PRODUCT NEWS

KPA Unicon Has New Majority Owner

Business group Partnera Oyj is acquiring a majority share in the KPA Unicon Group, a Finnishbased provider of wood-fired boiler plants and other heat energy products

The acquisition will make Oulubased Partnera the majority shareholder (70%) of KPA Unicon Group. The Kovanen family’s company, Prounicon Oy. will continue as the Group’s minority shareholder (30%).

“Partnera’s strategic goal is to use its capital to develop business that can promote a positive impact on society and the goals of sustainable development. KPA Unicon is a fantastic complement to our business group, since its products and services are good for both environment and society,” says Jari Pirkola, CEO of Partnera Oyj.

KPA Unicon is based in Pieksämäki, Finland, and employs 200 in eight countries.

One of its recent announcements was the signing of a contract with Danish company DIN Forsyning for the turnkey delivery of a district heating plant in Esbjerg, Denmark. The combined capacity of the Unicon Renefluid bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) and the Unicon Condenser flue gas scrubber will be 60 MW. The boiler plant will produce heat for the local district heating network for nearly 100,000 inhabitants and will use wood chips as fuel. The plant will start its operation in January 2023.

The boiler plant will be located in the port area of Esbjerg. The plant delivered by KPA Unicon will be a significant part of a bigger plan, where three decentralized heat production units are planned to be constructed to the same site for the purpose of replacing the existing coal-fired power plant.

The local Combined Heat and Power station (CHP) is to be shut down in April 2023 and DIN Forsyning is obliged to find an environmentally sustainable replacement for up to 350 MW of district heating.

Doosan Enhances Wheel Loaders

Doosan Infracore North America, LLC, is launching its nextgeneration wheel loaders, the -7 Series, in the U.S. and Canada. All-new redesigned cabs with first-class comfort features, increased bucket capacities and new, fuel-saving technologies are highlights of this next generation of Doosan wheel loaders.

Seven models of the new Doosan -7 Series wheel loaders, with standard bucket capacities between 3.7 and 7.6 cubic yards, are available now. Five additional Doosan models with bucket capacities between 2.6 and 3.3 cubic yards are planned to launch in early 2022. Wheel loaders launching in 2022 will include the popular tool carrier iterations for two models.

“While we have made enhancements to our wheel loaders during the past 15 years, this is a significant milestone in the Doosan product,” says Aaron Kleingartner, dealer and product marketing manager. “The new -7 Series wheel loaders represent more than a decade of research and development, as well as incorporating feedback from our customers. The next generation of Doosan wheel loaders easily competes with any machine available today.”

The new wheel loader cab layout has relocated important and frequently used controls for easier, more intuitive use. All Doosan -7 Series wheel loaders have the same control setup, so operators won’t miss a beat when moving from machine to machine.

Electric steering is available as an option for select -7 Series models. In models with this feature, the electronic joystick, which operators can customize to their sensitivity preference, is comfortably integrated into the left armrest.

Bucket capacities for select models are 7% greater than prior models. These select Doosan models include the DL320-7, DL380-7, DL480-7 and DL5807. To enable these greater capacities, these beefed-up models feature stronger, larger axles and a strengthened box frame. Large center bearings and self-centering, double-tapered roller bearings distribute vertical and horizontal loads over a larger area. The bearings have dust seals and covers and are vented to prevent grease overfill.

An automatic lubrication system is a new factory option for Doosan -7 Series wheel loaders, and it includes full warranty coverage. The system delivers grease at the middle of the pins and bushings for better distribution.

DoosanCONNECT telematics makes it easy for owners to monitor their Doosan fleet and manage maintenance to reduce operating costs. Using a smartphone, tablet or computer, owners can check machine location, operating hours, fuel usage, engine idle versus work time, error codes, engine and hydraulic oil temperature and various other data points. The new Doosan Smart Load weighing

Doosan introduces wheel loader line.

30 Wood Bioenergy / June 2021

system tells the operator the weight of material in the bucket. All menus and settings are integrated into the Doosan Smart Touch screen. Visit doosanequipment.com.

More Orders, More Workforce For Rottne

Rottne Industri AB, Smaland, Sweden, reports that an upswing in machinery sales that accelerated at the start of the year is steering the company to recruit new employees in several departments.

“We can see a clear upward trend in incoming orders,” states Arne Isaksson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Rottne Industri.

The pandemic year 2020 was difficult for many, with great uncertainty in many different markets. This was also true for Rottne Industri, which last year saw its chance to focus on investments, improvements and profitability.

“It was a gigantic challenge for us when everything was swinging between hope and despair,” Isaksson says. “Since August last year, however, we have had an upward trend that has increased month by month thereafter.”

There are many reasons behind the increase of orders. A cold winter in Sweden resulted in the district heating plants working at full capacity and great quantities of insect damaged forest have been felled to provide biofuel. Another aspect of Rottne’s tailwind is that previously “dormant” markets have awakened and are gathering speed.

“This includes Russia, which has seen a really excellent felling season and now needs machinery. In addition, we are making great efforts in the transatlantic market where, above all in Canada, we have had a real upturn again,” Isaksson continues.

The company is fully occupied with recruiting new staff, both in the office and on the factory floor. “We will recruit between 10 to 15 people during the year, and we must replace those who retire, so there will be a large increase in staff,” says Tobias Johansson, CEO Rottne Industri, and he believes in a bright future:

“It is quite clear that we are facing an adjustment process, but the target of delivering 200 forestry machines during 2022 remains firm.”

Fulghum Develops New Knife Clamp

Fulghum Industries recently developed a new knife clamp design to aid those utilizing disc chippers. These new, front-loading clamps will lead to a safer, more efficient chipper operation. Traditionally, knife clamps and their hardware are located on opposite sides of the chipper disc, re-

Fulghum Industries’ front-loading knife clamps

quiring two workers just to change knives. With Fulghum’s new design, the clamps and their mounting hardware are located on the same side as the knives, meaning that one worker can now change the knives in the same amount of time that it takes two workers with a traditional clamp.

Also, with fewer people having to physically interact with the clamps, there is a reduced chance of accidents due to miscommunication or inexperience. In addition to greater efficiency and safety, Fulghum’s front-loading clamps are engineered to resist chip packing and unwanted stud releasing that can occur with traditional clamps. Visit fulghum.com.

NAF Invests In Test Center

Groundbreaking was held at the new NAF (Neunkirchener Achsenfabrik) building in Neunkirchen am Brand, Germany, marking the start of construction of a new test center. The building comprises a production shop and an office building with a footprint of 2,000 m2 as well as corresponding outdoor facilities.

The new test center will be used to test the strength of NAF products on ultra-modern, sound-insulated test rigs, some of which are equipped with decoupled foundations with vibration isolation. The planned test rigs will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and will permit endurance testing of the structure and drive train of the axles and transmissions.

NAF produces axles and drive trains for self-propelled machines (forestry harvesters, excavators, combine harvesters, etc.).

The new facilities will mean that NAF’s newly developed products can be brought to market more quickly; investment will therefore strengthen the flexibility and innovative power of the dynamically growing company.

A photovoltaic system (1000 m² / 200 kWp) will be installed on the new building, which, together with energy-efficient construction and energy recovery, will contribute to environmentally friendly operation.

New NAF test center

Doppstadt Built Recycling Leader

The Doppstadt Group announced that company founder and long-time CEO, Werner Doppstadt, died on April 20. He was 77.

In the course of nearly five decades as the company’s CEO, Doppstadt led the family enterprise, which was established in 1965, to international success. Born in Homberg, Germany, he first transformed his parents’ farm into an agricultural contracting business together with his wife Hedwig and his brother Josef. In 1970 Doppstadt developed the cleaning machine PUMA and laid the foundation for the rise of the company to a globally operating specialist for environmental and recycling technology.

Today the group with 700 employees is one of the world’s leading machine manufacturers in the field of recycling and environmental technology and resource recovery. In 2012 Doppstadt passed along the management of the enterprise to his son, Ferdinand.

32 Wood Bioenergy / June 2021

New Dates Planned For Mid-Atlantic Expo

Following up on the pandemic postponement of the 2021 Mid-Atlantic Logging, Biomass and Landworks EXPO, the producers of the event, Carolina Loggers Assn. and North Carolina Forestry Assn., announce that the next MidAtlantic Logging, Biomass and Landworks EXPO will be held April 29-30, 2022.

With a very strong demand expected for the Mid-Atlantic region event in 2022, the producers continue to plan for an excellent event. Vendors can reserve their spots now. Contact Jonzi Guill at jguill@ncloggers.com.

The Mid-Atlantic Logging, Biomass and Landworks EXPO is a nonprofit event that showcases the latest logging equipment and supplies from leading manufacturers to more than 2,500 attendees. Visit loggingexpo.com.

John Deere Unveils Precision Forestry

John Deere announces its Precision Forestry initiative, a focused approach to its job site technology solutions. Through Precision Forestry, John Deere is reorganizing its technology portfolio and doubling down on its efforts in delivering solutions designed to increase efficiency and productivity in the woods. The shift to Precision Forestry aligns with the brand’s Smart Industrial operating model, through which John Deere aims to deliver increased customer value by focusing on three core areas: Production Systems, Technology Stack and Lifecycle Solutions.

“Previously, the industry has focused on developing bigger, faster, more powerful machines

to boost performance, but larger machines sometimes present more challenges, especially on job sites with limitations,” says Matthew Flood, product marketing manager, John Deere. “With the Precision Forestry initiative, we’re organizing our portfolio to create a foundation for the future of forestry machines and job site technology.”

Precision Forestry is a more descriptive term for what customers can expect from the John Deere technology suite, including realtime, map-based production planning and tracking capabilities along with new and evolving operator assistance capabilities. This new alignment lays the groundwork for the future of technology solutions, as John Deere builds in these core areas to help customers work faster and smarter on the job site. For customers, the new Precision Forestry direction will simplify the John Deere technology portfolio, making it easier to select and adopt customized solutions based on their unique job site needs.

To learn more about Precision Forestry technology offerings, visit johndeere.com/forestry.

Doosan Announces Top 2020 Dealers

Doosan Infracore North America, LLC announced its top 10 performing dealers of 2020 from among more than 160 Doosan equipment dealers in North America.

Doosan annually recognizes its heavy equipment dealers that have excelled in providing top-level performance in sales, parts and service to the customers in their respective markets. The top 10 Doosan dealers of 2020 include the following enterprises (headquarters in parentheses): —Barry Equipment Co. (Webster, Mass.), fourth consecutive year —Bobcat of Mandan Inc. (Mandan, ND), third consecutive year —Brown’s Industrial Sales (Lloydminster, Alberta) —CG Equipment (Guelph, Ontario), second consecutive year —Coastal Machinery (Pensacola, Fla.), second consecutive year —Equipment East, LLC. (Dracut, Mass.) fourth consecutive year —G. Stone Commercial Div. (Middlebury, Vermont)

June 2021 / Wood Bioenergy 33

—Hartington Farm Services Ltd. (Hartington, Ontario) —Theco Inc. (Big Lake, Minn.) —Wilson Equipment (Central Point, Ore.), third consecutive year

“There are four dealers joining this list for the first time, which is reflective of their hard work growing the Doosan brand in their regions,” says Todd Roecker, Doosan Director of Dealer Management and Marketing.

Top-performing dealers are offered a selection of several incentives that they may choose from, which will improve their profitability when selling and servicing Doosan equipment. In addition, Doosan North American leadership may look to these dealers for valuable input regarding Doosan initiatives and direction as they represent the dealer network.

Cat Reveals Next Generation

The new Caterpillar Next Generation 538 Forest Machine features several significant design upgrades that make it a top choice for working with timber. Available in log loader and general forest configurations, the 538 has a new electrohydraulic control system with 10% more swing torque that allows the machine to do work with more power and precision. Updates to the drive system result in a 12% increase in travel speed, helping the Cat Next Generation 538 cover more ground and move up and down slopes faster. High wide undercarriage provides 15% greater ground clearance to help the machine pass over stumps and other obstructions.

The 538 features a Cat 7.1 engine that meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards and is flexible to run on biodiesel up to B20. Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to working conditions to help reduce fuel consumption up to 5% without sacrificing performance. The 538 offers a cold-start capability of -25˚ F (-32˚ C) and reliable high ambient temperature operation reaching 118˚ F (48˚ C). It operates at altitudes reaching 9,842 ft. (3,000 m) without derating.

Fuel tank capacity is more than double the previous model, which means the new 538 can operate up to five shifts before refilling.

The all new Certified

Forestry cab design for the Cat

Next Generation 538 dramatically improves operator comfort and safety. The cab is 25% larger with 50% greater overall visibility than the previous 538.

Operators can start the 538’s engine with a simple push of a button. The new Operator ID allows each operator to quickly program and store their own machine settings and attachment function preferences. A larger 10 in. (254 mm) highresolution touchscreen monitor delivers intuitive navigation through operating menus and includes a digital version of the operator’s manual for quick reference.

Compared to the previous model, the Next Generation 538 lowers maintenance costs by up to 15% over the course of

Caterpillar 538 Forest Machine

34 Wood Bioenergy / June 2021

12,000 hours of operation. Product Link technology captures critical operating data, fault codes, and machine location information to boost fleet management efficiency. Visit cat.com.

Level Switch Detects Wood Chips

Dynatrol level switch

Dynatrol DJ Level Switch for bulk solids provides high, intermediate or low point level detection of sawdust ranging from wood chips and coarse shavings to wood flour. It’s approved for Class I, Group D; Class II, Groups E, F & G; and Class III services.

When the probe is uncovered, it is free to vibrate and produces an output signal. This signal operates a relay that indicates the probe is uncovered or that a low level exists. When the probe is covered a dampening of the oscillations occurs, the output signal is no longer present and the relay indicates that a high level exists.

The level detector is mounted through a 3⁄4 in. half-coupling at the point of desired level detection. The vibrating probe tolerates considerable buildup and caking, resulting in extended capability of detection.

Constructed for a long operating life, Dynatrol detectors require no adjustments and have no moving parts. Visit dynatrolusa.com.

They are virtually wear-free. Many varieties of Dynatrol® level switches have been in service for over 25 years.

Keen Safety Boot Fits Workplace

sic appeal, these non-metallic work boots offer all-day comfort and superior traction for a variety of industries and applications. The 6 in. work boot features a non-marring waterproof leather upper, nonmetallic eyelets and lace hooks as well as weight-saving carbon fiber safety toes that are 15% lighter than steel and deliver ASTM-rated toe protection with a roomy, more unobtrusive fit. The KEEN.ReGEN midsole offers superior compression-resistance and provides 50% more energy return for long-days walking and standing. Other performance and safety enhancements include a KEEN.DRY breathable, waterproof membrane, heat-resistant, rubber

The number of tools and tasks outsoles rated up to 572° F that satrequired to navigate isfy Mark II and Satra nonthe work day can be slip testing standards, 90°, many. Today’s con- 5⁄8 in. heel for added stabiltractors and skilled ity and an antimicrobial trades professionals lining delivering natural face a variety of chal- odor protection free of lenges that demand chemicals and dyes. versatility and inge- The Chicago boot is nuity, both in the available in several safety skills that they de- silhouettes in both men’s velop and the re- Keen Chicago boot and women’s specific fits. sources that they rely The Chicago 6 in. for on. KEEN Utility offers the women is built for the biomeChicago Utility packed with a chanics of a woman’s foot and number of modern features. made to fit with optimal safety

Its value-forward construction and comfort, as well as providing makes it a versatile tool for a vari- the same durable performance ety of work environments. Built to features found in the men’s veroffer rugged protection with a clas- sions. Visit keenutility.com.

June 2021 / Wood Bioenergy 35

17 ➤ educate the next generation eighth grade, they had their percepabout the importance of the forest tion about the industry and the peoproducts industry. ple working in it. This perception

ForestryWorks is the jobs promo- was normally not positive due to tion initiative of the Forest Work- misinformation provided to young force Training Institute. The mission students from different sources. of FWTI is to create a pipeline of Lucy Meets a Logger gives FWTI workers for the forest products in- staff, as well as forestry professiondustry through education, career als, a tool to take into local schools promotion and training. This and tell the story of one component pipeline creates a sustainable source of the forest products industry of forestry professionals for genera- through the eyes of a child. tions to come. All profits from Lucy Meets a

Traditionally, ForestryWorks’ ed- Logger are put back into Forestryucational component focused main - Works in order to continue creatly on grades 8-12 to encourage stu- ing educational tools for the forest dents to consider the forest products products industry. industry as a future career path. Go to lucymeetsalogger.com if How ever, the team began to realize you are interested in purchasing a that by the time students reached copy of Lucy Meets a Logger.

■ CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS ■

■ employment opportunities

1615

Top Wood Jobs

Recruiting and Staffing George Meek

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

3779

Oregon Mill Has New Life

Following a disastrous 2019 fire that threatened a decade of progress, a group of investors has purchased the assets of Integrated Biomass Resources (IBR) in Wallowa, Ore. to continue operating the small log processing facility as Heartwood Biomass LLC.

According to Heartwood CEO David Schmidt, who founded the facility with his wife, Jesse, in 2009, the operation benefits from community support in Heartwood’s goal to create niche products from small diameter timber coming off forest restoration projects.

Schmidt believes the facility is scalable and similar ventures could operate in key forest restoration across the U.S. West. In addition to chips and biomass, the facility has produced wood products like bundled firewood for grocery stores; agricultural poles for hops, vineyard and orchard structures; and fence posts for ranches.

VISIT US ONLINE: woodbioenergymag.com

Coming in 2022! bioenergyshow.com

38 Wood Bioenergy / June 2021