The new 544 is Tigercat's lowest weight class harvesting head for track harvesters.
Based on the proven 534 design, the 544 is a three-wheel drive head with triangulated wheel arm geometry. The chassis, covers and tilt frame are designed to handle the rigors of track carrier operating conditions. Four cast steel knife arms, and fixed front and back knives provide excellent delimbing quality.
Targeting trees in the 15 to 50 cm (6 to 20 in) diameter range, the 544 has a maximum main cut capacity of 790 mm (31 in) along with a 790 mm (31 in) feed wheel opening, and 760 mm (30 in) maximum knife arm opening to handle the occasional larger tree. Available with an optional 560 mm (22 in) cut capacity top saw, the 544 is a great match for selective harvesting applications in mixed diameter hardwood and conifer stands. Operating weight ranges from 1,700 kg (3,760 lb) with standard rotator and link up to 2,140 kg (4,720 lb), allowing the head to be mated to Tigercat H822 and H855 series carriers with standard or telescopic boom sets.
The hydraulically actuated measuring wheel promotes positive contact and reduces component wear. Diameter measuring on the wheel arms and front knife arms provides accurate measurement. An efficient high-flow hydraulic system matched to Tigercat carriers provides excellent performance and outstanding fuel economy. Optional 360 degree continuous rotation with through-tip hose routing and robust, stable wireless communication is available on select carriers. Various rotator, feed motor, feed wheel, knife arm, and wheel arm choices are available to tailor the 544 for specific applications.
For maximum productivity and performance in eucalyptus processing applications, the 544 debarking package includes several features to increase productivity and performance. The feed wheels and the wheel arm geometry are designed for debarking, spiralling the trees during feeding for better performance. The feed motor sizes are tuned for high demand and productivity. Unique front and back knife geometry provides comprehensive tree coverage. Source
With the Top Saw, you can maximize the timber yield from every log.
The new Tilt Control system enables you to place the head at any desired tilt angle. Tilt Control comes as standard and the valve for this function is mounted below the existing tilt valve on the left block. Tilt Control is very important when processing heavily limbed trees or when working in steep terrain.
The saw box has been redesigned and extended to accommodate saw bars up to 90 cm (34 in) in length, a new root protection plate providing enhanced protection to the chain against roots and enables easier cutting of larger trees with a maximum diameter of 78,4 cm (30.9 in). Furthermore, the footprint of the saw box has been reduced, making it particularly advantageous in snowy conditions.
The length measurement function has been significantly improved to enhance accuracy. Changes include redesigning the measure wheel cylinder, updating the hydraulic circuit, reinforcing the measuring wheel arm and attachment, the measuring wheel is larger in diameter. These enhancements allow the measuring wheel to precisely follow the stem’s contour, resulting in superior measurement results.
The Log Max 6000V Top Saw is equipped with two 318 MK2 with 30cc motors. Through good material selection and innovative design concepts, these units significantly reduce maintenance requirements while maximizing durability. New grease nipples have been added to the front sides, enabling easy application of grease to safeguard against moisture, dirt, and debris.
The saw bar bracket has undergone significant improvements. It now includes a protective cover and rubber seals to seal off the bracket, preventing the infiltration of dirt and dust. The saw bar holder has been upgraded with premium-grade Hardox 450 material and an improved design. The attachment mechanism for the saw bar itself has been reinforced, ensuring enhanced strength and longevity.
In order for all lubrication to be done when the head is in the tilted position, the head has accessible lubrication points. The lubrication points are brought forward on the saw box so that they are easy to get at. It increases safety, facilitates maintenance work, and shortens downtime.
To simplify service, facilitate transport and increase safety, a "Safety Pin" has replaced the safety chain, which forms a locking mechanism between the frame and the felling link. You can now link a bracket under the rotator to a stand in the frame with the help of a locking pin.
To reduce cost, it is possible to choose the rotator control option, which means that the rotator is controlled from the head instead of from the base machine. The advantages are that it frees weight on the base machine by eliminating between 20-30 m of hose and also reduces costs. If the option is chosen, an extra valve is mounted to the head.
To increase durability and reduce the risk of cracks in the frame, Log Max have created a reinforced attachment for the upper delimbing knife. The frame is reinforced at the mainline, where the upper delimbing knife slides on the frame to increase durability and extend its life span. Source
That’s how far Volvo’s next-generation heavy-duty electric truck will be able to drive.
Up to 600 km (373 mi) on one single charge. The longer range represents a break-through for long-distance transport with zero tailpipe emissions. The electrification of heavy trucks is continuing across the world and longer distances are now becoming a possibility.
Next year Volvo will launch a new long-range version of its FH Electric that will be able to reach up to 600 km (373 mi) on one charge. This will allow transport companies to operate electric trucks on interregional and long-distance routes and to drive a full working day without having to recharge. The new Volvo FH Electric will be released for sale during the second half of 2025.
The enabler for the 600 km (373 mi) range is Volvo’s new driveline technology, the so-called e-axle, which creates space for significantly more battery capacity onboard. More efficient batteries, a further improved battery management system and overall efficiency of the powertrain also contribute to the extended range.
Volvo Trucks is a global leader in medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks with eight battery-electric models in their portfolio. The wide product range makes it possible to electrify city and regional distribution, construction, waste management and, soon, long distance transport. Volvo has so far delivered more than 3,800 electric trucks to customers in 46 countries around the world.
Volvo Trucks drives the transition towards fossil-free transport to reach its net-zero emissions target by 2040 using a three-path technology strategy. The three-path technology approach is built on battery electric, fuel cell electric and combustion engines that run on renewable fuels like green hydrogen, biogas or HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil). Source
Choosing the right mulcher for your conditions might seem daunting
Fecon provides guidance to select a forestry mulcher considering all the different types of equipment. As a quick refresher, forestry mulchers are powerful machines designed to clear brush, trees, and other vegetation by grinding them into mulch. There are three main types of forestry mulchers: deck mulchers, disc mulchers, and drum mulchers:
- Deck mulchers: Deck mulchers utilize swinging blades to quickly and efficiently cut small vegetation. They excel in managing dense undergrowth, delivering a moderately fine finish. While they can cut larger material into sections, their strength lies in quickly clearing brush, making them an ideal choice for projects requiring speed and efficiency in processing lighter vegetation.
- Disc Mulchers: Disc mulchers utilize a spinning disc with fixed cutting teeth and operate quickly and efficiently. While they can fell larger trees, their primary function is rapid timber processing. They are unmatched in their ability to quickly process standing trees, making short work of material that other types might process more slowly. However, the trade-off for speed is a coarser finish.
- Drum Mulchers: Drum mulchers offer the most versatility, capable of processing both large and small material effectively. While they might not match the speed of a deck mulcher in clearing brush or a disc mulcher in processing standing timber, they excel at delivering a fine, even finish across various materials. This makes them a go-to choice for operators who need to handle a variety of tasks with a single attachment.
Each is suited for different tasks and terrains, so assess your specific needs first.
- Cutting and Processing Capacities, and Desired Finish: When choosing a forestry mulcher, understanding each type’s cutting and processing capacities is essential, as well as the desired finish you want to achieve. Each shine in different applications; sometimes, a combination of these is necessary to achieve optimal results. Deck mulchers are highly effective for rapidly clearing brush and smaller vegetation, delivering a medium finish. Disc mulchers are unrivalled in high-speed timber processing, excelling with standing trees but leaving a coarser finish. Drum mulchers provide the greatest versatility, handling both large and small materials while offering a fine, even finish across various conditions.
- Hydraulic Power and Efficiency: The performance of a forestry mulcher is heavily influenced by the hydraulic horsepower provided by the carrier machine. When selecting a mulcher, it’s crucial to ensure that the carrier offers sufficient hydraulic flow and pressure to match the mulcher’s specifications. Balancing hydraulic power with efficiency not only optimizes performance but also helps in reducing overall operating costs by maximizing productivity while minimizing fuel consumption.
- Durability and Maintenance: Durability is critical when it comes to land clearing. Choose mulchers made from high-quality materials designed for longevity. Also, make sure they’re easy to maintain. Look for machines with accessible parts and straightforward maintenance routines to minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
- Safety Features: Safety cannot be overstated when it comes to heavy machinery. Choose mulchers with safety features like reinforced cabins, emergency shut-off switches, and protective guards to help prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
- Compatibility: Compatibility is key! Make sure whichever mulcher you choose works with your current equipment, whether it’s an excavator, skid steer, or tractor, to ensure smooth integration and efficient operation
In the next issue of Logging-on, we will discuss how to select the correct mulcher. Source
Seppi M has expanded its range of radio-controlled tracked vehicles
The H5 rc with its low and compact design, robust construction, easy maintenance and impressive performance, makes it the first choice for professional landscaping and vegetation maintenance for vehicles with a flow rate of 50-115 l/min (13.5 to 30 g/min), mulching grass and brush up to a diameter of 5 cm (2 in). It is suitable for vehicles with a power of 30 to 80 hp (22 to 59 kW).
The chain and rubber front and rear guard ensure safety at work, minimize the risk of stone throwing and ensure smooth operation. The height-adjustable support roller with a diameter of 133 mm (5 in) is reinforced and designed with robust bearings to ensure precise height adjustment and consistent mulching performance to deliver a consistently high quality of work in various conditions.
The housing is constructed from high-strength S420 steel and is equipped with replaceable wear plates, replaceable hardened counter blades for maximize efficiency and ensures optimum mulching results while guaranteeing a long service life even during intensive use. The H5 rc is available in three working widths: 135 cm (53 in), 155 cm (61 in) and 175 cm (69 in) and therefore offers optimum adaptation to different application requirements and vehicle types.
One can get started with the new H5 rc, either with an existing vehicle or with the manoeuvrable and Seppi M MAX le radio-controlled tool carrier. Source
John Deere Rolls Out SmartDetect™ on Select Wheel Loaders
Expanding its portfolio of jobsite safety solutions and technology offerings, John Deere announces SmartDetect for select utility-class and production-class loaders. Building upon the jobsite-proven John Deere advanced object detection and vision solutions, utilizing a combination of cameras, radar and machine learning tools, SmartDetect technology is designed to enhance overall situational awareness, providing informed visibility to an operator's surroundings. Source
The official FAE App has been upgraded
The new features are for the RCU55 or RCU75 remote controlled tracked carriers. This new functionality makes it possible to interact with and manage the machine even more precisely and efficiently. There are three new FAE App functions available for RCUs, being real-time information, diagnostics and scheduled maintenance. Source
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