Millwide Insider #40

THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 40

USNR ADDS VENTEK; TWO THUMBS UP FOR BRINGS VENEER SCANNING, GRADING WITH THG GRADING, AND HANDLING

NEW SAW LINE FOR COMPARISON SHOPPING FIJI’S TROPIK WOODS; – WHY THG? SUSTAINABILITY-DRIVEN

SPLIT DETECTION FOR CLOSING THE GAP WITH LOGS YIELDS FEWER MILLTRAK 3D SPLITS, HIGHER VALUE

CONTENTS

Millwide Insider ISSUE 40

A VERY GOOD YEAR USNR has done it again, bringing another valuable business entity into the fold. We’re investing in and expanding our levels of exper tise, skills, and technology. Now USNR’s panel technology integration rivals that of our solid wood business. Synergistic collaboration among the teams will springboard the development of new concepts that are right around the corner. It’s shaping up to be a very good year!

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VENTEK ACQUISITION USNR recently announced that it has acquired the business of Ventek, Inc., the industry leader in veneer scanning, grading, and handling systems for the plywood industry. Collaboration between the teams has begun, and we’re excited to embrace the oppor tunities this new alliance will bring.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel.: 250.833.3028 subscriptions@usnr.com EDITOR Colleen Schonheiter colleen.schonheiter@usnr.com

USNR Woodland, WA: +1.360.225.8267 Mon. - Fri. 5:00 am - 5:00 pm PT 24/7 Service: +1.360.225.8267 www.usnr.com SÖDERHAMN ERIKSSON Söderhamn, SE: +46.270.746.00 Mariannelund: +46.496.218.00 Mon. - Fri. 07:30 - 16:30 CET

TROPIK WOOD Fiji’s Tropik Wood set out to update its saw line with state-of-the-ar t technology manufactured in Sweden, that would suppor t the country’s

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© 2017 USNR, LLC All rights reserved.

building boom sustainably. The result is

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to

gratifying, with increased recovery in excess of

1981 Schurman Way, Woodland, WA 98674.

50% and significantly higher throughput.

Canada Post: Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: USNR c/o Colleen Schonheiter, 3550 - 45th Street Southeast,

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NORRA SKOGSÄGARNA A comprehensive modernization of the Nor thern Forest Owners band saw line in Savar, Sweden will lead to much higher cutting speed and higher yield of sawn timber. The investment is estimated at 56 million SEK ($6 million US), with the first log to be sawn in August 2017.

SPLIT DETECTION FOR LOGS Split detection for logs is an optimization solution USNR developed that improves log rotation and log breakdown processes. “Without split detection, we found that as much as 20% of the lumber produced is often later rejected,” said Doug Strasky, manager for USNR primary breakdown optimization systems.

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Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1X1

Ventek Acquisition

New capability for USNR customers GS2000 dry veneer grading system

USNR’S LATEST ACQUISITION BRINGS VENEER SCANNING, GRADING, AND HANDLING EXPERTISE TO PLYWOOD PROCESSING The lumber industry has achieved huge value with the tight integration of mechanical, optimization and PLC controls technologies.

For this reason, many wood processors choose a single supplier when making capital investments, as integration of the technologies is easier and troubleshooting is smoother.

USNR was eager to bring this integration to the plywood side of its business. Adding the Ventek technology and expertise to its panel lines will enhance the capability of its portfolio.

It will also allow the teams to collaborate with methods, technologies and solutions between lumber and veneer scanning and grading.

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NEW CAPABILITY FOR USNR CUSTOMERS

VENTEK ACQUISITION

USNR recently announced that it has acquired the business of Ventek, Inc., the industry leader in veneer scanning, grading, and handling systems for the plywood industry. Collaboration between the teams has begun, and we’re excited to embrace the oppor tunities this new alliance will bring.

Based in Eugene, Oregon, Ventek has designed and built vision-based and moisture-based grading solutions for veneer since the company was founded in 1991.

Veneer feeder

Ventek quickly developed a reputation for having some of the best technology in the industry. Subsequently the company has been the go-to choice for veneer scanning and grading solutions. Building on this expertise, Ventek formed an internal group to design and build green and dry veneer handling systems. The group’s patented multi-point diverter has become the flagship product of Ventek’s veneer handling offering.

Chris Blomquist, USNR’s Senior Vice President for Sales and Engineering, commented, “Our customers on the lumber side of our business have long recognized the value of tightly integrated mechanical and optimization technology. With the addition of Ventek’s veneer scanning, grading, and handling solutions to USNR’s lathe, dryer, and downstream product portfolio, we now have an opportunity to bring this integration benefit to our customers on the plywood side of our business as well.”

Robotic plugging system

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We now have an opportunity to bring this integration benefit to our customers on the plywood side of our business.

VENTEK ACQUISITION Multi-point diverter system (MPDS)

Rodger Van Voorhis, formerly President of Ventek and one of its founders, added, “I am thrilled to join the USNR team, and I am excited to see what we can do with our veneer scanning, grading, and handling products as part of a larger organization.

I think there are going to be a lot of great opportunities to learn from each other – such as taking our plywood technology and applying it to lumber grading, and vice versa.” Rodger has joined USNR as Director of Sales for Veneer Systems.

“I am tremendously pleased that Rodger and the rest of the Ventek team have decided to join USNR to help us build the next generation of products for the plywood industry,” commented Alan Knokey, Vice President responsible for USNR’s plywood and panel business. “The people – the engineers, the service technicians, the guys who actually build the systems, and

everyone who supports them – they have been key to Ventek’s success.”

Ventek history Ventek was founded in 1991 by Ken Winder, Tom Thompson and Doug Hickman, formerly engineers at Morvue Electronics.

The founders had a unique product to offer but were struggling to get traction in the industry. In 1992 they decided to bring on board a past colleague from Morvue Electronics, Rodger Van Voorhis, to provide a solid business model, direction, and marketing expertise.

Over the ensuing years Ventek specialized in the design, manufacture, and installation of vision based industrial controls and innovative material handling systems for the veneer and plywood industry.

There are going to be a lot of great opportunities such as taking our plywood technology and applying it to lumber grading, and vice versa.

Twenty five years after its launch Ventek had become a leading industry supplier with an installed base in excess of 400 systems worldwide. Over the last 10 years Ventek was recognized for its contributions, receiving EWTA’s “Supplier of the Year” award 6 times and 2013’s “Innovation of the Year” award.

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VENTEK ACQUISITION

NEW CAPABILITY FOR USNR CUSTOMERS

NEW TEAM With the transition in business ownership, many of the former Ventek team members are now USNR employees. We introduce you to two key individuals who bring their experience and exper tise to fur ther the technology, and to expand the knowledge base under the USNR umbrella.

The people – the engineers, the service technicians, the guys who actually build the systems, and everyone who supports them – they have been key to Ventek’s success.

Rodger Van Voorhis – Director of Sales for the veneer product line at USNR Rodger joined Ventek in 1992, and was instrumental in building the organization’s reputation for design, manufacture, and installation of vision based industrial controls and innovative material handling systems for the veneer and plywood industry.

Rodger started his career in the forest products industry in 1974 as a part-time draftsman at Morvue Electronics. He continued working there while attending college at Portland State University. After college, he worked in related fields until joining Ventek in 1992.

Chris Van Ackeren – Sales Manager for veneer systems with USNR Prior to joining Ventek, Chris worked at a company involved with the manufacture, supply and service of veneer clipper equipment and moisture meters, where he held several positions including Sales Representative and VP of Marketing.

Chris began his career at Ventek in December of 1998, covering many roles from sales to service, and project management. He said, “As we were a small company I wore many hats.” He was involved in an abundance of field service and project management efforts over the ensuing years.

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Chris said, “In the early years at Ventek I was involved in the development of the Sequoia Sentry moisture measurement system, with Quinton Powell (software engineer). We proved out the veracity of the technology by cutting up dry veneer and oven drying it until there was no tomorrow.” His work also included sales of, and assistance with, the installation of the Sequoia Sentry moisture meters in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Chris related, “In my off time I enjoy restoring and detailing cars.” This is in keeping with his early experience running a vehicle detailing shop and in auto wholesaling.

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Notably, over the years his experience has included serving on the board of directors of 2 publicly traded companies; Advanced Machine Vision Corporation of Medford, OR and Key Technology of Walla Walla, WA. Both companies specialize in machine vision-based industrial controls and innovative material handling solutions.

Rodger was also a founding member of McKenzie State Bank in Springfield, Oregon; it was later acquired by Umpqua Bank.

Rodger and his wife Pam, recently celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary with their children, Cody, a 2012 graduate of Tulane University, and McKenna, a 2016 graduate of Arizona State University.

VENTEK ACQUISITION

NEW KEY PRODUCTS We want to acquaint you with some of the key products that are now available to you in the USNR por tfolio. We think you’ll be impressed with the breadth of supply to the plywood and panel industry. To check out the full por tfolio visit www.usnr.com.

NV4g Green Veneer Scanning System The New Vision NV4g is the 4th generation green veneer optimization system.

Specialized camera and lighting provides the greatest separation between good wood and defects (wane vs. stain). The NV4g accurately separates wane, voids, splits and closed defects in a broad range of species.

It applies grade classifications for clipped veneer based on user defined grade rules.

NV4g green veneer grading system

NV4g interfaces with the Green End Moisture (GEM) system, and clips and sorts veneer for both grade and moisture content.

Accuracy, consistency, and reliability are what make the NV4g a leader in green veneer grade scanning.

GEM Green-End Moisture System The Green-end Moisture system measures the moisture content of the veneer in percent moisture and on the fly as it is peeled. This information can be used to adjust the clip width, sort the veneer by moisture content, and calculate the sheet weight for more uniform stacking.

The GEM can be configured to interface with clipper controls and the NV4g green veneer scanners for implementing SAP-add clip strategies, and with stacker controls to provide moisture content and sheet weight for sorting and improved stacking.

The GEM makes use of a highly visible, user-friendly touch screen computer control. All parameters, diagnostic screens and tools are easily accessed and are multi-level password protected.

Sequoia Sentry solution screen

Multi-Point Diver ter System The Multi-Point Diverter System (MPDS) uses data from the NV4g green veneer defect scanner to precisely track and sort trash into the haul back, and divert fishtail/ random onto the trays.

The MPDS can eliminate the tipple section and the cumbersome transition to multiple trays by loading each tray from discrete divert points. It can be configured to customer-specific requirements.

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VENTEK ACQUISITION

NEW CAPABILITY FOR USNR CUSTOMERS Recovery and productivity gains are achieved in several areas.

Improves random recovery Reduces sheet width variance Reduces down-time Reduces manpower Increases production

Sequoia Sentry Moisture Management Sequoia Sentry is the most technically advanced system available for detecting moisture in dry veneer and controlling dryer speed. Sequoia Sentry has been reported to improve dryer efficiency by up to 20%.

Sequoia Sentry is the only system that incorporates both the veneer temperature and the veneer thickness into the moisture level calculation; it is the most accurate moisture and dryer control system available.

The Sequoia Sentry system makes it easy to adjust moisture level settings, and reduces the cyclic periods of over-dried or under-dried veneer that is characteristic of other dryer control systems. It gives both production and management the information they require.

GSc2000 Dry-End Scanner The GSc2000 is designed with advanced camera and lighting that allows enhanced defect recognition and performance through varying background color and changing light conditions.

I was involved in the development of the Sequoia Sentry moisture measurement system. We proved out the veracity of the technology by cutting up dry veneer and oven drying it until there was no tomorrow.

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Sequoia Sentry moisture system

The GSc2000 can achieve 95% on-grade performance at production speeds in excess of 500 feet per minute. The system also comes with production reporting and “what if” grading analysis. The flexible GSc2000 will allow mill managers to quickly respond to changing market conditions.

Robotic Plugging System The Robotic Plugging System (RPS)allows full automation of the process while utilizing existing Raimen or Skoog pluggers.

A 3-belt sheet feeder is designed to reduce double feeds and misfeeds. It can feed up to 18 sheets/minute, accommodating up to an 8-cell line. The sheet is even-ended and aligned, then secured with vacuum belts as it passes through the GSc2000 scanning system.

The GSc2000 is proven to 95%+ accuracy.

It offers an abundance of flexibility; it can ignore defects along the trim line, allow for taping all plugs x-amount from the edges, split grading sheets, and more. Sheets are tracked and then re-registered at the cells with a skew camera, to allow greater flexibility in configuring the line.

The skew camera system scans the position of the sheet as it is processed. This allows the system to compensate for any

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movement of the sheet as it moves through the conveyors.

Robots are a maintenance dream. With mean time between failure of 60,000 hrs., the maintenance regime is oiling the robot once every 6 months of 24/7 operation.

Pluggers are also retrofitted with the following modifications.

Plug detection cameras insure that there are no mis plugs.

Plug stock sensors are added to constantly monitor for problems.

Specialized taper units operate faster and are less susceptible to malfunction.

Motion control on the motor allows precise positioning, and a significant increase in cycle time.

Sheets can either be unloaded to a roundtable where the visual grade mark can be used by the puller to place the sheet in to the correct cart, or they can be sent to an automatic sheet stacker.

Tropik Wood

Sustainability-driven saw line TROPIK WOOD INCREASES RECOVERY TO SUPPORT FIJI BUILDING BOOM Determined to improve its recovery in its quest for sustainable harvesting, Tropik Wood set out to update its saw line with state-of-the-art technology. It selected a line from Sรถderhamn Eriksson / USNR, manufactured in Sweden. The result is gratifying, with increased recovery in excess of 50% and significantly higher throughput.

The level of technology incorporated in the mill is unique to this region. It is a testament to the importance of sustainable harvesting.

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TROPIK WOOD – SUSTAINABILITY-DRIVEN SAW LINE Approximately 2500 Fijians, including the country’s Prime Minister, rallied last July to celebrate the star tup of a new Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR sawline at the Tropik Woods Drasa mill in Lautoka, Fiji. Replacing an old sawline, the new equipment almost doubles the mill’s timber recovery, making for more efficient use of the island’s forest resources.

Founded in 1987, Tropik Wood Industries Limited (Tropik), a division of Fiji Pine Group of Companies, Limited, is the largest producer of timber products in the country. Processing Caribbean pine, the 170-employee company produces more than 15 product types, both treated and untreated, ranging from profiled timber, construction material and posts and poles for domestic customers, to wood chips for export markets. The company uses its waste material to feed a biomass power generating plant.

Selecting the equipment A series of discussions with Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR representatives and other suppliers produced a complete scoping of the project, which included: New log infeed deck; Cambio 800 ring debarker (including CIM 750 infeed and CamTrail outfeed); Scanning conveyor and True Shape 3D scanner; 7 50E log turner;

Project goals

LogPos optimized infeed;

The mill, which employed equipment that was purchased in 1987, was set up to focus on volume rather than recovery. This did not match the company’s and the government’s goals for optimizing the use of the island’s natural resources. Four years ago, Tropik decided that major capital upgrades of their sawmill line were needed. “The old mill experienced long downtimes and very poor recovery,” said Vimlesh Kumar, Tropik Wood’s Project Manager. “The low average recovery of 27% meant that we were wasting our valuable saw logs, which take 25 years or more to mature for timber.”

Q uad reducer band saw; O utfeed board separator; C atech 400 optimized 3-saw edger; C hipper canter 2500 with 435 infeed; G ang saw;

Cambio 800 debarker with CIM 750 infeed

O ptimization software and PLC controls; N ew structures and conveyors.

Several alternatives were considered by the Tropik team. “We explored a number of options including bringing in refurbished machinery from Canada or New Zealand that would have saved initial capital cost,” said Faiz Khan, Fiji Pine’s Executive Chairman in an article in the Fiji Sun newspaper. “But brand new, top-of-the-line equipment will give us greater certainty of productivity increases over the next 15 years.”

The Cambio 800 debarker processes Caribbean pine logs.

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“The level of technology incorporated in the mill is unique to this region,” said Lars Lindvall, Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR account manager. “It is a testament to the importance of sustainable harvesting that Tropik was willing to make the significant financial commitment to bring these plans to reality.”

The process: Debarking Caribbean pine logs enter the sawmill unsorted with respect to diameter, and leading with the small end. Logs range from 15 - 50 cm (6 - 20") diameter in lengths of 3 - 6.1 meters (10 - 20'). Logs are scanned and optimized, with 2.8 - 3 m (9 - 10') gaps at the infeed. Processing logs with small ends first provides advantages in more accurate infeed alignment and for edging accuracy.

The log decks have two sections with separate drives; one loading/storage deck and one thinning deck to separate logs before they arrive at the log elevator. The log elevator and singulator sends logs one-by-one to the debarking line with consistent intervals.

Brand new, top-ofthe-line equipment will give us greater certainty of productivity increases over the next 15 years.

The Cambio 800 is a heavy duty highspeed debarker that accommodates all log sizes, and is particularly suited for logs with a diameter up to 795 mm (31”).

It offers reliability, minimal service requirements and ultra-low operating costs. Triangular feed works and carbide tipped debarking tools actuated by compressed air are some of the most important features to achieve first class debarking results.

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TROPIK WOOD – SUSTAINABILITY-DRIVEN SAW LINE At Tropik Wood the Cambio 800 is paired with the CIM Debarker Infeed. This infeed’s auto-centering function allows feeding logs without any log gaps, maximizing debarking line productivity.

The CamTrail debarker outfeed prevents logs from wobbling or rotating. Secured support throughout the process ensures optimum debarking and feed control, and results in a minimum of down time and wear.

Once logs are debarked they pass through a metal detector, then a single axis log scanner for sorting out reject logs. Next they are transported to a log kicker, log elevator and singulator then on to the sawline scan conveyor.

The process: Chipping, canting Once scanned, a 3D data model is produced and an optimized saw pattern provides log and cant breakdown solutions. Log rotation is achieved with the 750E rotary log turner controlled from the PLC and actuated with an electric servo motor.

Next the LogPos log infeed positions the log with 4 pairs of vertical side rollers on a chain bed. The side rollers have spikes to hold the log's rotated position securely while feeding into the

Logs are rotated at the 750E log turner.

NEW SAWLINE LAYOUT 3-saw Edger Sideboards

FLOW

2500 Chipper canter

To trimmer line Center boards

Single arbor circular saw

FLOW

Cant feeder 435

FLOW FLOW

FLOW FLOW

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cutting tools. The infeed offers side shift capability of Âą30 mm (1.18") and follows the path defined by the sawline optimizer to achieve accurate opening faces on both sides. Spiked press and side rollers firmly secure and feed the logs into the chipper canter unit.

The Chipper Canter with CombiSpiral discs was chosen due to its capability to produce first class pulp chips and boards with smooth sawn faces, and proven dimensional accuracy. With a wide variety of accessories, it can be customized for log or cant breakdown, straight or sweep sawing and for production speeds up to 150 m/min. (500 feet/min.).

The process: Sawing The quad bandsaw's design maximizes production and performance with thin kerf saws. It is designed for high product

The quad bandsaw is assembled.

We knew this project was going to offer significant challenges, but we were pleased to be able to outfit this operation with state-of-theart equipment that will serve Tropik's interests for many years to come.

FLOW Catech 400 Edger infeed

Board scanner

S-Unscrambler

Quad bandsaw LogPos S4 infeed Board separator

750E Log turner

FLOW

Log scanner FLOW

CombiSpiral disc chipper To old resaw & edger line (rarely in use)

Log elevator FLOW

FLOW

Log singulator

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TROPIK WOOD – SUSTAINABILITY-DRIVEN SAW LINE accuracy at feed speeds up to 120 m/ min. (400 feet/min.). The bandsaws have optimized height-shifting saw guides, and speed is also optimized by cutting height.

Two to four sideboards are separated out at the board separator, and dropped off to the edger conveyor.

After sawing and separating side boards from the log, the cant is kicked sideways, turned 90 degrees and conveyed to the cant breakdown line. The Cant Feeder 435 positions the cant in front of the second chipper canter; it is centered, side shifted and skewed for the most accurate curve sawing, following the cant's natural shape.

The cant is processed through the 2500 Chipper Canter upstream of the circular saw.

The curve sawn cant enters the single arbor circular saw with 4 shifting saws and the option to mount further saws on the outer shafts. Side and center boards are sent to the green chain. Side boards are manually separated and sent to the optimized edger.

The process: Edging The Catech 400 edger line includes an S-shaped unscrambler, transverse scanner with conveyor, edger infeed and 3-saw edger, edgings separator and board outfeed.

The edger line offers high speeds and top recovery with optimized wane control, and a split saw that offers greater capability for processing wide boards.

The install One of the challenges faced by the installation team was integrating the new equipment into an old facility, with in-place infeed and green chain. “While relocation to a greenfield site would be ideal, the costs of moving all other processes would

The project teams from Tropik and Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR enjoy a jovial moment.

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The increase in production efficiency comes at the perfect time for Tropik. By increasing our output we will support the country's building boom sustainably.

Sideboards fall away and advance toward the S-unscrambler.

Flitches proceed to the S-unscrambler upstream of the edger.

make the project commercially unviable,” said Faiz Khan. “Even so, the integration of our existing conveyors with new machinery at our current site was a challenge,” added Vimlesh. “To increase our chance of success, we engaged the services of Skookum Technology, the process engineers (and Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR’s agent) out of New Zealand, to review our plans and ensure that everything was planned perfectly for smooth machine installation once the Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR installation engineers arrived from Sweden.”

“Another challenge was the isolation factor,” said Vimlesh. “It takes almost 2 months for shipments to reach Fiji from Sweden, so we prioritized the use of the best freight service provider in order to ensure that the equipment reached our site on time.”

As if the technical and transportation challenges weren’t enough, a major cyclone hit the island in the middle of the project. “Despite these factors, and the time zone difference between Fiji and Sweden, the project was implemented on time,” said Vimlesh.

Results The new mill has a capacity of 350m3/day, however it is currently being run at a daily average of 180m3 to ensure sustainability of the forests the mill draws its raw material from. As a result of the new equipment installation, recovery of timber has increased significantly. As well, the new line offers greater flexibility and can handle logs of larger diameter.

A flitch is fed into the Catech edger machine.

For Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR, this was a unique project in a challenging location due to distance and environment. Lars Lindvall comments, “We knew this project was going to offer significant challenges, but we were pleased to be able to outfit this operation with state-of-the-art equipment that will serve Tropik’s interests for many years to come.”

“The increase in production efficiency comes at the perfect time for Tropik,” concludes Vimlesh. “The Fijian economy has been importing a lot of timber, and by increasing our output we will support the country’s building boom sustainably. The equipment upgrades will also provide our workforce opportunities to increase their skills in operating state-of-the-art machinery.”

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Norra Skogsägarna

Aiming for a speed record CHALLENGING THE MARKET WITH A UNIQUE BAND SAW LINE A comprehensive modernization of the Nor thern Forest Owners band saw line in Savar, Sweden will lead to much higher cutting speed and higher yield of sawn timber. The first phase was replacing the edger and the second phase will see the installation of a brand new band saw line. The investment is estimated at 56 million SEK ($6 million US), with the first log to be sawn in August 2017.

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Stig Grundberg, manager at the Savar sawmill, and Christian Winlöf, sales and marketing manager at Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR, shake hands on their deal to produce the fastest band saw line in the world.

750E Rotary log turner

We want to recover as much as possible of the timber.

We set a target of doubling the speed, and halving the cut surfaces.

Band saw lines produce thin pieces of fiber, thus high yield of sawn products, but they cannot operate with the same high speeds as circular saws.

weight can vary from approximately 70 kg to one tonne. The average speed of the old line is 65 meters (215') per minute, while the new one will exceed 135 meters (445') per minute on average.

“We want to recover as much as possible of the timber, and together with Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR, we set a target of doubling the speed and halving the cut surfaces. These are very challenging goals,” says Stig Grundberg, sawmill manager at Savar and technical director for Northern Forest Owners. “It is satisfying to see that the sawmill industry in Sweden is confident about the future and shows a willingness to invest.”

“We can achieve this level of throughput by first placing two reducers in the line to open both sides of the log in order to create square cants.

This increases the possibilities both to change the settings and to reduce the log gaps from 2-2.5 meters (78-98") to 0.5 meters (20"). Thus we get almost as high a flow rate as in a circular saw line, but with higher yield,” explains Stig Grundberg, who believes that top speeds of more than 150 meters (492') per minute are achievable.

“Söderhamn Eriksson is a technology driver, and the cooperation with Northern Forest Owners in such a major, radical project will enable us to help propel development forward. It is very revolutionary project for the entire industry,” says Christian Winlöf, sales and marketing manager at Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR.

The goal of halving the already thin saw cuts of only 3 mm (1/8") to 1.5 mm (1/16") is a much tougher challenge.

The Sävar saw line processes a wide range of timber in all dimensions, from 120 mm (5") to 400 mm (15") at the top of the range, and log

“I have high hopes that we reach down to 2 mm (3/32") cuts in our new line, and then we can say that we have halved the kerfs compared to circular saw lines, which rarely come under 4 mm (5/32"). You should have challenging goals and there is more knowledge to explore,” says Stig Grundberg with a laugh.

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NORRA SKOGSÄGARNA – AIMING FOR A SPEED RECORD

It's exciting to work toward achieving the fastest band saw line in the world.

Stig Grundberg holds a PhD in X-ray technology in the sawmill industry, and he is passionate about the application of technology solutions.

It is one reason that the Northern Forest owners have confidence partnering with Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR as a supplier.

“We have enjoyed a good relationship of cooperation with Söderhamn Eriksson in recent years. The company is equally interested in development, and the configuration of the band saw line is unique in the market. It's exciting to work toward achieving the fastest band saw line in the world and to challenge the market with this unique solution,” says Stig Grundberg.

The new band saw line will comprise: 3D scanning and optimization 750E Rotary log turner, LogPos S4 log infeed 2-Chip Canter 2500 reducing units

Logmaster HPS band saw

2- Logmaster HPS bandsaws High-speed ribbon cutting up to 150 m/min.

(500 ft./min.).

SAVAR MILL FACTS Annual production: About 200 000 cubic meters (84,755 mbf) of sawn timber.

Bandsaw line for all timber dimensions.

Raw material: About 60 percent pine and 40 percent spruce.

Planing: Approximately 40 000 cubic meters (16,951 mbf) in a planing line, length capacity up to twelve meters.

LogPos S4 positioning infeed

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Employees: about 90 full-time employees.

Split detection for logs

Without split detection, we found that as much as 20% of the lumber produced is often later rejected.

Smarter log breakdown NEW OPTIMIZATION CAPABILITY YIELDS FEWER SPLIT AND REJECT BOARDS, MORE VALUABLE OUTPUT The mountain pine beetle infestation has left billions of dead trees in Western Canada, and is now encroaching on other regions. Dead trees dry out and develop splits that severely downgrade lumber. USNR has developed a cost-effective optimization solution that significantly improves the log breakdown process. It results in fewer split and reject boards, reduces the downstream drying and handling for material that will never become viable products, and improves the value of a mill’s output. www.usnr.com | www.se-saws.com | ISSUE 40 | Millwide Insider 19

NEW TECHNOLOGY

SPLIT DETECTION FOR LOGS – SMARTER LOG BREAKDOWN

CASE STUDY LAYOUT split detection initial scan

log turner FLOW reject kicker

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positioning infeed

side chippers

top, bottom chippers

split detection rescan

quad arbor sawbox

side board dispatch

quad arbor sawbox

side board dispatch

profiler

VSA gang

Split detection for logs is an optimization solution USNR developed that improves log rotation and log breakdown processes. “Without split detection, we found that as much as 20% of the lumber produced is often later rejected,” said Doug Strasky, manager for USNR primary breakdown optimization systems.

USNR’s split detection system uses visual and geometric scanning to identify splits on the surface of the logs. The USNR optimizer then calculates the optimal solution considering the splits based on grade and value.

Case study Impressive results were achieved following an extensive case study at a mill in Western Canada where split detection scanning and optimization technology were tested.

Our study determined that split detection and optimization can improve lumber yields by 2-5% and reduce the volume of split reject boards produced by up to 80%.

The results were applied to the value lost in split boards as well as the number of split boards produced. Strasky stated, “Conservatively, our study determined that split detection and optimization can improve lumber yields by 2-5% and reduce the volume of split reject boards produced by up to 80%.” Visual split detection identified about 3 times the number of splits compared with geometric-only split detection.

Left: The initial scan takes place on the auto-rotation conveyor upstream of the log turner.

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NEW TECHNOLOGY

profiler

SPLIT DETECTION FOR LOGS – SMARTER LOG BREAKDOWN

Above: At the log turner, a PGLR system scans each log as it travels through the turner, continually correcting the rotation angle to match the turn solution called for in the initial scan. This solution takes into account the optimum breakdown of the piece with split detection enabled.

Left: At this mill where the study was conducted, a second scan takes place after all 4 faces are exposed. This second scan and solution are not a requirement for all applications to achieve the key benefits from split detection optimization.

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NEW TECHNOLOGY

Log #1212 - No split rules enabled - true value is $21.34

Log #1212 - Split rules enabled - true value is $25.10

The process

The results

Logs are initially scanned on the autorotation conveyor upstream of the log turner. The initial scan utilizes USNR lineal laser profile sensors as well as BioLuma 2900V high resolution vision sensors.

The results of the case study are impressive, as shown in the two solution screens above.

At the log turner, a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system scans each log as it travels through the turner, continually correcting the rotation angle to match the turn solution called for in the initial scan. This solution takes into account the optimum breakdown of the piece with split detection enabled.

When there are skewing profilers on the log line, it is also possible to add vision scanners after the side chippers. This allows the side boards to be re-optimized for size and skew to further increase product recovery and reduce waste pieces.

The same process can be used in front of a profiling gang.

Features / Benefits:

With split rules disabled (left image) the optimizer found a solution with a total value of $27.47, but the two bottom boards (shown in green) in the cant stack have significant splits in them and will be given a value close to $0 when graded. When we subtract those two cant boards from the solution, the real value of what was produced is $21.34.

Improves recovery from dead, dried out logs Reduces handling of downstream reject lumber Costs significantly less than competitive split detection solutions on the market Utilizes BioLuma 2900V high resolution vision sensors Can be added onto existing USNR autorotation scan zones

Contact us for more information.

For the image on the right (split rules enabled) the optimizer found a solution with a total value of $25.10, and no boards will be down-graded for split/shake. The log will be rotated to ensure this greatest value is achieved in the breakdown process.

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Industry Recognition

Our industry employs a host of technological advances, and with them sometimes comes an element of risk. Mitigating that risk and finding a workable solution for all stakeholders, overcoming challenges and keeping workers safe, I really enjoy those aspects.

ADRIENNE BOOTSMA SELECTED FOR CFI’S TOP 10 UNDER 40 USNR is pleased to announce that Adrienne Bootsma, electrical plant manager at USNR’s Salmon Arm, BC facility, was selected as one of the top 10 under 40 in our industry by Canadian Forest Industries magazine.

Adrienne Bootsma is an inspiration to any young person considering a career in this industry. Adrienne started her career as a student on a co-op work term for USNR and in 10 years she progressed to become the Electrical Plant Manager.

She began working with USNR as a co-op student on a work term from January to April 1998. When she received her diploma from the University College of the Cariboo as Computer Automated Systems Technician in 1999 she began fulltime work for USNR as an Electronics Assembler. Adrienne gradually progressed through the ranks to Electronics Technician, Sensor Chargehand, Optimization Supervisor,

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and in 2008 she took on her current role as Electrical Plant Manager.

Adrienne’s passion for safety continues to evolve; she currently heads up the Joint Health and Safety Committee at USNR, and recently received notification that USNR has won a provincial award. As well, in 2016 she achieved certification as OFA Level 3 and Laser Safety officer.

Always driven to succeed, in January 2015 Adrienne embarked in a program to earn a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) graduate degree, with focus on Health and Safety Leadership through the University of Fredericton. She completed this program in early 2017.

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Adrienne Bootsma is a testament that hard work, dedication and vision are attributes that can help anyone succeed. Her passion for health and safety in the workplace is benefiting USNR and its employees. She notes, “Safety is one of those unique things that brings together workers, managers, customers and vendors, as we seek a common goal. I have witnessed the evolution of focus on safety in our industry. While we still have cuts and falls from hazards that are “seen”, we now deal with hazards and risks that emerge from the “unseen”; ergonomics, laser, UV and X-ray radiation, to name a few.

Optimized Grade Sawing

MOF+ Mode

BOF Mode

Turn Your Carriage into a Profit Center.

MillExpert™ Optimization software uses True Shape 3D scan data to consider millions of solutions based on log grades, surface features, and user-defined product definitions. You specify the wane limits, grade zones, and real dollar values and the optimizer calculates the most valuable solution for every log loaded on your carriage.

USNR’s MillExpert™ optimized log carriage system provides highly accurate opening faces and will model any downstream machinery including curve sawing machines, resaws, edgers, and trimmers. This increases throughput and ensures the best fiber utilization and recovery for your sawmill.

Three advanced cutting modes including MOF+, BOF, and Optimized Grade Sawing, give the flexibility to get the most from your resource. MOF+ and BOF modes improve consistency and maximize grade out, giving you more control over your product mix to meet market demands. Optimized Grade Sawing is the industry’s most advanced yet easy to use system available. Contact us to discuss putting this technology in your mill.

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Millwide. Worldwide.

www.usnr.com

NEW PROJECTS AKD Softwoods – Log Line and Horizontal Shape Saw AKD Softwoods is improving sawmill line for its Colac plant in Victoria, Australia.

The plant produces structural, treated and specialty products for the Australian and Asian markets. The sawn timber is predominantly kiln dried, dressed and machine graded.

The new log line will benefit from advances in scanning, rotation, positioning and thin kerf sawing. The new system is designed to run at 165 meters/minute (540 ft./min.) and process a larger diameter log than is currently processed (up to 650 mm / 26”).

The order also includes a reciprocating quad bandmill line with 30 cm (12”) double arbor horizontal shape saw. This investment will help the plant to increase the reliability, accuracy, conversion and production in the sawmill.

Dempsey Wood Products – Double-Track Direct-Fired Dry Kiln Dempsey Wood Products is investing in a new Double-Track Direct-Fired Dry Kiln with natural gas burner for its mill in Orangeburg, SC to dry southern yellow pine lumber. The kiln will operate using KilnBoss Controls.

Dempsey Wood Products serves the Southeast pine and hardwood markets producing chips for paper production, pine and domestic hard wood lumber. This will be the first kiln for this operation and will open up new markets for its products. The KD (kiln dry) stamp will also allow the mill to charge a premium over its green products.

USNR will provide training that will cover drying basics including wood science, kiln operation, KilnBoss controls, trouble shooting and maintenance of the kiln and burner system.

Eacom Timber – Multi-Track Fence Eacom Timber is installing a new MultiTrack Fence for its sawmill in Timmins, Ontario. This will be its second MultiTrack Fence from USNR. Eacom likes the simplicity and accuracy of the fence, and it will fill their requirements for many years to come.

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Package Kiln Installation

Eksjö Industri – Saw line Upgrade Swedish sawmill Eksjö Industri has chosen a two-stage upgrade solution from Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR for its large dimension softwood saw line.

The first step will be the implementation of ServoPos 3, a motion control system that facilitates the rapid positioning of hydraulic servo systems. This ServoPos 3 system will enhance the capacity, reliability and accuracy of the complete saw line.

Next the edger line will be upgraded with new electronic and mechanical components, projected to increase the capacity of the edger by up to 35%.

Sawmill manager Anders Magnusson is confident about the future. “These new investments will help the company meet the current high demand for lumber from the construction industry.”

Gorman Bros.– E-Tong Lug Loader Gorman Bros. is pleased with the ElectraTong Lug Loader recently installed at the mill in Westbank, BC. Glen Sorenson, maintenance manager at the operation,

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expressed his support for the product during an interview with Canadian Forest Industries magazine.

The main benefits he noted include increased speed and throughput, redeployment of manpower, improved safety, infinitely tunable, and adjustable clamping pressure.

The all-electric ElectraTong Lug Loader offers excellent board control at high speeds, and excels in random thickness applications. It does not require incoming backlog pressure to deal the board. Instead it has the ability to pick a piece off the infeed belts with no backlog forces. The operating speed can range to 250+ lugs/ min. depending on the application.

Lauzon – Wastewood Chipper Lauzon Planchers de Bois Exclusifs is replacing its existing chipper with a new 58’’ bottom discharge Wastewood Chipper from USNR for its mill at Thurso, Quebec.

This investment will enable the mill to maintain the reliability of its chipping process, producing high quality chips for many years.

Meherrin River – Carriage Optimization, MyMill The Meherrin River Forest Products plant at Alberta, VA has ordered USNR’s MillExpert Carriage Optimization system, paired with Chroma+scan sensors. This system will maximize productivity and value from its 4-knee Cleereman carriage.

Murphy Plywood – Core Drive Murphy Plywood is investing in a new M1396 Core Drive and M790 Pendulum for its veneer plant in White City, OR. The project scope includes a new M1396 Core Drive to replace the older model M1390. All existing hydraulic supply and controls will be reused. The new M790 pendulum will replace the original design. Both existing machines have been in service more than 25 years.

The new M790 heavy duty pendulum incorporates improved structural members that allow precise block transport from the charger to the lathe spindles. The added pendulum rigidity ensures that charger XY positioning is maintained during handoff to the lathe in order to achieve maximum fiber recovery.

Tulsa S.A. – Core Drive Tulsa S.A. of Lota, Chile has installed a new Model 1396 Core Drive configured with Allen-Bradley ControLogix PLC controls that was retrofitted on the mill’s existing lathe. USNR’s Core Drive provides stability to the diminishing core, and much of the drive torque required for peeling, reducing spinouts and improving veneer quality.

The M1396 is a much improved Core Drive design that provides optimum upper and outer roll geometry allowing precise positioning and block stability during the peel cycle. Structural frame members and roll bearing supports are substantially improved compared to previous models. The machine is designed to process cores to 3” or less in diameter.

COMPLIMENTARY SUBSCRIPTION For your complimentary subscription to USNR’s Millwide Insider magazine e-mail subscriptions@usnr.com or go to www.usnr.com/Newsletters

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PO Box 310 Woodland, WA 98674

Millwide Insider is printed on recycled paper.

PROFILE Eric Blomstrand is an Account Manager based at Söderhamn, Sweden.

Eric Blomstrand began his career in this industry in 2001 as technical sales support for Söderhamn Eriksson. He moved to capital sales in 2007 as an area manager. After spending a short period of time with another industry supplier, he rejoined Söderhamn Eriksson / USNR in February 2017.

Eric is well versed in Söderhamn Eriksson equipment and technology, and is now learning the wider range of equipment offered

UPCOMING EVENTS

as a result of joining with USNR. He remarked, “I’m really impressed with the breadth of the product range, and the strength of being able to supply almost everything that is required for the wood processing industry.”

He continued, “I enjoy the variations of this business; I like meeting customers, discussing their challenges and finding solutions to meet their needs. There is always something new to learn.”

Eric leads an active lifestyle. Together with his wife, he spends much time with their 3 children’s sports activities. He also enjoys snow and water skiing.

22–24 MARCH HMA

28–30 MARCH MASS Timber Conf.

28–30 MARCH Montreal Wood Conv.

Charleston, South Carolina

Portland, Oregon

Montreal, Québec

5–7 APRIL COFI

25 APRIL OptiSaw

11 MAY Global Softwood

Vancouver, British Columbia

Richmond, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia