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Comact team on the integration of their machine center design expertise into our new mill in Lumberton, Mississippi,” comments Marc Brinkmeyer, Owner and CEO of Idaho Forest Group. “Their partner, BID Integrated Solutions, has a proven track record of coordinating the construction of sawmill complexes in the South. It is their combined success, intensity of focus and attention to detail that provides us confidence in their abilities to support our IFG team. We look forward to the contribution of the Comact/BID team as we continue to learn about operating in the South.” On-site civil work has started with sawmill commissioning planned for December 2021. The Lamar County Board of Supervisors agreed to transfer 174 acres of county land to IFG for the project. The site is between Lumberton and Interstate 59, along Old Highway 11. The project represents a $120 million corporate investment.

Jordan Orders Bucking Line Jordan Forest Products at Barnesville, Ga. is modernizing its merchandizing line with a USNR bucking optimization system. It complements the USNR optimization used throughout their operation. Delivery is scheduled for the third quarter.

The new line will feature USNR’s BioLuma 3900L scanning system. The BioLuma 3900L sensor delivers the highest speed ultra-high density laser profiling. It is designed for lineal scanning systems for bucking lines, log lines, shape sawing gangs and lineal edgers. The order also includes the control system for the complete line. A new Rockwell Automation ControlLogix control system with RMC motion controllers will be provided along with new consoles and operator control station. The combination provides a state-of-the art, proven architecture for optimization and control. USNR would also like to recognize Robert Jordan, IV named recently as Timber Processing magazine’s 2021 Person of the Year.

Russia’s Atlant Orders USNR Line Russian sawmilling company, Atlant, has signed an order with USNR for a complete saw line. Atlant is managed by Innovations, Siberian Group. This order reinforces USNR’s already strong position in the Russian market. The mill will be built in the Irkutsk region, about 5,000 km (3,100 miles) east of Moscow, where several other projects have been undertaken by USNR in recent years. Apart from the saw line, the order also comprises a debarking line and an edger line. The debarking line will include

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 47

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 48

MACHINERYROW a Cambio 800D, the largest machine in USNR’s debarking program, with additional infeed and outfeed. For the saw line, the customer chose

a SuperSaver merry-go-round solution with a SawMaster 1600 quad band saw and a ChipCanter 2500 reducer. USNR’s optimization platform will re-

ceive data from a 3D log scanner equipped with BioLuma 3900L lineal sensors. The edger line will feature a Catech LT edger with USNR edger optimization. All mechanical equipment will be produced at USNR’s facility in Söderhamn, Sweden. The equipment will be delivered during the first quarter of 2022. USNR has a long history in Russia, and is represented by its own subsidiary in St. Petersburg with service technicians at strategic locations throughout the vast country.

Resolute Implements New Waste Chippers Resolute Forest Products is investing in new wastewood chippers at its sites at Saint Thomas and Baie Comeau, Quebec. The company is replacing older technology with USNR’s latest designs. The installations are scheduled for the second quarter. USNR’s wastewood chipper processes logs and wastewood slabs, and is proven to produce consistently uniform chips. This high-capacity wastewood chipper is equipped with a very short spout. Its large “J”-shaped opening is typically fed by a vibrating conveyor that provides automatic self-feeding even through the most difficult surges. The chipper is available in four sizes and three configurations to meet your specific wastewood processing needs. ● Scierie St-Elzear in St-Elzear-deBonaventure, Quebec is investing in

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 49

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:15 PM Page 50

MACHINERYROW USNR’s wastewood chipper and Super Chip screen. This equipment is scheduled to be installed in June. The Super Chip screen offers excellent performance and reliable operation, easily integrating with other equipment. It requires minimal maintenance, and with up to 50% faster rotary speed it delivers better material agitation. That means you get improved separation, especially for small chips.

Schwaiger Adds Sennebogen Unit Schwaiger Holzindustrie, located in the heart of Lower Bavaria, Germany and a major lumber, logs and wood pellet producer, has added a Sennebogen 835 M E-Series material handler and trailer to its fleet. Sennebogen’s material handler is powered with a 315 HP (231 kW) diesel engine and all-wheel drive for increased tractive effort. This power allows 160,000 lbs. of logs to be transported by

■

MARCH 2021

■

a hydraulically braked trailer. “With the 835 pulling the trailer, we can now transport twice the amount in the same time. This ensures a more effective and sustainable operation and saves valuable fuel and above all, time,” confirms Quirin Schwaiger, responsible for Business Development at Schwaiger. In addition to transporting logs up to 16 ft. (5 m) in length, the 835 has a reach of 52 ft. (16 m) and is also used for unloading the railcars and feeding the sawmill.

Miloptic Acquires Automation Industries Miloptic has acquired Automation Industries Corp. (AIC), which will allow Miloptic to offer a variety of nondestructive testing technology systems that ensure and improve the quality of building products through its parent company, Crow Engineering, Inc. Clyde Steffens, former president of AIC, now serves as President of Ultrasonic Development for Miloptic.

In the early 1970s, Steffens developed a technology that allowed plywood producers to eliminate blisters, blows, and other internal defects that led to the delamination of panels. Along with American Plywood Assn. personnel, AIC visited plywood mills all over to demonstrate the first Trienco 506 ultrasonic NDT (non-destructive testing) system. With value demonstrated, installations soon followed. Years later, Trus Joist approached Steffens based on his success in the plywood industry and challenged him to do the same for the LVL industry, a thicker and more structurally critical product. Steffens developed a higher strength ultrasonic system for the industry that was a success. Over the years, Steffens has developed multiple systems using ultrasonic and laser technology to solve similar problems across other industries. These include lumber, engineered flooring, gypsum, and corrugated and web roofing systems. Miloptic will continue to offer the same exceptional high-quality products

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 51

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 52

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 53

that have helped AIC build a reputation as an excellent NDT manufacturer, and will continue to produce and support the existing product lines, while developing new and advanced NDT solutions. AIC’s current generation of machines can detect smaller defects and reliably penetrate thicker materials than prior generations. The 5700 series systems are proven to reliably penetrate LVL and PSL300 that are 3.5 in. thick (the typical maximum thickness of LVL). CLT and other engineered wood systems are next on the list for development, and while ultrasonic systems may not be powerful enough to scan these thicker products, the company is on path to develop other systems that do. “This acquisition and the recent addition of PLC and electrical capabilities now allows us to help our clients in optimizing their operations. We are excited to have this opportunity with the AIC team and the 40+ years of experience they bring to the table,” comments Hunter Wylie, Crow Engineering President. “Crow’s goal is to continue to be the first place mills turn to for help with improving their operations.”

PotlatchDeltic Picks OPER8 Platform

MACHINERYROW

PotlatchDeltic has selected BID Group’s OPER8 as its Industrial IoT (IIoT) Solutions Platform. OPER8 was chosen through a competitive process that included several strong Industrial IoT competitors, according to the participants. Wrapping around and extending through new and legacy equipment, technologies and systems, OPER8 was designed for rapid implementation to provide a “single pane of glass” view into all aspects of operational performance. BID states that OPER8 leverages the 35+ years of BID’s deep industry-specific knowledge of equipment, technologies and business processes. Deploying OPER8 across all sawmill and plywood facilities is a key element in the digital transformation journey ensuring PotlatchDeltic continues to defend and expand its competitive advantage in the marketplace. The OPER8 implementation will be a sequential rollout beginning with Bemid-

ji, Minn. in early 2021. This will include a connection to BID-supplied sensors to drive predictive analytics that yield insights and reliability to optimize their asset life cycle management and overall financial performance.

Derome Enhances Drying Program Sweden-based Derome is investing EUR 29.6 million to increase production capacity. The first step in the investment program consists of two Valutec dry kilns. The dry kilns that Derome is investing in are duct dryers of type FB. They are built in stainless steel and have an annual capacity of approximately 110,000 m3 (46.4MMBF) per dryer. The continuous kilns will be equipped with pressure frames for minimal deformation of the top lumber layers, as well as Valutec’s heat recovery system. In connection with the investment, Derome is upgrading all lumber drying control systems to Valmatic’s 4.0. In total, there are 21 control systems.

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 54

PRODUCTSCANNER10

SMALL LOG PROFILE

A small log profiling line has been developed by Linck for swiftly and efficiently processing small diameter logs from 3" to 14". All traditional Linck features are available: only one operator for the line, optimized log rotation, straight sawing, curve-sawing, spline sawing, durability, reliability, flexibility.

The line can operate in Scan & Set or Batch mode. With its narrow and short footprint, 170' or less, the line can possibly be installed within existing mill structures. No cant turning devices are needed, hence reducing the amount of initial investment and subsequent maintenance costs. Modular and enclosed design provide noise reduction and better dust collection. Particularly suitable for timber thinnings, the line has gained remarkable interest in areas processing small logs at high speeds. Visit linck.com.

TRUCK DUMP REPAIR

The level of work and cost involved in removing an entire shaft and sprockets of a truck dump is without question a capital project. It requires a site services team and many manual labor hours to remove and replace. John King has designed and implemented a complete drop in drive unit that when required removable sprocket segmental teeth are the only sacrificial component that need replacing the result is spares can be kept on site and tooth replacement can be carried out in hours versus days. This can be adapted to all WDH chains: 110, 120, 480, 480xhd, 580 and 680. The product in Europe is attracting interest where the customer is looking for an improved design to reduce cost of ownership, downtime, maintenance and increased safety rating. Visit johnking chains.com.

COMING NEXT ISSUE: Canter & Profiler Lines:

Where the log begins to “take shape” into lumber— chipping, canting, profiling, scanning, knives and saws 54

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 55

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 56

ATLARGE Interfor Purchasing WestRock Sawmill Interfor is acquiring the WestRock sawmill in Summerville, SC for US$59 million. The Summerville mill produced 125MMBF in 2020. A new permit was received in 2020 that allows for the production of up to 200MMBF and Interfor has identified a number of operational and capital investment initiatives to optimize and increase production going forward. The Summerville mill is 65 miles southwest of Interfor’s Georgetown, SC mill and 115 miles northeast of Interfor’s

■

MARCH 2021

■

Meldrim, Ga. mill. This strategic positioning will allow for log sort optimization and procurement synergies across these three mills, according to Interfor. As part of the transaction, Interfor will enter into a long-term chip and biomass supply agreement with WestRock’s Charleston, SC paper mill. “This transaction is a logical tuck-in with our existing U.S. South platform and reiterates Interfor’s commitment to disciplined growth and investment in the U.S. South,” says Ian Fillinger, President and CEO of Interfor. As a result of the transaction, Inter-

for’s total annual lumber production capacity will increase to 3.2 billion BF, of which 1.7 billion BF or 55% will be located in the U.S. South.

Angelina Taps Quarles As Mill Manager Angelina Forest Products has promoted Wiley Quarles to Mill Manager at the company’s new sawmill in Lufin, Texas. Quarles’ career in forest products spans more than 27 years. He joined the AFP team when the project took root in Angelina County in 2018. ➤ 58

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/26/21 3:11 PM Page 57

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 58

ATLARGE 56 ➤ “I’m excited to be here to serve the team at AFP and to serve with the team at AFP,” Quarles says. “I have always dreamed of being part of building a mill, and I’m really proud of the stewardship opportunity AFP creates for our hometown. AFP creates jobs for East Texans who work here every day, the local logging community, suppliers who haul residuals, and those who bring parts and services to our mill.” Last year was a year of growth for the plant, Quarles adds, noting that AFP grew in staff numbers, hours worked and production volumes. Quarles counts mill safety as the most notable team achievement in 2020. “The safety and health of our AFP family is most important, and we are pleased with the safe work accomplished in 2020. Safe work in a mill manufacturing environment requires purposeful action and teamwork. Safety is not just a program. It is simply the right choice of action that mitigates risk of injury in our routine tasks each and every day.” Quarles hopes to see AFP’s growth continue in 2021 with a team focused on safe work, environmental stewardship, and housekeeping excellence.

Hardwood Forestry Fund Receives Donation Rockler Woodworking and Hardware announced the company has made a $50,000 donation to the Hardwood Forestry Fund (HFF) to support 2021 tree-planting projects across the country. The contribution to HFF continues Rockler’s commitment to supporting the nonprofit organization, which is dedicated to establishing sustainable hardwood forests. “We are proud this contribution will help with the important work of growing beautiful hardwood forests for everyone to enjoy,” says Ann Jackson, executive chairman of Rockler Woodworking and Hardware. “The Hardwood Forestry Fund is working to ensure future generations of woodworkers and furniture-makers have access to renewable hardwood lumber resources.” Since 2008, Rockler has donated more than $100,000 to HFF to fund tens of thousands of tree-plantings across the country. Rockler’s donations to HFF have helped fund reforestation projects in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Wisconsin and more. 58

■

MARCH 2021

■

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 59

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 60

WOOD PRODUCTS MARKETPLACE NORTH AMERICA

■ Minnesota

■ North Carolina

■ Canada ■ Ontario Buyers & Wholesalers We produce quality 4/4 - 8/4 Appalachian hardwoods • Red Oak, White Oak, Poplar •

Green Lumber: Air Dried, Kiln Dried Timbers & Crossties

• Hickory, Sycamore, Beech, Gum & Elm • Custom Cut Timbers: Long lengths and wide widths

Sales/Service: 336-746-5419

336-746-6177 (Fax) • www.kepleyfrank.us

■ Tennessee

STACKING STICKS

FOR SALE

Next closing: July 6, 2021

AIR-O-FLOW profiled & FLAT sticks available Imported & Domestic

■ United States

DHM Company - Troy, TN 38260 731-446-4069 Fax: 707-982-7689 email: kelvin@kilnsticks.com www.KILNSTICKS.com

■ Georgia Beasley Forest Products, Inc. P.O. Box 788 Hazlehurst, GA 31539

beasleyforestproducts.com Manufactures Kiln-Dried 4/4 Red and White Oak, Poplar, Ash and Cypress Contact: Linwood Truitt Phone (912) 253-9000 / Fax: (912) 375-9541 linwood.truitt@beasleyforestproducts.com

Pallet components, X-ties, Timbers and Crane Mats Contact: Ray Turner Phone (912) 253-9001 / Fax: (912) 375-9541 ray.turner@beasleyforestproducts.com

■ Kentucky HAROLD WHITE LUMBER, INC. MANUFACTURER OF FINE APPALACHIAN HARDWOODS

(606) 784-7573 • Fax: (606) 784-2624 www.haroldwhitelumber.com

Ray White

Domestic & Export Sales rwhite@haroldwhitelumber.com Cell: (606) 462-0318

Green & Kiln Dried, On-Site Export Prep & Loading Complete millworks facility, molding, milling & fingerjoint line

WANT TO GET YOUR AD IN OUR NEXT MARKETPLACE? Call or email Melissa McKenzie 334-834-1170 melissa@hattonbrown.com 08/20

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TPmar21pgs_SS.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:16 PM Page 61

Call Toll-Free: 1-800-669-5613

EMPLOYENTOPPORTUNITIES Apalachee Pole Company, located in Bristol, Florida is a CCA treatment, utility pole and piling manufacturing operation, located one hour from the beautiful Gulf Coast, we are seeking a: OUTSIDE SALESPERSON Looking for a motivated self-starter who will be responsible for leading all aspects the sales at Apalachee Pole. The Outside Salesperson will lead the effort to generate sales of CCA treated utility poles and pilings, while servicing customer’s needs. As the Outside Salesperson of the company, this position will represent APC (and sister company Rex Lumber) with highest regard to customers, employees and community, frequent travel is required. Requirements: 10 years of industry experience with a minimum of 5 years sales experience, knowledge of utility pole sizes, contractor needs for pilings, financial comprehension, strong communications and organization skills, computer literate, self-motivated We offer a competitive salary, auto allowance and benefits package. GENERAL MANAGER

The General Manager will lead the organization in the manufacture of high quality, CCA treated, utility poles and pilings, while sustaining environmental responsibility. As the leader of the company, the GM will represent APC with highest regard to customers, employees and community. Requirements: 10 years of operations experience with a minimum of 5 years leadership experience, knowledge of machinery maintenance, financial comprehension, strong communications and organization skills, computer literate, ability to manage and motivate team. Knowledge of treating industry preferred. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.

Recruiting Services

Top Wood Jobs Recruiting and Staffing George Meek 3779

1615

Executive – Managerial – Technical - Sales

JOHN GANDEE

& ASSOCIATES, INC Contingency or Retained Search Depending on Circumstances / Needs

“Your Success Is Our Business” Serving the Wood Products and Building Materials Industries For more than 26 years.

512-795-4244

For a confidential interview for either position, please mail your resume to the attention of Wendy Blair, 5299 Alabama St. Graceville, FL 32440 Email your resume to 1608 wblair@rex-lumber.com

geo@TopWoodJobs.com www.TopWoodJobs.com (360) 263-3371

9961

LUMBERWORKS

Call or Email me anytime! john@johngandee.com www.johngandee.com

Austin, Texas

GREENWOOD KILN STICKS 3220

Importers and Distributors of Tropical Hardwood Kiln Sticks “The lowest cost per cycle” 127

Responsible for leading all aspects the daily operations of the facility to maintain a safe and efficient workplace for over 20 employees.

GW Industries www.gwi.us.com

Dennis Krueger 866-771-5040

Jackie Paolo 866-504-9095

greenwoodimportsllc@gmail.com

jackie@gwi.us.com

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

■

MARCH 2021

■

TP_0321_ASM.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 2:40 PM Page 62

MAINEVENTS MARCH

AUGUST

11—California Forestry Assn. annual meeting via Zoom. Call 916-444-6592; visit calforests.org.

11-13—Forest Products Machinery & Equipment Expo, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga. Call 504-443-4464; visit sfpaexpo.com.

24-26—Hardwood Manufacturers Association's National Conference and Expo, Austin, Tex. Call 412-244-0440; visit hmamembers.org.

APRIL 6-8—Kentucky Forest Industries Assn. annual meeting, Embassy Suites, Lexington, Ky. Call 502-695-3979; visit kfia.org. 14-16—International Wood Products Assn. 65th World of Wood Annual Convention, Hard Rock Hotel, San Diego, Calif. Call 703-820-6696; visit iwpawood.org. 19-21—Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Assn. Convention & Exposition, Indianapolis Downtown Marriott, Indianapolis, Ind. Call 317-288-0008; visit ihla.org.

MAY 16-18—American Wood Protection Assn. annual meeting, Francis Marion Hotel, Charleston, S.C. Call 205-733-4077; visit awpa.com. 21-22—Expo Richmond 2021, Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond, Va. Call 804-737-5625; visit exporichmond.com.

JUNE 4-5—PA Timber Show, Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center, Pennsylvania Furnace, Penn. Call 814-8632873; visit agsci.psu.edu/timber. 26-29—Assn. of Consulting Foresters of America annual conference, Graduate Eugene, Eugene, Ore. Call 703-5480990; visit acf-foresters.org.

JULY 14-17—2021 Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assn. Annual Conference, Ritz Carlton, Naples, Fla. Call 770-631-6701; visit slma.org. 15-17—West Virginia Forestry Assn. annual meeting, Cannan Valley Resort & Conference Center, Davis, W.Va. Call 681265-5019; visit wvfa.org. 20-23—AWFS Fair 2021, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV. Visit awfsfair.org. 25-27—Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Summer Conference, The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV. Call 336-885-8315; visit appalachianhardwood.org. 25-28—Walnut Council annual meeting, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. Call 765-583-3501; visit walnutcouncil.org. 62

■

MARCH 2021

■

Listings are submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with contacts prior to making plans to attend.

●

This issue of Timber Processing is brought to you in part by the following companies, which will gladly supply additional information about their products. ADVERTISER

PG.NO.

A W Stiles Contractors 57 Andritz Iggesund Tools 2 Autolog 10 Automated Industrial Technologies 35 BID Group 7 Biolube 57 Brunner Hildebrand 43 Calibre Equipment 51 Cleereman Industries 54 Cone Omega 53 East Coast Sawmill Expo 59 Easy-Laser 46 Evergreen Engineering 48 FiberPro 32 Fulghum Industries 48 G F Smith 6 Georgia Pacific Chemicals 30 Halco Software Systems 58 Holtec USA 64 Hurdle Machine Works 17 ISK Biocides 11 JoeScan 58 John King Chains 47 Johnson & Pace 58 Les Aciers J.P. 26 Linck 55 Linden Fabricating 52,57 Lucidyne-Microtec 23 McDonough Manufacturing 44 Mebor 49 Mellott Manufacturing 18 Metal Detectors 8 Mid-South Engineering 52 Milltech Inventory Management Solutions 56 MPM Engineering 17 Nelson Bros Engineering 14 Oleson Saw Technology 19 Opticom Tech 50 Optimil Machinery 27 Pallet Machinery Group 52 Piche 13 Precision-Husky 34 Premier Bandwheel 24 Saw Add 50 Sennebogen 33 Sering Sawmill Machinery 24 Serra/Wintersteiger 45 Signode 31 Simonds-Burton-BGR Saws-CutTech 3 Springer Maschinenfabrik GmbH 25 T S Manufacturing 16 Taylor Machine Works 31 Telco Sensors 63 Timber Automation 15 Ultra Air Systems 57 USNR 9 Vecoplan 56 West Coast Industrial Systems 41 Wood-Mizer 12

PH.NO. 931.668.8768 813.855.6902 450.434.8389 434.525.2292 843.563.7070 260.414.9633 615.469.0745 +64 21 586 453 715.674.2700 229.228.9213 804.737.5625 +46 31 708 63 00 888.484.4771 501.463.9876 800.841.5980 971.865.2981 1.866.447.2436 604.731.9311 800.346.5832 901.877.6251 800.238.2523 360.993.0069 +44 1977 681 910 903.753.0663 819.947.8291 936.676.4958 250.561.1181 541.753.5111 715.834.7755 +386 4 510 3200 717.369.3125 541.345.7454 501.321.2276 866.878.8809 604.574.1397 888.623.2882 800.256.8259 800.578.1853 604.946.6911 540.644.9220 833.574.4333 205.640.5181 604.591.2080 360.459.9163 704.347.4910 360.687.2667 801.550.4878 800.323.2464 800.426.6226 +43 4268 2581 0 705.324.3762 662.773.3421 800.253.0111 501.623.0065 615.647.6110 800.289.8767 336.793.5143 541.451.6677 866.477.9268

ADLINK is a free service for advertisers and readers. The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.

TIMBER PROCESSING

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 63

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!

TP_March21_bkj.qxp_Layout 1 2/25/21 1:31 PM Page 64

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY OPTED IN!