SITE VISIT
KOMATSU FORWARDERS
SPRING 2021 ISSUE 6 • £4.20
IRISH CONTRACTOR DEMONSTRATES WHY THE 835 FORWARDER IS HARD TO BEAT
POCKET POWER
RANGE-TOPPING KRANMAN WITH BAGS OF SWEDISH CHARM
WOOD ENERGY
MUS-MAX WOOD TERMINATOR DELIVERS THE GOODS
FLEET FOCUS
JOHN DEERE HARVESTERS AND FORWARDERS IN ACTION
CLASSIC FORESTRY: THE ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION
A LONG WAY
TOGETHER
FS 216 No matter how challenging your needs, FS 216 is your best ally for all operations with loggers and skidders. This aramid-belted forestry tyre has a robust log design with optimum angle and larger width for enhanced traction performance. FS 216 provides excellent cut and chip resistance as well as maximum protection against possible damages at any time. FS 216 is BKT’s response to your needs even under the most critical operating conditions in forestry.
IMPORTER FOR THE UK
BKT FP.indd 1
Tel: +44 0151 728 4171 bkt_enquiries@kirkbytyres.co.uk www.kirkbytyres.co.uk
18/03/2021 16:58
ED’S LETTER
SITE VISIT
KOMATSU FORWARDERS EDITOR Kyle Molyneux kyle@sundialmagazines.co.uk ART DIRECTOR David ‘Spike’ McCormack ADVERTISEMENT SALES Clive Coe 020 8639 4402, Alex Cronin 020 8639 4405 Tom Pickford 020 8639 4417 ADMINISTRATOR Martin Attis 020 8639 4409 PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Paul Cosgrove 020 8639 4401 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Paul Argent, Eoghan Daly, Stuart Gibbard, Terry Oborne and David Wylie Forestry Machinery is published by Sundial Magazines Ltd, Sundial House, 17 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS TEL 020 8639 4400 FAX 020 8639 4411 EMAIL info@forestrymachinerymagazine.co.uk WEB www.forestrymachinerymagazine.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS Earthmovers subscriptions, Trinity House, Sculpins Lane, Wethersfield, Essex, CM7 4AY TEL +44 (0)1371 853632 EMAIL earthmovers@escosubs.co.uk Farm Machinery Journal subscriptions, Trinity House, Sculpins Lane, Wethersfield, Essex, CM7 4AY TEL +44 (0)1371 853634 EMAIL farmmachineryjournal@escosubs.co.uk NEWSTRADE Seymour Distribution, 2 East Poultry Avenue London, EC1A 9PT TEL 020 7429 4000 REPRO Design & Printing Solutions Ltd, The Coach House 101 Northwood Road, Whitstable, Kent CT5 2HE TEL 01227 770034 PRINTING Walstead Southernprint, 17-21 Factory Road, Upton Industial Estate, Poole, Dorset, BH16 5SN COPYRIGHT Sundial Magazines Ltd 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. Sundial Magazines Ltd. Registered in England no. 4134490. CONDITIONS FOR ADVERTISING All advertisements are accepted subject to the publisher’s standard conditions of insertion. For a copy of advertising terms & conditions, please write to Paul Cosgrove at Sundial Magazines Ltd, Sundial House, 17 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS
SPRING 2021 ISSUE 6 • £4.20
Spring 2021 Issue 6
IRISH CONTRACTOR DEMONSTRATES WHY THE 835 FORWARDER IS HARD TO BEAT
POCKET POWER
RANGE-TOPPING KRANMAN WITH BAGS OF SWEDISH CHARM
WOOD ENERGY
MUS-MAX WOOD TERMINATOR DELIVERS THE GOODS
FLEET FOCUS
COVER IMAGE Eoghan Daly
JOHN DEERE HARVESTERS AND FORWARDERS IN ACTION
CLASSIC FORESTRY: THE ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION
WELCOME
to Forestry Machinery, the magazine dedicated to modern forestry equipment. The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have had a dramatic effect on how businesses operate, many of which have been faced with the same decision: adapt or die. Plant auctioneer Ritchie Bros chose the former. With uncertainty surrounding attendance at its events, the company began providing more information about machines via the internet, including extra pictures and videos of equipment, and took the whole auction process online. It’s had quite an effect. “We have been selling forestry equipment worldwide for decades with a wellestablished customer base, especially in core countries like Canada,” explained Rupert Craven, UK and Ireland Sales Director for Ritchie Bros. “With the move to online auctions last year, we have seen a big uplift in registered bidders across the globe and a change in the type of bidders who now buy from us. There are many more businesses and individuals that now outnumber dealers, for example.” But what does all this mean for buyers and sellers of used forestry machinery? “The pandemic has also impacted supply and demand as factory shutdowns have led to increased prices, especially for younger equipment,” Rupert continued. “This has particularly impacted sectors with specialist equipment and attachment requirements like forestry. In turn, this has led to more sellers taking advantage of realising strong asset values.” Online auctions are nothing new, yet Ritchie Bros and other auction firms in this industry are learning fast – and that can only mean good things for those in the market for ‘new’ used kit, no matter where they are in the world. “Around 70% of equipment we sell in the UK is shipped overseas, and we have our own in-house logistics team to support buyers with shipping,” Rupert said. When it comes to buying machinery at an online auction, Rupert’s advice is to remove as much uncertainty from the process as possible by doing your homework on machines that take your fancy and creating a ‘watch list’ of equipment you’re interested in based on your budget. “If you are outbid on your first preference, you can switch to others knowing they meet your needs.” Kyle Molyneux, Editor MOD ERN MAC HINE
NEWS
EARTHMOVERS
T & MACHINERY ALL THE LATEST PLAN NUMBER ONE FOR
APRIL 2021 £4.20
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Satisfy your appetite for off-road machines with Earthmovers and Farm Machinery Journal – the magazines for owners, operators and contractors AVAILABLE NOW
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April 2021 // Issue
84 // £4.20
9-PAGE SPECIAL
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BEHIND THE CONTROLS OF THE ALL-NEW
MASSEY FERGUSON 8S REVIEWED
HORSCH DISC DRILL, KRONE BALER & KUBOTA SCRAPER TRACTORS
EXPERT ADVICE
WHY 250HP AND THE RIGHT TYRES ARE KEY TO
SAVING SOILS
FARM SAFETY
HOW TO REDUCE THE LOADING AND SECURRISK WHEN ING BALES
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
3
Experience the Progress.
Material handling equipment Quality Liebherr components optimise entire machine performance Advanced proportionally controlled hydraulic system maximises productivity New spacious cab design promotes operator comfort Extensive glazing significantly enhances visibility for safer working
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Liebherr FP.indd 1 2009-501_017 LHB_130_LH35M_Timber_EarthmoverMgz_GB_GB.indd 1
12/03/2021 09:47 24.02.21 17:58
CONTENTS
CONTENTS SPRING 2021
REGULARS 3
WELCOME Buying used machinery in online auctions
7
NEWS The latest updates and developments
10 NEWS EXTRA Ponsse launches an immersive simulator
FEATURES 12 NEW PRODUCT CASE TRACTOR & FORESTRY PACK Kneidinger and Thanhofer work their magic
16 SITE VISIT KOMATSU 835 FORWARDERS Camross Transport’s new equipment
22 FLEET FOCUS ROSMEAD LTD Big fans of John Deere machinery
28 WOOD ENERGY MUS-MAX 11XL Z Wood Energy Wales’ new chipper
36 COMPACT HARVESTER KRANMAN 620S PRO Sweden’s solution to affordable harvesting
42 TIMBER HARVESTING FIXTERI BUNDLER Managing invasive species in Ireland
48 UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE SHERP PRO 1000 Ukrainian-built, 4WD amphibious vehicle
54 TREE MOUNDING DEUTZ-FAHR 5115K Crawler tractor with Enviro-Mounder
58 RUNNING REPORT HYBRID LOG LOADER JCB on a Merc Arocs with Jonsered crane
62 WALKING EXCAVATOR MENZI MUCK M545X Steep slopes no issue for this Swiss machine
67 SHOW REPORT FINNMETKO Special kit spotted at the Finnish event
70 CLASSIC FORESTRY ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION Horse power was just the beginning
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
5
RH3016 HARVESTER ROTATOR
HIGHEST TORQUE AND LONGEST SERVICE LIFE
NEWS
FORESTRYMACHINERYNEWS
NEW PONSSE SCORPION E
ight years and 1,200 sales after the first Scorpion harvester arrived, a new generation has been unveiled. The cabin is now even more practical and comfortable, and visibility is improved by a new one-piece front window and new crane arrangement. The new machines also receive Ponsse’s fifth generation Opti 5G information system and a completely upgraded user interface. The Opti 5G system (initially available in Finland and Sweden before coming to other regions) enables the Ponsse Harvester
Active Crane management system, which gives the harvester a new way to control the crane and work more efficiently. The operator can use Active Crane to control the movement of the harvester head instead of individual crane functions. The system also ensures that the crane’s functions slow automatically before the range of movement ends, preventing hits to the mechanical structures and operator. When the operator indicates the required location, Active Crane performs the lift and uses the boom and extension automatically.
FORST STAGE 5 WOODCHIPPERS The new Forst 8D Series woodchippers feature Stage 5 compliant, 55hp Doosan diesel engines and have an 8x10-inch capacity, plus ‘ForstGrip’ feed rollers, an ‘Open Flywheel’ system and ‘AutoIntelligence’ stress control. Available in wheeled and tracked forms, the 8D Series weighs in at 1,450kg for the ST8D, 1,600kg for the TR8D and 2,250kg for the XR8D. The road-going version is easily towed with heavy-duty running gear, fully braked chassis and handbrake. Strengthening measures include supports and gussets in the areas that take the most abuse, plus all-steel panels, a large ‘C’ section and oversized bearings throughout.
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
7
NEWS
GMT GRAPPLE SAWS
D
utch company GMT Equipment has introduced new GMT TTC grapple saws. The ‘Total Tree Control’ range spans GMT035 TTC and GMT050 TTC models with 16- and 20-inch felling diameters respectively. With designs honed over a 10-year period, they combine the advantage of grasping the tree with the ability to keep or hold tree sections in position when removing them. Not only is the tilt cylinder of the grapple blocked, but so is the movement in all directions in the cardanic suspension between rotator and crane. This all makes installation more flexible, and fixed removal can be done at the push of a button.
FARMA TRAILER The new Farma T 17 trailer can be set to carry various wood lengths from bays of 1m firewood to two bays of 3m, thanks to its flexible bank. There is also a choice of bolsters – standard is the traditional bended post design, whilst a forwarder type bolster is optional. The T 17 has a bed length of 5.4m, a loading area of 3.2 cubic metres, and ground clearance of 630mm. The steering drawbar provides 40 degrees of angle, and tyres range from standard width of 500 up to 710. Control systems include simple vario dial to CAMBUS linked synchronised drive systems. The trailer is available with options for a drive system such as Robson or Hydro drive.
NEW SYKETEC DEALER
APF SHOW POSTPONED Organisers of the APF 2021 show have postponed the event for a further year. The show will now run from September 22nd to 24th 2022 at the same venue: Ragley Estate in Warwickshire.
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
Shropshire-based Home Forestry LLP is now a dealer for Finnish harvester head company Syketec. Syketec produces stroke heads, and tractor-mounted processors referred to as the Jobo range, which can also have wheel motors fitted to speed up delimbing (if the base machine has the required oil flow). The Jobo 50 ST and Jobo 75 ST can be mounted on forest cranes, and EX models are designed for excavator bases.
SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY NEW AND USED MACHINERY GMT GRAPPLE SAW • • • •
Saw, fell, prune and transport trees safely withh one machine. Total Tree Control (TTC) Interchangeable between many different base machines. GMT grapple saw enables easy plug-and-play installation or. without any changes to your crane or excavator.
OMEF TREE SHEAR • • • • •
Heavy duty Powerful and user friendly machines es capable of dealing with all vegetation tion High quality and unrivalled reliability ity 2 years warranty From de-limbing overhanging branches to whole site clearance, the OMEF tree shears will not let you down
INDECO FIXED TOOTH MULCHER • • •
Indeco IMH series designed for broad range of land clearing, site preparation, invasive vegetation. Tailored to fit a wide range of carriers from 5-50 tonnes Higher productivityy & efficiency
For expert friendly advice/free quote ring:
01506 862 371
www.fieldandforestltd.co.uk sales@fieldandforestltd.co.uk
Field and Forest Machinery Ltd , Unit 1, Brock House, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn, EH52 5AD
NEWS EXTRA PONSSE FULL SIMULATOR
NEXT-GEN TRAINING Simulators are vital for addressing the forest machine operator shortage and assisting existing operators in achieving greater efficiencies – Eoghan Daly reports on the latest system from Ponsse
F
attached to three 55-inch screens which, innish manufacturer Ponsse is thanks to the Full Simulator’s excellent renowned for its sophisticated forestry graphics, mimic the effect of machinery and recently looking through a front cab hit a milestone. In October “THE SIM’S window towards an over-cab 2020, the company delivered its EXCELLENT boom. 16,000th machine, an Ergo GRAPHICS MIMIC There’s also a Ponsse Opti harvester, to a Brazilian THE EFFECT OF information system that is customer operating on a LOOKING modelled on technology found eucalyptus plantation. in real forestry machines. The Keen to attract new operators THROUGH A measuring device’s touchscreen to the industry and develop the FRONT CAB goes one step further in terms skills of those already operating WINDOW of realism, being identical to forestry equipment, Ponsse also TOWARDS AN that seen in a genuine forestry offers a range of training OVER-CAB machine. The simulator’s simulators. And now there’s a BOOM” harvester section allows actual new flagship – the Ponsse Full harvesting tasks to be practised, Simulator. Launched in late different thematic exercises to be January 2021 and employing advanced performed, and the operation of a machine’s 4G Optics, the new system comprises an control and measuring system to be operator’s pod and overhead frame
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
studied. In the forwarder section, it is possible to practise how to operate and load a forwarder and control a crane in realistic conditions. The Full Simulator can also be converted for excavator-based harvester training by replacing the handles and pedals. As well as allowing an operator to practice using Ponsse systems, the Full Simulator captures a wealth of data which can be analysed to improve the operator’s efficiency and productivity by correcting any bad habits. Ponsse’s new training device can also simulate machinery malfunctions and teach operators how to overcome them. Ponsse’s more affordable Compact Simulator and Basic Simulator make up the rest of the range, and with over 200 Ponsse sims already in use worldwide, it’s clear that companies are taking their worth seriously.
120°
40°
The new Scorpion is here. The best features are the same as before, only further improved. Good visibility, high stability and excellent ergonomics make the Scorpion a popular choice. A roomier interior and high-quality materials raise the comfort to an entirely new level. Once the door is closed to the outside world, all is quiet, elegant and in the right place. Active Crane is like an arm that can reach for the trunk without needing to think through every motion. It makes the crane easier to use, helping new operators in particular to work more economically and without stressing the machine’s structures. The boom’s end damping prevents shocks in extreme positions. This reduces the stress on the crane and improves comfort. The solution is technically simple and remains reliable even in extreme conditions.
Ponsse FP.indd 1
102°
40°
10° 0°
VISIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS 90° 88°
56° 44°
58° 56°
95° 88°
12/03/2021 10:00
TEAM EFFORT Case IH partners Kneidinger 1880 and Thanhofer transform a Maxxum 125 CVX for forestry work, as Kyle Molyneux reports
A
Case IH Maxxum 125 CVX tractor has undergone serious conversion work for use in the UK’s forestry sector. Joining this tractor’s already high specification including variable speed transmission plus front and rear linkage with PTOs, is a forestry pack installed by two engineering companies located close to Case IH’s St Valentin factory in Austria. Specialists Kneidinger 1880 and Thanhofer offer various conversions for Case IH tractors, from Farmalls to Magnums, with varying degrees of sophistication. Wearing Nokian Multi-plus Forest 500/65R28 and 600/65R38 tyres on forest rims, this near-finished Maxxum was shipped from the Case IH factory to Kneidinger, where the standard cab was adapted to provide more space for a new 180-degree swivel seat complete with controls integrated into the armrest for operating the tractor in the reverse position.
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IMAGES TERRY OBORNE The operator is afforded quite a view to the rear whilst being protected.
NEW PRODUCT | CASE IH MAXXUM WITH FORESTRY PACK
Nokian’s Multi-plus Forest 500/65R28 and 600/65R38 tyres beef up this tractor.
Further increasing cab space is the relocated air conditioning filter, which now hides neatly within the rear fender on the left-hand side. The factory steering and drive pedal configurations were left alone, but Kneidinger could mount these at the rear if a customer wished.
READY FOR ACTION Kneidinger also adapted the cab roof so that the rear half has a panoramic view – ideal for crane and other treetop operations whilst the driver is seated in the reverse position. Both the panoramic roof and rear window are made of 12mm polycarbonate material for additional protection against flying debris from mulchers, falling objects and similar. Following Kneidinger’s work, the special Maxxum was sent 60km south to Thanhofer, where guarding was added to the front axle, fuel/exhaust system and cab – the latter now fully OPS and FOPS certified to ISO
Above: Under guards fitted by Thanhofer. Top right: Pedal and steering set ups untouched. Right: Space was found for this swivel seat.
THE STANDARD CAB WAS ADAPTED TO PROVIDE MORE SPACE FOR A NEW 180-DEGREE SWIVEL SEAT” FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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CASE IH MAXXUM WITH FORESTRY PACK | NEW PRODUCT Additional protection for the cab colour-coded to the bodywork; wheels made by British firm BWT.
8083 & 8084 standard. Once complete, the Maxxum returned to Case IH’s St Valentin plant for final quality control checks before being shipped to the UK. In all, the full-scale conversion work took about a month and a half including shipping over and above standard production time. The final piece of the jigsaw were the heavy-duty dual wheels built and supplied in the UK by BWT in Essex.
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
THE TRANSMISSION CAN ALSO PROVIDE FULL TRACTIVE POWER ACROSS THE WHOLE SPEED RANGE” Below: Forestry spec Maxxum’s four-cylinder engine develops 125hp and 637lbNm torque at a useful 1,500rpm.
This forestry spec Maxxum is rated at 125hp with 637Nm torque at 1,500rpm, and meets Stage 4b emission standards, in part thanks to its maintenance-free Hi-eSCR selective catalytic reduction system without any EGR. When under traction and PTO loading, engine output will automatically boost to a maximum of 155hp. The Maxxum’s four-cylinder engine is linked to a CVX Drive double-clutch transmission capable of providing uninterrupted power flow from standstill to the tractor’s top speed. The DCT can also provide full tractive power across the whole speed range, which is important when operating de-stoners, planters and mulchers on undulating land or that which, for example, consists of differing soil types. Although UK demand for full-scale tractor conversions suited to the forestry sector is relatively small, Case IH’s Andy Whiley told Forestry Machinery that the company and its partners are ready to create more of these beasts. “Our dealers and ourselves will be keeping an eye open for any available forestry business requiring this type of equipment, and indeed any agricultural business requiring reverse drive/seating arrangement.” Look out for these impressive conversions at future forestry equipment shows.
The Doosan DX160 High Track is purpose built for all your forestry needs – additional ground clearance to track over stumps when mounding greatly increasing productivity. Also available with two pump flow for mulching duties. Low ground pressure and high stability/digging forces are combined with a powerful 85.9 KW, 115 HP engine and extra durability is provided by the reinforced track frame and double supported top rollers.
Doosan FP.indd 1
12/03/2021 09:39
COMPACT CLASS Eoghan Daly reports on the latest Komatsu 835 forwarders acquired by County Laois-based harvesting and haulage company, Camross Transport IMAGES EOGHAN DALY
C
amross Transport recognised the potential of Komatsu forest machines earlier than most other Irish forestry businesses. Following a long and successful relationship with the company, Camross founders Barry Cuddy and John Ryan have recently started a new chapter with Komatsu by investing in some of the manufacturer’s latest generation models. The two new and almost identical 835 forwarders partner 901XC and older, six-wheeled 901 harvesters. In terms of technology, these machines are a far cry from Camross Transport’s first black cab Valmet 911 harvester and 840 forwarder used 15 years ago, but the newer machines remain robust and dependable. The Komatsus are proving their worth on Coillte
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plantations fulfilling long term harvesting contracts, and on jobs harvesting private forestry plantations over a wide area. They are as comfortable working in thinnings as they are clear fell operations. Barry and John have much experience in timber harvesting and initially ran successive Komatsu 911s and 840s. The need for an eight-wheeled harvester was satisfied by a used Silvatec 886 TH (pictured right) fitted with a new Komatsu 350.1 harvesting head.
“THE KOMATSU FORWARDERS ARE BEGINNING TO DEMONSTRATE HOW EFFECTIVE THEY CAN BE OVER LONG TERM UTILISATION”
The base machine was comprehensively refurbished to ensure maximum return on the investment and, thanks to its immense oil flow and capable crane arrangement, the Silvatec worked effectively as a front line harvester for a number of years. However, from this point onwards Camross Transport vowed to purchase new equipment and to replace machines on a more regular basis whenever possible. The first addition was a new Komatsu 840TX forwarder, which was a popular machine at the time based on its special design considerations to ensure greater compatibility with thinning applications over a standard 840 model. Operating over 9,000 hours without issue, the 840TX was a real ambassador for the new generation of forest machines from Komatsu following
SITE VISIT | KOMATSU 835 FORWARDERS
Above: The 105F crane offers a maximum reach of 9.5m. Right: Silvatec 886 TH with Komatsu 350.1 harvesting head. Below left inset: Barry Cuddy runs Camross with John Ryan. rebranding from Valmet. “The older, black cab Valmets may have been great machines, even in used form, but the new 840TX proved to us there are real benefits in buying new and replacing machines more often,” John explained. “That first new 840TX worked really well for us and it genuinely gave no trouble over the time we were running it, which made the choice of the 835 an easy one when the TX came up for replacement.”
extraction often containing reasonable volumes of sawlog material over long hauls, the 835 forwarder concept is a mighty one. Barry operated the company’s first 835 for a lengthy period of time before returning to the timber haulage aspect of the company’s operations and fondly recalls the experience. “The 835 proved to be a fantastic all-round
GOING ALL IN By this time, John and Barry’s appreciation for Komatsu’s base harvester units and harvester heads was growing too. This led to further fleet enhancements with help from Komatsu. While the harvesters have many positive attributes in their own right, the 835 forwarders are beginning to demonstrate how effective they can be over long term utilisation. Able to withstand intensive operation in all-round extraction roles while still having a high percentage of clear fell
Above: The main screen displays a wealth of information on machine performance and is duplicated up front.
forwarder from the start. I don’t think there is another machine that has the kind of power and capacity it gives. Coming from the 840TX, which was already a good machine, the new 835 was just on another level in every way.” Three years on and with over 6,000 hours recorded, the 835 (now operated by Adam Kinahan) is returning the same level of performance as it did when new. It has not suffered any major malfunction or difficulty on a job, and has just required replacement of typical wear parts and routine servicing. With the first 835 initially serving as the operation’s main forwarder and extracting from two harvesters much of the time, the need arose for a second forwarder to create two machine teams. Once again, Camross Transport turned to Komatsu and purchased a used 830, which underwent reconditioning before entering service to ensure maximum performance and reliability. Performing admirably for two years, the 830 was then replaced by a second new Komatsu 835 during the autumn of 2019. Practically identical in specification to the first 835, excepting a few minor refinements such as a levelling seat and marginally longer load bunk on the original machine, the second 835 has been operated by FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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Sean Cuddy, the nephew of Barry and John, who rates it very highly indeed. “The Komatsu 835 punches well above its weight for clear fells and is still a compact machine for thinning. Its first nine months have been trouble-free and it has worked really well in a big range of site types. Upgrading from the little 830 was a big step forward and even though the 835 is still a very tidy machine, the sense of stability it gives even with bigger hauls of sawlog in clear fell is just amazing.” To date, the second 835 has clocked up 3,600 hours in 18 months. Despite being the smallest forwarder in Harvester operator Declan Delaney with Sean Cuddy who serves as the Komatsu range, the 835 offers an operator on the newer 835 forwarder. all-round timber extraction solution. The 11-tonne payload capacity is achieved within a compact footprint, which is all the more so 835 crane has plenty of power and speed, and handles very well,” Sean said. “It has the with the shorter load bunks seen here, speed for picking logs fast in thinning and which aid manoeuvrability when turning power to handle sawlog in clear fell even into and out of thinned racks. This when working on a slope.” manoeuvrability is also assisted by the 835’s The Komatsu forwarder concept has overall width of 2.85m, while the evolved little in recent years, and the cab 710/45x24.5 tyres ensure its suitability for lacks the slewing and levelling capabilities thinning. According to operator Sean, the offered by some competitors, but these 835’s stability is another plus point. “I points do not mean second rate operating started operating forwarders 18 months experience, as Sean confirmed. “Visibility is ago, beginning with Komatsu 830, which was a great forwarder to gain experience on. great, which is very important especially in thinnings, and everything is laid out the way The new 835 is a big step forward from that you would want it – most controls are machine and it is hard to describe how located on the armrest keypads.” stable it feels, even with a full load. The 835 The low set cabin windows provide an works at a level well beyond what is expected unobstructed view all around the machine of it based on its size class.” and especially towards the load bunk and Running on unbalanced bogies, the 835 tackles terrain particularly well and does not most importantly down to the front wheels, which is all too often a blind spot on some dig in and cause ground damage on the forwarder cabin designs. While most more sensitive sites, partly thanks to its 600mm of ground clearance. Other benefits manufacturers present operators with a single display when they’re facing the load of the 835 include a transmission that bunk, the 835 serves up two machine delivers high tractive force of 159kN, control screens strategically allowing the operator to make positioned within eyeshot the most of that awesome stability irrespective of the direction and advance forward with TECH SPECS of travel. In addition, when confidence. Backing the Komatsu 835 facing rearward another transmission is the turbocharged, WEIGHT 15,850kg monitor displays footage from Agco Power 49 AWF-4V fourLOAD CAPACITY 11,000kg a camera looking towards the cylinder engine, which provides front, boosting safety. 127kW of power and 750Nm of WIDTH 2.85m on torque. Clearly, meeting the Tier 710/45x24.5 tyres 4 Final emissions standard hasn’t ENGINE Agco Power 49 AWF- HARVESTERS affected the engine’s 4V four-cylinder turbo with Camross Transport isn’t just a intercooler performance. “We have always fan of Komatsu’s forwarders found Komatsu’s machines – the company is equally POWER 127kW efficient and this hasn’t changed TORQUE 750Nm@1,500rpm impressed by Komatsu’s with the latest models,” said John. six-wheeled 901 and eightTRANSMISSION ComputerThe 835’s main MaxiXplorer wheeled 901XC harvesters controlled hydrostatic system allows the operator to and their accompanying mechanical tailor the machine to their heads. The older 901 is fitted TRACTIVE FORCE 159Kn individual style and level of with a C93 harvesting head HYDRAULICS Single-circuit proficiency. Performanceand has worked for thousands load sensing with variable maximising adjustments can be of hours without incident, as displacement piston pump made to the integrated Komatsu John confirms. “It’s hard to 105F crane too, which offers 9.5m OIL FLOW 280 litres per believe this 901 has now minute of reach in the single telescopic worked over 8,000 hours. CRANE Komatsu 105F extension spec pictured. “The Over that time it has
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
REACH ALTERNATIVES 7.7/9.5/10m
“THE 835 WORKS AT A LEVEL WELL BEYOND WHAT IS EXPECTED OF IT BASED ON ITS SIZE CLASS”
SITE VISIT | KOMATSU 835 FORWARDERS
Above: Komatsu 901XC is Camross’ most recent harvester and is equipped with a C124 head. Left: Short bunk of newest 835 can still accomodate 4.9m sawlog due to its adjustable headboard.
Right: Komatsu 901 with C93 harvesting head working in thinnings near Kilcash, County Tipperary.
Above: The C93 head is seen as a dynamic performer in thinnings and has the aggression to handle roughly limbed spruce too.
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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KOMATSU 835 FORWARDERS | SITE VISIT
“CAMROSS TRANSPORT IS EQUALLY IMPRESSED BY KOMATSU’S HARVESTERS AND HEADS”
Adam Kinahan extracts thinnings whilst taking advantage of the older 835’s compact dimensions.
FROM SIX TO EIGHT
Power for the 835 forwarder is served up by an efficient Agco Power four-cylinder engine. harvested a lot of rough, coarsely branched timber, which has tested the build quality of the head. The C93 is a very sweet head in thinnings and still has plenty of power to handle rough timber, as it just powers them through,” he said. “There are no signs of wear on the head anywhere and it’s still incredibly tight. There is no wear on bushings throughout the head and we only replaced the measuring wheel
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bearings for the first time recently. That’s a great return from the head after those kind of hours,” John continued. “It has never needed an encoder replacement either. The availability of parts is first class, too.” When the time came to purchase a partner for the six-wheeled 901, Komatsu’s eight-wheeled 901XC with the higher capacity C124 harvesting head was a no-brainer for Camross Transport.
Offering much more than just two extra wheels, the new 901XC has brought with it a new level of performance with even greater compatibility with all-round harvesting situations. The older 901 has never been fitted with rear wheel chains and still succeeds in climbing without rutting. Similarly, the new 901XC is running with band tracks over the front bogies, but is unable to run rear tracks without affecting its overall width. The additional floatation it offers with its eight-wheel design is consolation though, as John concludes. “Even though the sixwheeled 901 continues to work very well, the eight-wheeled 901XC has big advantages on some sites. They are a first class base machine and even though they have a more traditional cab and crane arrangement, the design has been honed over time and provides excellent levelling ability. The 901 also has a level of comfort that is second to none.”
Our Wheeled Harvesters
Cutting edge technology. Impressive stability. The Komatsu harvesters have been in the forefront of productivity enhancing technologies for decades, and the best days are still ahead. In everything from smarter thinning to heavy duty final felling. Choosing a red harvester will get you maximised productivity from day one and many years to come. Komatsu offers an impressive line-up of market-leading harvesters that are paired with equally impressive services. The power to deliver Birdhill, Co. Tipperary Tel: 061 -379112 / Fax: 061-379450 Email: info@mchaleplant.com
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www.mchaleplantsales.com
STAMP
OF APPROVAL
IMAGES EOGHAN DALY
Eoghan Daly meets Irish contractor Dave Slattery and finds out why he and his brother Ger have stayed loyal to the John Deere brand
H
aving devoted his entire working life to timber harvesting, County Cork-based contractor Dave Slattery of Rosmead Ltd has seen much change in the 50 years he has served the industry, most notably the transition to mechanisation. Dave currently undertakes clear fell operations for the Fermoy, County Cork sawmill of Glennon Brothers Ltd, and holds a long term clear fell harvesting contract for Coillte.
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Working mainly across counties Cork, Waterford and Tipperary, a wide variety of terrain is encountered and that puts extra pressure on his equipment. Regular upgrading is part of the operation’s development philosophy, with both harvesters and forwarders replaced often in the interests of maintaining productivity and machine reliability. The most recent addition to Dave’s fleet is the latest generation John Deere 1470G
harvester, which replaced a 1470E model. Directed towards the largest volume and most demanding clear fell contracts, the machine is complimented by an eightwheeled 1270G harvester. Extraction from both harvesters is completed by two John Deere 1510G forwarders, with one run by Dave and the second owned by his brother Ger. The two brothers work in tandem in the forest industry and have pooled their equipment resources for many years.
FLEET FOCUS | ROSMEAD LTD Bottom left inset: Dave Slattery (centre) with John Walsh (left) and Kieran Roche.
Below, below centre and bottom: Dave’s first Timberjack 1270A; Timberjack 810B; Komatsu PC210-6LC with Timberjack 762B head.
Above: The 1270G is particularly effective in densely limbed material when fitted with a H415 head.
Below and right inset: A large screen takes centre stage in the John Deere 1470G with H415 harvesting head.
“THE MOST RECENT ADDITION TO DAVE’S FLEET IS THE LATEST GENERATION JOHN DEERE 1470G HARVESTER” This arrangement is not the only constant, however. The brothers’ allegiance to John Deere is considered crucial to their success, as Dave explained. “We have never changed from John Deere and have really got to know the machines very well over the years, which is a big advantage when it comes to running them over the longer term. As we understand how they are made up and work, when we do have a problem we have a greater chance of being able to resolve it, and have also built a very strong working relationship with John Deere Forestry Ireland over the years, which gives us a high standard of service.”
FMG Timberjack 1270A with 762B harvesting head. Timberjack was taken over by John Deere in 2000, but Dave’s connection to the brand goes back even further than that, having run FG and Bruunett forwarders which later became part of the Timberjack brand. Dave’s first Bruunett 578F forwarder was purchased as a used machine and, although basic, was a major step forward from the tractor and winch combinations he previously used to extract prefilled whole tree lengths from gangs of chainsaw men. “Originally, I had County tractors with
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY Dave established his timber harvesting company Rosmead Ltd in 1995 when he purchased his first timber harvester – a new
Right: Both Dave and Ger Slattery have their own 1510G forwarders.
winches and even though we took out a lot of timber with them, things were moving on and I decided it was time to upgrade to a forwarder in the late 1980s,” Dave remembered. “The used Bruunett 578F made a big difference and after a few years made way for the newer type Bruunett 678 forwarder. Even though the machines were similar in lots of ways, you could still see progress in the design. They were great machines for their time.” Convinced by the benefits of mechanisation, Dave remained loyal to what was by then Timberjack, replacing the Bruunett 678 with his first 810B model. At the time, machines were restricted to the extraction element of the operation, with all felling and FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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1510G’s versatile bunk facilitates multiple bay configurations.
“THE 1470G PROVIDES SUPERIOR CRANE POWER AND DISPLAYS AN INCREDIBLY ROBUST BUILD QUALITY” processing still done by a team of chainsaw operators. However, it was becoming increasingly difficult to recruit the necessary manpower in this vital area, which made the purchase of a timber harvester a necessity.
THE NEXT STEP Dave’s first harvester came in 1995 – a six-wheeled, purpose-built Timberjack 1270A. At the time, many contractors were taking the more affordable route to mechanised harvesting by converting a tracked excavator to host a harvesting head, and Dave did go this route later on when he needed to increase harvesting capacity (see the Komatsu on page 23). Dave transitioned from the original 1270
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Above and above right: Measuring wheel of H415 head is mounted on a cylinder which maintains contact with the log. harvesters to the bigger 1470G to handle the larger-volume clear fell operations for Glennon Brothers. The premature clear fell work for Coillte is looked after by the 1270G. All machines bought since the excavator-based harvester have been wheeled, purpose-built harvester base units. Having previously run a 1470E, Dave fully appreciates the 1470G’s high level of proficiency when it comes to intensively harvesting commercial timber on
challenging site types. Arriving during October 2020, Dave’s latest 1470G model is fitted with a H415 harvesting head that is already proven on the fleet, thanks to its fitment on the firm’s 1270G 8WD harvester. The 1470G provides superior crane power and displays an incredibly robust build quality that makes it ideal for harvesting large trees in harsh conditions. Dave’s machine is off to a great start having harvested a range of sites in its first six months of service. While average
FLEET FOCUS | ROSMEAD LTD
THREE DECADES WITH 1270s Dave Slattery’s first 1270 marked the beginning of a timber harvesting legacy spanning over three decades. “At the time, if you needed a reliable and well-proven harvester for larger timber in clear fells, there were few alternatives to compete with the Timberjack 1270A,” he said. “That first harvester served us really well and when the time came for an upgrade, moving to the next generation was an automatic choice.” A succession of 1270 harvesters followed Dave’s first 1270A, with each new machine providing notable improvements over the last. This development ultimately led to one of the most significant changes when John Deere introduced the new eight-wheeled variant of the machine and Dave was one of the first Irish contractors to make the transition to this new configuration. Now running the second unit of this type, the current 1270G 8WD is matched to the long term Coillte clear fell contract. The machine delivers a high degree of compatibility with a diverse range of site types and really comes into its own on steep or lower weight bearing ground conditions. Despite the effectiveness of previous six-wheeled 1270s, the eight-wheel configuration is far more capable in challenging site types. Operated by Dave’s nephew Kevin Slattery, the machine’s balanced form and impressive stability are greatly appreciation, as Kevin confirmed. “This is our second eight-wheeled 1270G and it’s worked over 3,000 hours so far without problems. The first machine was replaced after over 10,000 hours and had a H480C head that was replaced by a new H415 towards the end of its time with us. The eight-wheeled 1270Gs are in a different league to the six-wheeled version when working on hills or wetter ground. The bogie at the back makes an unbelievable difference, with that extra weight making it much more balanced when harvesting downhill.” As the machine is mostly intended for clear fell operations,
tree sizes may be on the decline in Ireland, the 1470G recently harvested a Sitka Spruce stand with a 1.5 cubic metre average size. This provided us with an opportunity to see the machine working at the upper end of its application range, including its 11m CH9 parallel crane, and its performance was highly impressive. The degree of control afforded by the crane and head when felling these large trees served as a reminder of its proficiency in demanding clear fells, and the way the 1470G effectively delimbed coarsely branched crowns while maintaining measurement accuracy must also be applauded. Machine stability is assisted by the fitment of 750mm tyres on the front bogies, while narrower 710mm TRS thread pattern units are favoured for the rear.
GREEN SUPREME The G model’s advances over the E are particularly notable when it comes to engine power and the incorporation of the PPC (Processing Power Control) system with three selectable power ranges. This dual-pump system more effectively manages hydraulic oil flow, with one
Top: Kevin Slattery has been working with his uncle Dave for eight years. Above: 1470G holds steady whilst felling larger stems at near maximum reach. Below: Dave Slattery was an early adopter of John Deere’s 8WD harvester.
it is shod on 710mm tyres that also contribute to its stability and low ground pressure. This in turn allows the 10m reach of the CH7 parallel crane (fitted with John Deere’s Intelligent Boom Control system) to be fully utilised. As the only machine on the Rosmead fleet fitted with the IBC system, the 1270G is seen to have advantages in certain situations. “Not only does the 1270G travel the ground very well, it also has great power and speed to the crane and head. The hydraulics run really well to get the most out of the machine. It’s in a totally different class to earlier 1270s, with John Deere really stepping up to the mark in taking it forward in this area over previous models.” The H415 harvesting head also comes in for praise from Kevin, working very well with a wide variety of timber classifications. “With a base unit like the 1270G behind it, the H415 really is a brilliant head,” he said. “Even though we did have a head with dual-speed motors before, the heads on both harvesters are now singlespeed feed roller motors which are working fine for us. No matter whether it’s working in small or larger volume timber with rough or a few branches, the head handles it all equally well and has been very reliable, with log measurement remaining very accurate too.”
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ROSMEAD LTD | FLEET FOCUS The 1510G run by Dave Slattery has recorded over 7,000 hours of trouble-free operation.
pump powering the crane and the second responsible for the head during normal processing operation. The system directs the flow from one pump to machine movement when travel is necessitated, with the other pump responsible for driving both the crane and head at that time. The system achieves maximum output from all machine elements while aiding overall efficiency.
TRIED AND TESTED Upscaling also applies to Dave and Ger Slattery’s choice of forwarder, as they view such machines as vital for demanding clear fell assignments. Dave ran a range of different size classes before settling on the 1-tonne capacity 1510Gs. “When working in bigger clear fells, forwarders like the 1510Gs are a must. We may have started out with smaller machines, but in the longer term they can’t keep pace with a harvester in bigger timber over longer hauls. The 1510G has a very worthwhile load capacity and handles steep ground very well.” Ger also began with an FMG Bruunett 678, followed by Timberjack 810Bs and then
“WORKING AS OWNEROPERATORS, THE SLATTERY BROTHERS ALSO APPRECIATE THEIR MACHINES’ LEVEL OF REFINEMENT” a larger Timberjack 1110. A number of 1210 models followed that, with the final Timberjack unit – a 1210E – replaced by the current 1510G. Extracting mainly from the 1270G on Coillte clear fell contracts, the upgrade to the 1510G has been a positive one for Ger. “The extra 3-tonne load capacity makes a massive difference to production. It is as gentle on the ground as the smaller machine and has more power to handle the greater load capacity and cope with climbing. I have nothing but praise for its performance, reliability and comfort.” Dave and Ger remain extremely supportive of the whole John Deere forwarder concept and are endlessly impressed by the high performance level,
SLATTERY TIMBER HARVESTING FLEET Dave Slattery - Rosmead Ltd Machine John Deere 1470G harvester with H415 head John Deere 1270G 8WD harvester with IBC and H415 head John Deere 1510G forwarder
Year 2020
Hours 1,100
2019
3,500
2018
7,100
2019
5,000
Ger Slattery John Deere 1510G forwarder
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positive tractive abilities and overall build strength. The machines feature the John Deere Adaptive Driveline Control system, which controls engine rpm, while three working modes ensure power and tractive force are optimised for specific demands.
ALL THE TRIMMINGS Working as owner-operators, the Slattery brothers also appreciate their machines’ level of refinement, as well as the slewinglevelling cabins. “With the levelling and rotating cabin, I don’t think any other forwarder can compare from an operator’s comfort point of view. This is my third machine with this type of cab and I wouldn’t even think of a fixed cab option now. “The first 1210E I had gave some problems with the cab,” he continued, “but the manufacturer has since perfected the design. This 1510G is working very well with no problems whatsoever.”
Above inset: Ger Slattery at his 1510G’s controls.
Left: There is no doubting these machines’ quality.
ŝŽŵĂƐƐ ŚŝƉƉĞƌƐ DƵůĐŚĞƌƐ ƌĂŶĞ DŽƵŶƚƐ dƌĂĐƚŽƌ 'ƵĂƌĚŝŶŐ &ŽƌĞƐƚƌLJ tŝŶĐŚĞƐ &ŝƌĞǁŽŽĚ WƌŽĐĞƐƐŽƌƐ WŽƌƚĂďůĞ ^ĂǁŵŝůůƐ 'ƌĂƉƉůĞ ^ĂǁƐ dƌĞĞ ^ŚĞĂƌƐ ŽŶĞ ^ƉůŝƩĞƌƐ ^ĂǁĚƵƐƚ džƚƌĂĐƚŽƌƐ tŽŽĚĐŚŝƉ ůŽǁĞƌƐ dŝŵďĞƌ dƌĂŝůĞƌƐ &ŽƌĞƐƚƌLJ ƌĂŶĞƐ
D ,/E Zz ^ > ^ - ^ Zs/ - ^hWWKZd ƐĂůĞƐΛĨƵĞůǁŽŽĚ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ ϬϭϵϮϲ ϰϴϰϲϳϯ ǁǁǁ͘ĨƵĞůǁŽŽĚ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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CHIPPED Forestry Machinery’s Ken Topham returns to Wood Energy Wales for a chat with father-and-son team Huw and Carwyn Owen about their new chipper, a Mus-Max 11XL Z Wood Terminator IMAGES KEN TOPHAM
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WOOD ENERGY | MUS-MAX 11XL Z Left: Huw and Carwyn highly rate the quality of chip from the Mus-Max. Right: Carwyn’s rear view; the 1050 has reverse drive from the factory.
Below right: The new-design drum weighs over two tonnes and has six knives.
THE 11XL Z IS A NEW DESIGN, NOT JUST A BIGGER VERSION OF THE 10X
V
This image: 11XL Z has a voracious appetite - this pile was gone in no time. Right: Control interface is fairly simple and largely self-monitoring.
isiting the edge of Snowdonia National Park during the ‘Beast from the East’ could have been a disaster, and although snow did fall we managed to see Wood Energy Wales’s new Mus-Max 11XL Z Wood Terminator in action. Huw and Carwyn Owen have been running their accompanying Fendt 1050 since 2017, and after a bit of leapfrogging with tractors and chippers they now think the set up is as good as it possibly can be. The Fendt 1050 still holds the most powerful ‘conventional’ tractor crown with 517hp (by conventional, I mean big wheels at the back and small ones at the front). This one is an unusual spec, as it was
bought for forestry power, so no GPS, no central tyre inflation or agricultural frills. Just reverse drive and lots of grunt. The Owens have a mix of work for their chipper but producing high grade G50 chip for CHP systems is the most important role. And when you have your own system, the quality has to be good. When we last saw the Wood Energy Wales outfit at work, we were in the woods and the Mus-Max 10XL Z made enough noise to make you think the world was coming to an end. On this occasion, we were at the company’s base and the chipper’s operation seemed smoother and quieter. The 11XL Z is a new design, not just a bigger version of the 10X, and it’s obvious as soon as the first log goes in. The pitch of the chipper is different as the new drum runs more slowly, down to 240rpm if needed. Carwyn says he usually has it at 350, (which equates to 950rpm PTO speed) where the 10X would be over 400rpm. “It’s a far smoother machine to use, more responsive when it’s loaded and the load monitoring FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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MUS-MAX 11XL Z | WOOD ENERGY TECH SPEC
MUS-MAX 11XL Z WOOD TERMINATOR
FEED OPENING 80X135CM MAX LOG DIAMETER 80CM OUTPUT 240-270M3 POWER REQUIREMENT 350-500HP KNIVES 6 DISCHARGE CHUTE HEIGHT 5.6M SCREEN AREA 2.05M2 CRANE PALFINGER M70F
is better,” he explained. “The 10X is a very good chipper, but this is a different beast.” At the heart of the 11X is a redesigned drum weighing 2.7 tonnes. “The new drum is much kinder to the whole system,” Carwyn continued. “There are six blades versus 12 on the old machine, and they are staggered two by two rather than in rows. The weight of the drum definitely smooths out changes in load. We’re
THERE ARE SIX BLADES VERSUS 12 ON THE OLD MACHINE, AND THEY ARE STAGGERED TWO BY TWO RATHER THAN IN ROWS chipping more per hour, with a slight reduction in fuel use per cube of chip – we’re running between 60 and 85 litres of diesel per hour now.”
CONSISTENCY IS KEY The new drum also has adjustable shoes before the knife, so chip quality can be maximised from different types and sizes of wood. The operator can set the shoes to vary the thickness of the chip, too. “The biomass systems aren’t as sensitive, but CHP systems need a good quality of chip, and that’s where
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Carwyn Owen operates the Mus-Max outfit.
Bed roller adjustable for different sites and loading heights. we think the Mus-Max machine wins with its very consistent size and thickness,” said Huw. Carwyn and Huw dry and screen their chip no matter whether it’s for a customer or not. There was very little small material coming through their screener, and as Carwyn took a batch from the drying floor we could see the material screened was consistent. Any smalls that don’t make the grade are sold for animal bedding, but the pile isn’t growing much from numerous batches. Carwyn said the 11X needs to be full because “it works best that way, and the chip is better.”
The 11X has the 50mm screens fitted all of the time. There are a set of G30 screens, but even for clearance jobs the G50s work well. The 11X has a variable displacement pump for the blower drive – the speed is adjustable and Mus-Max claims 18m of blow from the chute which can discharge at a height of 5.6m. Carwyn reckons it’ll blow 25m if you want it to, but it’s the ability to slow the blower he really appreciates. “We usually run it at 450rpm and the wood trickles out nice and steadily. There’s less dust and loading the trailers is easier –
The sole UK agent for Mus-Max wood chippers one of the leading manufacturer’s in the biomass/renewable energy industry. We can provide the best solutions for you & your business.
• WE OFFER SALES, SERVICES & PRODUCT MAINTENANCE ON OUR WIDE RANGE OF MACHINES • FROM PTO DRIVEN TO DIESEL ENGINES WITH MACHINE SIZE RANGING FROM WT7 UP TO WT12 • WE COVER THE WHOLE OF THE UK • 24-HOUR BREAKDOWN SERVICE
T: 01584 891 307 / M: 07518 810 269 E: ben@mus-max.net / W: www.mus-max.net B.Price Mus-Max Specialist Ltd, The Old Forge, Bitterley Wharf, Bitterley, Ludlow, SY8 3HW
wood energy wales ynni coed cymru We are producers and suppliers of high quality Wood Chip for Biomass & CHP. Our timber is sourced from sustainable managed woodlands and forests. We are BSL and Woodsure Plus / Hetas registered. We supply and deliver Wood Chip to North Wales, Cheshire and Shrewsbury areas. Renewable Heat - Producing and utilizing wood products. Qualified in “Ignite Woodfuel Quality Standards” Lantra Awards 2013 Your trees and logs are easily manoeuvred from various positions using our long reach (25ft) crane. Operated by a NPTC qualified driver. We also have a fleet of Fendt tractors enabling us to deal with any terrain. Our powerful Mus-Max 11 XL Wood-Terminator makes short work of even large tree trunks! Give us a call for a personalised quote, we do on site chipping throughout North Wales, Shrewsbury and Cheshire areas.
Tel: 07769 972 556 / 01492 640 536 Email: huw@woodenergy.wales Web: https://woodenergy.wales Garthmyn Isa, Maenan, Llanrwst, Conwy LL26 0UF FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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MUS-MAX 11XL Z | WOOD ENERGY
you’re not blasting chip everywhere.” Behind the blower are two augers to transport chip to the impeller, which is easy to open for a service or unblocking. Starting the chipper is easier, despite the drum gaining over 1.5 tonnes in weight. “It’s easier to get the PTO turning because you’ve only got the drum mechanically connected now – the hydraulics don’t take much power on start-up,” Carwyn explained. Most of the 11X is now powered by on-board hydraulics. The Fendt 1050 provides plenty of oil through power beyond; the load sensing line can deliver 165l/m so is not short on flow for the crane, which is the only external oil draw. Carwyn has mixed feeling about the change from a Penz crane to Palfinger.
The 11XL Z has a 80x135cm intake and can take a 80cm diameter log.
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Above: Hydraulic blower can be slowed to reduce the discharge velocity.
Above: The variable speed motor on the outside of the 11XL Z’s blower.
While the Palfinger M70F is more protective of its pipes and wires, the M70F doesn’t have as much power as he’d like. “I’m pretty fussy when it comes to feeding the chipper. I try to move the logs to disturb any foreign matter and make sure I can see what I’m loading, as you can end up with knife damage and excessive wear if there’s dirt and stones going in. The Palfinger crane is good and nice to use but could be more powerful.” The Cranab CE280 grab, meanwhile, raised no comment from Huw or Carwyn, which must mean it’s performing as expected.
The process of feeding the beasty 11X has been improved, too. The table is wider and longer than before to meet the 135cm-wide mouth. The feed rollers are also much larger than the previous Mus-Max, though the height increase is only 5cm. The capacity increase comes from the 11X’s 37cm greater width. A wider bed and larger compression system are to be expected.
SIGNS OF PROGRESS Carwyn said the 11X feed monitoring is more dynamic and loads the tractor in a more measured way. “If you made a mistake feeding the old machine, it could stall the engine, which isn’t ideal from full revs. The 11X feeds more smoothly and that causes less variation in rpm, which saves fuel.” The
WOOD ENERGY | MUS-MAX 11XL Z Carwyn knocked out three loads of chippings in 20mins - despite the snow.
roller on the end of the feed bed is hydraulically adjustable to accommodate different load heights and varying site conditions. The roller has a one-way ratchet system to stop logs rolling out that might not have been grabbed by the feeder rollers, increasing the level of safety. Output has pleased Huw and Carwyn. The quoted spec is 240 cubic metres, but Carwyn reckons that’s conservative, saying he can get 240 to 280 with good logs and a flow of trailers, depending on soft or hardwood. “It’s a shade less output than a self-propelled machine, but uses less fuel and provides a more competitive hourly rate,” Carwyn commented. The 11X’s running costs Unloading the chip should be less than the before drying ready older machine, with half for the CHP system. the knives, at £105+ VAT per blade. Carwyn has a set of ‘rough’ blades for clearance jobs and a good set for when they know with some degree of certainty that the risk of damage is
low to none. Sharpening is done with the blades out – a wet sharpener in the workshop puts a fresh edge and correct angle on the blades. Carwyn says he sharpens the blades every week on average.
A FULL HOUSE Wood Energy Wales has grown its fleet since we last saw the company, adding a forwarder, two tractor-mounted attachments, a log skidder and 14-tonne winch, but the highlight is the new Mus-Max. Huw and Carwyn have been very pleased with their latest addition and continuing relationship with Ben Price who distributes Mus-Max throughout the UK. The trailed machine suits their operation perfectly, providing high manoeuvrability in awkward places and capable of getting across a wet field or woodland, plus transport at 65km/h on the road. An all-round outfit.
THE QUOTED OUTPUT IS 240 CUBIC METRES, BUT CARWYN RECKONS HE CAN GET 280 WITH GOOD LOGS Above: Screen area of 2.05m2 ; G50 screens default for WEW.
Below: Fendt’s high level spoon hitch; PTO drive line unrestricted.
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For Sales & Service please contact John Deere Forestry Ltd. Ballyknocken, Glenealy, Co. Wicklow, Ireland Tel: +353 (0)404 44969 (Sales) Contact Ed Power Mob: +353 (0)87 2542570 John deere First DPS with Border.indd 2
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www.johndeere.ie/forestry John deere First DPS with Border.indd 3
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S
wedish manufacturer Kranman AB designs and manufactures harvesting and extraction solutions for smaller scale forestry and in-house harvesting and extraction of thinnings. Initially concentrating on cranes and ATV-based forwarding trailers, the company introduced its Bison compact forwarder in 2011 and moved towards becoming a full line compact forestry equipment producer, developing its first P25 processor in 2016. Following development of the impressive but ultimately compromised Bison 10000X combination machine for forwarding and harvesting during 2017 and 2018, TECH SPEC Kranman shifted its focus to compact harvester production, and the subsequent 520S harvester and latest generation 620S launched in December 2019 model have been particularly successful for the WEIGHT 4,050KG company. WIDTH 1.67M (ON 400MM TYRES) As a dedicated harvester for use by self-employed ENGINE KUBOTA private forest owners, the 620S has simplicity at its FOUR-CYLINDER DIESEL core, making it more affordable and cheaper to run. POWER 19KW The sheer popularity of this machine serves to HYDRAULICS CONSTANT demonstrate how Kranman has succeeded in filling a PRESSURE SYSTEM very important void in the market, with over 20 units CRANE KRANMAN PARALLEL already supplied in its native Sweden and more MOTION WITH LEVELLING BASE recently Finland, where the initial units have gone AND INTEGRATED WINCH into service following last autumn’s FinnMetko MAX REACH 5.4M exhibition (read our report on page 67). HEAD JOBO ST50 STROKE Speaking to Forestry Machinery about the 620S, ACTION TYPE Kranman’s sales manager Björn Blixt was upbeat. “We MAX FELLING DIAMETER 300MM saw a need within the compact harvester market for a
KRANMAN 620S PRO HARVESTER
Front bogie home to hydraulic drive wheel; crane base easy to work on.
SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE Kranman’s new 620S brings mechanised harvesting within reach of private forest owners wishing to thin their own plantations, writes Eoghan Daly IMAGES EOGHAN DALY
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COMPACT HARVESTER | KRANMAN 620S PRO “THE 620S HAS SIMPLICITY AT ITS CORE, MAKING IT MORE AFFORDABLE AND CHEAPER TO RUN”
Jobo ST50 stroke action feed harvesting head.
machine that could be built strong while keeping it simple with no complicated electronics which add to the development and purchase cost and also create potential for problems over the life of the machine. As our customers are private forest owners these values are most important and we are happy to report the 620S has been very well received, which proves there is a strong demand for this type of machine.
FALSE ECONOMY “The purchase of older forest machines is a route often taken by private forestry owners when they need to equip themselves with their own harvester and forwarder,” Björn continued. “This may bring affordability at the start which can soon be reversed by breakdowns that are very complicated and costly to fix. Our machine can be
purchased at less than the cost of a used timber harvester with the added advantage of warranty protection and a much more simple design which can be easily resolved if there is a problem.” Although some may lament the machine’s inability to run a larger roller drive harvesting head, the Jobo ST50 stroke action feed harvesting head is more in-keeping with the machine’s raison d’être, as Björn explained. “A roller drive harvesting head may offer higher production but fitting such a head to our harvester would immediately take away the focus on building a simple machine for private users. If we took the harvester to the roller drive level, we would immediately need a more powerful engine and as a result need to introduce an emissions control system like DPF or SCR. “The hydraulics would also need to be upscaled and also make the machine bigger to carry the extra weight such a head would need so if we had taken this route, then our machine would be no longer a value for money, simple harvester aimed at the private forestry FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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The Kawasaki MULE SX 4x4 rides on 24 inch tyres and offers selectable 2WD and 4WD with Hi-Low dual-range transfer case and rear differential lock. Kawasaki PRO styling, tilting steering wheel and the dependable OHV 410cc engine, 181kg load and 500kg towing capacity make this a true Go-Anywhere vehicle.
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Harvester 620s Pro
ly one original since 2001 There is on
The largest and most equipped of our harvesters
T: +44(0) 7734922064 • E:sales@ffmltd.co.uk • W: www.ffmltd.co.uk
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COMPACT HARVESTER | KRANMAN 620S PRO “THE LOW SET OPERATOR POSITION AND LARGE, SLOPING WINDSCREEN BRING WHOLE TREES INTO VIEW”
market,” he explained. Other important themes that run through the 620S design are high serviceability and easy access to components. These traits ensure that any problems are more easily identified by – and more likely to be resolved by – an operator.
SIZE IS EVERYTHING The Kranman harvester range comprises four models: the basic 520S with a petrol engine, the base line 620S, 620S Comfort and finally the 620S Pro. Keen to see the ultimate iteration of Kranman’s harvester, we caught up with the very first 620S Pro that was about to begin its service life with the first ever purchaser of a Kranman harvester in Finland. Even at first glance, it’s very apparent how easy it is to service this machine. Raising the rear hood, a great amount of space surrounds all major components, this achieved thanks to the machine’s long profile. However, the 620S is by no means a cumbersome machine to manoeuvre through the forest. “The 620S is designed to work with a compact forwarder like our Bison models, which guided the dimensions and turning circle of the harvester at design stage,” Björn explained. “This allowed us to have much space available at the rear of the machine to spread the components out which makes everything really accessible and ensures it is a very easy machine to work on should there be a problem.” The Kubota engine is positioned towards the rear of the compartment, while the cooling radiator takes up the rear most position. Hydraulic elements are located near the front, with the oil cooler ahead of those; the sloping engine hood profile and perforated side panels ensure effective cooling. The compact 620S certainly appears robust and user-friendly, but its 4,050kg weight when fitted with a Jobo ST50 stroke action harvesting head shows Kranman has successfully balanced the need for strength with light weight. Measuring 5.4m long and 1.47m wide, the 620S offers 350mm of ground clearance, which is good for its size. The 620S does without stabilisers too, thanks to Kranman’s positioning of the crane base over the front bogie and a generally low centre of gravity. In addition,
the 620S employs a centre joint stabilisation lock that is automatically applied by a servo valve system once the accelerator pedal is released. Fluid filled tyres are another stabilising feature. Like most compact forest machines, the 620S does not employ driven front bogies and relies instead on a hydrostatic drive sprocket between the wheels to provide propulsion. In contrast, the rear wheels are obviously directly hydraulically driven, with the machine’s hydraulic system adequate to satisfy combined demands from travel, crane and head motion. Based on a constant pressure system running at 190bar, the 23cc pump-equipped 620S model offers greater performance over the 520S model’s gear pump arrangement. Even though Kranman set out to build a simple machine, the company certainly did not forget the importance of a high specification in areas away from the head, as proven by the crane and cabin designs. The in-house developed, parallel action crane provides reassuring strength and reaches to 5.4m without a
Dedicated harvester cabin with great amounts of space and excellent visibility, particularly above the operator’s head.
Dashboard incorporates rear view camera screen and measurement system display together with control switches and dials. FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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KRANMAN 620S PRO | COMPACT HARVESTER “MEASURING 5.4M LONG AND 1.47M WIDE, THE 620S OFFERS 350MM OF GROUND CLEARANCE”
telescopic extension. In the case of this Pro model, a tilting crane base is offered as standard and ensures the reach remains consistent when working on slopes, while removing strain from crane base elements when slewing in such situations.
Access to an engine doesn’t get much better; the 620S is powered by a four-cylinder Kubota diesel motor with a power rating of 19kW.
BOX CLEVER The real test of the crane is working at maximum outreach and felling stems at the upper range of possibility with the ST50 harvesting head, which has a maximum felling diameter of 300mm. Like all stroke A tilting crane action harvesting heads, the reciprocating feed base is fitted as action delivers immense feed force for standard on this delimbing the most stubborn of branches. This range-topping performance compensates for its more sedate Kranman 620S feeding speed, with delimbing conducted in a Pro model. single authoritative action, eliminating the requirement for reverse feeding as is often required with a roller drive head in coarse stands. Another positive of the stroke action head is the fitment of lower knives, which are often absent in smaller roller fed heads and can lead to delimbing compromises where lower branches are present. The head features a length measurement system with 32 preselected lengths feasible through the in-cab control and measurement system. As the only area of sophistication, the head’s measurement system display is integrated into the cab’s dashboard, with all controls positioned on the seat armrests. The low set operator position and large, sloping windscreen bring whole trees into view, whilst the three-pane window arrangement at the rear further boosts visibility and removes potential blind spots. Air conditioning and a general feeling of spaciousness are icing on the cake. Of course, this all means nothing without a high rate of productivity, something Björn said the 620S Pro delivers in spades. “The 620S is capable of a work rate of 50 to 60 trees per hour when harvesting 0.05 to 0.08 cubic metre tree sizes.” This performance, topped off with fuel consumption of 3.5 litres per hour, makes the 620S Pro a highly appealing prospect indeed.
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
KRANMAN BISON 11000 FORWARDER Kranman offers a comprehensive
size class (310mm), the machine
forwarder range including the
benefits from reinforced
largest and most recent
mainframe construction that
introduction, the Bison 11000
doesn’t affect overall weight.
model. Weighing 1,850kg, it has
Simple by design, the Bison
a load capacity of 3 tonnes and
11000 is an ideal companion for
incorporates the largest crane in
the 620S harvester and would
the machines size class, offering
increase the effectiveness of a
a maximum reach of 5.6m. Power
private forestry thinning team.
provision for the machine is by a three-cylinder Kubota engine, while hydraulics are taken care of by two hydrostatic pumps and a single gear pump. Offering the highest ground clearance in its
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BUNDLER’S IRISH EXPERIENCE Eoghan Daly reports on the use of a Fixteri bundler as a management tool to help turn infested plantations back into productive forests IMAGES EOGHAN DALY
W
hen it comes to developing new and innovative methods of harvesting, our Scandinavian friends are among the best in the business. By developing the cut-to-length harvesting and extraction system, they made a massive contribution to the evolution of mechanised harvesting. This spirit of ingenuity lives on, as seen by their recent solutions for timber harvesting. When Coillte, the Irish forestry board,
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sought a machine for a specialised application, Scandinavian manufacturers were an obvious choice. A number of second rotation sites across the Irish midlands were affected by naturally regenerating invasive species, including birch, which thrived on peat-based forest properties. The spruce’s growth was being heavily compromised, as their unwelcome neighbours literally closed in the canopy, leaving little chance of a productive stand of conifer species to develop.
With these sites subsequently written off, Coillte took the decision to revive the areas, starting with the removal of the competing species, for use as biomass for energy production – a first for the country of Ireland. Coillte required a machine capable of travelling through the stand and removing the invasive species while retaining the spruce material. A range of options were considered and one of the most impressive was a self-contained machine with felling capability and incorporating a Fixteri
TIMBER HARVESTING | FIXTERI BUNDLER Right: Moipu head felling and bunching birch in a spruce stand.
Below: Bunching the stems improved productivity.
Above: Forming chain system compacts the bundle.
Below right: The versatile Moipu head in the open position.
Right: Infeed table provides some support for the material.
Bottom left: Even Cuddy operated the Logman/Fixteri in Irish trials.
“WHEN COILLTE SOUGHT A MACHINE FOR A SPECIALISED APPLICATION, SCANDINAVIAN MANUFACTURERS WERE AN OBVIOUS CHOICE” bundler, which left the material in a presentable state for subsequent extraction by forwarder to the roadside. Recognising the unit’s potential, Coillte personnel travelled to Fixteri in Finland for further evaluation before agreeing to a more detailed trial of the equipment back in Ireland. It was originally envisaged that a Finnish operator would run the unit, however the coronavirus pandemic saw off
that idea, and the trial was put on hold until an Irish operator was trained up to operate the machine correctly.
WORTH THE WAIT Concentrating on sites across the Irish midlands close to Monasterevin, County Kildare, each presented dense and competing, naturally regenerating birch and other invasive species. The machine had to travel on the existing brash from the harvesting of the first rotation, which had been accumulated in windrows in preparation for planting of the second rotation crop. The unit reached into the stand at each side and felled invasive species using its accumulating harvesting head, and fed the material to the Fixteri unit mounted at the rear. Bundles were discharged from the machine and left on the ground for
extraction by a forwarder, before being allowed to air dry on the roadside and then transported to the power plant for chipping and ultimately power generation. Taking a closer look at the Fixteri bundler, even though the machine can be mounted on a wide range of base unit types, the choice of a Logman 811FC is clearly the ultimate solution for this application. “The Logman base machine was originally chosen due to the need for a 360-degree rotating cabin and a crane in the same package,” explained Fixteri Oy partner, Juha Tapanen. “This combination is essential in dense forests here in Finland when you need to cause as little damage to the remaining trees as possible. It’s like having an agile harvester pulling a bundling trailer. All Finnish customers are operating the bundler in same kind of environment and all of them have chosen the same platform. FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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TIMBER HARVESTING | FIXTERI BUNDLER However, other type of base carrier solutions like tractor and trailer or excavator plus trailer are also possible as long as the hydraulic and electrical power are available,” he continued. “The customer’s needs and the operating environment are the key factors that determine what the right machine combination is in each case.” Obviously, much of the operation’s success is determined by the effectiveness of the felling and accumulating head utilised in the set up. While a range of heads are available and a high percentage of the machines operating across Finland utilise Nisula accumulating harvesting heads, a Moipu 300 accumulating harvesting head was chosen for the Irish trials. Despite the head’s accumulating multi-stem capabilities, it also incorporates many features associated with a standard harvesting head including feed rollers and delimbing knives.
“A MOIPU 300 ACCUMULATING HARVESTING HEAD WAS CHOSEN FOR THE IRISH TRIALS”
Above: Cabin of the Logman includes the control unit for the Fixteri bundler.
Deceptively compact in size, the Moipu 300 head has a broad operating capacity thanks to its 30cm cutting diameter. Interestingly, the felling action is conducted by a shear-type arrangement instead of a chainsaw configuration that would find handling multiple smaller stems at once difficult in this application. With a number of stems successfully cut and grouped, they are then fed into the Fixteri bundler that can accept material from either side thanks to its mounting on a rotating base. With the material placed on the intake table, contact is made with the intake rollers, which guide it into the first chamber of the machine to begin the bunching process. From here, the entire process is automated and is subject to manual override when necessary.
Below: Despite being a large machine, the Logman/Fixteri combination negotiated its way through the stand with ease.
Right inset: Tamtron weighing system is controlled by the monitor on the right.
STEP BY STEP As material is fed into the reception chamber and reaches the rear wall, a large panel with guillotine edge descends behind the infeed rollers to cut the material to length. The material is then raised to the next section of the unit located overhead, which serves to form and compact the bundle as more material continues to be raised from below. The compaction
OPERATOR’S PERSPECTIVE Despite the high level of automation involved in the bundler’s working processes, the Fixteri bundler still requires a skilled hand to operate effectively, not least due to its unique design. Irish operator Evan Cuddy told us about his experiences with the
equipment. “The Fixteri machine is different to anything else I’d operated before, but once I got into using it then I could appreciate how it is so useful for this specialised kind of work. As the bundler is automated, it left me free to get on with felling and
bunching the trees and keeping it fed. The Logman base unit is an ideal carrier with the crane and cab on the same slewing base, which meant it provided equal visibility and reach all around the machine, and made feeding very easy from either side,” he continued.
“Between the base machine and the bundler, it is a heavy machine, though. It weighs up to 30 tonnes with band tracks on all four bogies, so keeping attention on the brash mat under it was a must, especially as most of the sites worked were peat-based.”
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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FIXTERI BUNDLER | TIMBER HARVESTING Bundles in the forest awaiting collection by the forwarder.
BACKGROUND The current generation Fixteri bundler is the result of almost two decades development. The original design brief was a machine that combines the management of young forests with material production suitable for power generation following chipping. All whilst attempting to set new standards for efficiency. It goes without saying that achieving these goals wasn’t easy, as Juha Tapanen, partner in Fixteri Oy, confirmed. “Fixteri was established in 2003 around the need to get small wood out of the forest and to the power plant easier than before. The first six to seven years were spent building the machine, testing it and finding the proper technical innovations to make the idea to work. “From 2010, the machine had its basic structure ready and the first customer started working with it,” Juha continued. “In 2012, the design was changed a lot and more ‘manufacturing-friendly’ solutions were adopted. Between 2012 and 2015, the final mechanical solutions were achieved and a few machines per year were manufactured with that design. Software and sensor solutions continued developing after that, however, so it is true to say we are continually finding new ways of making the equipment more user friendly and effective.”
This picture: The Fixteri unit is mounted on the host machine’s rear chassis and can be fed from either side. Far right: Side discharge arms lower from the machine and weigh the bundle before releasing it.
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process is achieved by chain mechanisms, which exert a tightening action on the material to achieve a high density bundle before the material ascends to the top section of the unit where netting is applied in two bands from two dispensers located on the side of the machine. With the bundle formed, the discharge process begins with the side discharge arms dropping down from their concealed retracted position and cradling the bundle for weighing by sensors within the arm structure. Once the weight has been recorded, the arms lower and drop the bundle onto the ground. The user-friendliness of the machine lies in its high degree of automation honed during an arduous development process. That’s not to say Fixteri isn’t continuing to develop the machine, though. Juha explained how small mechanical changes to
“THERE’S NO DOUBTING THE FIXTERI’S ABILITY TO STREAMLINE THE FORMATION OF BUNDLES WITHIN THE STAND”
chain drives made in recent months have smoothened operation with very small and weak stems, without affecting performance on bigger stems.
LEAVING A POSITIVE IMPRESSION While on trial in Ireland, the machine successfully cleared problem sites of invasive species, with only heavy rain and deteriorating ground stopping it being even more prolific. Of course, final judgement will have to wait until the sites begin to recover, but there’s no doubting the Fixteri’s ability to streamline the formation of bundles within the stand and generally make the whole process of extraction easier. It also improves the quality of the wood energy material, while ensuring high energy content thanks to the uniformity of the drying process with baled material over conventional wood energy stockpiles.
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UNBEATABLE HARVESTER FOR STAND-OPERATING THINNING
Rottne H8D is a small and versatile harvester with unique characteristics including exact tracking, swing arms on the wheels, variable transmission and automatic anti-spin. This makes it very easy to operate with minimum space requirements, providing the conditions for smooth and effective thinning and an undamaged stand – as well as high productivity. Since Rottne H8D works inside the stand, it’s easier for the operator to decide which trees need to be thinned, as it is never more than 6–7 metres to the trees. This means more uniform thinning extraction, which gives both greater volume and added value – and a less storm sensitive stand. In other words, Rottne H8D is a fantastic base for a healthy and profitable forest!
OUR SERVICE-FRIENDLY FORWARDERS AND HARVESTERS WITH FANTASTIC OPERATOR COMFORT SATISFY ALL NEEDS FROM LIGHT THINNING TO TOUGH FINAL FELLING. WE OFFER SWEDISH MADE PRODUCTS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY WITH THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY, AN EXTENSIVE SERVICE NETWORK AND A COMPETENT SUPPORT TEAM.
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12/03/2021 10:17
UNSTOPPABLE David Wylie heads to Loch Lomond in Scotland to witness the Russian-designed Sherp Pro 1000 in action. Could this amphibious machine be the ultimate Utility Terrain Vehicle?
T
he Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) market has increased considerably in recent years. Thanks to their hardtops and roll structures, they’re generally safer and offer more weather protection than ATV quadbikes. With the mainstream OEM’s pushing the development of these vehicles, the market has now exploded globally and UTV sales have overtaken ATV sales in many parts of the world. In what could be regarded as an UltraClass UTV market is the amphibious, Ukraine-manufactured Sherp. Sherp was founded in 2012. In 2015, the company introduced the Sherp amphibious allterrain skid-steer vehicle. In the last five years, 200 plus units have been built to ISO 9001 standards and sold worldwide through the company’s 27-strong dealer network. Here in the UK, sales and servicing of Sherp
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IMAGES DAVID WYLIE products are through Sherp UK Ltd, run by a husband-and-wife team and a number of technical staff from a base in Westcott, Buckinghamshire. Sherp UTVs are incredibly versatile and are seeing service across all manner of industries, from oil and gas, and geological exploration to forestry and environmental control, transporting working crews to repair sites, delivering goods to remote areas, and even taking part in search and rescue activities (read about the UK’s first Sherp customer on page 52). To showcase its reliability and performance, in 2017 a Russian Sherp team undertook a seven-month expedition through Russia’s most hard-to-reach northern regions, successfully taking on the longest on-land 10,000km route above the Arctic Circle. Sherp only has one rival in the market, which is the Caterpillar-powered,
hydrostatically driven, joystick steered Fat Truck, made in Canada. This machine is coming to the UK soon and we’ll bring you a report when it does.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
We met up with Sherp UK’s Managing Director, Chris Atkey and Sales Director Yasya Atkey (Chris’ wife) to see the Sherp Pro 1000 being put through its paces in a relatively remote location near Loch Lomond in Scotland. At first glance, the Sherp Pro looks like something Bruce Wayne would have parked in the Batcave. Like all Sherps, the Pro model is designed to be rugged, hardworking and easy to maintain. Access to the driver and passenger area is via a front mounted, flip-down, water tight ramp that doubles as a step platform. Available in left-hand drive only, driving controls are
UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE | SHERP PRO 1000 SHERP PRO 1000
Above: Steering is done by hydraulically assisted levers.
Right inset: Vital gauges plus display for rear-view camera.
“SHERP UTVS ARE INCREDIBLY VERSATILE AND ARE SEEING SERVICE ACROSS ALL MANNER OF INDUSTRIES”
similar to that of some skid-steer machines, with a light feel to the two hydraulic levers on your left side that control direction of travel via mechanical disc brakes and clutches. A slight tug on one lever declutches both wheels on whichever side you’ve pulled. Each tug, duration and release progressively steers the vehicle in the direction of travel, or by pulling harder on one of the levers, the hydraulic brakes engage to produce a more dramatic turning ‘on-the-spot’ effect. For straight-line braking, pulling back both levers simultaneously produces effective stopping power. That said, just backing off the throttle pedal and relying on engine braking is generally sufficient to control the Sherp’s speed. A digital speedometer and analogue gauges for tyre pressure and engine performance are located above the
windscreen. The front screen can be opened or closed, the body has large safety glass fitted throughout, and the sliding side windows and hinged sunroof provide good visibility. A rear-view camera is fitted as standard. Our demo machine had an optional 360-degree vision system for squeezing through tight gaps more safely. A unique features of the Sherp Pro is its pneumo-circulating suspension with patented, in-cab inflation control system for the huge 63x23-25 soft-sidewall tyres. From flat, it takes under 30 seconds to reach full operating tyre pressure using the engine exhaust system, which is permanently connected through the wheel hubs. The inflation system is so effective, it can sustain the correct pressure even with a 10cm long gash in the tyre’s sidewall! In the back of the Sherp Pro is a large area for six adults to sit across two benches
ENGINE Kubota V1505-t / E3B Interim Tier 4 / Stage3A POWER 44.3hp TRANSMISSION Mechanical, 5-speed gearbox, and chain drive to all 4 wheels TOP GEAR SPEED 21mph on land, 3.7mph on water – 1mph on the lowest gear TYRES Tubeless, extra-low pressure 63x23-25 LENGTH 3.4m WIDTH 2.52m HEIGHT 2.52m TURNING CIRCLE On the spot/ within its own length TOW CAPACITY 600kg RRP Sherp Pro: Pickup (£76,000) and Full model (£80,000) Sherp N: £95,000 Sherp Ark: Flat bed trailer model (£250,000) and Utility trailer model (£300,000)
Below: In the rear, the seating can be turned into bunk beds.
that double as four bunk beds. Optional storage boxes can be used to fill the floor area and act as footrests. There are 170 litres of underfloor storage compartments, plus a 2,041kg-capacity winch that attaches to the front lower roll bar frame. A Webasto heater is used to heat the passenger compartment and keep the engine from freezing overnight in extreme conditions. The Sherp Pro model has simple drive chains – easily accessed from the rear floor hatches – as part of the car-derived transmission system, and these are semiauto lubricated every 5 to 10 hours of running. Sherp N and Arc models have chains in sealed oil baths (read more about the other Sherp machines on page 51).
CHAIN DRIVE
With the walkaround checks completed, we set off along a used track in search of FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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Obstacles do not block the path; they are the path! TEST DRIVE
Any season, any weather condition, any terrain; choose from the Sherp Pro1000, N1200 or the Ark 3400 to overcome everything nature has to offer
To book a test drive or find out more information W: www.sherp.global / E: info@sherp-uk.com 50
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UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE | SHERP PRO 1000
THE SHERP RANGE Sherp produces four models. The Sherp Ark (released in 2019) is the flagship, 10-wheel drive, articulated, 21-person carrier or flatbed with a 7.5-tonne load capacity. The popular Sherp N (above right) is aimed at the commercial market with a bigger body than the Sherp Pro and powered by a Doosan D18 EU Stage 5/Tier
At just over 1.5m wide and weighing a mere 1.3 tonnes, the Sherp Pro 1000 is a go-anywhere vehicle.
4 Final compliant engine. The Sherp N in hardtop form can carry 10 people including the driver and transport 1 tonne;
Left: Optional storage boxes and tow bar.
a flatbed/pickup model is in development. The smaller Sherp Pro and wider body Max models are powered by an older technology Kubota V1505-t/E3B Stage3B engine that is matched to the size of the vehicle and is therefore aimed at noncommercial activities.
Below:Rear drive chains are easily reached. Bottom: Going where other 4x4s dare not.
Above: The aptly named 10-wheel drive Sherp Ark.
“A UNIQUE FEATURE IS THE PNEUMOCIRCULATING SUSPENSION WITH TYRE INFLATION SYSTEM” challenging obstacles to see how the Sherp Pro performs. Up front, seat and ride comfort are very good, with the big softly inflated tyres providing good suspension characteristics. Maximum tyre pressure is only 5psi, and more typically the tyres run at just 0.5psi to achieve maximum tyre cleat contact with the ground. The Pro’s ability to cover, ascend up to 35-degree slopes and descend very soft and marshy ground is remarkable and, because the vehicle’s unladen weight is just 1.3 tonnes, it hardly leaves a mark on the grass, which is invaluable when working in sensitive areas. The Pro can travel at 28mph on land and 3.7mph in water, and can navigate between the two without assistance. The Sherp Pro also has an auxiliary 12V power supply connection in the cab area, mainly used to power the 2,041kg-capacity electric winch to pull the Sherp out of the most difficult of situations or help clear obstructing storm damaged objects. For
customers buying the lowbed/Pickup version, it will easily handle 1-tonne IBCs or palleted goods with its 1.2-tonne payload, loaded with a telehandler.
EQUIPPED TO IMPRESS
With restriction on ATV/UTV use on the public highway in the UK, Sherp has designed a special trailer. The unique design enables a Sherp Pro or Sherp N to climb the trailer platform and self-lock in just 15 seconds. Operating range is high and fuel consumption is low, with fuel burn being 2 to 3 litres of diesel fuel per hour on average. Its fuel tank holds 56 litres, with four optional 58-litre fuel tanks integrated in wheel disks providing an extra 232 litres. The chassis frame is galvanised for corrosion protection, and the aluminium panels and bottom of the Sherp are covered with highly durable Raptor polyurethane coating for extended service life. Sherp UK Ltd is happy to discuss FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
51
SHERP PRO 1000 | UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE
“IT SEEMS THE SHERP’S ONLY LIMIT IS THE USER’S IMAGINATION” purchase, lease or hire agreements on any of these models, and a three-day Sherp driving and maintenance course is included in the purchase price. Optional extras include a transporter trailer, studded snow tyres, wheel hub fuel tanks, cargo storage boxes, 2,041kg winch, rear tow bar and a boat type sled!
SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Following our exciting time in the cockpit, we were left in no doubt of the Sherp Pro’s off-road capabilities. The machine’s
hardtop, flatbed configuration, towing capability and light footprint make it suitable for a host of applications in forestry, land management and other sectors, to the extent it seems the Sherp’s only limit is the user’s imagination! In very niche applications, we could see a need for such a vehicle to transport tree planting teams, and their materials, into sensitive or hard-toreach areas where deep water will be encountered en route. • Thank you to Sherp UK Ltd Tel 01296 532305
Above: The Sherp’s optional 2,041kg-pull electric winch.
FIRST UK CUSTOMER Bay Search and Rescue (BSAR),
England and Wales. Recently, BSAR was called
found that the Sherp Max would meet or
headquartered at Flookborough in Cumbria,
upon to evacuate people and livestock during
exceed our needs. It’s been a game-changing
is the first UK customer of a Sherp Max model.
the heavy flooding in Yorkshire.
vehicle, as I can confidently send our crews out
BSAR operates a mix of adapted Hagglund
BSAR has been so impressed with the Sherp’s overall performance, it is planning to
tides in the world rushing in at up to 8mph
a range of inflatable boats and other essential
expand the HQ at Flookburgh by moving the
across a bay the size of Greater Manchester,
transporters. The company also has two more
Airboat there and raising charitable funds to
the Sherp will float extremely well when we hit
machines that are thought to be unique in the
purchase a second Sherp to cover the whole
the water,” Gary continued. “If need be, it will
UK: a search and rescue American Airboat and
of the bay more efficiently. Gary Parsons,
climb over slippery, seaweed-covered,
an amphibious Sherp UTV.
Commanding Officer, Bay Search and Rescue
3-foot-high rocks to bring rescued people and
commented, “We researched the market and
animals back safely onto dry land.
The Sherp was purchased specifically with
“As a charity organisation, we were grateful
Morecambe Bay in mind because it can operate on both land and water, thanks to it
to Sherp for providing us with a very
deep treaded cleats (low-ground pressure
competitively priced vehicle, and the new UK
tyres) doubling as paddles, allowing it to
dealer service support from Chris Atkey has
safely go out on a rescue mission as the quick
been fantastic. We do all our own maintenance,
tide races in across the bay. Since March
and I’m delighted to report the Sherp Max is
2020, the crew have used the Sherp to rescue
easy to maintain and has been ultra-reliable,
people and animals in the immediate
which is extremely important in rescue work.” If you wish to support this life-saving
Morecambe Bay area. BSAR also operates further afield and are one of only two
organisation, it has charity shops situated in
independent flood rescue teams in the whole
Grange-Over-Sands and Milnthorpe. Further details about the operation can be found at
of Cumbria which meets DEFRA’s stringent rescue criteria and can be deployed across
52
across very soft sand. With one of the fastest
track-type personnel carriers, 4x4 pickups,
SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
Above: Sherp Max operating in the Morecambe Bay area.
www.baysearchandrescue.org.uk.
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Right inset: Topcon GPS shown to be accurate to 3cm. Right: Colin chose a great aftermarket cab by Lochmann.
MOUND OVER MATTER David Wylie visits Colin Forster of CGF Services and his new Deutz-Fahr 5115K crawler tractor fitted with the latest mounding attachment by Enviro-Mounder to help meet ambitious tree planting targets IMAGES DAVID WYLIE
C
olin Forster has been involved in the agriculture and forestry sectors since the 1990s. Starting his training at the Barony College and then holding various positions in the machinery services sector and main dealers as his career progressed. Over four years ago, Colin wanted to be his own boss again and started CGF Services a division of Agri Accessories Ltd. Colin and his Co-Director wife Kerry also run a successful custom tractor parts and accessories business from their base in Canonbie near Langholm in southern Scotland. Colin and his skilled team of operators cover all of Right: Owner-operator Scotland and are willing to travel anywhere in the UK. of Canonbie-based CGF He started out with a pre-owned Volvo EC160 Services is Colin Forster.
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
TREE MOUNDING | DEUTZ-FAHR 5115K he required to help speed up the process, move more material and deal with tree stumps safely when working in restock mounding and brash raking duties. In early 2020, Colin bought a Japanese imported Iseki TA100 crawler tractor and operated it for six months. As a grey import it came with some risks, as dealer back up was limited and when the main hydraulic pump failed parts were difficult – but not impossible – to obtain. With this in mind, Colin started looking for a new dealer supported crawler tractor and considered various options from the likes of New Holland, McCormick, dealer supported Iseki and Deutz-Fahr. The latter won the day, mainly due to a competitive package, good model specification, a long and low-ground-pressure undercarriage, and local dealer support by Cumbria-based DW Toppin Ltd.
A SPRINKLING OF ITALIAN FLAIR
Left: Measuring wheel triggers the release of hydraulic striker bars to drop the bucket spades.
“COLIN AND HIS SKILLED TEAM OF OPERATORS COVER ALL OF SCOTLAND AND ARE WILLING TO TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE UK” excavator and then traded that in for a new 2017 Doosan DX140 excavator and various attachments, such as a RGL Thumb, and a tree shear that can shear trees up to 40cm in diameter and is used for willow harvesting and other forestry work. As an aside, the RGL Thumb attachment is made by RGL Engineering based in Moffat. Graeme Little is the designer that Colin worked with to develop what
Above left: Rear three-point hitch can lift 3,170kg (the mounder weighs just 1,000kg). Below: At Mainshill, FLS will plant over 70 hectares of trees and restore 20 hectares of woodland.
To find out more about Colin’s new Deutz- Fahr 5115K crawler tractor and Enviro-Mounder, we met at a land reclamation project for Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) at a former surface coal mine known as Mainshill, just off the M74 near Douglas in South Lanarkshire. For more information on FLS site plans, see the information box on page 56. Colin started off by explaining that the Italian manufactured Deutz-Fahr 5115K does not come with a factory fitted cab as standard. Given the Scottish weather, operating this machine without one was not an option, so Colin chose a great aftermarket cab from Italian based Lochmann. The Lochmann cab is an extremely good fit on the 5115K and has a high specification. The 5115K tractor was ordered with optional extras to connect the engine coolant to the heating and air conditioning system on the Lochmann cab. Colin commented, “For large mounding projects, we started using an Iseki TA100 crawler tractor and Enviro-Mounder demonstrator to evaluate a crawler tractor and mounding attachment, and immediately saw the productivity and time saving benefits. Our total investment for the new Deutz tractor, mounder and the tractor cab has been around £85,000 and this has given us the opportunity to tender and deliver larger projects of restock mounding work and the subsequent follow-on aftercare maintenance packages, such as inter-row mowing with an ATV. “Although it’s very early days with the Deutz crawler, I’m delighted with the level of comfort from the Lochmann cab, the power and performance,
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
55
Right: Plenty of traction on steep ground.
Below inset: Extended spade frame rams help spade contact.
tuned to deliver constant torque right from the bottom of the rev range. Fuel consumption, emissions, vibrations, and the noise levels are extremely low. Colin reported using only 25 litres of fuel per day and the engine sweet spot is around 1,200rpm.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
“COLIN WAS USING A SMALL TOPCON GPS SYSTEM TO ACCURATELY PRODUCE ROW AFTER ROW OF TWIN MOUNDS”
and the ride quality from the mechanical suspended seat on the Deutz tractor,” Colin continued. “I feel the decision to buy a mounder from D J Services has been a good one, as I know we will enjoy good support and the unit itself is the best in the market, as it is well designed and strongly engineered. And last but not least, it consistently and quickly produces a very tidy mound over various ground conditions.” At the heart of the 5115K beats a powerful, 113hp four-cylinder FARMotion diesel engine (compliant with Tier 3B emissions regulations) with EGR and DOC exhaust aftertreatment system. The engine is
The 1,850mm axle spacing of the crawler track frame – running on six oil-lubricated bottom rollers, and up to 40 track segments of 450mm wide track pads provide 16,650 square centimetres of contact area for very low ground pressure and low soil compaction and a high degree of stability and traction. The 5115 weighs just 5,260kg or 6,140kg with maximum permitted ballast fitted. Colin has fitted 600kg of front ballast for an even 50/50 split weight distribution to cope with the 1-tonne mounder to give a total weight of just 6,860kg. The 5115K has two separate hydraulic pumps, with a dedicated pump for the steering system and a main 50L/min pump feeding up to five utilities at
FORESTRY AND LAND SCOTLAND Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has been
Now that that work has been completed and we
Restoration Trust and South Lanarkshire
working with a number of partners since 2016 to
have taken ownership of the sites, we will start
Council have spent around £5.7m to restore,
restore vacant and derelict land sites to a state
planting about 300,000 trees over the winter
FLS will plant around 76 hectares of trees and
fit for woodland creation. The two latest sites –
and into the spring of 2021 [depending on
restore 20 hectares of existing woodland. The
Mainshill and Blairhouse – are both formerly
Covid-19 restrictions].
planting will mainly be productive conifers
Scottish Coal sites and are being restored by
“As well as the new woodland, which will
with an intimate mix of broadleaves but there
FLS in partnership with the Scottish Mines
attract a wide range of wildlife, we’ll also be
will also areas of mixed and native
Restoration Trust and the associated local
putting in place extensive walking and
broadleaves. Public access routes to various
planning authorities.
bridleway routes which will help to make both
viewpoints are also to be incorporated.
Robin Waddell for FLS said, “These ambitious projects will contribute towards new woodland creation targets, lock up carbon, improve the
sites a valued recreation resource for local communities,” Robin added.
Elements of these new woodlands will be registered to the Woodland Carbon Code, to independently verify the carbon captured by
environment and create greenspace for
BIG PLANS
communities blighted by the legacy of opencast
The approved Land Management Plans for the
beyond, FLS will look to work with partners
mining. At both of these sites, the landforms
sites includes a mix of new woodland with
seeking to invest in the carbon capture and
and soils have been restored by Scottish Mines
additional work to restore existing woodland.
broader social and environmental benefits of
Restoration Trust working to our specification.
At Mainshill, which the Scottish Mines
innovative woodland creation projects.
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
the trees as they grow. During 2021 and
TREE MOUNDING | DEUTZ-FAHR 5115K ENVIROMOUNDER
Under the hood is a 113hp 4-cylinder FARMotion diesel.
The Enviro-Mounder was the brainchild of Brian Keen who is the owner of a Galashiels-based forestry contracting business. Brian designed the first EnviroMounder five years ago and they’ve gone on to produce over five million mounds since. The original machine is still working today and through constant development has increased its performance and reliability. The equipment is manufactured and sold by Derek Cowens, owner of St Boswell-based, D J Services Borders Ltd.
the rear of the tractor and one at the front. The rear three-point hitch can lift 3,170 kg and it also comes with a mechanical PTO drive. Colin’s 5115K tractor is one of the last machines brought into the UK with a Tier 3B engine, and we understand Deutz-Fahr is busy working on a replacement Stage 5 motor to slot into this narrow frame crawler tractor. Deutz-Fahr makes the 5115K with two mechanical transmission variants: a 12- or 16-speed gearbox. Colin chose the 16-speed transmission with overdrive. This covers a range of ground speeds from 1.32kph to 14.2kph. During our visit, Colin was able to trundle along at 5kph and was using a small Topcon GPS system to accurately produce row after row of twin mounds 1.9m apart. Booms with chains set at 1.9m distance drop to the ground which help to visually reposition the tractor on to the next row. In this application, Colin had set the mounder to 1.9m spacing to give a 1.9x1.9m square mounding pattern. However, for broadleaf trees, one leg of the mounder can be locked up to deliver 3m spacing.
Colin also used the Topcon GPS to record ground conditions, which is useful data for land managers to analyse going forward. For other applications, Colin has a 3m wide Spearhead 300 multi-cut topper (rotary mower) unit for cutting back tough grasses and other heavy vegetation prior to tree planting and mounding.
The Enviro-Mounder provides a mounding machine that accurately mounds for tree planting and is aimed at forestry contractors and farmers alike. It is designed to leave intermittent
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
furrows, as it scoops out the
With FLS pledging to plant five new trees for every person living in Scotland by 2022 – that’s 25 million new trees helping to create forests for the future and also contribute to Scotland’s climate change targets – Colin and his Deutz crawler tractor and Enviro-Mounder combination is an extremely effective and fast way to carry out restock mounding. And with over 300 hectares currently on his order book, Colin is confident that as the forestry sector expands with ambitious plans to plant millions of trees, more areas will be developed, with restock mounding and aftercare work following in years to come to keep him busy.
mound with its Hardox steel bucket/spades and deposits it on top of the mounded area. Depending on the spacing chosen, it will determine the distance between the mounds, too. The mounder has a set width of 1.9m centres across the rows but has adjustable options on the machine, with two different size measuring wheels and an electric/hydraulic timing
400mm wide Hardox steel spades with bolt-on teeth.
system to perform 1.5m, 1.7m, 1.9m, or 2.5m spacings depending on how many trees per hectare are required. Follow-up treatment of the mounded area can then be provided via quad bike, either by spraying, mowing, or through a fertilisation system. This helps to control tall weeds and keeps Vole damage to a minimum. Over 20 Enviro-Mounders have been supplied to date and D J Services Borders Ltd offers a try before you buy option.
FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
57
“DONNIE MCKERRAL IS A PARTNER IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS AND HAS VERY SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR HIS TIMBER LOADER”
INSPIRED ENGINEERING
IMAGES DAVID WYLIE
David Wylie revisits a truck-mounted JCB excavator log loader run by Peter McKerral & Co Ltd to find out how the bespoke machine has performed over the last six years
P
eter McKerral & Co Ltd is a long-established haulage company based in Campbeltown on the west coast of Scotland, operating a large fleet of articulated heavy goods vehicles hauling livestock, animal feeds, fish and timber products. A substantial proportion of the fleet are involved in transporting timber in the Argyll area to ports such as Ardrishaig, Sandbank and Campbeltown. Due to the vast quantities of commercial timber the company handles, McKerral has long-favoured the use of a dedicated timber loader to load its 44-tonne trucks quickly and efficiently. That said, for self-loading applications, a small number of its timber
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
trailers are also equipped with a standard vehicle-mounted crane. With timber extraction business continuing to expand (Scottish forests are forecast to produce 10.5 million cubic metres of the UK’s 16.5 million cubic metres of softwood per annum forecast over the next 20 years), McKerral continues to require a highly productive machine to cope with demand. The firm’s previous timber loader, which provided eight years of good service, was a 2006 MAN 6x6 TGA chassis and Epsilon 250L 13.5m reach crane.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS Donnie McKerral is a partner in the family business and a hands-on operator and
manager. He has very specific requirements for his timber loader. Working from their home base in Campbeltown and covering an extensive area around Argyll, the machine must be self-propelled, offer superb off-road capability and be able to load a steady stream of 44-tonne vehicles as quickly and as safely as possible. As the timber is often being loaded straight from the trucks onto waiting boats heading for both domestic and international markets, quick cycle times are important too. With no such equipment available from any original equipment manufacturer, Donnie decided to build his own machine by mounting a big excavator onto an
RUNNING REPORT | HYBRID LOG LOADER TECH SPECS
Above: Xxx xx xxxDonnie xx xx xx Business partner xx x xx xxxxxxx xxx xx xxhad McKerral is the man who xx xvision xx xxxxxxx xx axxclear for thisxxx highly xx xx xx x xx xxxxxx xxxxx. specialised machine.
Mercedes-Benz Arocs
Above: Arocs chassis at PM Forest & Field poised and ready to receive the JS220. Left inset: Hand control like that used for mobile cranes operates the stabilisers.
● ClassicSpace S-cab lowhighlight (14 cab options) ● 6-cylinder EU4 engine, 450hp 8x8 all-wheel drive ● 16-speed manual gearbox with low ratio, 32 gears in total ● Michelin XZYs (front drive axles), X Works (rear)
JCB JS220 ● 22-tonne class excavator ● Material-handling high-lift cab model ● 4.8-litre, 179hp JCB EcoMAX Stage 3B engine
Jonsered J2990-160 crane ● Boom length at 8.25m, dipper at 5.3m, plus hydraulic extension of 2.55m
Left: 4.8-litre JCB EcoMAX engine with 179hp is averaging roughly 5 to 6mpg, which isn’t bad given the vehicle’s sheer weight. all-wheel drive truck chassis to achieve his desired roading and loading performance. The search started with a high performance off-road vehicle. A military-grade MercedesBenz Arocs 8-wheel drive monster chassiscab was chosen from Glasgow-based Mercedes-Benz dealer, Western Commercials. Whilst that deal was coming together, Donnie was also having parallel discussions with leading excavator manufacturers to find a machine that would fit the bill. Again, this was no straightforward exercise, as he only wanted to buy the upper structure and boom of a standard excavator. Donnie found Scot JCB, also based in Glasgow, to be very helpful and JCB was confident its base machine could handle a massive industrial crane boom and dipper. As the material handling model comes with a high-lift cab, an order for a UK-built, 22-tonne class JS220 was placed. Donnie then turned to his long-term supplier of timber bodied trailers, Fergus Mitchell to pull the project together. Fergus is the owner of Forest & Field Engineering, based in Blairgowrie. It is the Scottish dealer for Hiab’s range of Loglift Jonsered equipment, which covers forwarder/ harvester and lorry loader cranes, as well as static industrial cranes. For Donnie’s project, the largest static, industrial spec Jonsered J2990-160 crane was selected with
an original boom length at 8.25m, dipper at 5.3m, plus hydraulic extension in the dipper arm of 2.55m. The Jonsered crane boom was then cut and grafted on to the JCB excavator boom. Using a mix of computer aided design software, particularly around the stabiliser legs, and 2D scale drawings to visualise the articulation of the dipper arm and boom in both its stowed and working envelope, Fergus also designed a sub-chassis for the excavator slew turret mounting using 300mm high steel box-sections, and welded the JCB slew turret into position. No less than 350 high tensile bolts secured the subframe to the chassis. The JCB JS220 upper structure was then lifted onto the newly constructed turret and subframe of the Arocs.
MANUFACTURER SUPPORT During the design process, Scot JCB recommended moving the top mountings of the excavator boom lift rams to a lower position, as the company had used this configuration on a demolition machine with great success. A new section was built below the neck of the boom, which allows the operator to achieve the maximum lift height for loading operations and enables the operator to park the log grapple close to the machine for transporting purposes. Once the Jonsered boom was fitted, Scot JCB’s team of engineers supported the
project by reconfiguring the standard ISO hydraulic control patterns to suit Donnie’s needs. Hydraulic power for the four stabiliser legs and eight hydraulic rams (four to extend and four to lift) is provided by the redundant undercarriage travel motor circuit. The stabilisers are operated via the hammer line foot pedal (to activate the flow) and a hand-held remote control unit, which is commonly found in mobile crane applications for the same purpose. Fergus and his experienced team completed the project in just six months. Once operational, Scot JCB also provided on-site support to tweak the pressure settings to obtain the desired hydraulic speed, grab performance and power to meet Donnie’s requirements. The final painting of McKerral’s colourful blue and red livery was carried out by Courtney & McMillan Ltd, based at Broxburn and the JCB yellow of the JS220 make a very smart looking combination. “From the initial discussion through to the on-site support, Scot JCB and the factory have been very supportive of what we were trying to achieve, and they did not shy away from getting heavily involved with such a bespoke order and aftersales support,” Donnie said. “Fergus and his team have done another cracking job of designing and building this machine to a very high standard.” FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
59
HYBRID LOG LOADER | RUNNING REPORT 13.6m-long semi-trailers with ease. With the stabilisers set at 5m apart and 4.25m wide, and the machine weighing 37 tonnes, this loading tool is very stable in operation. The 27.5-tonne load was accurately placed in just 8 minutes. Contrast that time with the 25 minutes it takes an operator using a standard vehicle-mounted crane powered by the truck’s power take-off unit to load the company’s trailer. Donnie reckons that during a long shift, man and machine are capable of loading 1,500 tonnes of logs, which is an increase of 500 tonnes over the previous loading tool and a good match for the boats with the same carrying capacity. Big rubber blocks had been fitted to the front of the Arocs to assist drivers that get stuck on slippery forest roads, particularly in arduous winter weather. The Arocs with its 8-wheel drive system, running on Michelin’s deep treaded X Works tyres on the rear and XZYs on the front drive axles, has been able to get trucks moving again with just a quick push.
A new section was built below the neck of the boom, which maximises lifting height.
ON THE JOB For my visit in 2015, I met up with Donnie just off the A819 in the Ardteatle Forest near Loch Awe and drove on forest tracks for three miles to reach the loading area. Donnie offered his thoughts on the machine’s ability. “I’m really pleased with its performance. It has great on- and off-road capability and has sufficient power from the six-cylinder 450hp engine. Fuel consumption is about 5 or 6mpg, which isn’t too bad given its heavy weight and time spent off highway.” The Arocs has a 16-speed manual gearbox linked to a shift-by-wire system to provide more effective power-assisted gear changes. Low ratio is selected at the push of a button (making 32 gears in total) and combined with permanent, military-grade 8-wheel drive. This machine is not about to get stuck off-road anytime soon. On reaching the loading area, Donnie applied the truck’s handbrake and switched off the engine before moving to the JS220’s cab via steps fitted on the nearside of the truck. From here on, power comes from the 4.8-litre, 179hp JCB EcoMAX Stage3B engine. But before loading commenced, all four jacks were firmly planted onto the ground and then Donnie activated the high-lift cab, raising the base about 4.5m above terra firma. At this height, the operator’s eyeline is well over 5m, meaning a great view onto the timber stockpile and the 13.6m long decks of the waiting semi-trailers. The JCB cab is made to a high standard and packed with creature comforts such as climate control, a stereo and an air suspension seat. The view out of the large two-piece R/H window is excellent and a high-level rear-view camera helps Donnie guide his drivers back to the rear bumpstops. The machine was ordered with proportional controls on the joysticks which are used to control the rotation and
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
HARD TO BEAT
Above: The slew ring turret is welded to the subframe and over 350 bolts attach the subframe to the truck’s chassis.
Speaking to Donnie again recently, he explained that due to the amount of traveling to and from jobsites, the big Mercedes-Benz Arocs now has 7,500 hours on the clock and the JCB JS220 has racked up the same number of hours in the forest, with both providing good and reliable service over the last six years. Donnie reported the only major part that has been changed on the JCB is the slew ring. Clearly, this component is worked harder in the longreach timber loader role than in a conventional excavator application. Scot JCB continues to provide great back up should Donnie need it, but he is also delighted to report the JS220 very rarely misses a beat. Donnie was clear that when this hybrid combination is due replacement, he and his brother Colin will be looking at a very similar set up, as they feel there is still no off-theshelf solution to match the shear loading performance of a powerful converted hydraulic excavator mounted on an 8-wheel
log-grab functions. This JCB has a level 2 FOPS screen and roof guards, which have been modified by removing a portion of guard from the front screen area to provide an unrestricted view to the work area. Donnie believes that having an extra-long boom and dipper in the way means there is little risk of logs coming anywhere near the cab, although he also thought it wise not to remove it completely. The remaining guard also protects the cab from cosmetic damage, such as branches encountered along narrow roads and forest tracks. In order to load to the maximum permissible weight of “AFTER SIX YEARS OF GOOD, 44 tonnes and not overload the HGV RELIABLE AND FAST LOADING, trucks, there is a load cell on the dipper arm DONNIE REMAINS DELIGHTED WITH connected to the in-cab HTP 2500 load THIS HYBRID TIMBER LOADER” indicator (specially developed for use on timber cranes), so drive HGV chassis. After six years of good, Donnie can place exactly 27.5 tonnes of reliable and fast loading, Donnie remains timber onto the trailer bed. The JS220 is delighted with the all-round performance of capable of loading 6.2m-long logs weighing this hybrid timber loader. Considering there nearly 2 tonnes with its large 0.8-squarehas been no structural issues with the crane metre Loglift Jonsered grapple. When modifications, subframes or stabilisers, what loading back-to-back on narrow forest roads, he and his suppliers have achieved is a Donnie can load the front deck of the remarkable feat of engineering.
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New! FARMA T17 is a trailer for you in need to transport large volumes with demands for high productivity. The high ground clearance of 630 mm and the low ground pressure provide high passability. T17 has a large load length of 5 400 mm and a load area of 3.3 m2. Despite its size, the FARMA T17 is surprisingly flexible and compliant, much thanks to its 40-degree frame steering attachment placed far back on the trailer Flexible bank system enables 2x2,5 and 2x3 meter logs
Low weight trailer maximizing the load capacity
Double beam trailer
3 banks in standard
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From crane sizes C7.0 and upwards
The T17 can, due to its unique flexible bank, be set to carry various wood lengths. In standard equipped with traditional bended posts but also available with forwarder type bolster. The T17 offers a broad variety of tire options up to 710. Drive systems such as Robson or Hydro drive are options. Many other options available on request. You choose. We deliver.
SALES REPRESENTATIVE UK/INTERNATIONAL Tom Belton 07860 951 485 tom.belton@forsmw.com AS_FORS_MW_Forestry_Machinery_210x297+3_Mar2021.indd 1 Farma FP.indd 1
2021-03-04 10:03 12:09 12/03/2021
“DRIVING RAIN AND A STEEP, SLICK SLOPE COULDN’T HALT THE CLIMBING ABILITY OF THE M545X”
WALKING TALL
Paul Argent catches up with a Menzi Muck M545X walking excavator tackling the undulating terrain of North Wales IMAGES PAUL ARGENT
F
or anyone undertaking extreme earthmoving applications, there’s probably only one manufacturer that is considered to supply an excavator and that is Menzi Muck. The Swiss manufacturer has been developing its brand of ‘walking excavators’ since 1966. Invented by Swiss entrepreneur Ernst Menzi, the first excavator made was the model 2500. Weighing approximately 1.7 tonnes and powered by a Hatz 2-cylinder engine, the 25hp excavator was mounted on an unpowered trailer chassis and required it’s on arm to drag itself along. Four years later, Menzi had developed the 3000M, EM and EH models with between 40 and 47hp. Again, these models were selfpowered for travel but latterly incorporated the now commonplace stabiliser legs. A
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SPRING 2021 FORESTRY MACHINERY
further five years of innovation eventually saw the 3000 range evolve into having a telescopic dipper to improve dig depth whilst in 1981 the advent of hub driven wheels appeared on the 5000 models.
Above: The M545X was compared to a 2WD M325 model.
By the mid 1980s, the 5000 range had grown to a 6-tonne operating weight but shortly after the founder’s death, the company introduced a smaller and lighter variant, the 2000. Continuous development of the range through the 80s and 90s saw four-wheel drive models arrive with the M series launch at Bauma in 2013. The latest step in the evolution of the Menzi walking excavator came at Bauma in 2019 where the company launched the Generation X version of the M series machines. There are currently three models in Generation X; the 12.4-tonne M525X, 13-tonne M535X and the 13.5-tonne M545X. With a price tag to frighten off your runof-the-mill plant manager, the Menzi excavators are seen as the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of the excavator world when it comes to
WALKING EXCAVATOR | MENZI MUCK M545X
Above: Great stability on tricky terrain. Left: Steelwrist X20 tilt-rotator, digging tool.
Right: Hop on and off a trailer without a ramp. inhospitable terrain and extreme projects. For over 10 years, Tom Lomax of Kendalbased Exc@V8 has been the UK and Ireland dealer for the brand and has quietly racked up numerous sales of the excavators to companies who work ‘off the beaten track’. With the disappearance of the 2020 show calendar, Tom decided to hook up his low-loader trailer, stick on a few attachments and take a demonstration M545X to his customers. Forestry Machinery magazine caught up with Tom as he visited existing customer Ger Lloyd of GMD Forestry on the outskirts of Bala, where he and his team were in the process of mounding a steep valley side for the landowner. Already operating a two-wheel drive M325 model, Ger, his dad Glyn and operator Bedwyr Jones were all keen to see just what the M545X was all about, and they weren’t to be disappointed. From initially unloading itself from the step frame trailer without ramps to performing a pirouette in the tight turning space at the top of the hill, Tom performed his show routine of lifting and stretching each independently powered leg in, out, up and down contorting the excavator into a variety of different shapes. Whilst this was all well and good, Bedwyr was itching to get in the cab and put it to
work for real. After a short introduction to the additional controls, it was down to Bedwyr to convince Ger and Glyn to sign the cheque. From the short descent of the forest track onto the open slopes where the M325 was stationed, Bedwyr was in total control. Driving rain and a steep, slick slope couldn’t halt the climbing ability of the M545X.
STEPPING UP From the outside, the Menzi looks very bottom-heavy with the large wheels and long stabiliser legs carry a compact top half but underneath this top half is a Stage 5, 4.1-litre Deutz diesel capable of delivering 156hp. With almost 30% more power than other excavators of a similar size, it is easy to see why the M545X is favoured for its extreme abilities. The machine Tom was demonstrating around the country was built to a very high specification, but as is the norm for many Menzi users, the standard specification machines are always tweaked to suit the environments they are going to work in. Such step-ups in specification can include an additional powerline pump to allow for the smooth running of large capacity hydraulic attachments. Additional winches can also be fitted to the chassis to offer the ultimate in
security when working on steep slopes. Bedwyr was quick to see what the larger, four-wheel drive machine was capable of. The steeply sloping mountain side and quickly got into the hang of operating the 13.5-tonne machine. With over 1m more reach than his usual machine, Bedwyr was able to undertake a little more mounding work before moving the Menzi to a new spot. The extendible arm, with its maximum reach of almost 10.5m was slightly increased by the addition of a Steelwrist X20 tiltrotator and large digging clamshell. The usual choice of attachment for Bedwyr is a standard digging bucket and once ‘in-tune’ with the Steelwrist, he was excited at the potential the tilt-rotator could offer him. Dropping down the slope, Bedwyr started pulling at the ground to create mounds of soil for the planting teams to work on. The biggest difference for him was when he wanted to get back up the slope. In his two-wheel drive M325X he would have to pull himself up with just the large wheels at the rear of the machine being hydrostatically driven. The M545X, on the other hand, had all four of its 600/50-22.5 tyres driven, enabling it to climb the slick slope with relative ease. With each leg and wheel independently driven and steered, FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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MENZI MUCK M545X | WALKING EXCAVATOR
“THE MENZI IS CAPABLE OF TACKLING THE MOST UNEVEN OF TERRAINS” the Menzi is capable of tackling the most uneven of terrains, with the Welsh forest hillside proving to be easy going.
CLEAR BENEFITS With the trial over, the next job was to return the machine to the trailer further up the hillside. Whilst the short journey across the top of the cleared hillside was straightforward, a sharp right-hand bend leading into a steep climb taxed the machine more than anything else. Deep ruts in the soft ground made slick from the rain combined with a lung busting climb ensured the Menzi was working at the top of its game to get off the site. Bedwyr used all of his experience using a combination of the arm and drive to drag the machine to more solid ground before admitting he didn’t think he could have Above right: done that in his machine Robust and despite it weighing over 3.5 flexible joints. tonnes less. “Some of the slopes we are Right: 4,038cc asked to work on are getting four-cylinder steeper, with much of the built by Deutz.
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easier timber having long been felled. Having the four-wheel drive would make accessing some of these locations easier and ultimately safer for us,” he concluded. Whether GMD Forestry will invest in a new machine will ultimately depend on the price of wood. “We have a number of long-term contracts ahead of us at the moment,” Ger explained, “but prices are constantly fluctuating, leaving our margins unpredictable. It would be nice to invest in the bigger machine as it will increase our capacity. At the moment, we have the work there for the Menzi and we are able to keep it busy. Whether that would continue if we were to invest in the larger machine is unknown.” Working in such remote locations calls for a reliable piece of equipment and the M535 has certainly been that for GMD with the machine being very good in terms of availability and productivity. “The Menzi has been a great bit of kit for us adding to the versatility of what we can offer our clients,” Ger commented. “We’ll have to have a chat with Tom and see if we can get him to sharpen his pencil a little!”
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Field Service Engineer Position McHale Plant Sales, Distributor of Komatsu Forest Equipment in Ireland are recruiting for a Senior Field Service Engineer to join their team. As a Field Service Engineer you will play a key role, supporting the service department through completing routine servicing work, and maintaining and repairing machinery onsite, whilst providing an excellent level of service to our customers. .
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Requirements: • Forestry background, with experience in repair, maintenance and set-up of Harvesters & Forwarders. • Good knowledge of electrical, hydraulic and mechanical troubleshooting and repair and competent in following electrical and hydraulic schematic diagrams to diagnose faults. • Competent in welding and fabrication. • Computer Literate. • Full drivers licence and willing to travel throughout Ireland. BeneÀts: • A comprehensive remuneration package • Overtime premium • New company service vehicle • Company pension scheme • Phone & Laptop • Ongoing training will be provided for the successful applicant. Additional Info: McHale Plant Sales has full sales and service depots located in Dublin and Tipperary. They are also national distributors for Komatsu Construction Equipment, Merlo Telescopic Handlers, Metso Outotec Crushing and Screening Equipment, Terex Ecotec Waste Processing Equipment and Topcon Machine Control Systems. Email: recruitment@mchaleplant.com www.mchaleplantsales.com
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SHOW REPORT | FINNMETKO
SHOW AND TELL
Finland’s FinnMetko exhibition was one of few industry events to run in 2020 and it certainly did not disappoint, with dozens of highly specialised machines on display to get the juices flowing, as Eoghan Daly reports IMAGES EOGHAN DALY
USEWOOD
F
inland is one of the few places in the world that has so far kept a lid on the coronavirus pandemic. So despite some early uncertainty, the 2020 running of the bi-annual FinnMetko forestry show went ahead as planned, albeit later in the year (September 3rd to 5th) and with fewer exhibitors than normal. Held in the town of Jämsä, the event showcases the latest innovations in forestry equipment and, despite its reduced scale this time round, almost 10,000 visitors attended the show in 2020.
COMPACT HARVESTING SOLUTIONS USEWOOD Already known for its compact clearing machines, harvesters and forwarders, Muurame-based Usewood presented the Combi Master, powered by a four-cylinder Kubota engine delivering 33kW. The machine resembles the company’s forwarder offering, but has a retractable rear chassis to shorten the overall length of the machine while in harvester mode. This has benefits when working within the stand off thinned racks or when using the machine to conduct clearing operations. Despite this compact
ALSTOR
form, when extended to use in forwarder mode the machine has no difficulty accepting log lengths up to 4m without the need for additional bunk extension structures. Usewood presented the machine with its own in-house produced UW180S harvesting head, which has the ability to fell trees to a maximum felling diameter of 22cm. The head is fitted with a roller feed mechanism executed by two feed rollers, and the delimbing function is fulfilled by two upper moveable delimbing knives together with a top fixed knife.
COMPACT FORWARDER OFFERINGS
ALSTOR Compact forwarders were popular at FinnMetko, with the Swedish-built Alstor 8x8 taking pride of place alongside machines from Kranman, Kinetic and Logbullet. Interestingly, all the machines have been engineered by people with firsthand knowledge of timber harvesting, with designs based on their own needs. KINETIC The Kinetic mini forwarder in eight-wheel configuration is another contender in the compact forwarder
KINETIC
market. The 8x8 machine weighs 1,790kg and has a load capacity of 3 tonnes. Power is provided by a Yanmar engine with crane reach extending to 4.7m. LOGBULLET Logbullet completed the compact forwarder line up with its eightwheeled hydrostatic drive unit, which was developed by Pekka Syvanen for his own timber extraction interests. The machine weighs a mere 1.7 tonnes and measures just 5m long and 1.5m wide. Ground clearance is a generous 40cm and power comes from an 18kW Kubota engine. Equipped with a Farma C3.80 crane, which offers a maximum outreach of 3.8m, the machine has a galvanised bunk structure for extended working life.
LARGER HARVESTER DEVELOPMENTS Larger forest machines also cried grabbed the attention of prospective end users at FinnMetko 2020, the most notable being from Finnish manufacturers Nisula and ProSilva. Such is the level of success both companies are experiencing, they have greatly increased their product ranges in
LOGBULLET FORESTRY MACHINERY SPRING 2021
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NISULA recent years with the trend continuing through 2020 and beyond with a number of new product introductions. NISULA Nisula’s excavator-based harvesters offer an oscillating undercarriage conversion coupled with the option of an additional telescopic boom extension with heel boom feature, which not only extends the working range of the machine when using its harvesting head but when required also provides a degree of climbing assistance when faced with steeper terrain. Excavatorbased harvesters showcased at the event included a Volvo ECR145LC and the more compact ECR88D Pro demonstrating the different size class conversions that can be facilitated. Purpose-built wheeled harvester bases were also presented by Nisula. The N5 thinning machine is based on a Lannen backhoe loader and is now also available as
a six-wheeler alongside the more traditional four-wheel format. Nisula’s new flagship harvesting head, the 1,420kg 755X was also displayed. Intended for tracked excavator bases from 16 to 23 tonnes, it employs three feed rollers driven by four powerful feed motors, with
RISUTEC ATTRACTED MUCH ATTENTION WITH ITS LIVE MECHANISED PLANTING DEMONSTRATIONS USING A DOOSAN EXCAVATOR” delimbing conducted by one fixed top knife and four movable knives offering thorough stem contact and positive gripping characteristics. Its powerful Parker saw motor enables a cutting diameter of 75cm.
DX160LC-3 excavator equipped with its PM160 tree planter. However, the company was eager to promote other products, including the original clearing head line up, which was the basis for its establishment. An example of the latest clearing head was mounted on a Doosan DX62R-3 reduced swing radius excavator, while examples of Risutec’s new tree shear attachments were presented for the first time at FinnMetko. Designated M50EX, the tree shear offers a number of Risutec-specific design features, which serve to provide a firm grip and positive cutting action through the use of twin blades that close on the stem from each side as opposed to the more common single-knife approach.
PROSILVA With harvesting base machines offered in four- and six-wheeled configurations, ProSilva also offers steel, quad track drive based units which have been proven on its original C6 harvester for many years. However, ProSilva has now introduced a smaller unit in the form of C3, offered in either four- or six-wheeled formats. Launched during April 2020, the machine can be adapted to incorporate a wide choice of cranes and harvesting heads (Logmer 13105H crane and Waratah H413 harvesting head pictured left).
PROSILVA
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RISUTEC Risutec attracted much attention with its live mechanised planting demonstrations utilising a Doosan
RISUTEC
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Motor tractors arrive in the forest – an American International 8-16 Junior powers an early wood-framed saw-bench in Britain during the 1920s.
DOWN IN THE FOREST,
SOMETHING STIRRED… Stuart Gibbard explains how early mechanisation in the forestry industry saw horses replaced by steam before the arrival of motor tractors brought about an even greater revolution in timber haulage IMAGES STUART GIBBARD/US LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
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CLASSIC FORESTRY | ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION managing close to 1m acres and had become the largest landowner in Britain. The growing importance of the forestry industry led to more efficient working practices and a greater reliance on mechanisation. The felling and cutting operations had become less back-breaking work from the 1920s onwards following the arrival of engine-driven drag-saws and petrol-powered chainsaws.
A NEW WAY
P
rior to World War One, there was no organised forestry industry in the UK, and the operations were not particularly mechanised. Trees were cut down using axes or two-man crosscut saws – known as ‘misery whips’ in the USA because a full day constantly pulling on one of the saw’s two wooden handles could be a wretched occupation. The felled trees were trimmed with billhooks or hatchets, or perhaps cut into smaller sections using bucking saws. The logs were then extracted from the forest by animal power – oxen, horses or mules. One horse with a simple harness and chain attached to the log could skid quarter-ton on the flat and up to one ton downhill. Early logging arches and timber wagons, or drugs as they were known in certain areas, increased the payload that the animals could handle. World War One severely depleted Britain’s woodlands as the timber was
Britain’s population of working horses was decimated by the ‘Great War’. Many were acquisitioned by the British Army, which Above: Unloading an early horse-drawn timber wagon in had an estimated 869,931 on active service by 1917. The animals, particularly in the the vast forests of Nebraska. Animal power remained the transport columns, were vulnerable to traditional method of hauling logs on both sides of the Atlantic well into the 20th century. attack and great casualties were inflicted. During the war, the British Army lost a total of 225,856 horses, and even more were sold plundered for to make posts and planks off across Europe to farmers or to be for the trench fortifications in France. slaughtered for meat at the end of the Following this, the Forestry Commission conflict. Less than 100,000 returned to was formed to expand and renew the Britain. Even so, taking the military forests, and build a strategic timber sacrifices aside, the use of the horse as a reserve. Established as a government draught animal in Britain was already in department by the Forestry Act of 1919, decline due to the dominance of stream the Commission became responsible for managing forests in England, Scotland and and the arrival of the motor tractor – and this was as evident in the forest as it was on Wales. Its brief was to promote forestry, the farms. develop afforestation “THE GROWING and oversee the One of the first production of timber. steamers to be IMPORTANCE OF THE During the 1920s, it FORESTRY INDUSTRY LED developed for forestry concentrated on work was the oil-fired TO MORE EFFICIENT acquiring large Super-Sentinel steam WORKING PRACTICES AND tractor. Introduced in amounts of former A GREATER RELIANCE ON agricultural land to 1923 by the Sentinel MECHANISATION” begin planting new Waggon Works, it had forests. By 1934, it was a vertical boiler, a
The arrival of steam – a Super-Sentinel steam tractor uses its capstan winch to load a pole wagon during trials in 1923.
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CLASSIC FORESTRY | ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION “ONE OF THE FIRST STEAMERS TO BE DEVELOPED FOR FORESTRY WORK WAS THE OIL-FIRED SUPER-SENTINEL STEAM TRACTOR” horizontal twin-cylinder high-pressure engine developing 75hp, and a rearmounted capstan winch. A half-track version, conceived by Roadless Traction of Hounslow, was also exported to Africa. The ‘Super’ series of machines were superseded in the late 1920s by the Sentinel ‘DG’ range of steam wagons. A number of the ‘DG’ models were built as timber tractors with 200hp winches fitted in an enclosed compartment behind the cab. These improved machines had an entirely new design of duplex engine that gave greater power and better economy with a saving in weight achieved by the use of high-tensile alloy-steel and aluminium components. Similar steam timber tractors were also produced by Fodens Ltd from its Elworth Works in Sandbach. The Foden ‘D’ Type was a popular and capable machine, especially when fitted with winching equipment.
Above: Still at work in 1950, this Sentinel ‘DG’ timber tractor, No. 8756, was built in 1932. The machine was operated by a Shropshire contractor.
ADAPT AND OVERCOME
not ideal in a forestry environment. The vast timber operations in North America were quick to adopt crawler tractors for ‘snaking’ logs out of the forest. ‘Snaking’ was the term commonly used in America for hauling or skidding bunches of logs along the trails using animal or tractor power. Specialised tracked loghaulers, first steam- and later gasoline-
Steam boilers often powered the mills that processed the wood, and the steam tractors were popular with timber contractors for haulage, but had their limitations for forest extraction. There were problems with weight and a lack of manoeuvrability and traction, and sparks from the chimney and glowing embers from the firebox were
Above: A Foden ‘D’ Type steam timber tractor dating from 1927. The machine, operated by a Northamptonshire contractor, was still in use in 1947.
Above: A Caterpillar Sixty ‘Logging Cruiser’ hauling timber out of the forest to the railhead at Hudson in Ontario, Canada. Introduced in 1924 as the best Sixty, the crawler remained in production until 1931. powered, were developed in the USA in the early years of the 20th century. Eventually, most of the American crawler manufacturers, such as Holt (later Caterpillar), Allis-Chalmers and Cletrac, were offering timber tractors as part of their product line. Back in the UK, wheeled motor tractors were being adapted for timber
An International 10-20 industrial model converted into a timber tractor with a massive double-drum winch. The machine was operating deep in the Chiltern Forest during the 1930s.
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ORIGINS OF MECHANISATION | CLASSIC FORESTRY extraction. The machines were light, manoeuvrable and affordable. During the depression that befell British agriculture and industry during the late 1920s and early 30s, the tractor manufacturers looked to the burgeoning forestry industry as an outlet for its products. The tractors, usually converted industrial models, were offered with a variety of equipment including traction aids, winches, sprags, anchors and guards. The most popular makes were Fordson and International Harvester. More specialised machines included Latil 4x4 forestry tractors imported from France.
front, military trucks and 4x4 vehicles were also loaned from various branches of the armed services. After the war, many of the demobbed military trucks coming onto the market were purchased by the timber trade, working alongside more specialised machines such as Unipower forestry tractors and the French Latils, which remained popular into the 1950s. The post-war years saw a rapid expansion in the demand for timber, and dramatic surges in production and output with timber sales topping the £2m mark by the 1950s. With new levels of investment in the industry, and greater
research into forestry establishment techniques, which revealed that major advantages could be gained from cultivations and drainage, there was greater emphasis on mechanisation. For a time, converted agricultural tractors remained the mainstay of the industry as an economical and practical method of extracting logs from the forest. However, times were changing and the industry was clamouring for the development of more sophisticated forestry equipment, heralding the arrival of specialised timber skidders and forwarders – but that’s another story.
SEASONED VETERANS ARRIVE World War Two put huge demands on Britain’s forests to produce enough timber for the war effort, particularly pit props for the coal industry. Large areas of mature woodland, specifically in the New Forest and the Forest of Dean, were cleared, but it wasn’t all felling. More than 100,000 acres were planted and another 130,000 acres acquired for forestry during the conflict. Those involved in the forestry industry during the war, including the ‘Lumber Jills’ of the Women’s Timber Corps, a division of the Women’s Land Army, used a variety of specialised equipment. Bulldozers were pressed into service for tree felling and land clearance, while much of the hauling and extraction was done by the ubiquitous Fordson tractors fitted with winches and some equipped with Roadless half-tracks. To help with the effort on the forestry
Many ex-military vehicles were pressed into service for forestry work during and after the Second World War. This RAF Crossley ‘Q’ Type truck was converted into an articulated unit for timber haulage.
“DURING THE DEPRESSION THAT BEFELL BRITISH AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRY DURING THE LATE 1920S AND EARLY 30S, THE TRACTOR MANUFACTURERS LOOKED TO THE BURGEONING FORESTRY INDUSTRY AS AN OUTLET FOR ITS PRODUCTS”
A Marshall Model ‘M’ fitted with a heavy-duty winch and driver’s canopy on demonstration in the forest hooked up to a timber-wagon. The tractor was in production from 1938 to 1945.
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