15 minute read
Machinery
Power, function, simplicity
THE Tigercat D7 control system combines a solid and field proven hardware and bucking control system with a Tigercat developed head control and user interface.
The system offers powerful functionality, simplicity and intuitive operator navigation.
There are two types of bucking control available for D7. Priority-based bucking logic utilizes a list of operator-entered log specifications sizes to determine how best to process the tree.
D7 Optimization level uses a value-based logic.
Using multiple layers of matrices correlating price, demand, and production limits to each log size under each tree species, the control system optimizes each processed tree to achieve the best value.
These matrices are usually programmed by the timber buyer.
Both Tigercat D7 Priority and Optimization levels offer StanForD Classic, StanForD 2010, and PDF production reporting based on contracts, operators, species, and product groups.
The reports provide total quantity and volume, as well as per species and product group quantities and volume. Reports can be viewed on screen, or exported for later analysis. D7 also sends production volume data to RemoteLog®, Tigercat’s optional telematics system.
D7 can be equipped with a GPS receiver and the GeoInfo software. This provides an active navigation application using the machine’s current position on a georeferenced map.
Work site maps can be viewed on the in-cab display screen, allowing the operator to easily view the site layout, track the movement of the machine, and view production information.
Restricted areas can be marked with boundary alarms.
D7 is currently available for the Tigercat 534 harvesting head.
New forwarder delivers on carrying capacity
THE Ponsse Mammoth forwarder, powerful in terms of productivity, expands Ponsse’s forwarder range to the new category of 25-ton load-carrying capacity.
The Ponsse Mammoth forwarder ensures productive harvesting, also at the most demanding logging sites. Equipped with the stepless Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) system and the Ponsse K121 loader, Mammoth’s sturdy frame structures and super-strong hydraulics ensure that large stems and heavy loads can be transported effortlessly. In the Ponsse Mammoth forwarder, the forest machine operator’s ergonomics has been addressed every step of the way, and it can be equipped with new features that improve the operator’s ergonomics, such as Active Cabin and Active Seat.
Ponsse Buffalo is the bestselling Ponsse forwarder in the world. Its technical systems, reliability in all conditions, combined with its broad range of customization options, makes the Buffalo a dependable tool built to meet the individual needs of each customer. When customers can choose from a load-carrying capacity of 14 to 15 tons, a reach ranging from 7.8 to 10 metres, a long bogie. The model series consists of eight-wheeled base machine that can be modified in diverse ways. Equipped with the Active Crane boom control system and other new features makes work easy.
The durable basic structure is reliable also in heavy-duty operations. The technology, tested in extreme conditions, caters for productivity and helps the operator to keep working. Its powerful engine, combined with its neverending tractive force and 20-ton load-carrying capacity, ensures that wood is moved efficiently, also at sites located on slopes, and over long distances, with fewer trips. Equipped with the Active Frame cabin suspension system, available as optional equipment, makes working even more pleasure. It prevents the operator from swaying in the cabin and helps to work during long shifts.
Ponsse forwarders (except for Bison) can now be equipped with PONSSE Active Cabin, an effective cabin suspension system with a simple structure. It helps forest machine operators keep going, even during longer shifts, by suspending any stress on the cabin. Active Cabin is available for the Buffalo, Elephant, Elephant King and Mammoth forwarders. Ponsse Bison is equipped with Ponsse’s advanced Active Frame cabin levelling system.
Ponsse Active Seat is a seat function developed based on forest machine operators’ needs. The new Active Seat improves usability, as it turns and follows the boom tip according to crane movements, increasing the forest machine operator’s productivity. Ponsse Active Seat is available as an option for all PONSSE forwarders equipped with the Ponsse Active Crane loader control system.
Ponsse Active Crane is a loader control system for forwarders, with which the operator controls grapple movements instead of individual functions, allowing the operator to concentrate effectively on working with the loader. Active Crane is easily controlled using two levers, one of which controls the grapple height from the ground and the other controls the direction of movement.
Ponsse Forwarder Extra Display is an additional display for forwarders. It mirrors the view of the Opti display installed in the cabin, which remains hidden behind the operator’s back when driving in the engine’s direction. By fitting an additional display, the operator does not need to turn their seat to watch the display when the driving direction changes.
6 3 2 H
A completely redesigned cab keeps the operator comfortable all day long, while robust, high-quality components and stressfree serviceability boost productivity.
Experience the Tigercat 632H for yourself. Contact Onetrak today.
Gaining versatility in the woods
FOR nearly 50 years, loggers have relied on Waratah Forestry Equipment as a one-stop shop for versatile heads that are proven as workhorses in the woods.
Whether it’s debarking; harvesting; processing; working in softwood, hardwood or mixed stands; Waratah’s lineup of 200, 400 and 600 Series heads are up to the challenge. Durable debarking with the H225E
One of the manufacturer’s newest heads on the market, the H225E, is a powerful, high-capacity harvester head purpose-built for single-pass eucalyptus debarking. This workhorse is designed for use on large, wheeled harvesters and excavators.
The H225E, part of Waratah’s two roller 200 Series line, features a new highperformance valve for better oil flow and greater hydraulic working pressure capabilities as well as a heavy-duty measuring system and redesigned swept cast arms. Its delimbing knives, fixed debarking tools in the frame, and patented variable stem rotating rollers ensure excellent debarking from large to small diameters. Additionally, the H225E’s durable hose routings and ease of daily service add to its reliability.
“Building on the high-performing H215E model, the H225E is built to work with even more efficiency,” said Brent Fisher, product marketing manager for Waratah. “The H225E’s improved features facilitate enhanced debarking productivity and durability.” Heavy-duty harvesting with the H425X
When it comes to working in the toughest woods, loggers can rely on the H425X, one of Waratah’s newest heads in its 400 Series line. This heavy-duty head is purpose-built for tracked carriers and features a powerful control valve and four-roller feed arm geometry that ensures a solid grip. With an extreme duty main saw box, the rugged and agile H425X especially excels in mixed stand harvesting.
“With a great balance of features such as its highperformance control valve and drive motors, precision delimbing and heavier steel plating, the H425X is built for durability and performance,” Fisher said.
The H425X helps operations stay up and running with its improved hose routing from boom to harvester head and from the valve to feed motors, keeping hoses well-protected from limbs and understory interference.
For increased versatility, the H425X offers options for multiple applications, with multi-tree handling, integrated top saw (for processing and hardwood), and with feed wheel or knife variations for variable stem types. Powerful processing with the HTH622B Series-III
After listening and responding to customers’ needs, Waratah made its all-time leading head, the HTH622B, even better. Now the HTH622B Series-III, this 600 Series head boasts reinforced durability to take on the tough timber and increased accessibility making maintenance a breeze.
“The HTH622B has a loyal customer following and is now better than ever as the Series-III,” Fisher said. “At Waratah, we’re always looking for ways to improve our products. Our customers’ needs and input drove development with the HTH622B Series-III.”
This head features a new valve with better flowthrough characteristics for reducing heat, while improving feed speed and sawing performance for powerful processing. For increased accuracy in measuring crooked wood and improved uptime, the head includes a new measuring arm with more travel and sensor protection. A new tilt frame and an optional integrated color marking system help contribute to more productivity.
The HTH622B Series-III features several upgrades for improved durability and simplified servicing. A new twin retainer front knife and strengthened upper delimb castings provide durable delimbing. Key components are protected with a newly styled and stronger valve cover and hinges as well as reinforced drive arm covers. Additionally, servicing and maintenance is quick with new handles and a tool-less entry for access to a simplified hose layout. Plus, a larger saw oil filler provides faster fills with less spills.
●Waratah’s H225E, H425X and the HTH622B Series-III.
LOOKING BACK
2019
THE two interrelated factors impeding future growth in the Green Triangle region are the availability of land and restrictions over water licenses currently in place in the Limestone Coast, according to OneFortyOne.
And the forest grower and forest products company believes the water licensing conditions faced by plantations in South Australia are the biggest threat to the supply chain in the region and that under current water allocation limits, there may be a loss of more than 25,000 hectares of plantation area in the region. 2016
AS THE nation heads toward the 2016/17 bushfire season, it is critical that Australian firefighters and emergency response agencies are able to call on additional support from across the country to meet the heightened resource demands in the face of an emergency.
For the first time they have the backing of the National Resource Sharing Centre, working within the National Aerial Firefighting Centre and part-funded by the Commonwealth AttorneyGeneral’s Department, to support the facilitation of interstate and international sharing of personnel and equipment. 2011
NEW FIGURES showing the area of Australian tree plantations has shrunk reflect a problem for the nation’s future wood and carbon offset needs, says the Australian Forest Products Association.
A report by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences found the overall area of plantations dropped by 0.6% between 2009 and 2010. It has also reported the smallest area of new plantations establishment since the early 1990s.
“Australia has a major challenge in meeting our future wood demands. A population of 35 million by 2050 will require 7.1 million new dwellings,” said AFPA chief executive officer David Pollard.
PONSSE and Epec are introducing the PONSSE EV1, an electric forest machine technology concept. While the forest machine will be commercially available later, Epec’s technology can already be used in electric or hybridelectric commercial vehicles and non-road mobile machines. Ponsse’s technological concept is a peek into the future, paving the way for technological development and sustainable harvesting solutions.
Ponsse provides sustainable harvesting solutions by listening closely to customer needs, and it also aims to lead the way in the development of forest machine technologies. Ponsse is part of sustainable forestry and seeks carbon neutrality in its operations and solutions. This launch of a new technology concept is part of the company’s strategy and a tangible step towards the goal of carbon neutrality. Sustainable development guides all the company’s operations.
“Technological development is fast and offers us excellent opportunities to develop our solutions further, even in unexpected directions. We have worked hard with our technology company Epec to enable this concept. At the same time, both companies have developed their capabilities, and ● Left: President and CEO, Ponsse, Juho Nummela. Right: Jyri Kylä-Kaila, Managing Director of Epec.
we have gained significant new knowledge during this project. This launch of a new technology concept is a peek into the future and one of the solutions offered by electric powertrains. Sustainable development is a significant future success factor for Ponsse. We want to strongly develop our solutions with Epec. Our strategy reform has been successful at Epec, and we’re very happy with Epec’s excellent development,” says Juho Nummela, President and CEO, Ponsse Plc. PONSSE EV1 technological concept
The PONSSE EV1 concept has been developed for forwarders with a 15-tonne load-carrying capacity, the most popular Ponsse forwarder size category. The concept machine features a fully electric powertrain, as well as Epec’s power distribution unit and hybrid control unit. The machine’s powertrain operates fully with battery energy. Batteries are charged using a Range Extender, which is a combustion engine at this stage of development. Testing and development are advancing continuously. This technology provides significant improvements in fuel economy in this size category.
Ponsse has been studying and developing new technological solutions for several years now. The PONSSE EV1 concept took its first steps in 2019 when Ponsse and Epec started to investigate responsible power source solutions in line with sustainable development. Epec Flow: a comprehensive electromobility system solution
The PONSSE EV1 features Epec Flow, Epec’s electromobility system solution. The solution is based on the Epec Flow Power Distribution Unit (PDU), to which electric motors, batteries and various devices can be connected. The PDU’s integrated safety solutions enable effective manufacturing and maintenance of the machines, as well as their operations in demanding conditions. The Epec Flow Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) controls the electric powertrain and includes software developed through simulations, enabling optimal energy consumption, productivity and usability.
“The Epec Flow solution is at the heart of everything. It has been developed for the electrification of various commercial vehicles and non-road mobile machines. The software can be developed using simulation models, and the solution can be agilely developed for the needs of different machinery. The different systems, including the transmission and control system, work seamlessly together, enabling the manufacture of safe and efficient zero-emission machines in the future,” says Jyri Kylä-Kaila, Managing Director of Epec.
Machinery RDO Equipment opens new base in Adelaide
RDO Equipment, Adelaide’s local John Deere construction and forestry and Vermeer equipment dealer, has officially opened its new multi-million-dollar South Australian dealership this week, signalling its commitment to the industry and customers across the state.
The facility replaces RDO’s previous dealership in Wingfield. It is expected to contribute millions to the local economy through more career opportunities, improved parts inventory holdings with 5,500 line items across both John Deere and Vermeer brands, plus increased workshop and warehouse capacity with 14 work bays across the 15,000m² site.
RDO Equipment CEO Phil Canning says the new facility reflects the growth of our South Australian customer base and resultant need for more extensive service, sales and parts support from the dealership.
“Our South Australian footprint is experiencing strong growth thanks to the infrastructure investment in the region from both state and federal governments and population growth. We knew we needed to match that demand with a new, state of the art facility that caters for more machines, more parts, and more staff to support our growing customer base in the south,” Phil says.
“The new facility signals our commitment to the vital sectors that contribute millions to our local and national economy - construction, forestry, mining, environmental, tree services and the building industry. This will be backed up by our qualified, factory-trained technical staff to support our full product range.”
RDO Equipment employs more than 900 employees across 29 locations in metro and regional Australia, and provides an extensive range of premium equipment and after-sales support to service the agricultural, civil, construction, utility, mining, forestry, and natural resource management industries. This size and breadth means they are able to offer customers a range of product, and a level of customer support that is unmatched.
With a larger footprint in the region, RDO Equipment will also be looking to boost training and development for staff, and are actively recruiting skilled tradespeople to join the team.
“We know skilled labour is an issue across many industries at the moment, so we are putting a big focus across all of our branches on developing our apprentices, and attracting new staff. There aren’t many dealerships where you get to learn on such a vast range of equipment and industry sectors.
“The new site has great exposure as it is situated on a major road having thousands of vehicles pass by daily, and is in a central location for not only prospective employees, but close to our other supply chain partners in the area.”
RDO Equipment’s new branch is located at 2325 Matthews Road, Gepps Cross. To find out more about RDO Equipment and the machinery available, head to www.rdoequipment.com.au
●Phil Canning
JD’s new disc saw felling head
JOHN Deere has released its newest forestry attachment FR27 Disc Saw Felling Head which is now standard on the John Deere 953M and 959M feller buncher models, and available as an upgrade on the on the 853M, 859M and 903M feller bunchers. This felling head attachment has a larger cut capacity compared to previous felling head models.
Building upon the success of the FR24B, John Deere has successfully designed the durable FR27 as a solution aimed to increase productivity on the job.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance operator efficiency and machine capacity. By introducing a larger felling head solution to our line-up with the FR27, we are providing our customers with a larger, more durable attachment to help increase their bottom-line,” said Jim O’Halloran, global product marketing manager, tracked feller bunchers and harvesters & disc saw felling heads, John Deere.
“The newly designed FR27 enables loggers of all experience levels to tackle even the most ambitious jobs with confidence knowing their machines are built to endure larger timber and excel in a variety of forestry applications.”
The FR27 Disc Saw Felling Head is designed to take on a variety of timber applications, from large single stem cutting to mid-sized accumulation, and boasts an allnew design.
John Deere says this robust, high rotation felling head features excellent cut and accumulation capacity, offering top-of-the-line productivity compared to previous models.
Building upon the success of the field proven FR24B, the FR27 features an updated frame and wrist design, which includes a tall horn, long harvesting arms and continuous hose routings that promote easy machine clean-out. The hardened saw housing wear plates are now standard and offer improved saw housing wear resistance.
Additionally, the FR27 offers bolt-on saw housing for improved serviceability, with three separate saw housing sections with integrated skis getting you back on the job sooner. The incorporated large side chip exhaust chute minimizes build up and plugging, keeping your machine up and running. The side chip exhaust chute also includes a cover that can be added or removed depending on application
Starting now, the FR27 are available for purchase on the 800 and 900 M-Series Feller Bunchers models.
