Logging-on’s first issue of March brings the big guns to the table. To begin with, we examine the new tough Tigercat 875 E-Series purpose-built logging machine. It can be configured for loading or processing and can handle whatever timber comes it way! Cat has also released their new 538 forestry excavator designed for loading or processing. It features a number of significant improvements over the previous model. Kesla continues to bring new and innovative products to the market of late. They have now introduced a new attachment for their forestry trailers that increases the efficiency of biomass transport. We profile the new factory fitted precision systems for the range of Case dozers. Finally, we examine what technology can do to ensure that our logs are properly restrained when carrying out timber transport.
Now to the newsletter!
The 875E logger is a multi-purpose carrier with two boom options for loading or processing applications.
It introduces several new features, including an updated operator station, two undercarriage options, and various grapple configurations to tailor the machine to your specific needs. The machine can be equipped with the Tigercat FPT N67 Non-certified, Tier 4f or Stage V engine, producing 210 kW (282 hp).
The undercarriage is designed and built to withstand rigorous, full-time forest duty applications. Two options are available. The F7-150 undercarriage is standard. The larger footprint F7-162 undercarriage provides additional stability for heavy timber applications.
The 875E can be configured as a loader equipped with various power clam, butt-n-top, live heel, pulpwood and log grapple options. The carrier can also be configured as a high-capacity processor capable of running large harvesting heads in demanding duty cycles.
The spacious cabin has a new operator’s seat with built-in heating. Controls are now integrated into both sides of the joystick pods, eliminating the need for any bolt-on control pods. The optimally positioned controls and a large touchscreen display improve ergonomics and machine monitoring. Reduced in-cab noise levels help the operator enjoy the auxiliary audio input port, Bluetooth® audio and hands-free calling. Additional new features include a standard equipped rearVIEW camera system, emergency stop button, and a key FOB to turn on exterior lights remotely when entering the cab in the dark.
Some of the many advantages of the 875E over excavator conversions include better service access, higher cooling capacity, a better operating environment, more robust undercarriage components and extremely efficient hydraulic circuits. The result is higher production, uptime and fuel efficiency. Source
The excavator features several significant design upgrades for working with timber.
Available in Log Loader and General Forest configurations, the 538 has a new electrohydraulic control system with 10% more swing torque that allows the machine to do work with more power and precision. Updates to the drive system result in a 12% increase in travel speed, helping the Cat Next Generation 538 cover more ground and move up and down slopes faster. High Wide undercarriage provides 15% greater ground clearance to help the machine pass over stumps and other obstructions with ease.
The 538 features a Cat 7.1 engine that meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards and is flexible to run on biodiesel up to B20. Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to working conditions to help reduce fuel consumption up to 5% without sacrificing performance.
The 538 offers a cold-start capability of -25˚ F (-32˚ C) and reliable high ambient temperature operation reaching 118˚ F (48˚ C). It efficiently operates at altitudes reaching 9,842 ft (3 000 m) without derating. Fuel tank capacity is more than double the previous model, which means the new 538 can operate up to five shifts before refilling.
The all-new Certified Forestry cab design for the Cat Next Generation 538 dramatically improves operator comfort and safety. The cab is 25% larger with 50% greater overall visibility than the previous 538. Plus, it has a heated seat and a more ergonomically friendly layout, so the operator doesn’t have to exert much effort to be efficient and productive.
Ingress/egress is easier due to the cab’s wider and taller door and tilt-up console on the operator’s seat. The machine’s new dual HVAC system keeps operators comfortable regardless of working in the summer heat or during subfreezing ambient winter temperatures. Its specially insulated roof and improved window and door seals keep in-cab noise levels low.
Operators can start the 538’s engine with a simple push of a button. The new Operator ID allows each operator to quickly program and store their own machine settings and attachment function preferences. A larger 10-in (254-mm) high-resolution touchscreen monitor delivers intuitive navigation through operating menus and includes a digital version of the operator’s manual for quick reference. An available Cat PL161 Attachment Locator assists in finding work tools within a range of 200 ft (60 m), even when covered by overgrowth or debris.
A larger, 1.25-in (32-mm) polycarbonate front window improves visibility and operating safety. Smaller cab pillars with the large panoramic windows and recessed right front of the machine contribute to the 50% visibility improvement over the previous model. Two different cab risers – 6.5-in (165-mm) fixed or 48-in (1 219-mm) hydraulic tilt – are available to help operators better see the jobsite. Video feed from the standard rearview camera is easily visible on the high-resolution monitor to enhance operating safety; an optional sideview camera improves visibility even more.
Compared to the previous model, the Next Generation 538 lowers maintenance costs by up to 15% over the course of 12,000 hours of operation. Cat have improved their filters and service intervals, and have improved ground-level access to service points to make daily maintenance quick and safe, including a new ground-level dipstick for checking the engine oil. The new electrohydraulic control system eliminates the need for a pilot filter and pilot oil altogether.
The improved filters and synchronized replacement intervals result in greater uptime and 50 fewer filters being consumed over 12,000 hours. Fuel filters feature a synchronized 1,000-hour change interval, which doubles the service life of the previous model. A new hydraulic oil return filter improves filtration and delivers a 3,000-hour service life, which is 50% longer than previous designs.
The high-efficiency, hydraulically driven cooling fan runs only when necessary; reversing intervals are programmable to enable the fan to keep the radiator cores clean without interrupting the work schedule.
Product Link™ technology captures critical operating data, fault codes, and machine location information to boost fleet management efficiency. The Next Generation 538 has Remote Troubleshoot capability when within cell coverage. Remote Troubleshoot analyses real-time machine data captured by Product Link for diagnostics of fault codes without impacting machine productivity, and it can potentially save a service trip to the jobsite. Also, owners can be sure the 538 is operating with the most current version of software with standard Remote Flash (dependent on cell service), which updates machine software around the production schedule. Source
Kesla Oyj is introducing a bioenergy platform intended for use with a timber trailer.
The platform is an accessory that can be easily detached, if necessary. The platform has a volume of 23 m3 (30 yd3) and is equipped with a hydraulic tailgate and a tipper. With the platform, the use of the timber trailer can be increased, particularly outside the forest environment.
Kesla has previously introduced more wide-ranging applications for forest equipment, particularly for loaders. The number of applications is now increasing because the company is introducing a new accessory for timber trailers, being the KESLA forestCOMBI bioenergy platform. The platform can be used for transporting content such as energy wood, wood chips, feed or snow. The platform is also equipped with a hydraulic tailgate and a tipper, making it easy to empty the load from the tractor cabin.
Since this is an accessory of the timber trailer, the platform enables utilisation of all the features and accessories of the timber trailer, including beam control or traction. The forestCOMBI is installed on the bunks of the timber trailer. The forestCOMBI platform can be conveniently parked on its stabiliser legs. When one wants to use the platform, one needs to detach the posts of the trailer and drive the trailer beneath the platform.
Using lift cylinders, the plate is lowered on top of the bunks. The platform can be moved elsewhere just as easily. The trailer along with the platform is driven to the parking place, the stabiliser legs are opened and the platform is lifted to an upright position by means of cylinders. After this, the stabiliser legs are locked and the trailer can be driven away.
The Kesla forestCOMBI is a Finnish product implemented by a Kesla subcontractor. It can be acquired for timber trailers in the KESLA 144 series and just like Kesla tractor attachments, it is sold by several retailers around the world and Valtra Unlimited Studio. Source
The new offering includes factory installed and calibrated 2D, dual mast 3D and SiteControl CoPilot precision construction solutions.
This option simplifies acquisition and allows dozer owners to group the precision solution of their choice in with the initial purchase of the machine. It also combines all elements of the investment into a single payment, financing package and interest rate — making ordering and implementation seamless.
When the machine arrives at the dealer, it is calibrated and ready to go. The machine and the system are purpose-built together and calibrated using Case World Class Manufacturing (WCM) processes, ensuring system integrity and helping dozer owners and operators get up and running immediately once they’ve decided on a machine. Factory-fit machine control also increases residual/resale value, and gives dozer owners the confidence that the system was purpose-built with the machine and meets all quality and performance standards intended by the manufacturer.
Machine control continues to evolve, and adoption continues to grow throughout the industry as contractors realize the gains in productivity, efficiency and quality. This makes it easier than ever for Case dozer buyers to implement machine control and realize those benefits immediately. Source
The leading specialist in load securing and BPW are forging a safety alliance.
The iGurt, developed by BPW, is a more handy, intelligent sensor, which monitors the tension of the lashing strap while driving and thus protects against load damage and accidents. The multiple award-winning innovation is uncomplicated, affordable and is supported by certain governments.
The iGurt by BPW was already awarded with numerous prominent awards. The sensor measures the preload during lashing and during the drive and displays this on the housing, on the driver’s smartphone and also in the telematics portal upon request. This means that the cargo restraints can be monitored in real time to ensure that they are correct and this can be documented seamlessly. Damage caused by excessive tension can also be reliably avoided. The iGurt can be ordered via the customer consultant of Dolezych and BPW. The load securing system is available online at dolezych.de/shop and the portal telematics24.de/en/.
iGurt is an asset for transport safety, because it is an economic purchase and is uncomplicated in its use. Dolezych and BPW have worked together closely in coordinating the entire system. Freight forwarders, professionals from transport industry and drivers were involved in the development work, which makes the system practical.
The load securing system is supplied in four different complete sets. Apart from the iGurt sensor, it contains Dolezych belts in different adjustable ends of 7.5 or 9.5 metre as well as fixed ends with two different ratchet types (short lever hoist ratchet for up to 300 daN preload and DoMulti long lever pull ratchet for up to 600 daN preload).
In addition, the intelligent load securing is a fixed part of the BPW campaign "Movin' Stars". This involves a total of four test trailers with system solutions from the BPW Group, which the freight forwarders can test for four to eight weeks each, free of charge. Interested vehicle operators can apply for it at www.bpw.de/movinstars.
An inadequately secured load is thought to be the cause of about 20 to 25 per cent of traffic accidents involving heavy goods vehicles. Regulatory bodies find fault with more than 70 per cent of inspected vehicles due to insufficient securing of loads. High penalties with costly and time-consuming re-securing and reloading work are the result, as well as high insurance costs. The ‘iGurt’ results in lower staffing costs for dealing with accidents – in addition, there is a noticeable benefit in road safety, driver motivation and customer satisfaction. Source
COFE and FORMEC 2021 announcement
The organisers are pleased to announce that the 43rd annual meeting of the Council on Forest Engineering (COFE) and the 53rd annual meeting of the International Symposium on Forest Mechanization (FORMEC) will be held jointly as a virtual meeting on 27-30 September, 2021. For more details, please visit website.
“Productive assessment and energy balance of a horizontal grinder of forest residues recovered from full tree pine harvesting”
Found in the International Journal of Forest Engineering, 2021. The authors were Diego Oro, Eduardo da S Lopes, Carla K Rodrigues, Dimas A da Silva, Allan L Pelissari and Renato CG Robert. Source
13 April 2021 - Forest Industry Safety & Technology 2021 - Rotorua, New Zealand. https://forestsafety.events/
15-16 June 2021 - Carbon Forestry 2021 - Rotorua, New Zealand (Virtual Registrations available). https://carbonforestry.events/
27-30 September 2021 - Joint COFE/FORMEC Annual Meeting 2021 (Virtual) – https://cofe-formec2021.org
23-24 November 2021 - ForestTECH 2021 - Rotorua, New Zealand (Virtual Registrations available). https://foresttech.events/
To see the full list of international logging, roading and trucking conferences and expo’s, please click the “read more” tab.