International Forest Industries Magazine Dec Jan 2013

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CONTENTS

BIOMASS Biomass sector suppliers have taken their foot of the pedal this year in terms of products released but the quality remains historically high

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

58

PART TWO

50

Robin Peach completes his snapshot of the products and companies on show at DEMO International Quebec, Canada

Felling Heads: Tree length harvesting is a serious business that needs serious felling heads. For the first time, International Forest Industries has dedicated a stand-alone feature to the technology improving life for full tree contractors

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30

40 30 Industry Voice:

50 High Profile:

The respondents to this year’s Industry Voice call-out were largely on the same page when it came to forecasts for next year and what customers are asking for in these difficult times. And, while not overly optimistic, most suppliers are happy enough with the markets to predict a positive, if slow year in 2013

REGUL AR

Peterson Pacific President Larry Cumming took an early morning call from Editor Chris Cann to discuss the shift in forestry technology over the past 40 years and why the US continues to trail Europe in the use of biomass fuels

FEATURES

4 Sawpoints

52 Biomass Operation Focus – Germany:

54 Biomass Operation Focus – Vermeer:

Getting started in the biomass business was made easier for Andreas Zeller by reliable Komptech technology

14 World Markets

62 Cutting Edge

A North American logging family forced into the chipping business is starting to see the benefits of the Vermeer WC2300 whole tree chipper

64 Advertising Index

COVER: EWD EWD OptimesLine combination edger/gang system at Scierie Zahnd, Switzerland, for boards and flitches up to 750 mm width, thickness 18 – 125 mm with BKO 6 edger/gang with six independently moveable saw heads.

OptimesLine EWD optimising edger system for edging or combination edging and resawing: • Flexible, edging of boards and resawing

of flitches up to 125 mm thickness with BKO 6 edger/gang saw, up to 225 mm thickness with BNK 6 • Optimum recovery with linear top and bottom scanning system • Quality scanning for knots and defects available • Piece count up to 50 boards/minute in high speed edger configuration. www.ewd.de DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 1

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OPERATION FOCUS ISSUE 31 DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 583 emma@internationalforestindustries.com Annual Subscription UK and Europe £160, €230 Rest of the world US$270 EDITORIAL T: +44 (0)1442 877 583 F: +44 (0)1442 870 617 www.internationalforestindustries.com 2 Claridge Court, Lower Kings Road Berkhamsted, Herts. HP4 2AF, UK Editorial Director John Chadwick john@internationalforestindustries.com Editor Chris Cann chris@internationalforestindustries.com Editorial Board Dr Patrick Moore – Chairman and Chief Scientist of Greenspirit (Canada) Darren Oldham – Managing Director Söderhamn Eriksson (UK) Allan Hansard – Chief Executive of the National Association of Forest Industries (Australia) Professor Piotr Paschalis-Jakubowicz – Warsaw Agricultural University (Poland) Andre de Freitas Forest Stewardship Council Head of Operations Eduardo Morales South American Forestry Consultant ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONS Lansdowne Media Services Ltd Advertising Manager Phil Playle phil@internationalforestindustries.com Group Advertising Manager David Lansdowne david@internationalforestindustries.com +44 (0)1442 87 77 77 Design & Production CSDA – csims@nildram.co.uk Associate Editor Robin Peach robin@internationalforestindustries.com Advertising Production Enquiries Emma Smith emma@internationalforestindustries.com International Forest Industries is published

by International Forest Industries Ltd, 2 Claridge Court, Lower Kings Road Berkhamsted, Herts. HP4 2AF, UK International Forest Industries (ISSN 1755-6732) is published monthly by International forest Industries Ltd GBR and distributed in the USA by SPP, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe NJ 08831. Periodicals postage paid at New Brunswick, NJ. Postmaster: send address changes to International Forest Industries, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe NJ 08831. © International Forest Industries Ltd 2007 – 2012 IFI uses, as preference, SI units throughout.

All dollars are US unless otherwise stated.

EDITOR’S COMMENT 2015 not so far away

I

t’s difficult trying to make general comment on a forestry sector that continues to be divided.

Our annual Industry Voice feature (pp.30 – 38), which takes in the comments and predictions on various forestry markets and trends, is usually a rich source of information when it comes to gaining insight into the business of forestry in general, but this year has proved disappointing.

From a harvesting and biomass point of view, it was one of the more candid and fruitful features we have produced. The assessment of this year was brutally honest with a clear indication of the hardships some companies faced, while the predictions for next year were not nearly as conservative as in previous years – that is not to say they were all optimistic, but all were honest.

On the sawmilling side, however, the cupboard was just about bear. Of the handful of major sawmill suppliers we approached, only Lucidyne provided its thoughts with rest politely declining to take part without explanation. One would like to pretend that this is because they are too busy but that is probably being optimistic. Another explanation is rooted in the sawmilling sector’s more protective attitude toward their technologies.

Whatever the reason, we have largely been left guessing as to how the industry felt about 2012 and what it expects in 2013. And so it suits me quite nicely to put on my sawmillers hat and have a go at the review and forecasts myself.

It is not difficult to sum up the kind of year most sawmillers and sawmill suppliers endured in 2012, which in a word could be described as: difficult. Sawnwood product prices have remained depressed apart from a few spikes in line with higher domestic uptakes in products related to natural disaster rebuilds.

Mill managers would have continued to tread the fine line between technology investment to improve efficiencies and basic cash conservation. Making this slightly easier is the fact that most millers still in operation have proven, robust

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business models. But that does not mean the purse strings have loosened and so finding cash to make necessary investments to grow profits remains a true test.

For next year, it may be possible to take some guidance from the harvesting and biomass sectors, which have taken their lead from macro-economic forecasts.

The theme for 2013 is for more volatility. That spells a continuation of the hand-to-mouth existence of many sawmillers. However the term volatility, by definition, means there will be stronger periods as well as low spots and, if economists can be believed, the prevalence of those stronger periods will be greater in the second half as global recovery builds momentum. Leading commodities forecaster CRU has predicted a return to pre-crisis level demand in 2014.

So how should we expect sawmillers to approach 2013? It would be folly to suggest they will show anything less than the caution and vigilance that have typified the past three years and yet they may finally dare to think beyond the next quarter.

Better times ahead for the world in 2014 can only be good for the sawmilling industry and it’s very possible that managers may enjoy a year of modest growth and consolidation. And, who knows, in 2015 they may even blow the cobwebs off the growth strategies and expansion plans that were shelved in 2009.

Having to look out as far as 2015 for a reason to smile may seem depressing for some, but it certainly beats the feeling of pessimism, or at best uncertainty, carried through the past three years.

So as you crawl out of your festive lull, here’s to a 2013 sprinkled with rays of sunshine, a 2014 of green shoots, and a 2015 of growth!

Enjoy Chris Cann Editor

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SAWPOINTS

UK tackles wave of ash tree Chalara dieback Five newly-planted sites in Welsh Government woodlands have been confirmed to have Chalara dieback of ash

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orestry Commission Wales said the disease had been identified at five sites in the Wentwood and Wye Valley areas following laboratory analysis of samples taken from the young ash trees. All the young trees on these sites have now been lifted and destroyed as a precautionary measure to tackle the serious disease.

The disease was also confirmed in North Wales at a newly-planted site at Glynllifon College, in Gwynedd. The dieback was spotted by an employee and samples sent for laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of Chalara.

Meanwhile, a survey of other sites recently planted with ash from known infected nurseries is continuing. It follows the discovery of the disease in a small, recently-planted woodland in Carmarthenshire.

Environment Minister John Griffiths said: “The Welsh Government is taking the threat of this disease very seriously and officials are working closely with our partners in the Forestry Commission (FC), Defra, the Food and Environment Research Agency (FERA) and the devolved administrations in Scotland and Northern Ireland on a UK-wide response to the threat it poses.

“Tree diseases do not respect country boundaries and we need to provide a consistent approach

to this threat in order to meet the demands of stakeholders and the public and to ensure that our response is co-ordinated and based on the most up to date scientific evidence.”

FC Wales staff and other stakeholders have carried out an unprecedented rapid survey of the whole of Wales to check the condition of the country’s ash trees. Officials also attended a tree health summit in London to assist in the development of an action plan to manage the disease in the UK. The key objectives of the plan include: • Reduce the rate of spread of the disease • Develop resistance to the disease in the native UK ash tree population • Encourage public, landowner and industry engagement and action in tackling the problem, and • Build resilience in the UK woodland associated industries.

Over the coming weeks, the UK Government will work with scientific experts and other interested groups to develop and implement the measures in the plan, and to set a longer term approach to tackling Chalara. The UK Government has already imposed a ban on imports and movements of ash plants and seeds into and within Great Britain.

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“I believe the action we have taken to date is the proportionate response at this stage, although this is a rapidly developing situation and I therefore intend to keep the position under review in

order to respond quickly to any new information that might require us to adopt a different approach,” Griffiths said.

Difficulties ahead for Russian logging industry Wood Markets successfully wrapped up its seventh international tour of Russia’s forest industry on September 16, 2012. Some key issues identified during the tour included: • Logging in Russia is in trouble.

Costs are rising rapidly and good timberland is getting further away from the mills and major transportation networks. The government is not investing in transportation infrastructure for the forest industry. Logging revenue is seriously impaired due to the lack of a market for coniferous pulp logs and all deciduous timber (except high-quality deciduous export logs) • Large harvesting companies have made major capital investments into mechanised harvesting systems to replace high-cost, inefficient, manual labour. Operation of state-ofthe-art logging equipment is a test for minimal Russian

preventative maintenance practices and very cold winter operating conditions • The impact of the new log export tax is uncertain at this time. The process is very slow, and the quota allocation procedure is cloaked in secrecy • Russian investment in new and modernised sawmills in Siberia is impressive. Still, it remains a question/concern how well Russians can operate these new mills on their own • The quality of red pine, larch and spruce saw logs in Siberia is very good: likely the bestquality softwood sawlogs in the world.

WOOD MARKETS is publishing a new report on the russian wood products industry which will be available in March 2013.

Source: International Wood Markets Group, www.woodmarkets.com

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SAWPOINTS

Top American Logger Council award goes to John Deere employee

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ate Clark, manager, corporate citizenship and vice president of the John Deere Foundation, received the American Loggers Council’s (ALC) President’s Award at its 18th Annual Meeting in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Clark joins Andrew Bonde and Don Switzer as the third John Deere representative honoured with the award.

“Nate was selected because of his outstanding work serving as

the chair of the membership committee implementing goals and targets that have put us on a path to success,” said ALC executive vice president Danny Dructor. “There has been a long standing recognition of John Deere and the working relationship they have with the American Loggers Council.”

Established in 1999, the President’s award is granted annually to recognise individuals

who have continuously gone above and beyond in their service to the organisation. American Loggers Council President Steve Sherich presented the award to Clark and California logger Myles Anderson for their dedication and accomplishments. Clark previously served as manager, tactical marketing, for the construction & forestry division, and chair of the ALC membership committee.

“It’s truly an honour to be

Vice President of the John Deere Foundation, Nate Clark recognised by such an influential and important organisation,” Clark said. “The American Loggers Council is the unified, national voice for professional loggers across the United States, and it plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing an industry and way of life essential to many of our rural communities.”

EU forestry associations unite to help EU industry prosper By signing a Memorandum of Understanding this week, the executive directors of four European associations –the Confederation of European Forest Owners (CEPF), the European State Forest Association (EUSTAFOR), the European Confederation of Woodworking Industries, and the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) – formally committed themselves to strengthen their communication and cooperation in the future.

The four organisations, representing the core of the European forest sector, have a long history of regular communication and frequent cooperation. Forestry plays a prominent role in the work of each association.

The associations represent major stakeholders of the European forest resource-holding side (the forest owners) and the processing side (the forest-based industry) – embodying the key players of the entire European

forest and timber value chain. All four organisations are also shareholders of the Forest based Sector Technology Platform (FTP).

The purpose of this memorandum is to formally agree to: • Regularly meet, communicate and exchange information about forest and forest-based sectors, relevant topics and policy developments at EU and panEuropean level, and the activities of each organisation

• Observe risks and opportunities of non-forest and forest policies for the forest and forest-based sector at EU and pan-European level • Explore options of cooperation and common activities. In particular to strengthen and promote forest and forest-based sector positions within EU and pan European policy processes and other related initiatives.

The common principles of the

forest sector core group are: • Promote the principles of sustainable forest management and facilitate its implementation at all levels • Promote the use of wood and resource efficiency • Promote the relevance of the forest and forest-based sector in rural development and a global green economy.

Future looks bright in BC as upgraded sawmill reopens Canfor Corporation officially reopened its operations at Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia, on October 29, following a $38.5 million capital investment to upgrade the sawmill and build a new planer mill. When the mill is running at full capacity in 2013, it’s expected to produce 240 million board ft/year and directly employ 144 people.

“This investment shows how optimistic Canfor is about the future of our industry and this

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region,” Canfor president and CEO Don Kayne said at the official reopening event on October 31. “The mill has been totally reconfigured so that it can produce high-quality lumber products for customers around the globe, and do so efficiently and competitively.”

Forests Minister Steve Thomson responded to the news by saying: “This is clear evidence of the success of innovative and progressive measures British Columbia has

Canfor President and Chief Executive Don Kayne taken to strengthen our forest industry. Our government, in partnership with the Canadian government and the BC forest industry, has developed new markets and increased demand for our forest products – leading to jobs and economic benefits for families in communities like Radium Hot Springs.”

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SAWPOINTS Bandit adds several new dealers in the Midwest, Northeast, and South Miner’s Equipment and Truck Repair – Oklahoma City Miner’s Equipment and Truck Repair will stock and sell new Bandit chippers and stump grinders, and they will also stock a full range of Zenith knives.

Bobcat of Bowling Green – Southern Kentucky Already well established as a respected dealer for numerous brands including Bobcat, Husqvarna, Wacker Neuson and more, the seasoned staff will now offer sales and service for Bandit hand-fed chippers and stump grinders.

Huntsville Tractor and Equipment – Northern Alabama Huntsville Tractor and Equipment will stock and sell Bandit hand-fed chippers and stump grinders, joining their already impressive inventory of equipment from the likes of Kubota, New Holland, Takeuchi and more.

Knickerbocker Russell Company – Western Pennsylvania, Northern West Virginia Bandit hand-fed chippers and stump grinders are now a part of Knickerbocker Russell’s impressive fleet, backed by a qualified sales, parts and service team.

Bandit factory parts and Zenith knives for most chipper makes/models are also available through Knickerbocker.

Tri-State Bobcat – Minnesota and Western Wisconsin Tri-State Bobcat will stock Bandit handfed chippers and stump grinders as well as a full range of Zenith knives.

CJ Logging Equipment – New York and Connecticut This prestigious company is well-known and respected among loggers in the region, and they will now serve those customers with Bandit’s line of large equipment, including whole tree chippers and Beast horizontal grinders.

The Oliver Stores – New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine The company offers top-of-the-line timber harvesting, processing, industrial, and construction equipment with sales and service from three locations in Maine, and one in New Hampshire. Bandit is very excited to be a new addition to this legacy; bringing whole tree chippers and Beast horizontal grinders to customers in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

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The Timber Processing and Energy Expo in Portland whet the appetite for next year’s WoodEXPO in New Zealand and Australia

SAWPOINTS

“Upbeat” North American wood industry eyes role in WoodEXPO 2013

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rocessing and Energy Expo in mid-October was a fresh start for both wood processing trade shows and the battered wood producers of North America.

The show used to be the largest in the Pacific North West but died a natural death as the forest products industry hit hard times. However, 2012 heralded a fresh start – it was a new show held at a new location.

Over 40,000 ft2 of exhibition space was used by 160 exhibitors and exhibition space sold out weeks before the show.

The mood of exhibitors and those attending the show was overwhelmingly upbeat: producers and suppliers were talking about key indicators all pointing to a recovery in the US market. July housing starts were up 29% over projections from a year ago, projections for new construction were looking positive and prices and order files had both picked up

markedly in the lead up to the show.

Many suppliers commented that sales for 2012 were expected to be the best seen in several years and mills are now opening their purse strings and looking to upgrade or replace worn or obsolete systems to meet market demand and maintain their competitiveness.

The show highlighted the very latest machinery, supplies and services for the primary lumber, engineered wood products, panel and wood energy industries. New product innovations were rolled out and demonstrated, and a number of innovations by leading technology providers were unveiled for the first time at the show.

This optimism was a huge boost in the lead up to WoodEXPO 2013 which runs in both New Zealand and Australia in September. The Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA) was in Portland

in October to meet with key technology providers who had been involved in previous FIEA technology events, or those that had customers in Australasia or agents representing them in this part of the world, to discuss opportunities for WoodEXPO 2013.

“Without exception, they were excited with the concept and were committed to this region’s first WoodEXPO in September 2013,” FIEA Director, Brent Apthorp said.

“The unique way WoodEXPO 2013 has been designed was of keen interest to North American companies. It means they’ll be able to meet and work with both New Zealand and Australian companies at two separate shows – all within the space of under two weeks.

“With the US market finally picking up they’re very keen on servicing and working with local wood processing, manufacturing and panels companies. We’re

confident in getting through to WoodEXPO 2013 all of the major suppliers of wood processing technologies suited to local operations. Already, with exhibition packs just been sent out to the market, stands are already being sold and we’re confident of a full house on both sides of the Tasman come September next year.”

Over the next month or so FIEA will be working with leading technology providers that have already expressed an interest on being involved in the two-days of technology workshops. A world class program to profile the very latest tools and technologies local companies can use to improve their own operating efficiencies is being set up as part of the comprehensive WoodEXPO 2013 program.

Full details on the exhibition can be found on the event website www.woodexpo2013.com

will be available from both companies.

Both companies are eager to demonstrate to the industry how

their partnership can help maximise returns in sawmills, planer mills and panel mills.

Partnership between Autolog and AMS Solutions to benefit saw and planer mills Autolog, a leader in optimisation and controls, has reached an agreement with AMS Solutions, a BC-based industrial automation company, to act as its technical representative and support group for Western Canada and the USA. Autolog has produced high end optimisation systems for the wood industry for over 25 years. AMS Solutions have similar experience with engineering leading-edge automation systems. This partnership brings together the strengths of each company, greatly benefitting the market by adding local sales and support for

Autolog products in Western Canada and the USA, as well as providing greater access to AMS Solutions products and expertise throughout North America.

Autolog will focus primarily on optimisation systems, while AMS Solutions will provide controls with after-sales support and service. AMS Solutions’ strength in sawmill breakdown equipment, combined with Autolog’s advanced optimisation, will provide a level of performance not previously achieved. Product lines, such as the Autolog Grade Stamp Printer and the AMS Solutions IdealSTICK

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SAWPOINTS

Trend towards multitasking machines will be focus of LIGNA 2013 LIGNA 2013 will showcase the next generation of highly flexible, multi-functional wood processing machines

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ising market demand for customised products is confronting wood processors and the skilled trades with unprecedented challenges.

Today’s processing solutions have to cope with all kinds of order scenarios, from mass production through to single-lot production.

They also have to be able to cater for an increasingly diverse range of materials and products. At the same time, manufacturers have to find new ways of compensating for the productivity losses arising from increasingly customised production.

While the emphasis in largescale serial production environments is on optimising process flows, SMEs are more focused on flexible processing systems. These types of companies are looking for innovative solutions that offer a broad range of

applications. For SMEs, the key to remaining competitive is the ability to keep up with and respond to ever-changing market trends.

More and more manufacturers are also seeking out integrated solutions that can perform the work processes of multiple machines. For these reasons, LIGNA 2013 will be putting the spotlight on the latest generation of flexible, multi-function machines and aggregate technology solutions.

German machinery suppliers already have a solid a reputation as providers of high-quality, state-ofthe-art multi-functional processing systems. Machines that are capable of sizing, profiling and encasing raw panels in a single pass have been in use in the furniture industry for a number of years. LIGNA 2013 will be showcasing the next generation of

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these machines as well as integrated solid wood processing solutions that are designed to cater for the ever-increasing diversity of surface finishes demanded by the market.

The latest multifunction machines are now capable of reproducing freely programmable three-dimensional structures without the need for expensive upgrade kits. Units like these allow SMEs both to deliver lucrative special orders and mass produce conventional products quickly and efficiently.

Today’s state-of-the-art grinding machines offer all sanding processes in one workstation, from cross and longitudinal sanding through to high-gloss finishes.

Ageing effects, which used to require multiple work-intensive processing steps, can now be achieved in a single, continuous operation, resulting in significant productivity gains and space savings over traditional angular systems.

Conventional timber sawing solutions can also expect to face some stiff competition from new technologies at LIGNA 2013. The latest systems combine panel, rip and docking saws in one multifunctional unit. For timber processors, this means major capital investment savings and efficiency gains.

Combined sawing-storage solutions are also gaining ground in the industry, not least because of their automatic panel storage and feed systems, which minimise machine idle time. They also minimise scrap and processing waste, reduce labour costs and are able to handle a diverse range of materials and dimensions.

Five-axis technology has significantly expanded the areas of application of CNC machining centres. LIGNA 2013 will feature a number of machining centres which represent the next evolutionary stage of this technology: six-axis systems. Here, too, the trend is towards greater flexibility and more compact machines. Adapter

aggregates that can do the work of up to five conventional tool assemblies in stair, door and window manufacturing operations are likely to create a major splash at next year’s show. Users of these systems benefit from significantly reduced retooling times and higher productivity.

Modular systems offer an alternative approach to retooling.

Timber processors are sure to find a solution for their specific needs and just about any application among the wide range of different upgrade kits on show at LIGNA 2013.

A number of new-generation horizontal panel saws on display at the fair will feature an additional pusher, enabling multiple simultaneous cutting cycles.

Manufacturers of throughfeed drilling machines have also embraced the multi-tasking production principle. Selected throughfeed drilling machines now feature drilling heads that are fitted with both vertical and horizontal spindles. Multiple-spindle drilling heads significantly boost the productivity of timber window manufacturing operations since they can perform many of the various processing steps required for the application of window fittings, thereby replacing a whole raft of individual angle drilling heads.

The idea of combining two processing steps in a single machine can also be found in the latest generation of vacuum presses. These enable the preheating and moulding of thermoplastic materials in a single processing step. Even hand-held power tools are following the multitasking trend. For instance, LIGNA 2013 will feature multi-planers that can cut, mill and slot a wide range of different materials, including timber, gypsum, and aluminium.

For users, the trend towards multifunctional and multiproduct processing systems opens up new opportunities to leverage multiple benefits from a single machine investment.

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SAWPOINTS

Komatsu Forest buys Logmax International

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og Max International Chairman Stig Linderholm recently decided with help from the board to sell Log Max AB (LMAB) and Log Max Inc (LMI), LMAB’s US sales subsidiary, to Komatsu Forest.

Komatsu Forest is a member of the Komatsu Group, the second largest construction machinery group in the world. Komatsu Forest, which is based in Umea in Sweden, is specialised in the manufacturing and marketing of forest machine equipment such as harvesters, forwarders and feller bunchers.

In this transaction, LMAB and LMI will be acquired by Komatsu Forest while Eco Log Sweden and its subsidiaries (EL Group) will remain an independent operation under the current management.

LMAB will continue to supply harvester heads to EL Group as it has done in the past.

Harvester heads made by LMAB

and Komatsu Forest are mutually complementary in terms of the type of harvesting as well as tree sizes and this is the primary reason for this transaction.

“Mike Arsenault and I are going to step back and support LMAB as consultants while the other members of the management team will remain in their current positions,” Linderholm explained.

“Please be reassured that Komatsu has confirmed it has no intention to restructure at LMAB and LMI, and it has no intention to change the current relationship with distributors.

“Personally, I think that Komatsu is a fair and reliable company backed by an established management team and technologies. Therefore, I have chosen Komatsu as the acquirer for LMAB and LMI. I hope and believe that LMAB and LMI can achieve further growth and expansion within Komatsu.”

Komatsu has added the Logmax brand to its product offering

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WORLD MARKETS

Forestry investments gain wider mainstream acceptance

O

rganisations are buying into agricultural and agroforestry investments as they reduce exposure to public equity risk and seek more fixed income returns. These are often strategic long term investments with sustainability being a key criteria. Investors are looking for climate friendly, sustainable and real assets with a minimum projected financial return of 5% per annum.

The UK’s Environment Agency Pension Fund (EAPF) recently announced it will be investing in real assets including “farmland, forestry and timber”, areas previously not pursued by this particular pension fund.

Furthermore, they were looking globally for investments –

recognition of the opportunities that exist in this growingly important asset class.

Some UK local government authorities have openly stated their interest in forestry assets due to their use as a possible hedge on inflation, as well as the appeal to trustees who often view trees as serving a social purpose whilst also being an investment.

Meanwhile, pension funds in Scandinavia and Canada commonly use forestry as an asset in pension portfolios. Investment managers value forestry assets in a similar fashion to bonds: value retention with income generation.

These strategic market developments are taken as positive endorsements by the professional team at Sustainable

Capital in Luxembourg: “Portfolio diversification is more important than ever for investors but adding a few more equities to a portfolio, or another real estate asset is not efficient diversification,” Michael Young, Chartered Financial Analyst and Director of Sustainable Capital said.

“Previously investors diversified using a variety of real estate assets, equities, high-yielding bonds and currencies but we saw in 2008-09 that all these asset classes fell in tandem. Forestry and agriculture assets offer a different return and volatility profile to traditional portfolio constituents.”

Sustainable agriculture and agro-forestry is not correlated to traditional stocks and shares and

has been a boom factor since the economic and banking sector crisis. Young goes on to explain how “by creating a fund with diverse natural resource investments across different species, regions and markets the overall risk is dissipated, thereby giving greater security and improved risk adjusted return potential for investors”.

However forestry and agriculture as an asset class is better suited to sophisticated investors who understand the return, risk, liquidity and investment horizon characteristics of the projects. A medium to long term investment period is required, often in excess of seven years before an exit opportunity presents itself.

Rebuilding after US hurricane boosts timber demand According to reports by Forestry Research Associates (FRA), timber prices are rising as a result of the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, which could

mean growing returns for those with investments in timberland.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange was up by the maximum daily rate of $10/1,000 bdft. The

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rise is the result of the demand for timber for use in the rebuilding of thousands of homes, which were damaged by the hurricane throughout the Eastern US. Daryl Swetlishoff, from Raymond James, told Canada’s Globe and Mail Newspaper, “Lumber prices are atypically high for this point in the year and bucking a seasonal trend already”.

Several large forestry firms in Canada are now preparing to up their production in order to meet the new demand for lumber. The US might also import timber from elsewhere, such as Latin America, according to FRA’s analysis partner Peter Collins. Collins explained: “The impact of Sandy

was obviously devastating for many people living on the East Coast and the demand for timber to quickly rebuild their homes will be huge.”

Investing in sustainable timber, through plantation projects like those run by Greenwood Management and other similar firms in Brazil, can be a lucrative option at the moment. “Several analysts are predicting a boom in timber prices as demand continues to creep up,” Collins said.

Prices are high due to strong demand from emerging economies like China and India, which are importing huge amounts of timber for house building and infrastructure development.

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WORLD MARKETS

Log exports for New Zealand remain steady

N

ew Zealand log exports have remained consistent this year, recording a seventh consecutive month above 1 million m³ in August. Year to date figures showed a 3% increase in exports compared to the year to August 2011 on the back of a strong month in June. Exports to China are up 9% compared to year-to-August totals for 2011, despite China importing less logs overall during this time.

China has continued its trend of decreasing imports, with August’s rolling quarter total being 21% below the rolling quarter total for 2011. Average monthly imports for 2012 have been over 450,000 m³ below those of 2011. Growth in China is slowing down, as its economy is heavily linked to the Eurozone via its exports. As Europe slows down most Asian markets will to some extent go

with it. China is, however, investing heavily in domestic infrastructure that will give a boost to construction. Much of the investment is in the interior, where Russian logs may be better placed to take advantage of demand as New Zealand logs will have to enter through eastern ports.

Most of the decreases in China’s imports are from Russian and Pacific North Western markets.

This has led to New Zealand significantly increasing its market share in China this year, moving from a 23% share in August last year to a 34% share in August this year.

Indian demand is slowing for logs as inventories are full up and investment in infrastructure is waning. Supply is fragmented, while exports to India in July were very low and picked up again in August. Export volumes were

down for 2012 compared to 2011, and monthly volumes have been much more variable as high prices have attracted huge volumes at times which have then caused oversupply that suppressed demand. Supply to India is reducing, and that should see inventories right themselves in the coming months.

South Korean inventories are in good balance with supply matching consumption. Building activity in South Korea is easing, as like most of New Zealand’s major markets in Asia its economy is largely tied to Europe. Though New Zealand exports to Korea reduced by around 15% in 2012 in comparison to 2011, New Zealand still retains a large market share.

South Korean imports of New Zealand logs made up 60% of log imports for the third quarter of 2012.

Exports to Japan increased in August to just over 95,000 m³ – the largest monthly figure in the last four years, besides May’s total of 145,260m³. Though New Zealand supplies close to 20% of Japan’s log imports, it’s a very small contributor to Japan’s imports of lumber. Japan’s lumber imports are a much bigger market than log imports.

Pacific North West exports to China have lowered considerably this year. Most of the decrease is from the US, although until August Canada was expected to export less to China than in 2011. As the US housing recovery gains momentum less wood will be exported. This will likely lead to New Zealand gaining more market share in the major Asian markets.

Low value domestic currency helps keep demand for Brazilian logs high Pulp mills and sawmills in Brazil became more competitive in 2012, because the costs for the wood raw-material, accounting for about 70% of production costs, have declined by over 20 % since 2011, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly Pulp mills and sawmills in Brazil became more competitive in 2012 mostly thanks to a weakening Brazilian real. Pine sawlog prices in Brazil, in US dollar terms, fell 22% in just one year, and prices in the June quarter of 2012 were at a level below where they were just before the financial crisis that hit in 2008, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly.

In the local currency, on the other hand, prices have actually increased steadily and in the second quarter of 2012 were at their highest levels in over four years. Domestic demand for wood products was a key driver for the

higher log costs – in 2010 and 2011, the local lumber market was strong because of major investments in the housing construction sector in Brazil.

However, the domestic market slowed in 2012 and, instead, lumber and plywood exports slowly picked up steam as those sectors have benefited from the weakening Brazilian real and the Brazilian forest industry became more competitive in the international market.

With the Brazilian real expected to continue to stay weak against the US dollar, market participants are hoping for increased exports

16 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

of lumber, plywood and valueadded products in the coming months. If this scenario actually comes to fruition, demand for sawlogs may go up and log prices will likely move up in both Brazilian real and dollar terms.

Although Brazilian pulplog prices have not changed much in the local currency, they have fallen dramatically in US dollar terms as the real weakened this past year.

Eucalyptus pulplog prices in the second quarter were down 28% from the same quarter in 2011, while pine pulplog prices declined 26% from a year ago, according to the WRQ.

The recent dramatic price reductions of pulpwood have had the result that the wood costs for Brazilian pulpmill now are among the lowest of all regions tracked by the WRQ, as compared to a year ago when wood fibre costs in Brazil were above the Global Wood Fiber Price Indices (SFPI and HFPI). Since wood fibre costs accounted for about 70% of the production costs for pulp mills in Brazil in the second quarter, the substantial reduction in pulpwood prices has made the country’s pulp mills more competitive in 2012 relative to other pulp producers around the world.

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BIOMASS

Quality over quantity

Demanding tasks that require continuous performance are suited to Komptech’s Terminator

Biomass sector suppliers have taken their foot of the pedal this year in terms of products released but the quality remains historically high. With Paul Moore

B

iomass has been beaten back in the past couple of years as price has become a barrier for companies and countries alike. Governments have found it hard to justify subsidies on green energy programs and large capital expenditure on new projects as people the world over battle with a poorer economic outlook.

The US biomass industry has been particularly badly shaken, though its strength was debatable in the first place, while Europe has maintained some strength, though over-enthusiastic nations like Spain have been forced to take a

realistic look at the sustainability of their green energy projects.

And perhaps that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Propping up inefficient energy programs is difficult to justify from an environmental point of view and it can also be argued that energy provision that is not efficient and economical is never going to be sustainable.

This year’s biomass feature is probably an accurate reflection on the industry. New product releases are low but there a handful of standout companies that continue to provide innovations. These are the companies that will be

The Terminator direct saves up to 30% of energy costs versus conventional shredders, and is extremely tough

The direct drive Terminator is the answer whenever continuous high performance for demanding materials is required, and the composition of the input material is largely known and constant – Komptech

strongest on the other side of this current lull.

Size reduction Commercial waste, bulky waste, mixed construction waste and light C&D waste are all demanding materials that take a lot of power and energy to shred.

As a consequence, many costconscious operators rely on the Terminator direct low-speed universal shredder from Komptech. This stationary singleshaft machine has an electromechanical direct drive system that uses 30% less energy than hydraulic machines, for 30% lower costs.

It is powered by a heavy-duty asynchronous motor driving a zero-maintenance Powerband belt system, which transfers the

energy to a two-speed reversing transmission with specially developed high-performance clutches. From there, the power goes directly to the shaft with almost no energy loss.

High efficiency and low costs The greatest benefit of this mechanical direct drive is its high efficiency. The Terminator direct gives high throughput with substantially less energy consumption than comparable hydraulic-drive shredders. The resulting low operating costs make waste treatment more profitable, for higher competitiveness. Since the Terminator direct uses no high power hydraulics, there are none of the associated high maintenance costs. Together with its notably lower investment costs,

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BIOMASS this means the machine pays for itself faster.

“The direct drive Terminator is the answer whenever continuous high performance for demanding materials is required, and the composition of the input material is largely known and constant,” the manufacturer said.

Two speeds and high contrary-resistance The Terminator direct has two constant speeds. The higher speed is for easily shredded material. For tougher materials, the operator can manually switch to a lower speed with higher torque. Like with hydraulic versions, if a contrary causes a blockage, the control electronics automatically switch the Terminator into reverse. The drum reverses, frees itself up, and then continues shredding. Even a high number of blockages within a short time will not cause either thermal or mechanical damage.

Four shredding units for a perfect fit The range of applications of this direct-drive single-shaft shredder extends from coarse preshredding to the even shredding of residual waste to a set grain.

Komptech offers four different shredding units to fit the input material and desired output size: U for Universal, UF for Universal Fine, F for Fine and XF for ExtraFine output. The easily operated, ‘steplessly’ adjustable shredding gap adjustment is a further plus – the wider the gap between drum and counter comb, the coarser the shredding.

Komptech offers the Terminator direct in six power classes, from 75 to 320 kW. Bandit Industries has released the new Model 2550XP self-propelled

The Bandit Model 2550XP stump grinder

Having a machine with the power to get through stumps quickly is important, but so is reliability – Jason Morey, Bandit

stump grinder with up to 44 hp.

Featuring beltless hydrostatic direct-drive, the Model 2550XP sets all-new standards for stump grinder production, reliability, chip containment, and low maintenance, according to Bandit.

Compared to similar stump grinders with traditional belt drive, the Model 2550XP typically has a significantly lower cost-ofownership through reduced maintenance needs and less downtime.

“The Model 2550XP is a high production stump grinder that has the power to go after large-scale projects or big stumps,” Bandit Small Equipment Sales Manager, Jason Morey, said. “Companies that spend a lot of time grinding stumps will really enjoy this machine, as it can get just about anywhere, tackle just about any sized stump, and it powers through them in no time. It also operates just as smooth as our

20 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

smaller 2250XP, and of course with no belts there is far less downtime for maintenance.”

The reduced maintenance comes from the high-power hydrostatic motor used to directly power the cutter wheel with virtually no parasitic power loss.

This eliminates the need for a clutch, jackshaft, drive belt, belt tensioning system, and the many sheaves and bearings associated with those components. This also allows the engine to be mounted lower and at the rear of the machine for better balance. An optional four-wheel drive system is available for exceptional allterrain traction, and with standard flotation tires the Model 2550XP can harmlessly traverse delicate landscaping. Engine options range from 35 hp or 38 hp gasoline engines, or a pair of Kubota diesels with either 35 hp or 44 hp.

Once at the job site, the 2550XP brings a massive 125 cm (50 in) swing arc to cover a broad area, reducing the need to reposition the machine at the stump. It cuts to a maximum depth of 33.75 cm (13.5 in), and it features rubber chip curtains on both the operator's console and the machine itself to aid in chip containment. A standard swingout operator's station provides the controls for the drive system, cutter wheel swing, and up/down movements of the cutter head,

while also positioning the operator at a clear viewing angle to the grinding action. An optional wireless remote control with a tether backup is available for operators who prefer to be away from the machine. A hydraulic grading blade is also available and recommended for assisting with clean-up after the stump is removed.

“We’ve spent a lot of time talking with people in the industry, grinding stumps every day,” Morey said. “Having a machine with the power to get through stumps quickly is important, but so is reliability.

“Regular stump grinders have come a long way in the last 10 years, and if you keep an eye on the belts they perform well. With the 2250 and now the 2550, we’ve taken a new step towards creating the ideal stump grinder – one that has the power people need but doesn’t need quite so much attention to maintenance.

Changing or adjusting belts isn’t really hard, but after using a beltless 2250 or 2550, you’ll wonder how you ever put up with belts in the first place.”

Jeffrey Rader Corporation has been awarded a contract to supply a boiler feed metering system to Burmeister & Wain Energy of Denmark. The feed system will be an integrated part of BWE’s scope of supply for the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant in Lincolnshire, England.

The wood chip fuel feed system will be part of a 38.5 MW biomass power plant that produces enough energy to power approximately 65,000 households and businesses fed through the electric distribution grid.

“This type of alternative fuel feed system is typical of the type of equipment Jeffrey Rader Corporation has been supplying in recent years,” Jeffrey Rader Director of Sales, Engineered Systems, Ted Gentile.

The wood chip feeding system will augment the main straw fuel feed system and allow for dual feed of wood chips and straw fuel simultaneously. Two boiler feed systems will supply about 20 tph of wood chip fuel to the straw and wood chip fired boiler.

“The system, comprised of an

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BIOMASS assembly of the company’s standard components, accepts fuel from the fuel yard that has been pre-sized. As part of a utility power plant fuel feed system, the equipment must be heavy duty and most of all reliable under 24/7 operation,” Gentile said.

The system is scheduled to be installed and operational by the end of 2013 and the power plant will commence production by mid2014.

“Jeffrey Rader Corporation has the ability to supply all of the necessary equipment for the boiler feed system, allowing our customers to meet their objectives, including project cost, schedule and long term reliability,” Jeffrey Rader Vice President, Engineered Systems, Tony Lubiani said.

Meanwhile, the company has also secured a contract to supply a complete biomass fuel material handling system to GEMMA Power Systems for the ETEC Woodville Renewable Power project in Woodville, Texas.

The system will be part of a 49.9 MW biomass fueled power plant. The plant will provide power to members of several electric cooperatives that are part of East

Texas Electric Cooperative (ETEC).

“This is a significant project for the biomass energy industry in the USA and a major project for the Engineered Systems Group at Jeffrey Rader Corporation," Lubiani said.

The material handling system is designed to unload and store just under 3,000 tpd.

Because this is a power plant that will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the fuel handling system has to be highly reliable, low maintenance and have a high percentage of availability. The biomass material handling system

by Jeffrey Rader includes truck dumpers, processing equipment, an open stockpile for storage, underpile traveling screw reclaimers, all interconnecting belt conveyors, structures and associated equipment. Delivery of the equipment will begin in April 2013. The power plant is scheduled to complete operation in late 2014.

North American chipping company CBI’s two most recent innovations are the Magnum Force 5800 and the ChipMax 484V. The Magnum Force 5800 was designed to meet specific size

constraints. at 27.2 t (60,000lb) the machine is both weight and width transportation legal, while still containing all of the design features and ingenuity that makes strength and performance of CBI machines legendary.

Critical feed components such as pulleys, conveyor chains, and drive motors are identical to the larger Magnum Force to ensure rugged performance. A diverter pan allows abrasive fines to bypass the rotor entirely and be fed directly to the discharge conveyor or removed and diverted underneath the feed conveyor.

Weldments are fabricated entirely of Hardox AR450 to ensure high strength with long life and less weight.

The 5800 was engineered for land clearing and logging companies, yard waste and demolition wood processing, and mulch yards that demand highvolume throughput and maximum reliability. Features include a high lift upper roll for ease of maintenance; high torque, hydrostatic feed system; PT Tech hydraulic PTO; and a Caterpillar engine. High strength drum rotor and screen system are shear pin protected.

The entire system is controlled

by CBI’s IntelliGrind logic incorporating a variable in-feed speed that automatically adjusts to engine load and an optional modem communications system that provides for real-time system diagnostics. The Magnum Force 5800 is available in track mounted, truck mounted, rubber tire mounted and stationary configurations.

Compact yet enormously productive, the ChipMax 484V is an “extreme-duty biomass production workhorse”. Its main components such as the rotor, chipper box and feed system are significantly stronger than any other chipper in its class, providing owners with years of trouble free service.

Featuring two rotor options, the ChipMax configured with a two pocket chipper rotor can make high-quality fuel chips custom sized from 19-30 mm; or configured with a 4 pocket chipper rotor ‘micro-chips’ from 3-12 mm.

These ‘micro-chips’ produce a consistent fibre length that “dramatically reduces the overall cost of producing pellets” as well as improves the function of small boilers. The discharge chute has

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BIOMASS

CBI’s 5800 model is as robust as larger models but meets transport requirements for easy movement from site-to-site

These ‘micro-chips’ produce a consistent fibre length that dramatically reduces the overall cost of producing pellets as well as improves the function of small boilers – CBI

the ability to both top and end load trailers.

Adding to its versatility, the ChipMax 484V is available as a portable (pintle hook or fifth wheel mounting hitch), track, or truck-mounted unit and is road legal in both width and weight.

CBI designs some of the world’s leading horizontal grinders, chippers, wood hogs, shingle grinders, shredders, and custom stationary systems and believes it has a machine for any application.

Preservation Logging residue is an inexpensive and easily accessible source of biofuel, but to improve the energy content it must first dry on the ground and after that it can be stored in piles for several months.

To shelter the piles from moisture through rain, snow and ice, Walki has developed a paper-based, waterproof cover that can be chipped and burned together with the residue.

The importance of biofuels is increasing globally due to tightening emissions restrictions.

Interest in wood-based biofuels has also increased because there are new combustion technologies available on the market that are suitable for solid biofuels.

At first glance, Walki’s biomass cover doesn’t look very high-tech, but it’s an ingenious invention that very efficiently improves the energy content in logging residue.

The cover itself is a 4 m or 6 mwide laminate, mainly produced from renewable fibrous materials.

It shelters the top of the pile but leaves the sides open, allowing moisture to evaporate.

A very thin plastic layer within the cover makes it both

22 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

The 484V is another compact chipping solution from CBI and provides two rotor options for different chip sizes waterproof and very strong, but thanks to the characteristics of the plastic, the cover can be chipped along with the residue and used as fuel as well.

“The biomass cover is already the widest of its kind on the market and the production is constantly growing,” Walki Product Line Manager Kari Salminen said. “The newest development is a six-meter wide version that can cover bigger piles of logging residue and other wood-based biofuels.”

In addition to shielding the residue from water and snow, the biomass cover also protects the

residue from freezing, which can transform the pile into an icy heap that’s almost impossible to handle and has low energy content.

“The phenomenon is familiar to anyone who has piled chopped firewood outside and forgotten to cover it,” Salminen said. “In the wintertime, the wood is icy and heavy and produces much less heat than dry firewood.”

In phase with the environment Finland and Sweden are pioneers in harvesting energy wood, but because energy saving and biofuels have become so

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BIOMASS

Measurements have shown that the solids content of wood can be raised by as much as 15% by using the Walki Biomass Cover – Kari Salminen, Walki

Residue covered with the Walki Biomass Cover become drier than piles that are left uncovered

important, interest in the technology is increasing in other parts of the world as well.

“Energy wood is, in many countries, an almost unused resource for producing energy in an environmentally sound way,” Salminen said. “Our product maximises the energy value of logging residue; measurements have shown that the solids content of wood can be raised by as much as 15% by using the cover.”

In Finland, the main reseller of Walki’s biomass cover is Uittokalusto, a Finnish company owned by Grube KG Forstgerätestelle of Germany. The company has been selling the cover for about six years now and is very pleased with the feedback from customers. The main customers are big forest companies in Finland and their subcontractors.

“The cover is easy to spread with the same machinery that gathers the residue in the woods,” Uittokalusto Sales Manager Ilkka Leskinen said. “Our customers are satisfied with the benefits of the biomass cover and how easy it is to use the product.”

producers who have a wide variety of feed material, from logs up to 61 cm (24 in) in diameter, to brush and small feed stock.

Powered by a C18 Caterpillar

engine, the 4300 is available in two power ratings– 630 and 765 hp (470 and 570 kW). At 19,250 kg pounds (42,440) and 249 cm (8 ft 2 in) in width, the 4300 is a high

production chipper whose dimensions do not require any oversize permits for road transportation.

The chipper utilises a 36 in

Size reduction cont’d The Peterson 4300 drum chipper is the latest in a long line of high quality chipping and grinding machines produced by Peterson.

The 4300 drum chipper is suited for high volume biomass

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BIOMASS Peterson 4310B at Demo International 2012

Peterson 5000H Mt Gambier, Australia

diameter by 91 by 114 cm (44-3/4 in) wide drum with wear resistant AR450 wear surfaces on the drum pockets and shell. A sloped feed deck makes feeding the chipper easier. The optional material sizing bars and chip accelerator minimize oversize twigs and branches in the chips, and help ensure tight chip packing and fully loaded chip vans.

Traditional babbitt type knife systems are standard equipment.

Chip length can be changed from 1/4 to 1-1/4 in (6 to 32 mm) by adjusting knife extension and feed speed.

The 4300’s new generation of controls includes Peterson’s highproduction Adaptive Control System. The new control panel provides self-diagnosis for faulty sensors and open circuits. Fault indicators make troubleshooting easy. The 4300 control panel features an LCD display that provides the operator the complete engine and system parameters to simplify setup and efficiently operate the machine.

The Peterson 5000H disk chipper-delimber-debarker

produces high quality low bark content chips for wood pulp and pellets, processing whole trees in one continuous operation.

The 5000H continues with many of the same high quality chipping components of the successful 5000G model. The large feed throat, which can accept up to a 23 inch (563 mm) diameter tree or multiple smaller stems, is achieved by placing the anvil and transition in the chipper.

The standard three-pocket disk can produce chips from 0.625 to 1.25 in (16-32mm) long, while the optional four-pocket disk can produce chips from 0.5 to 1.0 inches (13-25 mm) long. Chipping production rates up to 100 tons (90 tonnes) per hour can be achieved, depending on chip size and wood characteristics.

Peterson’s heavy-duty 66 inch (1676 mm) diameter, 4.75 in (121 mm) thick chipper disk has a replaceable 0.5 inch (13 mm) wear plate. This disk diameter makes a good match of high production and consistent chip quality. Larger disks have greater speed differential between inner and

Peterson 5000H Mt Gambier, Australia 24 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

outer portions of the chipping knives, producing lower levels of acceptable chips.

Traditional babbit-type knives or Key Knife components are available, depending on customer preference.

The Tier II C27 and C32 Caterpillar engines are more fuelefficient than previous engines of equivalent power. A heavy-duty wet clutch helps assure smooth, continuous power transfer to drive the chipper. The hydraulic system uses efficient pressurecompensated, load sensing hydraulic components with most systems. The new flail drives provide more power and peak torque for improved delimbing and reduced bark content. The fully redesigned, high visibility, weatherized cab is more convenient to reach, and is designed to meet the latest OSHA standards. Ergonomically designed electronic joystick controls enable precise operator control over the two-section knuckle-boom log loader, while controls for the variable speed flails and discharge spout positioning are readily at hand.

Top or end-loading chip spouts are available, including a high rotation long spout.

Peterson’s Adaptive Controls provide intuitive interfaces, a large LCD display, and handy readouts to provide the operator with information to more efficiently make chips.

On-screen maintenance instructions and self-diagnostic features increase up-time.

Maintenance schedules and check lists are easily viewable on-screen in the cab. An optional on-board

modem permits remote diagnostics and monitoring of many machine parameters.

Peterson’s Adaptive Cooling System adjusts the fan speed to match cooling requirements. Fuel cost savings can be significant over the life of the machine. Daily and monthly servicing are readily performed from the convenient platforms and walkways around the engine and chipper.

Peterson specialises in developing delivery and processing equipment that turns low-grade organic materials into high value products.

The 2700C is Peterson’s latest generation of high production portable grinders. Powered by the Caterpillar C13 engine at 475 hp (354 kW) or an optional C15 at 580 (433 kW) hp, this model provides plenty of power in a compact grinder. At 55,600 pounds (25220 kg) the 2700C was designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. With a feed opening of 60¾ x 32 in (1534 x 813 mm) combined with Peterson’s high lift feed roll for an optional opening of up to 44 in (1118 mm) high, the 2700C can readily reduce a wide range of material.

The 2700C uses Peterson’s new generation of Impact Release System that can be set in the

Peterson’s LCD display

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BIOMASS contaminants in the feed material.

Shear pins above the cushion and a sensing circuit that stop the engine help protect the shaft from catastrophic damage in the event of a severe impact.

Peterson specialises in developing delivery and processing equipment that turns low-grade organic materials into high value products. detent mode to provide consistent product sizing or switched to the floating anvil mode for a primary reduction where accurate sizing is less critical. The floating anvil mode provides a high production primary reduction with more protection from contaminated feedstocks and reduced fuel consumption.

The 2700C’s new generation of controls includes Peterson’s high production Adaptive Control System and a fully adjustable feed system that is optimised for a wide range of materials. The new control panel provides selfdiagnostics for faulty sensors and open circuits. Fault indicators make trouble shooting easy. The 2700C control panel features a large LCD display that provides the

operator with complete engine and system parameters to simplify set up and efficiently operate the unit.

The 2700C features a large grate area that enables the 2700C to produce materials to exact specifications. Our quick-change multiple grate system makes it easy to customise grate configurations to produce a wide variety of finished materials.

Grates are removed through an access door on the side wall of the 2700C. Another major innovation included on the 2700C is Peterson’s Impact Cushion System. Urethane cushions allow movement of the compression roll/anvil housing pivot shaft, cushioning impacts due to

Industry-proven heavy duty drum chipper company, Pezzolato, has used its years of manufacturing experience to conceive the new PTH 1200/820 Hackertruck – a special drum chipper that has evolved from the drum chipper upgrade project network through the combined contribution of the European Community, the Italian Government and the Region Piemont, in cooperation with local municipalities.

The project mainly focused on engineering and constructing a drum chipper prototype that’s features had never before been developed for the Italian market.

The aim was to improve the performance and profitability of large scale portable drum chippers.

To meet this challenge, innovative devices were incorporated in the final design: • Black-box: this is the first device able to register all process parameters with a second device able to send parameters recorded in the forest to the operative exchange. The parameters capable of being collected are: date; time and place (GPS georeference); RPM of the truck engine and fuel consumption; chipper working and non-working hours; with continuous monitoring of chips humidity; and the monitoring of the chipper inner temperatures • Chips evacuating system: enhancements to the traditional fan discharge chute allow an extra tube to cast chips in front of the truck cabin. This allows operation in narrow corridors • Automatic fire extinguish in the initial stage: chipping processes are a heavy duty activities that may overheat the equipment in certain conditions. In addition, wood dust can create a potentially explosive atmosphere. This innovative design adds fire safety protection to the unit

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BIOMASS

The new Pezzolato PTH 1200/820 HACKERTRUCK

• A truck chassis-mounted unit with a 336 kW (450 hp) motor, 6x6 all-wheel drive, and a 2.3 m reduced gauge. The machine can now be driven through narrow openings, on steep slopes and on twisted forestry roads • The integrated forestry crane and a C-shaped wood splitter with chain saw finish off the package.

The closed 820 mm diameter by 1,200 mm long chipping drum is fitted with two blades, each 1.2 m long. ‘Quick & Smart’ blades, fixed directly to the drum, allow easy access for maintenance and quick blade replacement, and are 30% cheaper than traditional blades – resharpening up to three times is possible.

Major blade damage is controlled with a collapsible counter-blade mounted on a running slide and secured with adjustable shear bolts. This allows shearing of bolts, which reduces extreme damage when a foreign body is accidentally consumed by the chipper. The design allows the counter-blade to fall down, so that the foreign body exits before

causing major damage.

After substantial design analysis and in-field testing, Morbark has introduced the Advantage 3 highperformance chipping drum.

Standard with Morbark’s full line of heavy-duty industrial drum chippers, the Advantage 3 Chipper Drum can be retrofitted to most existing machines without modifications.

The Advantage 3 Chipper Drum provides three primary advantages: 1. Better, more consistent biomass fuel chips • The wider drum and reduced gap between drum and housing reduces the frequency of sticks and twigs getting through for improved chip quality • Higher inertia tightly controls RPMs for better chips • Adjustable Babbitt-style counterknives produce consistent chip length 2. Wear-part and maintenance cost savings of more than 70% • AR 400 heat-treated steel skin reduces wear for longer drum life • Recessed pockets mean less

wear in critical areas for lower maintenance costs • Knives are 3/4-inch thick with 1 inch more depth, making knives more tolerant to wear and nicks and allowing the knife to be sharpened more

• The ultrasonically tested drum shaft has increased diameter for more true rotation and reduced shaft failure • Additional fasteners for more than two times the clamp load reduces the risk of throwing a

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BIOMASS HG6000

piece of the knife or holder.

• Sled-runner-style drive key in shaft prevents high stress by eliminating sharp slot cuts in the shaft 3. Unsurpassed peace of mind • Consistent chip quality and reiable, fast production mean no more worries about meeting fuel chip specifications • Limited three-year warranty • Like all Morbark equipment, the Avantage 3 Drum is supported

by Morbark’s extensive parts and service network The newly redesigned Vermeer HG6000 line of horizontal grinders provides the power and performance needed to increase productivity on site.. Loaded with features engineered to increase efficiency and versatility on the jobsite, the HG6000 series is the horizontal grinder for those looking to maximise production in large-scale land clearing, wood processing or green-waste recycling.

The revamped HG6000TX with dolly transport system has the versatility to get around the toughest jobsites. And the intelligence behind the HG6000E introduces cleaner and more cost effective methods.

A single-piece discharge conveyor belt removes possible bottleneck areas to promote better flow of material from belly to load-out. The dual-screen design offers the operatora variety of screen choices to maximise input and meet product specifications.

The patented SmartGrind system and hydraulic feed roller down pressure keep material moving so that loading speed and productivity are maximised.

Whilst the recently added CAT C-rated C18 Tier 4i (Stage IIIB) engine generates 755 hp (563 kW), generating enough power to meet the toughest onsite tasks.

Features Duplex Drum – The Duplex Drum cutting system offers optimum cutting performance and simplified maintenance. The reversible hammers and cutter blocks offer nearly double the life of single sided designs.

Easy Access Screens – This allows the operator to change screens more easily and in less time than side loading screens.

SmartGrind – This feature can increase machine and jobsite productivity by reducing operator interface. SmartGrind can also help reduce wear to vital engine components by constantly monitoring rpm levels.

Super Single Wheel Assemblies – Provides improved site and transport mobility and increased ground clearance.

Removable Anvil – With the easily removable design, all anvil maintenance can be performed outside of the machine.

Whole tree chipper WC2300XL Tier 4i (Stage IIIB) Vermeer’s whole tree chipper offers a powerful, whole-tree solution As the push toward alternative fuels accelerates, governments and industries are recognising the advantages of using wood chips as a source for power generation.

With the whole tree chipper, Vermeer offers customers a powerful, whole tree solution for producing wood chips.

For those in the logging industry, whole tree chippers represents an exciting, convenient vehicle for expanding their operations by utilising all parts of a tree. Even the leftover slash can now be picked up and chipped to provide another revenue stream.

A second generation whole-tree chipper, the WC2300XL, has the same amount of power as Vermeer’ s first generation whole tree chipper, but has more bite for when working in more challenging material thanks to its enhanced infeed.

By increasing the infeed roller diameter to 28 in (71.1 cm) the WC2300XL offers superior productivity whether working in slash or logs up to 23 in (58.4 cm)

in diameter. Running material through the WC2300XL is easy and efficient, due to its variable-speed dual infeed conveyor chains, conveyor head pulley with integral grip bars and aggressive infeed roller with crush capability.

Features and Benefits • The WC2300XL features an infeed system that includes variable-speed dual infeed conveyor chains, conveyor head pulley with integral grip bars, sloped infeed table and aggressive diameter infeed roller with crush capability. These provide efficient feeding of difficult material types, reducing the number of times an operator has to handle the material • High wear material flow areas of the machine, such as drum knife pockets, discharge chute, cutter housing and infeed conveyor floor are designed with replaceable wear parts. This helps extend machine life • An operator can choose whether to use double-edged cutter knives or babbitted single-edge cutter knives, to best suit the job conditions. IFI

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 27

IFI_PG28_29_Company Profile advertorial_01 18/12/2012 12:11 Page 28

Advertisement Feature

BIOMASS – COMPANY PROFILE

Bandit industries continue to excel in Biomass sector

I

n 1983, six people converged on a 6000 square-foot converted warehouse in Central Michigan, USA because they believed they could build a better wood chipper. They succeeded, and Bandit Industries was born.

For nearly 30 years, that innovative spirit has been the driving force behind Bandit's success.

This awardwinning company now employs a worldwide workforce of nearly 400, using 250,000 square feet of manufacturing space at the company’s Michigan headquarters to build over 40 different models of wood processing equipment.

Bandit machines are built by specialised work teams using the latest manufacturing technologies and highest quality materials available, backed by heavy-duty welded construction throughout the manufacturing process to create the kind of rugged, dependable equipment that professionals need.

Bandit NASCAR

28 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

From small hand-fed to large whole tree chippers, horizontal wood waste grinders/recyclers, stump grinders, forestry mowers, and specialty equipment like selfpropelled track machines or screen chippers, Bandit has a product for virtually any woodsrelated application.

Bandit hand-fed chippers are the backbone of tree service companies around the world.

Available as disc or drum chippers, these hard working machines can be ordered with numerous options and chipping capacities up to 21-inches in diameter. When it comes to high-production whole tree chipping, loggers turn to Bandit’s line of whole-tree chippers for the ultimate in production, reliability, and chip quality.

Bandit offers several disc and drum-style whole tree chippers for any situation, with the largest machines able to process a 36-inch diameter whole tree while filling a semi-trailer in eight minutes.

Bandit pioneered self-propelled track whole tree chippers by developing the world's first track whole tree chipper back in 1990. By taking the chipper to the trees, Bandit track whole tree chippers provide the extra mobility and productivity demanded by many logging, land

IFI_PG28_29_Company Profile advertorial_01 18/12/2012 12:11 Page 29

Model 3590

Beast 3680T Model 3000 clearing and biomass professionals, especially in steep or swampy terrain. Bandit uses only Caterpillar® steel-track undercarriages, and all track chippers can be outfitted with numerous options such as operator cabs, loaders and more.

Bandit continues to lead this segment by offering track undercarriages as an option for every hand-fed and whole tree chipper in the Bandit lineup.

And because Bandit machines utilise heavyduty welded construction with the strongest components available, all Bandit chippers are backed with an available five-year GUTS warranty for the disc / drum, feed systems, and related equipment.

Beast horizontal grinders have been the wood waste processing machines of choice for numerous industries since the mid-1990s.

Beast grinders use Bandit's patented cuttermill to process material with more of a cutting action as opposed to hammering, delivering a better end-product with greater efficiency and less machine wear-and-tear.

Numerous tooth and screen options allow the Beast to produce everything from mulch to dimensional chips and a ¼-minus product

called bio-sawdust, which is ideal for wood pellet production. Like Bandit’s whole tree chippers, Beast grinders can also be optioned with self-propelled track undercarriages, from the nimble Model 1680 to the 40-inch capacity Model 4680.

Whether processing stumps for mulch or turning switchgrass into biofuel, there's a Beast to accommodate any size project.

Bandit prime movers with forestry mower attachments have become extremely popular front-line site clearing machines for a variety of applications, including utility line clearing, gas and oil exploration, road construction and more. These impressive machines can be optioned with as much as 600 hp, wielding mower heads up to 108 inches wide that can be swapped with a stump grinder head in a matter of minutes. High-capacity, heavy-duty hydraulic systems ensure the cutting head receives more power than the competition, allowing these machines to easily mow and mulch large diameter trees. Four models are available—the Model 3500, Model 4000, Model 5000, and the all-new compact Model 3000.

Bandit Industries is the go-to company for those who demand quality, durability,

exceptional machine performance and unparalleled customer service. These are the reasons why more than 50,000 Bandit machines have been sold in over than 50 countries, and demand has never been stronger. Whatever the next 30 years may bring rest assured that Bandit will be there, providing companies with the innovative products they need, backed by the professionalism they deserve.

Learn more at www.banditchippers.com

Bandit Industries, Inc. Contact: Regional Sales Representative 6750 Millbrook Rd. Remus, MI 49340 USA E-mail: sales@banditchippers.com Website: www.banditchippers.com Phone: 1-989-561-2270 Toll Free: 1-800-952-0178 Fax: 1-989-561-2273

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 29

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:17 Page 30

Steady as she goes

The respondents to this year’s Industry Voice call-out were largely on the same page when it came to forecasts for next year and what customers are asking for in these difficult times. And, while not overly optimistic, most suppliers are happy enough with the markets to predict a positive, if slow year in 2013 30 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:17 Page 31

INDUSTRY VOICE

CBI Owner Anders Ragnarsson

V

olatility has been a key fixture in the past few years and 2012 was no different. Fuel prices and market bounces meant the price of various forestry products swung between poor and healthy price levels, though rarely testing anything like historic highs in most sub-sectors.

Major suppliers reported mixed results with most recording at least one very strong quarter to provide some hope for the future.

Broad global forecasting for the economy has pointed to a relatively similar situation unfolding in 2013 and this was reflected by the responses from our surveyed manufactures. However, this year’s Industry Voice feature detected a longer term forecast for stronger growth, with manufacturers poised to take advantage of

Ponsse Sales and Marketing Director Jarmo Vidgrén

Komatsu Forest Marketing Director Timo Ylänen

Tigercat International Sales Manager Gary Olsen

Rottne Export Sales Manager Jan Hennberg

Lucidyne Director of Mktg & Sales Bill Briskey

Manager, Forestry Tactical Marketing, John Deere Mike Schmidt

a genuine uptick in the industry that could happen as early as this next year. That prediction may have found its way through purely because companies are sick of forecasting weakness but, as usual, only time can tell.

Despite the problems, companies are maintaining their R&D budgets and have reported a reasonable appetite for new technologies from their customer bases.

The reason for this is the need to be costefficient, which can only be achieved through better machinery. The only sour note was the scrutiny under which new purchases now come, which can delay the purchasing process.

And the key improvements customers want are largely to do with fuel savings.

Customers have quickly realised that if fuel costs can be cut back then the volatility associated with energy prices can be at least partially negated. This has been the trend for the past four years and has maintained or increased its focus this year.

The notable difference between this year’s survey and previous years is the lack of sawmills responding. International Forest Industries contacted the usual players to get a feel for how they thought the industry was shaping up for next year and how they coped with the challenges of 2012, all but Lucidyne Technologies politely declined to respond. Optimistically, this may be because they’re just too busy but given the news reported in IFI, this year we have our doubts.

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 31

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:17 Page 32

INDUSTRY VOICE on the forest machine market, which is typical front cycle business.

Komatsu: World demand for forest industry products is down and that of course impacts forest machine demand. The economic situation in Europe is not good and next year is expected to be a slow growth period in most markets. Chinese growth has slowed down. This has a big impact on all markets because China is the main driver behind many forest industry products like pulp and paper. There is a big variation between markets so some markets are very silent, while some other markets may still be quite normal this year.

CBI: It has definitely negatively impacted our sales in Europe and the US. In the US, the major impact has been because of the lack of housing starts and the land clearing associated with new subdivisions, etc. I think another factor which has as much, if not more effect, is the difficulty to get financing for major purchases because of the bank stability concerns both in the US and Europe. The customers are being forced to try to do more with less and pay for repairs and refurbishments in lieu of upgrading equipment. We do not currently sell anything in China and so have felt no impact.

John Deere: Economic conditions in the United States, Europe and even China have remained volatile and uncertain for several years. As such, the effect on our customers is largely unchanged from previous years. The economy has created uncertainty and a lack of confidence among our customers, which is exacerbated by the fact that no apparent solutions are forthcoming. As a result, customers continue to approach equipment purchases with caution, putting off new equipment purchases longer.

Ponsse: A positive tone has prevailed in the US, which has primarily been seen in better used machine sales. The sales of new machines have also picked up. The construction of detached houses has been weak in the US for about

five years, but now the number of building permits has increased. In the United States, single-family houses are, almost without exception, timber-framed, and we hope that the growth in the demand for structural sawn timber will also generate demand for other wood industry products.

In Europe, from our point of view, the slowing down of the forest machine market has been fastest in Germany and Sweden, which have both traditionally been strong sales areas for us.

However, there are also positive exceptions in Europe – trading in the UK and Norway has been active. The slowdown of growth in China is mainly felt by us through Russian sales. In the Far East, from which a lot of wood is exported to China, machine sales have levelled off slightly.

Rottne: Of course the global economic slowdown has also affected sales of Rottne machines.

But there are differences around the world: • Northern Europe has for instance not been affected as much as in the south • Rottne has taken market shares on our home market and sales have been quite good locally in specific parts of Sweden • Australia is at a complete stand still due to the strong Australian dollar and the bankruptcy of several large timber companies • North America has been slow but recently have we noticed a growing optimism.

Tigercat: The European market represents a small but important portion of our total sales. In 2012, we found that key markets in

32 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

Sweden and the UK have seen a reduction in demand for equipment. US markets across the board have been strong including the southeast, deep south, pacific northwest and northeast.

In addition we have seen new activity and strong demand for Tigercat products in smaller markets such as Montana, West Virginia, Indiana and Michigan.

Probably the greatest China influence has had is in the Australian markets. Australia’s chip Chinese export market has slowed due to alternative sourcing in other parts of Asia and the general slowdown in China. That said, high value log exports from the west coast to Asia have remained strong.

Lucidyne: We have experienced an increase in sales for smaller purchases, with cautious exploration for larger systems by an increasing number of companies. However, our primary sales are in North America and most of our clients are not involved with exports to China and Europe.

Komatsu: Slow growth is expected next year across the global economy. It also means that forest machine demand will be below average. You have to keep your costs in control, read the signals well and be prepared for market upturn. No one knows yet but markets may start to recover late next year and if so it will of course have a strong impact

CBI: We agree. We are increasing our focus on emerging markets in South America and introducing better equipment solutions in markets we have not been selling into – primarily introducing a higher production, lower cost per tonne solution for creating pulp quality chips in the woods. This has been a welcome addition to the market in Australia and we are beginning to make inroads in Brazil and Chile while we push to make similar gains in the US and Canada. We are also making very conservative decisions with regard to inventory levels and focusing on putting the resources where they will be the most effective.

John Deere: Our own forecasting also indicates continuing economic uncertainty. We have predicted that it would take some time to come out of this period of volatility, and so have been positioning ourselves by focusing on ways to help our customers weather the storm and continue to be profitable. During difficult economic times, maintaining profitability is always the most critical objective. So we are always looking for ways to help our customers take cost out of their business, whether it’s through keeping their equipment running longer, more efficiently, or increasing production.

Ponsse: The uncertainty in the market has increased from the summer of 2012, and the global sales of forest machines have slowed down, even though the market is reasonably stable from our point of view. Considering demand, we have managed well and increased our market share in a number of markets. Up to now, the factory has operated the normal two shifts thanks to the record high order books of the first half of the year. However, at the turn of the year, we will have to adjust our operations to the reduced demand, as our production capacity is higher than required by the current forest machine market. We will adjust our operations by temporary layoffs among our personnel, and the factory will operate one shift.

Service, sales and research and

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:17 Page 33

INDUSTRY VOICE development will operate normally, and the adjustment measures will have no impact on the operations of our subsidiaries.

Rottne: I would say both yes and no. I think the spring of 2013 will continue to be difficult but we will see how the market bottoms out during the summer. During the second half of 2013, I think we will see increased activity in the global forest industry and consequently also for us here at Rottne. We are a small company compared to our multinational competitors and therefore it is much easier for us to be flexible and adapt to market fluctuations.

Tigercat: Tigercat will be expanding and diversifying its forestry product line in 2013 in order to capture more volume – even if overall market conditions deteriorate – though our dealer forecasts are indicating a healthy 2013.

Lucidyne: I've heard from some in softwood lumber circles that they believe it will actually be a good year compared to the last couple of tough years, although sales volume for their products will still be far from where it will be after a full recovery. However, specialty products, meaning those aimed at construction/remodelling applications that are not structural building projects may do very well.

Russia continue to be important markets for Komatsu Forest.

Komatsu: No major shifts. Europe is quite depressed of course but so are many other markets as well. North America is showing some positive signals after a long slow period. From the growing markets Brazil, Indonesia and

CBI: There really have been few shifts in key markets. These markets have been soft for a few years now.

Global markets have changed in the fact that we are focusing on them more and spending more man hours to visit areas when it makes financial sense.

Our key markets today are Scandinavia, South America,

Our R&D efforts actually increased, as did our staff – Bill Briskey, Lucidyne

Australia as well as more attention in the Asian and African markets while still pursuing the US and Canadian markets. The pulp and paper industries have become a bigger focus with the introduction of our flail debarker and disc chipper and we are also focusing on pellet manufacturers for the European markets and beyond.

Global markets have also changed as more biomass energy opportunities present themselves primarily spurred by governmental mandates to increase the percentages of electrical production from renewable products, which is our ‘sweet spot’.

John Deere: Key forestry markets have remained largely unchanged

for several years. Key South American and particularly AsiaPacific markets are experiencing economic growth, fuelling a demand for forestry products.

These growing economies in turn help drive markets in other areas, even those that are experiencing economic uncertainty.

One change we anticipate in 2013 that was not present this year is a growing demand for housing in the United States. If this does occur, as many expect it to, it will obviously create more demand for lumber and will add a measure of stability to the North American forestry market. Most loggers and mills in North America have been working at reduced capacity. When the housing demand starts to rise,

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 33

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:18 Page 34

INDUSTRY VOICE CBI: R&D has always been a major part of our company history and development. Because of the changing markets, we have been forced to design a ‘better mousetrap’ and build specialty equipment for specific markets and opportunities. Over the past several years, this has become a bigger and bigger part of our overall sales efforts. This has been forced on us and our engineers have a ‘do more with less’ mantra that drives the design of smarter solutions that enables the customer to satisfy specific markets and expand their overall opportunities.

they will have to increase their production and are likely to need new equipment.

Ponsse: Finland, Sweden, Russia, Germany, France and North America have traditionally been key markets for us. Over the past few years, the southern hemisphere —Uruguay, Brazil and China—have also strengthened.

The main reason is the high level of investments related to the fast growing plantations. In these markets, we particularly develop service, training and technology related to eucalyptus debarking.

Full service packages, in which customers are offered service and training packages of different levels, have been in high demand in these market areas. The same trend has also been observed in the more traditional harvesting markets, particularly Russia.

Harvesting companies are concentrating even more on harvesting and business development and transfer more responsibility for machine servicing to the machine manufacturer.

Rottne: Sweden is our main market and is a fairly stable market for CTL machines. Sales in Europe are slow now with Germany as our best market. The Czech Republic was very good some years ago but is now very quit.

North America, our main export market outside the EU from 1995 to 2005, has dropped and has been very low in the past five-six years, but now we can see a growing optimism.

Russia is a difficult market but we expect a growth for the coming years as it has big potential. We have also noticed and seen the growth and potential in Asia, South Africa and South America, but as I said, Rottne is quite a small company and for us is it very important to make sure we can handle the aftersales and spare

Customers’ uncertainty about investment decisions has increased – Ponsse

parts supply before we step in to new markets and currently we are not yet prepared to take that step.

Tigercat: Canada and Russia have had back-to-back excellent years in 2011 and 2012. The big shift in 2012 came from Brazil, where we have a very strong and capable dealer in Tracbel, which allowed us to win some large tenders. New Zealand, where we have another enthusiastic dealer, AB Equipment has also done extremely well. It seems as though the NZ contractors there are really seeing the merits of Tigercat machines in their extreme terrain conditions and oversized timber. As mentioned earlier, we witnessed greater geographic diversity within the United States.

Lucidyne: I have not seen a significant change in our markets this past year. We are still targeting automated grading opportunities with softwood lumber manufactures for our GradeScan lineal grading system,

34 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

supported by our Grade Mark readers and control systems since they are key to ensuring that the entire planer mill is managed optimally from a complete business perspective.

Komatsu: We have slightly increased spending on R&D and the plan is to keep the current level next year despite tight cost control. Komatsu is always interested in developing new technology and we see this as an important investment to develop better solutions for our customers.

New innovations are a way to increase productivity and cut costs and improve our customers’ profitability. Of course we also want to improve the quality of our machines so therefore keeping the R&D budget at current levels is important.

John Deere: One of John Deere’s core values is innovation, and our aggressive pursuit of innovation drives us to maintain and improve our focus on our customers’ current and future needs. Staying true to this value, we have sustained our investments in innovation, and have also been willing to increase them as our customers’ needs require it.

At John Deere, we have increased our research and development investments steadily over the last few years to improve the quality and performance of our existing products and are actively developing new products. We expect to continue a steady increase in research and development spending, year-over-year.

Ponsse: Ponsse’s basic strategy includes strong investment in research and development of new harvesting solutions.

Development of existing products is happening continuously based on customer feedback. We will also continue along the lines of strong and rapid research and development in a slowed down market situation as investment in research and development has proven to be a clear market advantage for us. During the previous recession, we made a full investment in developing eight-

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INDUSTRY VOICE wheeled harvester models and new cranes. Thanks to this, we were able to offer efficient products meeting customers’ needs immediately when the economic situation normalised.

The demand for eight-wheeled machine models came as a slight surprise even to us and boosted our investments in production.

Rottne: Rottne has always been heavily involved in research and development, which has been a beacon throughout our 60-year history. We have always tried to be at the forefront in terms of innovation and new development.

It is probably due to the fact that we have invested in our research and development, both in good and bad times, that Rottne has become such a popular machine brand among customers around the world.

Tigercat: Research and development is key to the overall strategy and success of Tigercat.

Suffice to say that over the next 12 months, you will be seeing some surprising new product offering from Tigercat.

Lucidyne: Our R&D efforts actually increased, as did our staff. The resolution and speeds we operate at now allow us to solve almost all the most difficult tasks that a human grader can do, in many cases exceeding what a person can achieve by a large margin. The few things we still have on our list to accomplish are in most cases minor issues for the majority of our customers, for the moment anyway.

That will change as processing capabilities and usage specialisation continue to evolve, requiring our customers (manufacturers) to know even more about the characteristics of their fibre. We will be fielding some new sensor technologies this year that will take our current GradeScan offering up another notch, hopefully taking us to the point where we can solve these challenges.

Komatsu: Customers are always interested in new technology.

During the tough times the importance of increasing

Our engineers have a ‘do more with less’ mantra that drives the design of smarter solutions that enables the customer to satisfy specific markets and expand their overall opportunities – CBI

productivity or cutting operation costs is even bigger and using new technology and new machines are important. New machines have lower fuel consumption per produced cubic meter so they play an important role in cutting harvesting costs.

Investing in new technology continuously can be seen as a key to survival in this tough business even during the tough times.

their operating costs. JDLink’s capabilities vary widely by global region, but the system has shown its value by allowing customers to see how operators are using the equipment. Dealers can then in turn analyze the data to look for potential gains in productivity and fuel efficiency. This has allowed customers to better train their operators and to save thousands of dollars per month in fuel costs.

CBI: If the customer is presented with a viable opportunity, he is willing to do what it takes to be able to supply it with raw material from whatever waste stream it comes from. Several customers have been forced to decrease their spending because of fewer opportunities, but we have found new customers and new markets.

Some have maintained and a few have increased their spending but all decisions are scrutinised significantly more and these decisions also take longer from inception to execution.

Ponsse: Customers’ uncertainty about investment decisions has increased. Many of them have postponed their investments, and the acquisition process has slowed down. In Scandinavia, machine sales have become more difficult due to an autumn that has been extremely rainy and warm in places. We have had to wait for the frost, and it has not been possible to reach a number of stands even using eight-wheelers.

The ten-wheeled forwarder for harvesting on soft terrains that was launched in the autumn has interested both entrepreneurs and forest companies. Our confidence in the sector is strong. Using cutto-length machines, it is possible to harvest wood in an environmentally friendly manner and efficiently, and the wood industry is a growth industry despite the structural changes happening inside the industry.

John Deere: Customers continue to be willing to invest in new technology, but only if it can improve their productivity, efficiency or profitability.

An example of this is John Deere’s JDLink telematics system, which forestry customers are increasingly embracing to lower

36 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

Rottne: A forest machine today is a sophisticated machine and our customers are always interested in new technology. The most important thing today for our customers is to keep operating costs low and productivity high.

With our PowerTech Plus engine and a load-sensing hydraulic system, we can offer customers a machine that saves substantial amounts of money annually on fuel consumption. We can also see that it is difficult to retain or recruit good drivers, therefore ergonomics and comfort are important factors for our customers. Rottne’s cab damping systems ‘Comfort Line’ is a good example.

Tigercat: In most of our markets, cost per tonne seems to be becoming the overriding criteria when evaluating new technology and new machine purchases. With high priced fuel, labour shortages and other harsh economic realities, we believe our customers will continue to embrace new technology that makes their logging operations more efficient and productive.

Lucidyne: The last part of 2012 has seen many of our customers increase their spending: all who at some level are expecting the economy to continue improving.

Komatsu: During this type of tough times of course innovations which improve customers’ profitability are important so low operating costs and high productivity are demanded. The price tag should not be too high either, so keeping investment costs reasonable is a key.

Innovations related to fleet management are interesting for many contractors as well. Good tools to improve operational efficiency really pay back. With fleet management systems, owners can have good control of machines and compare productivity and costs between different machines and conditions.

This is an important tool to find the fact-based improvement areas for each machine.

Finding good operators will be a challenge so having innovations

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INDUSTRY VOICE

Tigercat will be expanding and diversifying its forestry product line in 2013 in order to capture more volume – even if overall market conditions deteriorate – Gary Olsen, Tigercat

which improve operator comfort is important for many markets.

Having a modern, spacious and well insulated cabin is asked for by customers as well. There are also discussions regarding using hybrid technology in forest machines. Komatsu has hybrid excavators in the product offering and they are selling well but we haven't yet introduced this technology to forest machines.

CBI: There are no specifics to cite here other than they say: “I need it to do more, but I only have this much to spend on it.”

John Deere: Fuel costs continue to be a key concern among forestry customers. The cost of diesel fuel

is rising, and that is having a major impact on operation costs and profitability. To mitigate the volatility of fuel prices, customers are asking for innovations that improve fuel efficiency. John Deere skidders give customers what they want and need by leveraging John Deere Power Systems technologies and the Power Tech Plus engines. A recent study shows that the John Deere 748H skidder could save customers between $9,000-12,900 annually in fuel costs depending on the price of diesel, setting the standard for reduced fuel consumption and ultimately lowering operating costs for customers.

Ponsse: Eight-wheeled harvesters have been in high demand as harvesting is being transferred to more challenging terrains – steep slopes and soft terrains. At the same time, harvesting entrepreneurs have sought more productivity from their work using new crane technology. The ease of use of the new cranes has also had an impact on our acquisition of new customers – the transfer to Ponsse after using other machine makes has been easier when learning how to manage our crane has been effortless.

Various solutions affecting drivers’ ergonomics play an even larger role when deciding on machine acquisition. The comfort of the cabin, ergonomic control handles and the stability of the

machine are strong arguments for purchasing one of our machines.

Comfort during work also has a clear impact on the efficiency of the work, and the ergonomics of the machine is important when hiring skilled drivers.

The average size of forest machines has clearly increased in a number of markets. Harvesting entrepreneurs have to monitor costs closely with the increase in fuel prices, for example, and the machines must be economical and productive. In simple terms, larger machines allow for harvesting more wood and transporting more wood at once to the roadside.

With the eight-wheeled machine models, the surface pressures of the machines are lower, and the weight of the machine is no longer

IFI_PG30_39_IND VOICE_03 18/12/2012 12:18 Page 38

INDUSTRY VOICE so decisive, even among sensitive stands. Contrary to what people sometimes think outside the sector, forest machine drivers, forest companies and forest owners are quite particular about surface damage to the terrain.

Rottne: Each market has its own special requirements but common especially now in hard times is that the machines should be flexible and versatile: • In northern Europe, which is the most advanced CTL area, reliable machines with high productivity and low ground pressure are very important • Southern Europe needs machines that can climb and work along the steep mountain sides • Traction winches are also requested more and more • For Russia, with its often inaccessible forests, is it reliability and local service/parts availability that are important.

Tigercat: Whatever decreases headaches and increases profitability. Our customers demand the highest rates of uptime, good ergonomics to attract and retain the best operators, fuel efficiency, and the easiest possible access for daily maintenance procedures to increase the likelihood that routine maintenance is completed properly and time efficiently.

Lucidyne: The most significant interest from our industry is wanting a scanning system that will know everything about a board – to the point of being able to direct it to an optimal destination and that might even mean not processing it at that facility. This capability may require identifying more than just knots and other defects. Localised strength, local grain direction, colour, reaction to coatings, response to moisture changes, are examples of characteristics that can make a board significantly more valuable for specific applications. Some facilities are already building in or considering material handling changes to allow for increased flexibility in lumber flow in their processes.

Komatsu: In the longer term, biomass will increase in importance. There are more and more countries who are trying to move more to renewable energy and biomass is one important energy source. Komatsu has some solutions for biomass collection but demand for this type of solution is not increasing at the moment. During a recession there are cheap alternative fuel sources available but, like I said, biomass will increase in importance in the future.

Customers’ uncertainty about investment decisions has increased – many of them have postponed their investments, and the acquisition process has slowed down – Rottne

CBI: All of our business is really focused around biomass, but I think overall, it has decreased as we look to provide options to different companies using the same technology but applying it to different products. For instance, plastics, textiles, etc all have BTU value. If you take the entire waste stream and get the dirt, rock and steel out of it, everything has a BTU value. Then it means you need to decide what market will pay you more for these individual products. Is it better to simply grind, chip or otherwise process them and use them as supplements to fuel products, or does it make better financial sense to separate them and recycle them? It is all just about what makes sense financially.

John Deere: John Deere is maintaining its focus on biomass because we see its significant potential to help meet the world’s growing energy needs.

Biomass plays a critical role for the forestry industry and in meeting global energy needs. It accounts for almost 10% of the primary energy consumed globally – more than all other renewable and nuclear energy combined – according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.

Further, while more than twothirds of the biomass energy is used for cooking and heating in developing countries, the remaining one-third is used by industrialised countries for heat, power and transportation.

Ponsse: The harvesting of energy wood is a slowly but steadily growing business area. Customers no longer seek special equipment for harvesting energy wood, but versatile product solutions that allow harvesting of both energy wood and industrial wood productively. Harvester heads with

38 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

multi-stemming as a standard feature, expanding load spaces in forwarders, LoadOptimizer load scale for weighing loads can be cited as examples.

Rottne: Biomass is an area that we in Sweden have worked on for quite some time – we are probably being considered as frontrunners.

Both in cities and small communities, we use biofuel heating plants that supply hot water through a network to big residential areas.

For Rottne, biomass equipment is a very small part of our business. We mainly concentrate on machinery for CTL. But over the years have we adapted both harvesters and forwarders as platforms for the different attachment tools or equipment that our partners develop for handling biomass.

Harvesters can be equipped with a special bio-cutter or multi tree handling on the harvester head.

We can supply two different sizes of forwarder chassis for the mounting of various biomass equipment, such as chippers, container transport units, or special load space with clambunks for forest residues.

Lucidyne: By designing our systems to capture the most possible value from the lumber production process, the natural result is waste reduction. A grading machine does not fear making close decisions while a person will naturally be conservative and downgrade or waste lumber to stay away from making a mistake. We are pleased to be involved in our customer's goal of doing more with less and being a better steward of all resources. IFI

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IFI_PG40_45_FELLING HEADS_HR 18/12/2012 12:34 Page 40

Grip it and ship it Tree length harvesting is a serious business that needs serious felling heads. For the first time, International Forest Industries has dedicated a stand-alone feature to the technology improving life for full tree contractors 40 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

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FELLING HEADS

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 41

IFI_PG40_45_FELLING HEADS_HR 18/12/2012 12:34 Page 42

FELLING HEADS Specifications 3022L

3024L

Cutting capacity

21.50 in. (546mm)

23.5 in. (597mm)

27.5 in. (706mm)

3028L

Accumulating area

4.53 sq-ft (0.43 m2)

5.0 sq-ft (0.47 m2)

6.3 sq-ft (0.59 m2)

Max. front opening

57.5 in. (1461mm)

59 in.( 1499mm)

59 3/4 in. (1578mm)

High Rotation Wrist (350°) 6500 lbs (2955kg)

7550 lbs (3431kg)

8300 lbs (3773kg)

Rotation wrist (40°)

5800 lbs (2636kg)

7000 lbs (3182kg)

7800 lbs (3545kg)

Saw Blade

53 in. (1346mm)

56 in. (1422mm)

66 in. (1676mm)

Weight

Gilbert Logging Equipment For over 25 years, Gilbert’s forestry division specialised in the design and manufacturing of logging equipment. The Canadianbased company offers felling heads, high rotation wrists and a complete line of cutting tools such as saw blades and saw teeth.

The 3000L Series felling heads are well known for their exceptional accumulation. They are available in 22, 24 and 28 cutting size, all equipped with a 3500 high rotation wrist, the most recognised in the industry.

“Their innovative geometry allows an accumulation of more trees in tight, straight bunches without breaking any stems, no matter the sizes”, Alex Gravel, Sales & Marketing Manager at Gilbert said. All three models – 3022L, 3024L and 3028L – excel in thinning, blown down, select and final cut applications.

Key features: • Unique and exclusive saw stops to protect the saw drive system and the saw disc against impact and gyroscopic deflection, which

increases the lifetime • Unique bolted saw drive system for easy maintenance and increased uptime • Easy access to hydraulic components for safe, fast maintenance • Wide front throat opening to accommodate butt flare • Unique conical base design to facilitate clearance for fast saw recovery • Ensure that the bunches are optimised for the skidder.

3500 high rotation wrist Gilbert high rotation wrists have become a standard in the industry.

Gilbert has been promoting this feature since the early 90s. The powerful 3500 rotation wrist design allows the operator to gather more, no matter the angle.

“It saves so much time by reducing swing and travel cycles which will extend the undercarriage lifetime of the feller buncher,” Gravel explained.

The company offers two models: S1 and V2. The V2 is a more compact version and is adapted to fit smaller heads while the S1 model is well suited for 24 and 28

inch size head with superior torque strong enough to handle any size of timber. These wrists can be retrofit and are compatible with most felling heads on the market. “The high rotation wrist would be the first feature I would consider to add if my head was not equipped with it in order to increase my productivity”, Gravel said.

Features: • Two hydraulic motors on a 6-1 gear ration give a powerful 3500 rotation • Hoses go in the center of the rotator gear for better protection • Heavy duty ball bearing rotate gear.

Prentice

Specifications Model

S1

V2

Weight

1900 lbs (864kg)

1425 lbs (647kg)

Rotation

350 degrees

350 degrees

Wrist torque

61,013 ft. lb.

48,300 ft. lb.

Dimensions Height

38 3/4 in. (984mm)

33 1/2 in. (851mm)

Width

46 1/2 in. (1181mm)

44 1/2 in. (1130mm)

Depth

28 1/2 in. (724mm)

26 1/16 in. (662mm)

42 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

SH-56B High Capacity Bunching Saw • Excellent productivity in thinning applications because stems are bunched tight, compressed and straight with the patented Strait Grip bunching finger and nopinch-point tower • Excels at cutting and handling high volumes of small stems, mixed stems and large single stems up to 56 cm (22 in) • Handles single and large stems well with superior balance and control • Extremely durable with extended life joints, robust structures and abrasion-resistant materials.

SC-57 Center Post Saw • Excels at cutting and handling

large single stems up to 57.6 cm (22.7 in) • Able to bunch medium and small stems, making it versatile for thinning through final harvesting • Excellent speed and holding power from a single cylinder and link that control the left and right side gathering arms and bunching fingers simultaneously • Twisting and bending loads handled with ease because of the large, robust structure • Durable and reliable felling head with chrome plated pins and abrasion-resistant materials.

SS-56 Felling Saw • Highly versatile saw designed for harvesting large timber, with a single cut capacity of 56 cm (22 in), along with small stem accumulation • Able to harvest trees up to 76.0 cm (30 in) on flat or adverse terrain with the industry’s only side cut door.

SC-57 Center Post Saw Performance The SC-57 excels at cutting and handling large single stems up to 56 cm (22 in). It also bunches medium and small stems, making it a versatile saw for thinning through fi nal harvesting. The gathering arms and tower work together to grip and tightly hold large single stems and smaller stem bunches for better control. A single cylinder and link control the left and right side gathering arms and bunching fingers simultaneously, improving speed

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FELLING HEADS

and holding power. The center of gravity of the SC-57 is in close to the front axle for stability even when handling large stems in rough terrain. Hoses are routed directly into the back of the head for maximum visibility.

Durability The SC-57 supports loads that twist or bend the arms of less rigid saws. Large pivot pins reduce Prentice SC-57 Center Post Saw stress and increase bushing life.

Sealed upper and lower bearing chambers maximize shaft and bearing life by keeping each bearing lubricated. The shaft is tapered reducing stress during high impact. The carry plate is designed to fl ex slightly to relieve stress transferred through the welds. Chips and other abrasive material are discharged from the saw housing reducing wear and enhancing disc recovery time to improve fuel efficiency. Hydraulic hoses are encased in heavy-duty rubber tubing and are not exposed to direct impact.

Serviceability The SC-57 minimizes downtime for greasing, motor adjustments or maintenance. With the head tilted forward and gathering arms and bunching fi ngers open, all grease zerks are accessible from the ground level. There are no grease zerks located below the saw disc housing eliminating the need to grease from the bottom of the head. Two large panels allow access to the saw motor from both sides. The saw disc is easy to remove – the housing is totally open and the skids do not need to be removed to access the disc.

The Waratah FL85 felling head gives you maximum versatility. It’s a felling head, grapple, and saw — all in one. But this is no jack-of-all-trades, master-ofnone. This well-engineered, highly productive attachment is made for major cutting and harvesting.

The efficient SuperCut 300 saw unit provides fast cutting cycles and a maximum felling diameterof 850 mm (33.5 in). The SuperCut saw unit’s automatic chain

lubrication and tensioning improves cutting performance and reduces maintenance time.

There’s a hydraulic snubber for controlled side-to-side motion, high grapple arm gripping force to hold the largest of trees, and a unique upper-boom link system for simple installation on log loaders, excavators, and feller bunchers.

What does all this mean in the woods? Harvesting standing and storm-damaged timber.

Picking, sorting, and piling with one attachment. Fewer cuts on large timber. And minimal use of manual felling. In short, more of the things that make you productive — and less of what holds you back.

Tigercat has recently made a number of design enhancements to the 5702 felling saw aimed at increasing versatility and performance in a wider variety of felling conditions.

Although the 5702 is well known and widely used throughout the world for big timber felling applications, the next generation 5702 features an all-new accumulating arm design.

The arms are longer with a revised profile to improve accumulation of small trees, increased accumulating capacity and a reduced incidence of crossed trees in the accumulation pocket. For

contractors wanting to upgrade older model heads, a complete set of arms will fit earlier heads using the same link.

Also in a move to increase accumulating capacity and performance, the front saw motor cover, which formerly protruded into the accumulating area, is now a flat cover. This increases the accumulating area and allows trees to move into the pocket

more easily.

The left ski and saw housing exit have been modified to improve chip exhaust and to reduce plugging when felling large trees or when operating in deep snow or heavy undergrowth.

Service access and hose routings have also been improved.

The felling head is one of the most vital components affecting a wheeled feller buncher’s efficiency

Next generation Tigercat 5702 felling saw is enhanced for versatility and increased performance

44 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

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FELLING HEADS

and value, according to John Deere. It directly influences the equipment’s ability to harvest different sizes and species of trees, thus affecting its productivity. With a well-designed head, feller bunchers can handle any kind of tree in their path.

John Deere has introduced the highly anticipated FD55 disc saw felling head (DSFH) to the market, empowering loggers with more versatility and durability for fulltree timber operations. Available to order now, the FD55 felling head is compatible with 643K and 843K John Deere wheeled feller buncher machines and is ideal for thinning, final harvests and anything in between.

“The FD55 was designed with loggers’ needs in mind, specifically taking into account the operators that frequently handle various tree diameters,” John Deere stated. “The large twinpost, high accumulation DSFH delivers high productivity, increased uptime and lower daily operating costs to help loggers run their businesses more profitably. Loggers dealing with large- and small-diameter trees, or in mixed stands, will benefit from its versatility and cutting edge design.”

Advanced Design for Productivity Engineered with extensive customer input in mind, the FD55 delivers best-in-class accumulation capacity. Because it has more usable space than similar disc felling heads, the innovative pocket design enables the head to collect trees of all diameters and species. The pocket area is an industry leading 63 cm2 (6.8 ft2) from the accumulation area to the edge of the blade. The ergonomic head can handle anything from small-diameter thinning to cutting large single stems up to 584 mm (23 in) for maximum versatility.

An efficient arm design allows for strong grab arm force for tree manipulation and placement.

Engineered with one harvesting arm and one accumulating arm, the arms ensure tight tree alignment and clean bunch release. The simple arrangement translates to quicker and easier cuts for the operator.

John Deere also designed the felling head to increase ease of use as a means to improve productivity. The FD55 was engineered with a compact and streamline design for superior visibility around the saw motor to the cutting zone. The saw motor

46 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

John Deere FD55 Disc Saw Felling Head (DSFH)

and modified slope on the top of the head were positioned to reduce debris. These slight adjustments result in improved operator and machine productivity and an ability to work better with multiple-tree harvesting.

Operators will also appreciate increased control and stability when harvesting large trees because of a tall horn structure aligned to position the centreline of sizeable trees over the machine.

Resiliency increases uptime Engineers created the head with protective features in place that will increase uptime and improve efficiency. For one, the FD55 will have Technodur on the high wear areas of the saw housing to help extend its life. The wear plates protect critical areas of the saw housing for maximum durability, making heavy-duty blades and rugged components easy to maintain.

Designers also moved the grab arm cylinder higher on the frame and away from the housing area.

This movement better protects the cylinder from debris and also makes it easier to access for servicing. A proven chip management system that is only offered by John Deere makes the

FD55 simpler to maintain than similar disc saw felling heads.

Most of the plumbing is routed through the frame cavities, which makes it clean and easily serviceable. Access openings are also provided for easier maintenance of plumbing and wiring.

Low daily operating costs Longer wear components and innovative design of the FD55 keep loggers’ daily operating costs to a minimum. The improvements in versatility and productivity are a main part of the new felling head, leading directly to cost savings. The FD55 also shows an improvement in serviceability and endurance, further enhancing the cost savings benefit.

The removable saw housing design allows for easy replacement of wear components, saving loggers time and money in the long run. Additionally, heavyduty blades and rugged components are easy to maintain.

The simple arm arrangement with one grab arm and one accumulating arm pinned opposite the pocket also allows for easy maintenance.

IFI

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HIGH PROFILE – BIOMASS SPECIAL

Beating the drum Peterson Pacific President Larry Cumming took an early morning call from Editor Chris Cann to discuss the shift in forestry technology over the past 40 years and why the US continues to trail Europe in the use of biomass fuels International Forest Industries: How did you get started in the industry?

Larry Cumming: I’ve been in the industry for a long time – since the early 1970s.

I was a farm boy and so always around tractors and machinery to work on – that’s always been my area of interest.

I was a graduate mechanical engineer and fortunately there was a company like Timberjack around nearby to get me started in forestry and I started as a design engineer. The forestry industry was fascinating and evolving as opposed to working on doorknobs or other less exciting products. It

seemed like pretty interesting stuff to work on at the time and, to be honest, I still find it a pretty fascinating industry to work in.

Over those 40 years there have been about 11 years when I’ve been away from forestry in the mining and construction machinery sectors but I’ve found my way back.

Drum chippers had to be redesigned with heavier drums and knives with better knife retention systems that can stand up to a bit of abuse if someone gets a rock or piece of metal into the unit

IFI: How have things changed over your 40 years in the industry?

LC: Books have been written on the overall trends and it’s interesting to look back at the key inventions and the forks in the road

Chatting with customers is a crucial part of Cumming’s role to improve the Peterson products 48 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

that have changed forest machines and the harvesting methods.

When I first started on the drafting board, cable skidders were the norm along with manual felling. From that beginning, mechanical felling with the first Drott track feller buncher was a key step in mechanisation along with the Denis stroke delimber, which allowed the industry to move to more productive grapple skidders. The Koehring disc-saw felling was a major step forward for the full tree system and was made more productive by high rotation of the felling heads.

Today, big processing heads, strong enough to survive on large excavator based carriers have largely replaced stroke delimbers.

On flat planted forest terrain,

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BIOMASS SPECIAL – HIGH PROFILE

The forestry industry was fascinating and evolving as opposed to working on doorknobs or other less exciting products – seemed pretty interesting at the time and, to be honest, I still find it a pretty fascinating industry

IFI: You said “not that long ago”; when was the major shift?

Cumming discusses in-fieldchipping at an Alabama forestry show wheeled feller bunchers and pull through delimbers are the norm for the current state of the US South forestry industry today.

For cut-to-length systems, Timberjack in 1989 was purchased

by Rauma Repola (now Metso) and that provided a chance to merge and see how the European CTL technology was evolving. The CTL harvesting went originally from hand felling and forwarders, to double grip and then single grip harvesters. But the evolution of the software was probably the biggest thing for the CTL system because it allowed optimisation and record keeping that permitted each log to be directed to its highest value use. In Europe, the complete wood supply chain was organised and optimised around CTL harvesting including the sawmill.

Of course with chippers, things have changed a great deal, too.

The Peterson flail chain debarkers first introduced in 1981 provided a way to produce low bark paper quality chips with portable machines. In-field-chipping (IFC) became a possibility bringing many advantages in certain types of stands. With the advent of the portable delimber, chippers became popular in high

Fielding some questions from the media production operations where sawlogs were not a significant part of the value stream. Today, portable debarker-chippers fed by feller bunchers and skidders are also competing to displace CTL harvesting systems in southern eucalyptus plantations. This trend to IFC in eucalyptus harvesting will be one of the significant new technology shifts in this decade.

Drum chippers have also evolved. The original drum chippers were pretty much a tree care tool used to take down one or two trees a day or chip smaller tops and branches. When drum chippers were applied to more high production forestry biomass tasks they had to undergo quite an evolution to stand up to the job. Drum chippers had to be a lot

heavier and more durable. As a tree care professional if you got two loads a day that was a pretty good day. That kind of production rate does not transfer to forestry and under the increased demands the existing designs just didn’t stand up. The earlier drum chippers, even not that long ago, had very short lives. They had to be redesigned with heavier drums and knives with better knife retention systems that can stand up to a bit of abuse if someone gets a rock or piece of metal into the unit – you don’t want the whole machine destroying itself.

LC: Many North American manufacturers have upgraded their drum chippers in the past three years to make them more durable. We were late into the industry with drum chippers so had the chance to go around and see what was working and not working. We were able to apply that knowledge to produce a more robust machine.

The biomass industry will go through a significant evolution in the next five years particularly in the US Southeast wood basket.

North America is behind Europe in terms of biomass utilisation partially because there are no national goals for renewable energy and the EPA has still not yet decided that biomass is a carbon neutral energy source.

Many states have their own renewable energy standards; however the result is that the price paid for biomass remains well below European prices. The low prices and lack of long term supply contracts affect the types of machines that are utilised.

Today the perverse situation exists where the wettest, lowest value biomass fuel gets the highest price per energy unit. This is a

There’s been a shift in North America from Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth to the recent presidential elections when nobody mentioned green energy – the likelihood of there being a national renewable energy standard in the US is about zero Cumming takes clients on a tour of the Peterson factory DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 49

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HIGH PROFILE – BIOMASS SPECIAL

Liquid fuels have probably reached their peak production so getting more energy, chemicals and clothing from renewable biomass will be a long term upward trend

carryover from the pulpwood industry that is paid by the wet ton in the US south. Since loggers are paid very little for low value fuel, the biomass is often a loss leader for their logging business.

Loggers have been forced to invest in low cost drum chippers and were disappointed when they didn’t stand up. It is highly likely that the US South biomass industry will evolve toward a more rational model that uses dryer and higher value biomass fuel.

Specialised biomass chipping and grinding contractors will return to the stand after the biomass has dried and increased in value.

Another trend that started in Europe was producing a chip that didn’t have long stringers that would plug up conveyors and hoppers. Boilers need a steady controllable flow of chips to operate at high efficiency.

European drum chippers have utilised screens for many years to reduce these oversize pieces; however this is a new development in North America.

Once customers see the chip quality that can be produced from these machines, they are unlikely to accept chips with from drum chippers without screens.

IFI: So what’s next?

LC: Well the original patent for the disc chipper was established in the 1800s so it’s remarkable that it has not fundamentally changed over that time. However, it has evolved continuously and there’s been 100s of patents and improvements regarding chipping geometry, knife angles, feeding methods and durability. If we look at just the clean pulp chip industry where disc chippers are normally applied, the goal there is to achieve a higher level of ‘accepts’ – if you can improve on that number by just a few percent then you can improve the bottom line for your customers. Many customers are also demanding lower bark content from debarking systems so they can make higher quality paper grades or rayon. So for now, we haven’t come up with a replacement for a disc chipper or mobile flail debarkers but we still see many opportunities for evolving these products to make higher quality clean chips both for paper and the new uses.

In the pellet industry, producers no longer have enough clean low cost sawdust from sawmills as raw material. This industry is now looking for small chips that can go directly to the dryer without

Ensuring a premium product from drum chippers has become increasingly important another costly reduction step.

Peterson and others have responded with drum chippers optimised to make short thin consistent chips that will dry quickly.

With drum chippers, apart from the quality of chip and the durability that have already been mentioned there is a huge need nowadays to manage the fuel consumption – it’s paramount. The overall fuel economy and operating costs can be reduced by getting the chipping geometry and chipping speed optimised. We’ve made major progress there but there is still much more that can be done.

IFI: Is there something Peterson is working on at the moment to get ahead of the game?

LC: We tend not to disclose anything that’s too long-term until we have some patents files for those innovations. But in general, I’d have to say we don’t expect to replace disc or drum chippers but we’ll be making lots of incremental chipping and debarking improvements that will help the bottom line for our customers – they are all important to improve the outlook for the forest industries.

IFI: You briefly mentioned European sales before; what’s your approach to selling into Europe and diversifying away from North America?

The Pacific Northwest has plenty of beautiful places to visit when Cumming gets some time off 50 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

LC: Peterson wood grinders are well known in Europe however we haven’t sold any drum chippers into Europe just yet. We believe that there’s a large market for the type of product that we’re making so the plan is to also introduce drum chippers into Europe over the next few years. This will

involve a larger presence at Elmia next year. Elmia is one of the more important forestry shows and increasing our profile there should give us a foundation to improve our forestry and biomass sales in Europe.

IFI: How has the biomass sector stood up through the economic downturn?

LC: There’s definitely been a shift in the way green energy including biomass has been looked at in North America since the global financial crisis. It appears that Europe is keeping the course for green energy and has a greater interest in renewable energy, global warming and other such issues than North America. The principle change has been twofold. During the global financial crisis in 2008-09 and what has occurred afterwards, people have been more concerned with jobs and the cost of their fuels rather whether or not it was green. So there’s been a shift in North America from Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth to the recent presidential elections when nobody mentioned green energy.

So the likelihood of there being a national renewable energy standard in the US is about zero at the moment, I’d say. But the states don’t seem to have backed off so those that have renewable energy standards look like they’ll be keeping them. Then there’s the overall demand for energy, which has dropped considerably. If you take Oregon as an example, the decline in economic activity and the improvements in efficiency have reduced the overall demand for energy so power companies that want to start up and sell their green power have had difficulty signing long term supply contracts.

The other elephant in the room

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BIOMASS SPECIAL – HIGH PROFILE

The ocean coast of the Pacific Northwest would match any other in the world and the mountains Healthy body, agile mind for renewable fuels in North America is natural gas. Natural gas is so cheap, hovering wholesale at around $3-4 per million BTUs, so it’s very difficult to compete – in fact pretty much impossible – for biomass to compete for heat and power at those levels. If the market is off the pipeline grid somewhere then of course biomass is very competitive. What we’ve seen is certainly a reduction in the interest in biomass – nobody with natural gas access is readily converting to biomass in North America unless it is driven by a state renewable energy standard or companies such as Google or Amazon that are huge power users and want to project a green image.

The price of natural gas is not low in many parts of the world however so we are seeing a lot of interest in Europe and all those pellet mills starting up in Southeast US are continuing to get orders and expand. The Tsunami in Japan completely changed the nuclear industry and the power generation plans around the world. In fact, we see Japan, Korea and China over the next five years representing substantial opportunities for wood pellets and biomass from the west coast of North America.

IFI: Does that mean you’ll steer away from North America into new markets in the coming years?

LC: North America will continue to be a key market however we are increasing our efforts in international markets. The greatest success has been in South America and in Australia.

IFI: : How would you sum up the future trends for the biomass sector?

are great for hiking and skiing

I was also fortunate enough to live in Finland for three years so once a year we try to get back over to Europe to see some old friends so there’s no shortage of opportunities to fill up any time we manage to take off.

LC: I guess I’m optimistic.

The worldwide pulp industry is holding its own but is shifting toward growing more trees in the southern hemisphere and away from paper as more people use electronic media. The packaging paper industry is still strong and other developments such as dissolving pulp for rayon and liquid fuels from biomass will provide alternative future markets for forest products.

Both Peterson Pacific and our parent company Astec Industries continue to invest heavily in the biomass industry believing that the long term world trend must include more renewable energy.

Astec has spent many millions developing a wood pelleting system that has many unique advantages over current pelleting systems in use. Our Astec wood dryer can be used to also torrefy wood chips, which will be one of the key new developments in improving the economics of long distance transport of biomass.

Peterson Pacific sees a day when trees become a scarce resource with higher prices as the world’s economy improves. That’s not necessarily the case today but liquid fuels have probably reached their peak production so getting more energy, chemicals and clothing from renewable biomass will be a long term upward trend.

Sure, there will be a few dips in the road – and we’re in one of them right now – but the longer trend is upward.

IFI: With so much travel for work and for pleasure you must have formed some opinions on the best and worst airports.

IFI: I know you guys love your work and start very early in the morning but at some point you must take some time off. What do you do with that time?

LC: I lived in Atlanta for several years and that’s one of the busiest airports in the world that takes a lot of people and it has to be one of the better designed airports going. But if you want to look at just space in an airport where it’s nice to spend an hour or so between flights then it’s hard to go past Seattle or Portland – they’re great airports. They have a nice feel about them and they’re efficient, also. IFI

LC: The Pacific Northwest where we’re from here has got to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. The ocean coast I think would match any other in the world and the mountains are great for hiking and skiing. That’s all close by and we love to get out there and enjoy it but the family is in Canada so we also go up there.

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 51

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BIOMASS – OPERATION FOCUS

The right fuel for success

Getting started in the biomass business was made easier for Andreas Zeller by reliable Komptech technology

Andreas Zeller has successfully turned a container service into a broadband recycling operation

A

ndreas Zeller has built a refinery. It’s small, compact, and mobile when it needs to be. With it, he makes renewable fuel from local raw materials, for local customers. The green refinery is on the outskirts of Mutterstadt in Germany and – unlike its fossil counterparts with their steel gantries, smokestacks and gas flames – it basically consists of a shredder and a Komptech screener. The raw material is not fossil but ‘freshly grown’ in the form of brushwood, logs, rootstocks and untreated used wood, all of which absorbs as much CO2 when it grows back as it gives off when burnt.

It is harvested locally, mostly from landscaping, and it is also used locally – instead of being piped thousands of kilometres through unstable regions, it is trucked short distances to area heating plants.

Zelltherm custom quality Thanks to a certain stubbornness, the Zeller company has grown to become an established regional vendor in a relatively short amount of time. It supplies the power plants of private customers within a 100 km radius with the customised Zelltherm brand fuel. Zeller can tailor the grain, heat value, ash content and ultimately the price to individual customer needs.

We sell customers exactly the fuel that makes the best business sense for their system – there is no point in making top grade when it’s not needed for good combustion, and when it costs too much in the long run – Andreas Zeller, Zelltherm

“We sell customers exactly the fuel that makes the best business sense for their system. There is no point in making top grade when it’s not needed for good combustion, and when it costs too much in the long run,” Zeller said confidently.

“Transparency is our philosophy. We take prospects, for example the mayor of a town with a heating plant, to see our operation and show them exactly how we make the fuel and what we make it from. We supply the material for a test phase, and if everything turns out as promised, we’ve gained a new customer.”

The range of services extends from straightforward fuel sales to heat contracting, including operation of the heating plant and a guaranteed fuel supply.

52 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

Desire and reality Everybody talks about getting away from fossil fuel but it’s easier said than done. Biomass heating and power plants face tough competition from conventional power plants backed by gas and oil giants that are not going to just fade away. The price pressure is often passed along to suppliers of renewable fuels.

Zeller knows all about that: “Biomass heating plants can only pay a certain maximum rate for fuel. If the price of gas sinks they come under pressure and look around for cheaper fuels. What’s more, the fuel market is very flexible, not to say opaque.

Different fuel grades, seasonal surpluses and shortages, and the many middlemen just make it confusing.”

To cope with this dynamic situation, Zeller has invested in a modern screening system.

One screen – four fractions The heart of the system is a new Multistar star screen, painted bright yellow. It is fed by an upstream shredder through an intermediate hopper, which allows the addition of other material. The Komptech Multistar separates into four fractions: fines for composting, two fuel fractions with different grain, and woody oversizes, which go back for reshredding.

Electronic conveyor scales give precise data on output, which Andreas Zeller can access remotely at any time. His motto is, “it has to pay”, and he regularly examines volume flows and material streams to adjust his system and processes for the optimum economy. He likes the way the screening system gives him to the flexibility to do that.

“I can respond to different material properties or new customer requirements instantly just by changing the screen cuts.

You can’t do that with trommel screens.”

The boss gets his hands dirty Zeller spends a lot of time at a desk, but that doesn’t prevent him

IFI_PG52_54_Biomass Op Focus Komptech_01 18/12/2012 12:39 Page 53

BIOMASS – OPERATION FOCUS The Komptech shredder and screening system can respond to produce specific fuels for individual clients

from regularly doing hands-on work.

“When I help with the maintenance on a machine or operate a wheel loader a couple of hours loading the star screen, it lets me know what really works versus what only works on paper.”

He’s always had this close contact with his machines – for as long as he can remember, the family business was the determining factor.

“Home and business were one and the same, and when I was little I would drive my go-kart around among the containers.

Later, before I went to school I would often turn our compost windrows in the morning and then

show up at school smelling of compost, which not every teacher thought highly of.”

Sometimes during a quiet moment he reflects on what he has accomplished at a young age – turning what was originally a container service into a broadband recycling operation, and entering the challenging field of biomass energy. Zeller is convinced that it will be of enormous importance to his business, and to the future environment. IFI

I can respond to different material properties or new customer requirements instantly just by changing the screen cuts – you can’t do that with trommel screens – Zeller Zeller doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 53

IFI_PG54_55_Biomass Op Focus Vermeer_01 18/12/2012 12:42 Page 54

BIOMASS – OPERATION FOCUS

Logging in the blood

A North American logging family forced into the chipping business is starting to see the benefits of the Vermeer WC2300 whole tree chipper

E

ver since his dad showed him how to safely operate a chain saw, third-generation Fye family logger, Malcolm III, knew what his life calling would be. Although he did spend a brief period of time employed at an aluminium processing plant, Fye felt out of place on a manufacturing production floor, and returned to the forest, outdoors and fresh air. Simply put, logging is in his blood.

It is harvested locally, mostly from landscaping, and it is also used locally – instead of being piped thousands of kilometres through unstable regions, it is trucked short distances to area heating plants.

“I left school in the 11th grade and have been working in the woods ever since,” Fye said.

“Now, don’t get me wrong here, I’m not encouraging anyone else to leave school. But for me it was the right thing to do.

“At the time my dad really needed the help. I always loved being in the woods and have since taken over our small, familyoperated company. Now my son is helping out. Logging is our way of life. It’s just something we know

Fye Logging is a family business, through and through

Logging is our way of life – it’s just something we know really well and love doing – Malcolm Fye III, Fye Logging

really well and love doing.”

Established by Malcolm’s father nearly 50 years ago, Fye Logging is located in the extreme northeast corner of upstate New York, near the quaint, picturesque village of Dickinson Center.

Surrounded by a collection of six state forests – and a stone’s throw from Adirondack State Park – timber and woods are abundant here.

Fye Logging has always been a family operation and three of the company’s four employees are Fyes. At age 67, Malcolm’s father, Malcolm Jr, is still very active in the operation and enjoys operating the loader and slash equipment, while son Malcolm IV runs the grapple and skidder. Fye did venture outside the family to hire a driver for the company’s tractor/trailer rig for delivering

54 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

finished wood goods to their intended destinations.

Diversification leads to growth Not surprisingly, the area was once home to a major paper mill and Fye Logging served as one of the mill’s many pulp suppliers. But when the mill closed a few years ago, Fye was forced to diversify.

“We were pretty heavily into pulp at the time,” Fye said. “After they closed the paper mill, we started looking into different things. We process firewood, pulp and logs – whatever we can do to keep things going. We bought a wood processor and put up a lot of firewood and also got into chipping. We’ve been chipping wood for about four years now and it seems to be going pretty good.”

Private landowners who hire Fye Logging to harvest select tracts of land compose the majority of the company’s customer base. The extent of clearing – either selective or clearcut – is largely dictated by the landowner’s plan for hectares. The type of wood, size of trees and species plays a part in the end use. All logs are separated and sorted according to size with anything marketable as lumber (typically logs greater than 15.2 cm (6 in in diameter) sold to a nearby lumber mill and the remainder either processed into chips or cut into firewood. In 2011, Fye Logging produced more than 7,000 cords (25,371.9 m3) of firewood.

Fye will tackle land-clearing projects of most any size, although most jobs usually fall in the 2-4 ha range. He estimated their company cleared in excess of 242 ha this past year, some of it selective, but most was clear-cut.

“We’re on a job right now where the landowner wants to create more meadowland,” Fye said.

“Originally the acres were meadow but had become overgrown over the years. On that

IFI_PG54_55_Biomass Op Focus Vermeer_01 18/12/2012 12:42 Page 55

BIOMASS – OPERATION FOCUS Malcolm Fye III with his Vermeer 2300 whole tree chipper

The 2300 produces chips for the Chateaugay plant ranging from 1.6 – 1.9 cm job we’re clear-cutting it all out.

Sometimes we’ll do selective clearing – it all just depends on what the landowner is planning to do with the land.”

Renewable energy opportunities Fye likes to limit the transport of products to within an hour radius from the jobsite as transporting materials distances much further away starts cutting into profits.

Fortunately, after the closing of the paper mill that for years had been situated near Dickenson Center, Fye began looking at other options to backfill the lost volume and income.

Success came when he was able to negotiate an agreement to supply ground wood chips to a cogeneration energy plant located just 45 km away in nearby Chateaugay, NY. Built in 1992, Chateaugay Power Station is a wood-residue thermal power plant with installed capacity of 20 MW and average annual production of 252 GWh. The plant is one of several in the Northeast corridor of the US built and operated by Boralex, a

privately held electricity producer whose core business is the development and operation of power stations that run on renewable energy. Boralex employs close to 300 people in Quebec, the Northeastern United States and France; and owns and operates 22 power stations with a combined installed capacity of 347 MW. Recently acquired by ReEnergy Holdings, based in Latham, NY, Boralex is the largest producer of wood-residue energy in North America, operating six thermal power stations in the states of Maine and New York with total installed capacity of 204 MW. “We try to supply the plant with three loads of chips a day,” Fye said. “Each load will average about 27.2 t so we’re looking at 81.7-90.7 t every day, just for this one plant. Some days are good, some days aren’t, depending on weather and breakdowns. But we try to get three loads a day up to them if we can.

“It has been a real boost for our business, especially because it is steady and consistent.”

To help supply the feedstock

needs of the cogeneration plant more efficiently, Fye added a new chipper to his fleet of woodprocessing equipment, the Vermeer WC2300 whole tree chipper. The WC2300 chipper features a 440 -hp (328.1 kW) Tier 3 engine and can chip through material up to 58.4 cm (23 in) in diameter.

Fye likes the compact design that allows the machine to be moved around jobsites more easily, along with the increase in productivity he has realised since bringing the WC2300 on board more than a year ago.

“It has been a super machine for us,” Fye said. “We’ve had it for about eight, nine months now and the WC2300 has really helped increase productivity and chipping capacity. With our other chipper, we were having to sharpen the knives after every three loads or so, but with the Vermeer machine, we’re getting at least 10-12, depending on how clean the wood is.

“The other big difference we’ve seen is in efficiency. We can load a The 2300 takes a variety of feedstock

27.2 t trailer in under 25 minutes, where it was taking us nearly an hour with the other machine. Of course it all depends on the size and the type of wood.”

Specifications for the chips Fye processes for the Chateaugay plant range from 1.6 -1.9 cm (5/83/4 in) and is composed of a variety of wood types and composition. The WC2300 chipper has allowed Fye to chip all parts of felled trees, making virtually the entire tree recyclable.

“The WC2300 whole tree chipper has been great for processing the brushy, soft wood and pine tops after we take our logs out,” Fye said. “It has also allowed us to increase the volume of waste wood we’re able to chip because we can use all parts of the trees we cut. It’s been a good investment for our small familyoperated business. We have to be pretty careful about the money we spend. There’s not much room for error.”

Despite ongoing challenges – fuel costs, transportation and increasing competition for wood sources – things all loggers face in their operations, regardless of company size, Fye is optimistic about the future. He sees the biomass and renewable energy markets as a good thing for his operation, and for the logging and energy industries in general.

“Anything we loggers can do to help with the renewable energy movement is good,” Fye said. “It is one of the great things about being involved in a family-owned logging operation. Not only do we get to be our own boss, be outdoors and in the woods, it’s also gratifying knowing that we are doing something really good for the environment.” IFI

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 55

IFI_PG56_57_Biomass special_01 18/12/2012 12:44 Page 56

BIOMASS SPECIAL

Biomass 101 T Martin Curtis from biomass energy system provider, Bioenergy Technology, walks the uneducated through the basics of the biomass sector from start to finish

Figure 1: The carbon cycle is nature's way of moving carbon around to support life on earth. Carbon dioxide is the most common vehicle for carbon, where the carbon molecules are bound to oxygen. Plant photosynthesis breaks the carbon dioxide in two, keeping the carbon to form the carbohydrates that make up the plant, and putting the oxygen into the air. When the plant dies or is burned, it gives its carbon back to the air, which is then reabsorbed by other plants

he term ‘biomass’ refers primarily to plant materials, especially tree and grass crops and forestry and agricultural wastes.

Biomass is a renewable energy source .The energy it contains comes from the sun (as does most useable energy).

Through the process of photosynthesis, chlorophyll in plants captures the sun’s energy by converting carbon dioxide from the air and water from the ground into carbohydrates. When these carbohydrates are burned, they turn back into carbon dioxide and water and release the sun’s energy they contain. In this way biomass functions as a sort of natural battery for storing solar energy.

As long as biomass is produced sustainably – with only as much used as grown – the battery will last indefinitely.

The same process produces traditional fossil fuels – coal ,oil and gas but on a vastly different time scale. While it takes millions of years to convert organic material to fossil fuel, biomass can be created, used and recreated in a matter of a few (between one and 10, typically) years.

The time factor lends biomass two important properties as a fuel relating to energy conservation and to the environment. Firstly, it can be considered to be renewable and secondly it is also carbon neutral, that is its use in a controlled manner does not contribute to a net increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and therefore it does not have an adverse greenhouse effect.

There are many types of plants in the world and many ways that they can be used for energy production. Local conditions will obviously affect the most cost effective approach.

While we are focussing in this article on the use of solid biomass, it is possible to create both liquid and gaseous bio fuels. These may be in principle easier to transport and utilise in combustion plants but may be themselves energy consuming in production (such as heating plant matter to produce methane).

Emissions from biomass combustion and other benefits Most Biomass fuels contain very little sulphur and consequently SO2 emissions are minimal, although NOx, CO and particulate emissions may be comparable to more conventional fuels. In addition to the carbon neutral benefit described above, there is an additional greenhouse benefit where wood waste would otherwise have been land filled and produced methane.

Generation of energy crops and cultivation of biomass can provide employment in rural areas and can often contribute significantly to rural regeneration projects.

The greenhouse effect The greenhouse effect is the rise in temperature that the Earth experiences because infrared (IR) absorbing gases in the atmosphere (carbon dioxide and methane for example) trap energy from the sun. Without these gases, heat would escape back into space and Earth’s average temperature would be about 40° C colder.

IR absorbing gases constitute normally less than 1% of the (dry) atmosphere but their presence is vital to preserving life on the planet. The existence and importance of the greenhouse effect is not in dispute. More controversial is the enhanced greenhouse effect – the effect that the industrial society of the past 150 years has had in increasing carbon dioxide levels due primarily to fossil fuel combustion in power and heat generation and vehicular use.

The Kyoto agreement realised that a concerted global effort is required to reduce emissions of these gases. In the UK, the government aims to ensure 10% of our energy production is by renewable non-greenhouse enhancing technologies by 2010. This aim is encouraged by the UK’s rapidly dwindling oil and gas reserves.

Britain is no longer self-sufficient in the latter, and by 2020 will only be producing 20% of the oil produced currently.

Other countries have their own objectives and targets.

Combined heat and power Energy crops Energy crops can be farmed, just like food crops.

Trees and grasses are generally considered the most suitable. Trees can grow very fast and some will grow back after being cut close to the ground, a feature called coppicing, which can allow harvesting every three-to-eight years for 20-30 years before replanting. Poplar and maple in the US and willow in northern Europe can grow up to 12 m in the years between harvests.

Residues After plants have been used for other purposes, leftover wastes can be used for energy. Timber harvesting in forests, sawmills and crop residues can all contribute.

56 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

The basic elements of a combined heat and power (CHP) plant comprise one or more prime movers to drive electrical generators The heat generated in this process is also utilised, for a variety of purposes including: industrial processes, community heating and space heating.

CHP provides a secure and efficient method of generating both electricity and heat at the point of use. Due to the use of the heat from electricity generation and the avoidance of transmission losses because electricity is generated on site, CHP typically achieves a 35% reduction in primary energy usage compared with electricity power stations and heat only boilers.

Biomass is ideally suited to CHP, either as a gas or to drive a steam turbine. The use of biomass

IFI_PG56_57_Biomass special_01 18/12/2012 12:44 Page 57

SPECIAL – BIOMASS instead of fossil fuels for CHP makes an environmentally friendly technology even friendlier. The example below shows a typical energy distribution benefit from a gas fired CHP scheme. Substitution of a renewable biomass fired boiler to provide high pressure steam to a turbine retains the efficiency and has the additional benefit of having no net greenhouse effect.

A large variety of combustion equipment is nowadays commercially available but it is difficult to state specifically that a certain equipment is more suitable for a given fuel quality than another.

Small-scale combustion (50-500 kW) is often performed using some kind of additional equipment attached to the boiler. The main types are pulverised fuel burner, pre-oven and stoker.

Stoker – A stoker consists of a screw or a piston working in connection between fuel storage and a retort in the bottom of the boiler. The fuel must not have too high moisture content in a stoker. In small stokers dried fuel chips with moisture content of 25-35% are burned.

Types of combustion equipment Fixed retort – Broadly, biomass burners will either be of a fixed or moving grate type. The schematic below illustrates a fixed grate with cyclonic combustion. Cyclones are suitable for fine particulate wood such as sawdust. In general, fixed grate burners require fuel, which is in chip (say 20 mm x 20 mm or less) or pellet size or less. Their advantage is their appreciable lower capital cost compared to moving grates The illustration also shows ‘auto de-ashing’ and a ‘grit arrestor’.

Bioenergy Technology would normally supply a water-cooled pre-combustor prior to the burner.

Pre-oven – With this firing method, not completely combusted gas is transferred from the pre-oven to the boiler through a connecting channel. The pre-oven is often necessary for wet fuels with moisture content higher than around 40%.

even for the same type of fuel, which is prepared in different ways, this type of grate is not very flexible. When burning a dry fuel, like residues from arable land, water-cooling is used, and when burning a wet fuel air-cooling.

The moving grate is commonly used at capacities larger than 1-2 MW, but even in the lower capacity region, there are many boilers with moving grates. Since the fuel bed is mixed mechanically, moving grates are more fuel flexible than fixed grates. For fuels with high contents of ash, like straw and residues from arable land, a moving sloping grate should be used. Otherwise, there is a risk for sintering of the ash. Fuels with varying particle sizes also require a moving grate.

The most common fuel type used in grate boilers is wood chips, but also mixtures of wood chips/peat, wood chips/shavings from sawmills, briquettes and residues from arable land are frequently used. Interest has increased during the last years and additional demonstration plants for residues from arable land have been erected.

Fluidised beds are used mainly for capacities larger than 10 MW. A bed of sand, ash and fuel particles is fluidised by the combustion air, which is blown into the bed through the bottom. In a circulating fluidised bed, the

Pulverised fuel burners – These may be interesting in the future for small boilers.

Currently pulverised fuel burners are only used in large installations. Pulverised wood burners are normally used to retrofit oil or coal boilers.

Fluidised beds are for capacities of greater than 10 MW

Moving chain grate – Moving grates allow greater residence time between the combustible material and combustion air and have some flexibility in the rate of movement of the grates. These features enable such burners to deal with a greater variability of Biomass material supply, but are significantly more expensive than fixed grates.

Moving chain grates have some advantages but are expensive

air/flue gas velocity is so high that the fuel is entrained in the combustion gases. The solid material is then separated in a cyclone and recycled to the lower section of the bed.

Energy efficiency Pulverised fuel burners could be widely used in smaller operations in the future Grate furnace – The grate furnace is the most common type of equipment for capacities of >500 kW. There are various types of grates. The most common are the fixed sloping grate, the moving horizontal grate, the moving sloping grate and the multi stage grate.

The fixed grate can be air-cooled or watercooled. It is most commonly used at capacities lower than 1-2 MW. Since the slope of the grate should be different for different types of fuel, or

Heat is produced from biofuels at efficiencies between 70-90 % depending on the fuel and the performance of the boiler. In a condensing boiler, the moisture in the flue gas is condensed, which enables additional heat to be recovered. The total efficiency can therefore be increased to near 100% (based on the lower heating value, LHV, in wet fuel). IFI

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 57

IFI_PG58_59_Demo Int Peterson_01 18/12/2012 15:27 Page 64

DEMO INTERNATIONAL 2012 – A RESOUNDING SUCCESS Saint-Raymond, Quebec – After a four year wait visitors to DEMO International 2012 were not left disappointed as this massive event made its way back to the forests of Quebec. A total of 8,578 visitors made their way around the approximately 1.5 mile long loop to take in demonstrations and to see the latest products, services and

equipment available to the industry.

The event was presented by the Canadian Woodlands Forum and was hosted by Gestion Solifor on its property, La Seigneurie de Perthuis, which is located 75km outside of Quebec City. André Tremblay, Présidentdirecteur général of the Conseil de l’industrie forestière du Québec, was the honorary President of DEMO International 2012.

Front row left to right: Davey Haldeman, Larry Cumming (Peterson Pacific President), Mal Windrim, Tom Le, Dave Girard, Jim Prior & Mike Bonomo; back row left to right: Steve Farmer, Charlie Bagnall, Brian Gray, Derek Izworski, Doug Desloges

Peterson Pacific enjoyed a busy and highly productive show. A high class team of Peterson operatives pictured demonstrated: • Peterson 7900 EL – Disk Chipper – Petersons’ largest chipper – when paired with the 6830 debarker forms a complete chipping solution.• Peterson 6830 Debarker 58 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

• Peterson 4310B Track Mounted Drum Chipper – The 4300 is designed for high volume biomass producers.

Supported by • CAT 320 D – Forestry machine • CAT 545C – Skidder • CAT 938 K – Wheel loader

IFI_PG58_59_Demo Int Peterson_01 18/12/2012 15:27 Page 65

DEMO INTERNATIONAL 2012

Canadian Dealers British Columbia and Yukon Territory Woodland Equipment 2015 West Trans Canada Hwy Kamloops, BC V1S 1A7 Phone: 250.372.2855 Fax: 250.374.2844

Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec Wajax Industries Limited 815 Trillium Drive Kitchener, Ontario N2R 1J9 Office: 519.893.2942 Toll Free: 866.376.4430 Fax: 519.893.1068 Website: www.wajaxwest.com Construction & Forestry

Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland Atlantic CAT 175 Akerley Blvd.

Dartmouth, NS B2Y 3Z6 Phone: 902.468.0581 Fax: 902.468.4220

Model 4310B

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 59

IFI_PG60_61_Innovation Cranab_01 19/12/2012 10:59 Page 60

INNOVATION

Extensive improvements Leading Swedish crane manufacturer, Cranab, released a new program of developments last year that have been rapidly embraced by a market eager to take advantage of the latest advances

C

rane manufacturer Cranab is currently parading around its FC16 – the largest model in its new generation of cranes for forwarders. The company believes this new model reinforces its position as the leading crane producer for forestry machines in the global market.

The FC16 has been developed especially for the market's largest and most powerful forwarders.

The development of today's forwarders has resulted in their becoming larger and more powerful, with an increased loading capacity – the largest machines have an increased load capacity from 18-20 t. The new FC16 has been developed to manage the highest demands with increased strength and high performance.

At its full range of 8.5 m the crane can lift all of 1,310 kg at the tip. Gross lifting torque is 165 kNm. Added to this is a powerful slewing engine with a slewing torque of an impressive 42.5 kNm. “We have followed market developments and the users' needs very closely, and have designed our new model entirely to meet the new demands of the industry,” Marketing Manager Micael Olsson said. “This new crane is, for example, optimised in proportion to the slewing effect and the lifting force. We have been very careful in this respect when developing the new FC16.

“We know that harmony between lifting force and slewing effect is crucial. These properties are vital in sloping terrain where it is especially important that the forwarder is fitted with a crane strong enough to both lift and slew whilst fully laden in the same motion cycle.”

New generation praised from the outset Cranab's new generation of cranes was presented in June last year, and was launched to the immediate satisfaction of an enthusiastic market. It is already being sold to several machine manufacturers who are installing

60 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

The FC16 is designed for heavy duty forestry applications

We know that harmony between lifting force and slewing effect is crucial – these properties are vital in sloping terrain where it is especially important that the forwarder is fitted with a crane strong enough to both lift and slew whilst fully laden in the same motion cycle – Micael Olsson

IFI_PG60_61_Innovation Cranab_01 19/12/2012 10:59 Page 61

INNOVATION latest development program. The two bestsellers are the FC10 and FC12 for mid-sized and large forwarders have been enhanced with an option for an extra-long design with a range of 8.5 m, which is unique for single telescopic cranes of that size.

When Cranab presented its new crane program last year it was immediately embraced by foresters and harvester manufacturers and further models were promised straight away. That led to new single telescopic cranes for its entire range of forwarder cranes.

cranes and versions for the 8.5 m range have been missing,” Olsson said. “During the further development of our new generation of cranes we have been able to produce these models.

The extra long 8.5 m design for the FC10 and FC12 that we call ET+, is also something we describe as a revolution in its class.”

In addition to the features of the new generation of cranes, Cranab also emphasises the selected external hose routing on the single telescopic cranes. The design combines a protected, compact solution with generous hose dimensions and well thought-out hose routings.

“We have put a lot of care into making a lowlevel hose control from the underside of the crane to the topside,” Olsson said. “The bend radii of the hoses are optimised and at the same time it is an uncluttered installation in which we have minimised the built-in elements and have succeeded in making it compact. The external hose routing give the hoses a longer service life and good accessibility for servicing or hose replacement.”

New generation praised from the outset

them in serial production on their machines.

Some of the most exciting new features are the possibilities of sensors and intelligent controls. In addition the new generation has an advanced lifting geometry, a new protected hose routing and a new brake solution between the crane tip and rotator. The market's needs were central throughout the entire development process, with the manufacturer recognising that function, ergonomics and service accessibility had to be prioritised.

“We have several examples where the users consider the crane's good qualities to have been vital when making decisions on investment. And that importance is of course something that we feel even better about,” Olsson concluded.

The advantages of a single telescopic crane are many. It is efficient, lighter in weight and consists of fewer moving parts making it easier to maintain. In addition it is strong, robust and has significantly better range.

Cranab's new generation of cranes was presented in June last year and the results speak for themselves.

“With our new cranes we are able to meet more customers’ needs thanks to the features such as a greater lifting height in the immediate vicinity and an advanced geometry. This makes it easier to lift materials higher and closer-in.

That's why the new crane generation is particularly suitable for chippers or top-andbranch handling,” Olsson explained.

With the six new single telescopic cranes and the recently-launched FC16 for the largest forwarders, Cranab claims to hold the market's most comprehensive range in its new generation of cranes. IFI

Great need and revolution “We have seen that the market has been demanding a wider range of single telescopic

Largest model with applicable design The FC16 has all of the excellent properties featured in the new generation, with the addition of increased capacity for larger machines. The FC16 comes as standard as a single telescopic crane, but it will also be available as a double telescopic crane and a 10 m version. The FC16 is used to best effect with Cranab grapples CR360HD, CR360HDX, CR400, CR400X or CR400HD. The FC16 has been added on top of the six new single telescopic designs from Cranab’s

The Cranab ET+ is new to the recent range of cranes

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 61

IFI_PG62_63_Cutting Edge_01 18/12/2012 12:54 Page 62

CUTTING EDGE

New addition to the Deere K-Series family

T

he new 655K Crawler Loader from John Deere was designed and built using significant customer input to provide contractors with a machine that helps increase productivity and uptime and lower daily operating costs. The latest addition to the KSeries line builds on the highly successful 755K crawler loader.

Both models are assembled in Dubuque, Iowa.

The 655K features a John Deere PowerTech 6.8-L IT4/Stage IIIB diesel engine that delivers a productive combination of power and torque, boasting a net horsepower of 145 HP at 1,800 RPM. A key feature of the 655K is the hydrostatic transmission, a feature John Deere first pioneered in crawler dozers in North America in 1976. These transmissions provide customers infinite speed control, power management, live power turns, counter rotation while staying in gear, and dynamic braking. The transmission controls allow operators to pick between the V-pattern or joystick transmission control option to get work done. In

addition, Total Machine Control allows customised machine response that can be tailored to meet the needs of individual operators.

Customers can choose between two bucket options: a generalpurpose bucket or a four-in-one multipurpose bucket with lifetime lubricated bucket pivot pins to increase uptime by eliminating periodic service. In addition, a rear ripper design helps turn materials on the jobsite.

John Deere’s exclusive Quad-Cool system isolates coolers from engine heat for increased efficiency and durability. A standard hydraulicdriven variable-speed suction fan runs only as needed, reducing noise, fuel consumption, and cooling component wear.

“Ground-level maintenance access and the Quad-Cool system provide ease of service that is imperative for operators in the field,” said Deere. “If the crawler loader is easier to service on a daily basis, it’s more likely that service will get done, ultimately extending the life of the equipment and

increasing productivity for customers.”

Inside the cab, operators will find increased comfort thanks to quieter operation, larger access doors and a standard air suspension seat. A viscous cab mounting reduces noise from vibration while doublelaminated rear window glass and complete interior sound-dampening treatment significantly reduce noise levels. The 655K also features a sealed switch model with keyless start and the ability to enable exclusive features such as turbocharger cool-down and auto shutdown. A touchpad security system requires a numeric pass code to prevent unauthorised operation.

Onboard diagnostics include a standard display monitor that provides real time values for every

temperature, pressure and speed sensor on the machine. The crawler loader constantly monitors transmission temperature to avoid damage to the hydrostat system. If the transmission temperature is too cold or hot, the associated light on the monitor will illuminate.

Fleet managers, owners or operators looking to get the most out of their 655K can rely on the standard JDLink Ultimate system that continuously collects and transmits machine data for machine management via mobile phone technology. The system provides 24/7 online access to the machine’s location, health, utilisation, fuel consumption and other information to help contractors better understand costs and jobsite performance. www.deere.com

New single point sensor line from Gocator

L

MI Technologies, a global leader in 3D sensor measurement technology for industrial measurement and control applications, launched today a new Gocator Displacement Sensor product line. The Gocator 1100 series and Gocator 1300

series are the first offerings from this new line of all-in-one 3D smart displacement sensors. To mark the launch, both series of displacement sensors were demonstrated in October at Vision China in Beijing.

“LMI has developed an exciting new line of single point sensors for use in high speed inspection, based on over 30 years of Selcom laser sensor knowledge,” says CEO Terry Arden. “These sensors leverage the success of Gocator’s ground breaking user interface to deliver an exceptionally easy measurement device to operate.”

For two years, Gocator sensors have been setting a new standard for optimisation and control in today’s production facilities.

Gocator Displacement Sensors enable users of all levels of expertise to perform high-speed dimensional measurements such

62 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

as height and thickness, or surface roughness. With scan rates up to 32 kHz, all-in-one Gocator Displacement Sensors are ideal for real-time closed loop control and automating noncontact distance measurement processes. Users easily set up, measure, and control with the same multi-language web based interface found in all Gocators.

Gocator Displacement Sensors are scalable, come with an open source SDK, and can “plug” into PLCs using industry standard protocols.

Highlight features of Gocator all-in-one 3D smart displacement sensors include: • Scan rates up to 32 kHz • High-resolution measurement over various ranges, up to 2 m • A built-in web browser based multi-language interface that does not require coding or

specialised training • EtherNet/IP certified for “plugging” into PLCs • Pre-calibrated, integrated laser and optics that deliver realworld measurement out of the box • Laser measurement and data processing done in the sensor • Rugged IP67 housings for industrial environments • 2m, 3R, 3B laser class options optimised for different types of applications.

Manufacturers looking for further information about Gocator Displacement and Profile sensor solutions are encouraged to contact LMI Technologies. Data sheets and a product line brochure Gocator are available for download from the Gocator product page www.lmi3d.com

IFI_PG62_63_Cutting Edge_01 18/12/2012 12:54 Page 63

CUTTING EDGE

Bandit’s lighter, cheaper chipper still maintains performance

T

he Model 200UC Utility Chipper brings low cost with reliable performance and production to the popular 30.5 cm (12 in) capacity disc chipper segment. It’s similar to Bandit’s popular Model 200XP, but features a lightened frame and chipping disc along with a plastic fuel tank.

These changes allow the Model 200UC to ride comfortably on a smaller 2721 kg (6000 lb) axle with 38.1cm (15 in) wheels, making this machine easier to tow and manoeuvre. It shares the same 14

x 17 in chipper throat opening and feed system with the Model 200XP, and it can be equipped with engines from 48-97 HP. The end result is a manoeuvrable chipper that delivers the production and capability of a 30.5 cm (12 in) machine, but with a lighter weight and a lower price point compared to many other machines in this segment. This is an ideal fleet chipper, and the Model 200UC is especially well suited for utility clearing thanks to its combination

of weight, size and large throat opening. It’s an inexpensive, nononsense 30.5 cm (12 in) disc chipper with the ability to compress and chip large, limby branches without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Companies that

need the larger capacity of a 30.5 cm (12 in) chipper but cannot justify the higher cost of a typical 30.5 cm (12 in) machine will find the Model 200UC to be a perfect fit. www.banditchippers.com

Moipu’s M250D enjoys overhaul

M

oipu’s new M250D model has experienced an overall redesign. The main innovation is the replaceable cutting method.

The lower frame is bolted to a main frame and is easy to remove to allow even greater versatility in the uses for the head. The guillotine cutting is suitable for smaller trees, but is superb with challenging terrains and forests.

The M250D is equipped with a saw cut designed for hardwood.

The frame is designed to be compact and lightweight. This ensures easy control even on a smaller crane. Although designed to be lightweight, it’s also designed to last in the demanding environment of professional use.

“The light but robust structure can handle even rougher use,” Moipu stated. “The structure has been designed to be compact, but also keeping in mind the need for easy maintenance. Being easy to maintain helps to ensure the long lifetime these heads have.”

The lower frame can be either a saw cut or guillotine cutting device. As a saw device, the M250D uses the efficient and reliable Hultdins SuperCut with Parker 19 cc motor. As a saw device, the head can cut trees up to 440 mm in diameter, while the new geometry of the rollers allows

better accumulation treatment and better feeding for different size trees. Overlap of the rollers also helps the feeding of smaller trunks. The M250D version feed rollers are non-clogging.

“The roller structure is open, so the bark of the trees and dirt can pass through the roller,” the manufacturer stated. “As a result, the rollers are lighter and have better grip.”

As part of the host of changes to the model, the guillotine has been further developed; now it’s able to cut wood up to 300 mm in diameter. Compared to saw cutting, this method is cheaper, has less need for maintenance and provides a more reliable cutting performance. New blades increase the efficiency further – cutting performance is up to 20% higher compared with the

The Moipu M250D is one of the more versatile heads on the market

previous version.

The M250D can also be provided with an L90 power block, which is an option that reduces the load of the base machine and makes operation of the head more efficient. Power block is recommended if the basic machine has enough hydraulic flow.

The new D version is also available as a stripped model, suitable for first thinning

operations in forest because it bypasses the traditional feeding process so the loading properties are very good. The advantages are the affordability and a lighter structure. The model is most effectively used when it’s installed in small or medium-heavy forwarders, which are intended to make loading in addition to a small thinning. www.moisioforest.com

Moipu M250D specifications M250D L:

Model with no feeding, 430 kg

M250D ES:

Model with feeding,535 kg

M250D ESS:

Model with feedingand saw cut, 550 kg

Cutting with guillotine: Cutting with saw cut: Limbing diameter: Feeding speed: Hydraulic requirements: Pressure:

300 mm 440 mm 40-350 mm 5 m/sec 200-280 bar

Flow with guillotine:

120-160 l/min

Flow: with saw cut:

160-200 l/min

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | International Forest Industries 63

ADVERTISERS INDEX SALES OFFICES

ADVERTISERS INDEX Bandit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/9

Morbark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

www.banditchippers.com

www.morbark.com

Lansdowne Media Services Ltd

Barko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Multisaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777

www.barko.com

UK, Europe, South Africa, US East Coast CONTACT: Phil Playle or David Lansdowne

www.multisaw-sawmilling.com

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

Cleanfix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

or david@internationalforestindustries.com

www.cleanfix.org

Oregon Logging Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 www.oregonloggingconference.com/

Elmia Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14/20/46/51

Japan

Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

www.elmia.se/sv/wood

www.petersoncorp.com

CONTACT: Yuko Ishihara Japan Advertising Communications, Inc.

ESRI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC

Star Bldg., 3-10-3 Kanda Jimbocho

www.esri.com/forestry

Pezzolato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051

www.pezzolato.it

Tel: 81-3-3261-4591

EWD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F/C/39

Fax: 81-3-3261-6126

www.ewd.de

Rottne Industri AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Email: ishihara@media-jac.co.jp Fecon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 www.fecon.com

www.rottne.com Tigercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

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

Gilbert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

CONTACT: George Roman

www.gilbert-tech.com

www.tigercat.com USNR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Roy McDonald Associates, Inc 4779 Luna Ridge Court,

Halco Software Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Las Vegas NV 89129, USA

www.halcosoftware.com

www.usnr.com Vermeer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tel: +1 (702) 515 7247 Fax: +1 (702) 515 7248

John Deere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Email: george@roymcdonald.com

www.deere.com/forestry

www.vermeer.com Willems Baling Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Komptech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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

www.komptech.com

CONTACT: Bob Warren

www.willemsonline.com Wood-Mizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Lansdowne Media Services Ltd

Lucidyne Technologies Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Tel: +44 (0)1442 877 777

www.lucidyne.com

www.woodmizer.com

LIGNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

WoodEXPO 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4/IBC

www.ligna.de/home

www.woodexpo2013.com

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

US Mid-West, Central & Mountain

IFI SHOW DIRECTORY

CONTACT: Kevin Lapham J.P.Media Inc 1163 E.Ogden Ave, Ste. 705-359 Naperville IL 60563, USA Tel: +1 (630) 420 9752

2013

Fax: +1 (630) 420 9763 Email: lapham@jpmediainc.com

JUNE 5 – 8, 2013 ElmiaWood

South America CONTACT: Ricardo Cortés Editec S.A. Avda del Cóndor 844 Of. 205, Cuidad Empresarial -

Elmiavägen 11, SE-554 54 JÖNKÖPING Meet forestry professionals from all the World CONTACT: Veronika Albert Tel: +46 36 15 22 34 veronika.albert@elmia.se

Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile Tel: +56 2 757 4200 Fax: +56 2 757 4201 Email: rcortes@editec.cl

64 International Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013

For the complete IFI Show Directory 2012/13 visit www.internationalforestindustries.com go to download IFI issues

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