Designed to serve as an additional mulching resource for a wide range of consumers, the new Drum Mulcher DC Pro is differentiated by its lighter weight of just 1,350 pounds and its 63 CC, two-speed, bent-axis piston motor. Larger than others in its class, this high-torque hydraulic motor allows the DC Pro to spool-up faster and deliver greater force to power through more and larger material.

“The Drum Mulcher DC Pro is more productive than other options in its class based on processing capacity and speed,” explained Dan Stachel, executive vice-president. “Its lighter weight design provides versatility for tackling a variety of common land maintenance tasks from managing overgrowth and maintaining fence lines to creating defensible space. The streamlined profile also affords good operator visibility and maneuverability, while the chassis positions the center of gravity close to the loader for optimal stability – even on steep slopes.”

The DC Pro is engineered with a 50” cutting width to slice through trees and brush and mulch material up to 8” in diameter. The depth control drum features a forward exposure that allows for optimum tree engagement and maximum cut width relative to weight. A rugged chassis guards the motor from ground impact and allows the operator to manipulate downed material and position vegetation for effective mulching. A multi-position push bar features extended serrations for industry-leading material control while the optimized infeed system achieves a complete and high-quality mulch on the first pass, producing an aesthetically desirable chip size and greatly reducing the need for back-dragging and reprocessing.

“This new offering embodies efficiency and allows owners and operators to optimize the utilization of their compact loaders and adapt to different environments without needing to switch equipment,” noted Stachel. “Customers who add this attachment to their arsenal aren’t just getting a new tool; they’re getting a machine that maximizes productivity, minimizes hassle, and sets a new standard for mulching excellence.”

The Drum Mulcher DC Pro comes standard with Diamond’s exclusive twin chisel planer teeth that generate fine mulch quickly and efficiently. The attachment also accommodates other teeth options for tackling different types of terrain, including Twin Maul® Carbide Teeth ideal for use in rough, rocky terrain, and four-point hardened steel teeth well-suited for work in high-production environments.

Like all of Diamond’s drum products, this new attachment is backed by a two-year warranty. Additionally, customers have access to the company’s industry-leading customer service resources, including an experienced team of care experts and a dedicated parts team readily available to address any needs that may arise.

“At Diamond, we’re constantly innovating and enhancing our products and processes to cater more effectively to our customers’ needs,” added Stachel. “We are committed to being the best possible partner, from creating industry-leading attachments that simplify work and enhance productivity to our dedicated customer care experts and the ongoing support we provide.”

Occurring only every four years in different regions across the county, 2024 will mark the 14th edition of this one-of-a-kind event. Over the course of its 50-year history, DEMO International has evolved into one of North America’s largest and unique outdoor equipment shows. The “all live and in action, in-woods” event will attract thousands of leaders in the equipment manufacturing sector featuring the latest technologies in forestry equipment, products and services covering all aspects of woodlands operations, including fully mechanized to small-scale forestry operations.

“Our site selection visit went exceptionally well with 50 plus forestry professionals from major manufacturers and dealers, making the trek into the forest. “ says national show manager Mark Cusack. “The meetings being held in the woods itself led to great camaraderie and expansive talks about the big plans for next year. Getting to liaise with the exhibitor base, allowed [the show team] to grasp a good understanding of how the different regions are currently performing.”

As the 2024 event approaches, details including the site map are becoming finalized.

A few of the distinct sections of the expansive site include Active Sites, Static Sites, Small Scale Forestry and Static Booths. With the trail stretching an astonishing 3.2 kilometers, attendees will get an immersive harvesting experience right in the heart of the forest. Future exhibitors stayed onsite during the selection visit for hours, creating buzz about what will soon become one of Canada’s biggest live action shows. Several manufacturers and dealers who couldn’t make this first round of meetings have also expressed their interest in coming on board in the next couple weeks.

This showcase wouldn’t offer the same experience without the unparalleled help of SBC Cedar, the landowners and property managers of the site.

For exhibitors wishing to join in on the action, visit www.demointernational.com/exhibit. 

“Our saw teeth models have been rigorously tested on real logging jobsites, helping us deliver ideal solutions made to tackle any forestry application head-on,” said William Borrenpohl, aftermarket product manager. “This remains the case for our new beaver saw tooth option, which was strategically designed to offer increased durability in the woods.”

As the latest addition to the John Deere saw tooth lineup, the beaver saw tooth is one of four options available to customers and can be purchased in boxes of 18 or 20 teeth. Designed for maximum durability while lowering operating costs, the full line of John Deere saw teeth for wheeled and tracked feller bunchers are made to help support daily logging operations and applications.

With its wide throat, the chipper can accommodate large pieces making it ideal for handling trim blocks, small diameter logs, lily pads, overs and cores. The single piece tapered knives process material across the full width of the drum, providing even wear and longer life.

The contour of the drum creates a clamping force between the material to be chipped and the anvil, preventing the material from tipping up towards the drum.

The drum chipper is equipped with a clam shell opening operated by a hydraulic cylinder to give an ergonomically friendly working area for knife changes, which can be done quickly and easily by one person.

The combination of an angled drop feed, single flat knives and excellent cutting geometry for short wood ensures a superior chip quality with minimal maintenance costs.

The chipper is available in various sizes and both drop feed and horizontal configurations.

According to Vermeer product manager for environmental equipment Jeff Bradley, the Vermeer HG4000 horizontal grinder is ideal for professionals looking to expand their service as well as for bulk landscaping material producers. “It’s a great unit for tree care professionals looking to minimize dump fees on bulkier material and turn waste into a useful end product. It’s also a productive machine for small to midsize mulch producers with limited space for the material. The size of the HG4000 also makes it efficient to transport in congested urban environments making it an ideal machine for small land-clearing operations. And while this horizontal is smaller than other machines in the Vermeer grinder product line, it still can handle a variety of materials ranging from loose, bulky materials like leaves, branches and yard clipping to hardwoods, pallets and logs.”

The HG4000 has a feed table capacity of 4.6 cubic yards (3.5 m3). It features the proven cutting performance of the Vermeer patented Series III duplex drum with reversible hammers and tips for extended wear life compared to single- sided designs while offering bolt in replacement parts. The hard-faced anvil on the HG4000 delivers impressive cutting action with the drum, and a redesigned robust anvil-mount structure helps ease the hard-faced wear edge replacement process.

The HG4000 benefits from an updated feed roller with aggressive teeth and down pressure to maintain control of the fed material. A fully enclosed feed roller drive planetary helps provide protection and a tight clearance between the roller and mill housing to optimize material feeding while minimizing material catch points.

A wireless remote control comes standard with the HG4000, allowing operators to run most machine functions from up to 300 feet (91.4 m) away. “With the remote, operators can adjust infeed settings, engine speed droop, conveyor height and more, which means maximum time grinding throughout the day,” explained Bradley.

The redesigned Vermeer HG4000 incorporates several service and maintenance enhancements, including a drive belt tensioning system that does not require the engine to be moved when adjusting, large hinged side shields for optimal maintenance access, added power rotation to the screen hoist for changing screens, and a CAT engine with worldwide support. It can also be outfitted with an optional cross-band magnet and magnetic head pulley to pull metal from the top and bottom of material on the conveyor after it has gone through the machine for clean finished material.

The company said the gear can easily process cedar bark, green spruce bark, all kinds of mill wood waste, demolition debris, butt ends, railroad ties and stringy bark, and the resulting product is of high quality and suitable for hog fuel or mulch.

“Superior ergonomic design makes the Grizzly Mill extremely safe, easy and inexpensive to maintain. Typical maintenance costs for the Grizzly Mill are much lower than for conventional wood waste grinders,” the statement said.

The rugged heart of the Grizzly Mill Hog is an extremely heavy duty, solid-steel, offset helix rotor that shears material from two directions against an anvil and grate. The rotor turns at half the speed of a conventional hammermill rotor resulting in substantial savings in maintenance costs. The Grizzly Mill is also very tolerant of rock and metal.

The Grizzly Mill is used worldwide in these industries:

• Sawmills
• Pulp and paper mills
• OSB plants
• C&D recycling facilities
• Log merchandising systems
• Land clearing operations
• Compost facilities
• Co-gGeneration plants

As with all FPT Industrial’s PowerPacks, it features a single layout for Stage V and Tier 4 Final, making it the perfect solution for markets with different emissions standards. The compact ATS pack mounted on the engine, including the urea injection system and all required sensors and manifolds, eliminates the need for a dedicated exhaust system development.

A range of options such as alternators, starters, water and air preheating, and different urea tank sizes provide further flexibility for customer installations.

“We’ve been dedicated to providing customers with innovative, high-quality site-clearing attachments for more than three decades,” said Mark Middendorf, Fecon’s executive vice-president of sales. “We understand how to optimize both performance and durability and have a loyal customer base because of it. This skid steer mulching attachment is a smart investment for those looking to increase utilization and expand the versatility of their fleet.”

A bite-limiting 60-inch split-ring rotor holds 26 reversible knife tools providing a longer service life and ease of use for even inexperienced operators. The reversible knife tools feature 70 to 100 hours of use per edge and can be flipped to extend the total life of the tool to 140 to 200 hours, enabling optimal performance and longevity. Optional carbidetype cutting tools provide added durability for ground clearing in extremely hard or rocky conditions.

Operating at 2,400 rpm, the RK6015 can shred brush and small trees up to five inches in diameter, making it an excellent tool for general vegetation management, fire prevention lines, clearing fence rows, lot and land cleanup and more. An adjustable bolt-on push bar with serrated ears effectively directs thick and heavy material to the mulching rotor.

The RK6015 mulcher head requires a dedicated hydraulic flow between 17 and 27 gpm and a carrier machine able to accommodate the 1,465-pound attachment weight. For operator safety, the carrier must include a fully enclosed cab protected with the appropriate polycarbonate guarding.

Fecon backs the unit with its standard 12-month/1,000-hour warranty.

Featuring a rigid mount, the Stump Ax offers a practical, reliable design capable of working faster than articulating stump grinder attachments by simply repositioning the power unit instead of swinging the cutting wheel. It has an angled hitch and forward-reaching boom to give the operator exceptional visibility and control on the job.

The Stump Ax includes the Phantom Wheel with Tomahawk teeth from Leonardi, which are highly regarded by vegetation management professionals for their high strength and fast cutting performance. The Phantom Wheel also has cut-outs to create a see-through effect for further improved visibility. A chain deflector provides excellent containment of the wood chips.

A 200cc high-torque radial piston motor on the Stump Ax is compatible with power units that have 30- to 60-gallon-per-minute hydraulic flow ratings. A reversible design allows the motor to be mounted either forward- or rear-facing.

A recent report indicates that the market for used construction equipment in Canada, valued at US$511.3 million in 2021, is predicted to escalate to US$644.4 million by 2028. This represents a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.36 per cent from 2021 to 2028. The driving force behind this growth is the increased government expenditure on redevelopment, maintenance, and infrastructure projects such as roads, hospitals, and bridges across the nation.

Nestled in the heart of Redwater, Alberta and Vernon, British Columbia, Evolution Mechanical reigns as the top repair destination for heavy equipment and trucks. Founded in 2013 as a family-owned and operated business, Evolution Mechanical has grown from a single service truck to a dedicated staff of 50 and counting. Despite their expansion, they have never lost sight of their core values: the safety and well-being of their employees and an unwavering dedication to exceeding customer expectations.

“This partnership with Menzi Muck is not just about expanding our reach. It’s about joining forces with a company that shares our commitment to innovation and excellence. Together, we’re not just changing the landscape of excavators; we’re shaping the future of the Canadian equipment industry,” said Josh Caouette, president of Evolution Mechanical.

When equipped with the Tilt Hitch, a mulching head can be tilted up to 45 degrees to the left or right. Compared with competitive units, which typically have restricted movement in one direction, the Loftness hitch offers one of the highest ranges of motion in the industry. Other advantages include a light weight and low cost, thanks to its practical, simplistic design.

Tilting the mulching head allows an operator to fully expose the knives when cutting into trees. Additionally, trees can be held in place for faster mulching performance by tilting and positioning the head so that the shear bar rests against the tree to prevent it from wobbling. When ground mulching, the head can also be tilted in a way to keep material from ejecting out the back or to help pick material off the ground for further processing.

The 20 and 30 Series Battle Ax attachments from Loftness are compatible with excavators ranging from 10,000 to 36,000 pounds. The Tilt Hitch will eventually be made available for the 40 and 50 Series Battle Ax models, which are designed for 36,000- to 88,000-pound excavators.

Consisting of three models – 7MWR, 9MWR and 11MWR – the series features a range of benefits to help meet the needs of operations in the construction, landscaping and forestry industries, as well as municipalities and utility construction. The MWR Series of wheeled excavators are purpose-built to allow for maximum maneuverability in tight working areas, offering the flexibility and versatility of a skid steer or compact track loader in one machine and delivering higher speed and mobility than tracked excavators.

“Traditionally, wheeled excavators have enjoyed less popularity in North America because the open spaces and greater distances to travel favored larger equipment. That is no longer the case. As supply chain challenges continue and trucking costs increase, hauling equipment is becoming more expensive. Compounding that is the fact that jobsites are getting smaller and labor shortages plague nearly every industry and business. These trends make it easy to recognize that the North American market needs compact equipment and the specific advantages that the wheeled excavator offers,” said Peter Bigwood, general manager of Mecalac North America.

“Mecalac has more than 40 years of experience building and fine tuning our wheeled excavators; and we believe the North American market is ready for this new approach to work.”

Each of the three models in the MWR series offers speed in a compact footprint. The smallest of the three, the 7MWR, offers variable speed between 0 and 19 mph. Two of the larger models, the 9MWR and 11MWR, provide contractors standard travel speeds between 0 and 12 mph with an option for enhanced speed up to 22 mph on the 9MWR and up to 19 mph on the 11MWR. The speed in combination with the versatility of these machines provide operations with substantial benefits in productivity and efficiency by significantly reducing travel time on the jobsite and between jobs.

With a 47-net-horsepower and conventional tail swing configuration, this model is ideally suited for navigating tight, congested jobsites and urban areas. Part of the next-generation 7 Series mini excavator lineup, the DX42-7 offers impressive features such as fast cycle times, efficient torque-limiting piston pumps that respond to load demands, and a larger counterweight for improved balance and durability.

“Weighing in at four metric tons, the DX42-7 delivers the power, maneuverability and versatility our customers have come to expect from DEVELON mini excavators,” says Thomas Lee, director of product management at DEVELON.

“Whether it’s utility work, landscaping, construction or site prep, the DX42-7 boasts an impressive lifting capacity, enabling effortless movement of pipes, boulders and various materials. With its powerful digging forces, customers can accomplish more tasks in less time.”

This new combination attachment will allow excavator operators to split big logs and clean up the split material with the grapple for staging or further processing using one machine. To allow the dual function splitter and grapple to work on standard excavator hydraulics, U.S. Pride Products developed a new hydraulic valve controlled by an electric solenoid. A flick of the switch allows the operator to instantly change between splitting and grapple functions.

“This new combined grapple and HF-800 cone splitter is a game changer for users. Operators should be much more efficient because one operator and machine can now do what it took two pieces of equipment to do previously,” said Charlie VanDusartz, president of U.S. Pride Products.

Customers may purchase the complete cone splitter with grapple attachment or upgrade their existing HF-500, HF-600 or HF-800 cone splitters with the new grapple upgrade package.

The new 318 MK2 saw unit of the 5000V will make work easier. The need for maintenance will be minimised, and durability will increase. The changes make it easy to change the bar, maintain the saw unit easily, and increase the durability to its maximum. The 5000V measurement unit has received mechanical, electronic and hydraulic updates. The construction of the measuring wheel cylinder is updated, the hydraulic circuit is new, the measuring wheel arm and its attachment are reinforced, there is a new contactless encoder in the measuring wheel, and two conical roller bearings that are lubricated from the outside. Altogether, the changes will allow the measuring wheel to follow the contour of the stem even better and provide the best measurement result.

The contour of the saw box is changed, and the position of the saw unit has been optimized to handle trees with larger root bones and thus increase production significantly. The saw box also has a root bone plate to protect the chain and bar. The saw box has also been extended and is now adapted for saw bars of 82 cm (32 in). The new 5000V easily handles large trees, both when felling and processing. The maximum cutting diameter is 74 cm (29 in).

The Log Max 5000V has new feed roller motors with hoses without banjo fittings. The new engines are of a high-flow model with increased efficiency, generating better performance for the harvesting head. The changes provide a better and higher flow, which reduces heat development and thus reduces energy losses. It also increases the unit’s feed speed. The feed wheel arms have also received an updated design to be able to process both coarse and thin logs better.

The hoses for the multi-stemming unit and the rotator control are on the left side of the felling link at 5000V. The updates make the hoses run inside the protective bar, less exposed and will make them last longer. The attachment for the hoses for stump treatment and grease lubrication also has a new design, which means that the hoses are exposed to minimal wear and have increased durability.

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. One can now link a bracket under the rotator to a stand in the frame with the help of a locking pin. To increase durability and productivity, the frame construction of the 5000V has received several updates. 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 improve the frame’s durability and life span, Log Max have changed the design of the measuring wheel hole. We also reinforced the stoppers for the roller arms, when in the closed position, at the inside of the frame to increase the frame’s strength and stability. 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.

This compact, robust and energy-efficient equipment allows for on-site production of wood fibre. The patented technology applies high pressure to the raw materials, generating heat above 100 C, which produces and sanitizes fibre, meeting RHP standards.

With a production capacity of up to 12 cubic metres per hour, and an expansion ratio of up to 1:3, it consumes 30 per cent less energy per cubic metre produced than typical refiners, resulting in significant cost savings.

Various wood by-products can be used, including white softwood chips, forest residue, and compost wood. The produced fibre maintains its volume when mixed and has excellent water dispersion capacity for root development.

For more information visit, www.ptchronos.com.

Emil Forsblom, head of product development at Eco Log, is certain that the crane tip control system will be welcomed by the customers and that it will be a big asset in their daily work.

“It feels great to be able to offer our customers crane tip control on our forwarder models. That way we can facilitate and make their working day easier and more comfortable and at the same time give them the conditions for a more efficient and productive work,” says Forsblom.

The strengths of ETC are several, where Eco Log has focused on optimizing the function and placement of the sensors to make sure that the system works in the best possible way for the operator and to ensure a smoother and more precise crane movement and position. As an operator you can easily choose if the crane tip control should be activated or if you rather operate the crane manually with your regular settings.

“This is a big advantage that allows the operator to be flexible and to adapt the work to different situations and conditions. Also, you can avoid unnecessary down-time, for example if the crane tip control system is in need of servicing. Then you can operate the crane manually just as usual until a service technician arrives,” Forsblom explains.

The Komatsu 951XC is a new harvester for final logging in steep terrain and on soft ground. The eight-wheel design, combined with the stable Komatsu concept, ensures a machine with great stability, excellent manoeuvrability, and low ground pressure. The Komatsu 951XC is also optimised for use with the Komatsu C164 – a harvester head specially designed for logging large trees – although naturally it works just as well with a range of other heads.

For demanding conditions

The Komatsu 951XC is part of Komatsu Forest’s product series of machines specially designed for challenging conditions.

“Now we have a complete range of eight-wheeled machines, specially designed for demanding conditions,” Joakim Johansson, product manager harvesters at Komatsu Forest says.

Compact yet strong

The machine design is much like that of the Komatsu 951, although there are some differences. The Komatsu 951XC has the same wheel size as the 931XC, lending the machine a more compact design and giving the 951XC a total machine length that is shorter than that of the Komatsu 951.

The Komatsu 951XC has 242 kN of underlying tractive force and unique interaction between engine, control system and power transmission. The hydrostatic transmission enables engine power to be fully utilised, providing considerable advantages in difficult terrain as well as excellent climbing ability. This is much due to the machine’s large hydrostatic pump, which can maintain higher speeds at high tractive forces.

“What is special about the 951XC is that it combines the strength of a 951 with an extremely compact design. Since it has about the same dimensions as the 931XC it can be used in denser stands,” Johansson explains.

951XC is also equipped with hub reductions. They provide an advantage when working in challenging conditions, such as steep, snowy, or wet terrain, as they increase the life of the bogie and thereby machine reliability.

The Komatsu 951XC has new working hydraulics to better utilise the diesel engine. The new hydraulics also provide faster feeding from start to maximum speed and allow the saw motor to work even more efficiently.

“The new working hydraulics contribute to a feeling of an even stronger engine according to the test operators that have been working with 951XC,” Johansson states.

Although the working hydraulics are new, in all other respects the Komatsu 951XC shares the same proven design as other Komatsu harvesters, meaning 3PS.

“This enables several crane and head functions to be used simultaneously with retained maximum hydraulic power, all thanks to the machine’s hydraulic power coordination,” Johansson continues.

Powerful crane

All Komatsu harvesters are equipped with parallel cranes, this has been the case since 1999. With the Komatsu Forest design concept, the lifting booms and outer booms are linked, thereby eliminating an entire aspect of crane control. This concept simplifies crane operation by ensuring that the head is always in level regardless of crane cycle stage. The parallel crane is also cleverly designed to be fast in its outward movements, when the head is unloaded, and powerful in its return movements, when the head is heavily loaded.

Compared to the 951, the Komatsu 951XC has a significantly shorter distance from the centre of the crane to the front wheels. This creates a larger working area in front of the machine, that enables the operator to work at shorter reaches.

“The new larger working area in front of the machine means more powerful crane movements. And for those who equipes their machines with Smart Crane they get an even more easily manoeuvred crane with excellent precision,” Johansson explains.

Operator environment

The Komatsu 951XC, just like all other Komatsu harvesters, features a high-performance operator environment. Examples of the many advantages include the spacious cab, good visibility and comfortable cab climate.

Thanks to the machine’s stability and levelling cab, the operator is always seated level without the need to stretch and strain to maintain a good seating position. The 951XC is, as all Komatsu harvesters, based on the tried-and-tested Komatsu concept that offers favourable weight distribution and has a low centre of gravity. In addition, the eight-wheeled XC series harvesters have a double oscillating bogie on the rear frame giving the machines completely unique handling characteristics.

“Our double oscillating bogie on the rear frame is an innovation of which we’re very proud. As well as increasing stability by lowering the machine’s centre of gravity, the machine follows irregularities in the terrain in a forgiving manner while delivering excellent manoeuvrability in challenging terrain conditions,” Johansson ends.

The work to develop a new machine is a massive team effort. Before a new machine model is launched prototypes are thoroughly tested first with Komatsu’s own test operators and then by contractors working in environments suitable for the specific machine model. One of the contractors, Henrik Lysebäck at Lysebäcks Skogsentreprenad, tested a prototype of the 951XC in the fall of 2022 and concludes the test like this;

“The 951XC is a good machine, stable and comfortable to operate. It is a machine you can trust, and you feel secure working at a long reach. This is definitely a machine I would like to continue to work with.”

The basis for the upgrade is requests from users of the harvester head and the response to the improvements has been positive from customers who have tested.

“Continuous improvement is part of our DNA. One of our most popular heads, the Komatsu S92, will be even more reliable and productive in the forest,” says Mikael Forsberg, product manager for harvester heads at Komatsu Forest.

Among the new benefits, the improved measurement characteristics stand out. The new design enables the measuring wheel to follow the contours of the stem more closely, providing excellent measurement characteristics.

A major new feature is also the new intelligent saw motor controller, Constant Cut, which now becomes standard on the S92, and ensures that the head maintains a constant and high chain speed without the risk of overspeeding.

The Find End function now has a new design and together with new mechanical stops at the rear knife this extends the service life of the head. The new feed system reduces energy losses and enhances the head performance, and an improved hose routing simplifies servicing the feed system. For even better service friendliness, all lubrication points are now easily accessed with the head in an upright position.

The colour marking tanks have been redesigned to provide easier access for filling and the multi-tree handling function has a new, more durable design which results in a lower and more agile head.

“The response from customers who have tried the upgraded head has been positive only with comments such as that the feed speed is really good, the geometry of the saw box and the position of the saw bar makes the cutting much faster and increases production significantly, the new knife control on the lower knife is very good and the clamping of the stem is perfect, and that the entire head is much improved compared to previous versions,” says Forsberg.

In addition to the above and several other improvements, the head has also been equipped with a new head computer that enables future development opportunities.

Learn more: Komatsu Forest.

“Here at Eco Log, we are in constant dialogue with our customers and we try to listen to them and learn more about their requests and what they need to make their operations work as optimal as possible,” said Eco Log’s Emil Forsblom, head of product development.

“The development work is really a team-effort and the result of this is a spacious harvester cabin with good ergonomics, effective sound insulation, great visibility and a whole new system for cab climate and a well-planned work lightning. Also, we have put a lot of effort into the cabins interior, in everything from smart storage and broad charging options to modern palettes and a great sound system.”

The G-series pendulum arm harvesters includes the models 550, 560, 580 and 590. The new Eco Log 580G has now raised to yet another level and shares the same platform as Eco Log 590, which means it is an even stronger machine than before.

During the fall, Eco Log introduced several, large updates on the pendulum harvesters – from a new control system, new rear wheel transmission and anti-spin system to a simplified hydraulic system and several improvements regarding serviceability and safety through improved access. All of these updates are now implemented on the new G-series.

Learn more: Eco Log.

Many forestry companies struggle to prepare post-harvest sites for replanting with modified ag tractors. These machines are not up to the task, often suffering from insufficient power, cooling capacity and structural durability. The 630H was launched to address these deficiencies.

Based on Tigercat’s skidder platform, the machine is equipped with hydraulic connectors and several drawbar receiver variations to adapt to a variety of plow or mounding implement connection points. In addition, the carrier can be equipped with an optional winch and bolt-on fairlead system. The whole package is factory-equipped and ready to work.

Initial studies conducted by Mexican forestry company, Proteak indicate that the 630H carriers are quicker, more productive, and more fuel efficient than the ag tractors that they are replacing. Operators are safe and comfortable in a climate controlled cab equipped with an air ride suspension seat and ergonomic armrest mounted controls.

Tigercat, a company that has contributed significantly to increased efficiencies in timber harvesting operations, is putting focus on gaining efficiencies in the silviculture side of the forest industry.

Investing in equipment that can be rebuilt, leveraging new technologies and partnering with trusted, informed dealers can all help support your current and future business needs. With the right maintenance and fleet strategy you can leverage your equipment to help retain and attract operators, improve productivity, reduce costs, and increase safety, all while meeting current and future sustainability goals. 

Replace inventory with information

Improving productivity and reducing expenses are top goals for any logger. But knowing how to get there can be the biggest challenge. Technology advancements in forestry equipment, like telematics, can capture real-time data – helping you complete projects with greater insight, collaboration and efficiency. And as technology continues to improve, connectivity for remote forestry locations is easier than ever before. Software updates can be sent directly to the machine on the jobsite without having to wait for a technician to arrive.  

When leveraged properly, data has enormous potential – it can unlock meaningful insight to help reduce costs, minimize downtime and identify problem areas or operator-induced fault codes on your equipment. The right dealer can support you on this journey by setting up instant alerts, monthly reports and identifying areas of opportunity or improvement. 

As technology has advanced, so has the quality of equipment. Longer oil change intervals and filter quality is extending machine life, helping to lower operating costs. And as fuel costs soar, more manufacturers and dealers are investing in hybrid and electric machines that can support alternative fuels such as diesel blends to help lower operating costs. Hydraulics are also getting smarter. These new enhancements are making good operators great, while also keeping them safe, comfortable and happy. 

The right equipment can help you stay productive, but it can also help attract and retain operators by improving working conditions and safety. And in a time where every industry is experiencing labour challenges, keeping employees safe and happy is an important part of your recruitment and retention strategy. 

Improving productivity and reducing expenses are top goals for any logger.

Getting the most out of your equipment

Ever increasing environmental regulations and stricter emissions standards mean companies need to work smarter to achieve sustainability targets. Gone are the days of trading in machines for a shiny new piece of equipment earlier than needed. Forestry companies of all sizes can make a big impact by opting to rebuild equipment, instead of buying new. A rebuild involves replacing parts, changing out components, calibration and adjustments, with the end result being a like-new machine.

Rebuilds reduce overall waste and minimize raw material used to produce new parts and equipment. This is crucial as companies are accounting for the carbon output that’s the result of purchasing a new machine. Plus, equipment can be rebuilt multiple times and owners have the choice of keeping legacy tier emission standards or rebuilding to a higher tier emission standard. This means equipment stays in production for multiple lives and it saves non-renewable resources from the landfill, while reducing equipment costs and contributing towards sustainability goals.

New machine availability and machine value prior to the rebuild also play a factor in your decision. Understanding your equipment’s history, its condition and what maintenance it may or may not need, can provide both cost savings and environmental benefits. A dealer can work with you to understand machine analytics, value, overall condition and whether a rebuild is worth the cost. 

Timing is also an important consideration if you’re considering a rebuild. Supply chain disruptions combined with labour shortages are increasing lead times for new equipment across the globe. This is especially challenging in an industry like forestry where customers are accustomed to walking into a dealer and buying new equipment on the spot for whatever job they have coming up. So, planning ahead and creating an equipment strategy is as important as ever. 

Maintaining or growing a logging business has always been hard – and today, it’s even harder.

Relationship with dealer is important

The forestry industry is no stranger to hardships and has always had to adapt to the ever-changing economy. Just when one crisis seems over, another one hits. If it’s not a beetle outbreak or forest fire then it’s a looming recession, mill closures or supply chain issues. Maintaining or growing a logging business has always been hard – and today, it’s even harder.  

But, imagine a world where you’re better equipped to meet current and future challenges. Your business is productive, efficient and profitable. Having a dealer that works with you means everyone – financing, parts, technology, service and sales – is working together to find the right solutions for your business. Today’s dealers have evolved beyond simply supplying equipment to customers. End-to-end solutions are helping to provide advanced data insights, driving value and return on investment.

Now is the time to think about your relationship with your dealer. Is it meeting your business needs in an open and transparent way? Does it help prepare you for future growth while mitigating risks? Although there doesn’t appear to be a light at the end of the tunnel just yet, evolving and adapting to a new way of doing business can help ensure a bright future for Canada’s forestry industry. That means investing in quality equipment that can be rebuilt, while leveraging new technologies to help drive efficiency and increase productivity, while keeping costs down.

Mike Friederici is the industry manager, forestry and earthmoving at Finning Canada.

Designed to offer the highest productivity, durability, visibility and ease of maintenance for the operator, the BL4/SSL features the most powerful bite limiter system currently available in the market, complete with the new, ultra-high performing BL MAX blade.

This head delivers high productivity and unmatched shredding capacity in vegetation management and is ideal where the agility and compactness of a skid steer is required.

The BL4/SSL is available in VT version and with FAE’s exclusive Sonic technology, which optimizes performance by up to 30% and offers easy calibration, setting and monitoring through a dedicated FAE App for smartphones.

Main applications for the new BL4/SSL include heavy vegetation management in woods and forests, roadside and railway vegetation maintenance, canals, rivers and pond overgrowth cleanup, wildlife habitat protection & food plots, orchard & vineyards maintenance and restoration, maintenance of commercial and residential green areas, parks, trails and green recreational areas.

• For skid steers from 90-135 hp
• Available in 2 working widths: 62” and 72”
• 12” shredding diameter
• Bite limiter technology with BL MAX blade
• Available in VT and Sonic versions

The new top-handle T540 XP^® Mark III was redesigned following consumer feedback resulting in a lightweight, balanced, and agile chainsaw for climbing and cutting. With a high cutting capacity, the T540 XP^® Mark III was redeveloped to ensure maximum reliability and trusted performance over hours of use. Its lightweight ergonomic design aids operator comfort and AutoTune 3.0 technology enables simple start technology and ensures peak performance even in the toughest of environments. This chainsaw represents the next generation of products designed with—and for—professional arborists.

“We listened to the feedback given by arborists and redesigned the T540 XP® Mark III specifically with their needs in mind,” said Carlos Haddad, Vice President of North America, Professional Products at Husqvarna Group. “Our top handle 40cc chainsaw offers maximum performance and precision in a durable package to enable the arborist to get the job done efficiently and effectively.”

The engine power of the T540 XP® Mark III is enhanced with Husqvarna’s SP21G X-CUT chain, maximizing precision and productivity. AutoTune 3.0 technology allows tree pros to use the same starting procedure on hot or cold starts, with no risk of flooding. Husqvarna’s X-Torq engine design delivers impressive power and LowVib technology reduces handle vibration. Added versatility comes from double eyelets that make it easy to attach and remove from the climbing harness keeping it closer to the body while climbing.

Additionally, Husqvarna’s new range of arborist climbing gear designed in collaboration with industry leader Teufelberger offers the ultimate in performance, durability, and reliability. High quality meets functional design in the form of a climbing harness, positioning lanyard, anti-shock chainsaw lanyard and mini-carabiners. Husqvarna also designed and created a new gear bag to keep gear organized. Rigorously tested, Husqvarna climbing gear products meet or exceed global safety standards and are built to last.

“Tree care professionals require durability and smart design in the gear they use day in and day out, and we’ve worked to meet those needs and provide additional comfort to improve the quality of their working lives,” added Haddad. “We’re proud to partner with Teufelberger to create a complete ecosystem of high-quality products for our customers.”

The T540 XP® Mark III and arborist gear are available at your local dealer and online. Husqvarna’s new rear-handled 540 XP® Mark III chainsaw will be available this summer.

Learn more: Husqvarna.com.

Business Finland has granted EUR 10 million in funding to Ponsse’s FORWARD’27 programme in its challenge competition for leading companies. The funding is used to accelerate the product development of mobile work machines.

The aim of Ponsse’s FORWARD’27 programme is to significantly reduce emissions from mobile work machines, reduce their energy consumption and improve productivity. Improving operator working conditions with auxiliary functions and automation are also among the key components of the programme.

“Ponsse aims to be a technological pioneer in CTL forest machines and it aims at producing carbon neutral, sustainable and increasingly competitive solutions. With funding granted by Business Finland to leading companies, we can accelerate our development of sustainable and digital solutions for mobile work machines,” says Juho Nummela, Ponsse’s president and CEO.

In addition, Business Finland has granted EUR 20 million in funding to the ecosystem companies associated with the programme.

Towards sustainable mobile work machines

Ponsse and Epec will implement the FORWARD’27 together and will invest more than EUR 25 million to developing sustainable mobile work machines in the next few years.

The companies will create an extensive ecosystem around the development work. The first partners have already been selected.

“Epec innovates and develops technological solutions for future work machines to enable zero emission. The joint competence of Ponsse and Epec develops continuously and FORWARD’27 programme will take our abilities even further. The group of companies and partners included in the ecosystem created also play a key part”, says Jyri Kylä-Kaila, Epec’s managing director.

The Tigercat 612 series skidder platform was created to manage the extraction function in challenging terrain selective felling applications, while preserving the value and quality of the residual stand. The machine can be equipped with a dual winch, a movable back shield and fairlead system, as well as a crane, and front blade tongs.

The 612 is equipped with the Tigercat FPT N67 Stage V engine, delivering 155 kW (208 hp). Combined with Tigercat’s efficient drive system, the 612 impressively handles adverse terrain while minimizing wheel spin.

A narrow stance allows easy navigation through tight trails and rough ground conditions. The movable shield can be used as an anchor while winching. The dual winch and moving fairlead system allow the operator independent control over two separate cables when operating in tight stand conditions. The optional heavy-duty crane and blade tongs offer even more versatility for extracting, maneuvering and sorting logs.

The operator’s cab is spacious with generous sized windows providing clear sightlines. Creature comforts include a climate-controlled cup holder and dedicated storage. Key to ergonomics and operating the machine effectively is the Turnaround seat. Turnaround provides increased comfort, clear sightlines, and easy entry and exit from either side of the machine. The operator enjoys full control of all machine functions in any position within the 220° range.

“We are always listening to customer feedback to bring ideal solutions and technologies to the forestry industry,” said Jarvis de Groot, global product marketing manager, forestry swing machines, John Deere. “The new 2956G crawler log loader machine not only provides optimal power and hydraulic capabilities but is still easy to transport due to its excellent width and weight combination.”

Aimed to help ease transportation, the 2956G crawler log loader features an overall shipping width of less than 11’6” and a 90,000 lbs operating weight. As machine weights and widths increase, so do costs associated with transportation. The design on the 2956G not only helps simplify transportability, but also helps save on costs relating to transport due to its less restrictive transportation requirements. In addition, the new mounting of the log deflector adds additional strength to the right-front corner of the machine and the new, clean, and simple design of the hood profile, aligned with counterweight, helps to enhance debris shedding.

The 2956G crawler log loader machine features excellent engine power for a machine of this size. When combined, the engine power and hydraulic flow significantly boost loading capability, speed, and the capacity to run the Waratah 624. Also, customers looking to increase efficiency in roadside processing can expect improved productivity when running the Waratah 624 head as compared to the 2654G.

Visibility enhancements have also been prioritized in the design of the new 2956G. Enabling additional visibility to the right track, as well as reduce overall impact, the RH front corner log deflector has been strategically moved to the back on the machine. This improves operator visibility to avoid obstacles and impact, reducing potential damage and downtime. Lastly, a rearview camera, light and JDLink antennas have been integrated into the counterweight for additional protection.

Offering ease of serviceability, the 2956G features strategic service access to the machine’s filters and checkpoints. With exceptional access to filters, maintenance points, and the cooling package, operators can stay up and running on the job for longer. These machines are also easy to inspect and change filters with wide open access, helping simplify daily inspections and routine maintenance.

To learn more about 2656G crawler log loader, visit www.JohnDeere.com/forestry.

“Thank you to the Elliot Henderson group and the Royal Burgh of Annan Pipe Band for coming to Vieremä to celebrate the 19,000th machine milestone with us. I understand this is the first time a pipe band has played at Vieremä village, which makes this day even more special for all of us, as this is Ponsse UK’s first milestone machine. This is a day that we will remember for years to come,” says Gary Glendinning, Managing Director Ponsse UK.

Elliot Henderson Ltd is based in Selkirk in Scotland. The company started more than 35 years ago, planting trees with a small squad of men. Over the years, the business has grown and diversified into forestry, construction, and scaffolding. Today, Elliot Henderson Ltd comprises more than 40 forest machines which can undertake clear fell, thinning, steep ground harvesting operations, ground preparation or the construction of forest roads. Elliot Henderson Ltd also has the capability for site brash clearance, stump removal and servicing the biomass industry. The company is also a founding member of the Forest Industry Safety Accord and is a member of the Forestry Contractors Association.

With Elliot Henderson Ltd being a long-standing customer for well over 20 years, it’s a fitting tribute to the relationship between the customer and manufacturer that the landmark 19,000th machine is joining the fleet.

“Elliot Henderson Ltd has always been at the forefront of new machine releases over the years, which in turn keeps the harvesting fleet productive and at the vanguard of innovation. We are excited to be adding this Scorpion Giant to the fleet. This machine will go straight to work in the windblow resulting from Storm Arwen and we feel the extra power and H8 head will benefit us in this application. We look forward to seeing what it can do! We are currently running PONSSE Scorpion, Ergo, three Elephants and one Buffalo.” says Neil Purves, Director of Harvesting for Elliot Henderson Group.

For five days we highlighted the world of logging, chipping, grinding and transporting woody biomass.

Here’s a snapshot of what we learned during the week:

1) Chipping versus grinder?: Depends on the application. We rounded up advice from chipper and grinder suppliers on choosing the right machine for your woody biomass harvesting needs.

2) The burning question: Five researchers identify potential management alternatives to slash pile burning that would make better use of residual fibre across a range of operational conditions in B.C.

3) Chipping champions: Read our in-depth profile on Atli Chip, a humble chipping plant grinding out economic benefits in Northern Vancouver Island, creating value from salvage wood that would otherwise be burned as a by-product of logging operations.

4) Loggers chipping away: We shared five profiles of contractors who are finding a profit harvesting logging residuals.

5) Equipment spotlight: Canadian Forest Industries rounded up equipment advancements for reducing residuals in Canada’s forests.

Today is the final day of Biomass Harvesting Week 2023, but we’ll continue to archive future content on this landing page to serve as a year-round hub for industry and curious minds to learn best practices and find the latest information on harvesting biomass.

And I’d like to once again thank our inaugural sponsors for making it all possible: Bandit Industries and Frontline Machinery.

The new DX89R-7 mini excavator replaces the DX85R-3 and packs many of its predecessor’s features with enhancements such as greater lifting capacity and more horsepower. This nimble machine is equipped with a family of products, including a DEVELON engine and diagnostics tool. The mini excavator boasts a reduced-tail-swing feature, permitting more power in cramped, congested worksites.

“The new 9-metric-ton DX89R-7 excavator is a bridge between our smaller mini excavators and our crawler excavators,” says Thomas Lee, director of product management at DEVELON. “It gives our customers the flexibility of a mini excavator with more power and dig depth they may need without moving up to a larger machine.”

Performance

Like smaller -7 Series mini excavators, the DX89R-7 comes with an innovative platform to improve structural durability and machine robustness. Powered by a Tier 4-compliant D24 diesel engine offering more horsepower, the DX89R-7 provides increased productivity from its predecessor. Auxiliary hydraulic flow remains readily available for operators to use hydraulic-powered attachments with the mini excavator.

An increased machine operating weight and the excavator’s new counterweight design provide better stability for increased lifting capacity. This is particularly useful when using the excavator to lift and place objects such as pipes, boulders or hardscape materials. Traction force is also higher in the new DX89R-7 due to the machine’s higher weight, meaning customers can push material more efficiently with a dozer blade.

The boom swing feature provides more flexibility for DX89R-7 operators. A thumb switch on the left joystick controls the excavator’s boom swing. This can be helpful when operating the excavator in a confined space, when the operator needs to dig next to an existing structure or obstacle.

Customers can configure their new DX89R-7 with an optional long arm. The long arm provides nearly two feet of additional dig depth and reach. This can help reduce machine repositioning and improve cycle time when performing repetitive movements.

Versatility

The new DX89R-7 is a versatile machine that can be paired with attachments, including buckets, quick coupler, and thumb. The quick coupler significantly reduces the time it takes to switch attachments, which can increase the operator productivity and ensure the correct bucket is paired with the digging requirements. Quick coupler piping comes standard for the new DX89R-7 mini excavator.

Excavator owners can further increase the machine’s versatility by operating with approved attachments, such as augers, hydraulic breakers, plate compactors, rippers, and grapples. Customers can also add an optional second set of hydraulics to operate multi-functional attachments. For example, the secondary auxiliary hydraulics are ideal for using tilt-rotator accessories for mini excavators.

A backfill (dozer) blade levels, backfills, grades and pushes material with ease. To make grading, leveling and backfilling as easy as possible, the blade float feature allows the blade to follow the contours of the ground without operator input.

Operator Comfort

DEVELON’s newest mini excavator will introduce all-new features for operator comfort. The machine offers best-in-class air conditioning and improved vents throughout the cab. DX89R-7 operators will appreciate features such as heated seats and fold-up pedals for additional floor space. An open canopy with Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) is also an available option.

Similar to larger excavators, the new DX89R-7 comes standard with the Smart Touch screen. The 8-inch touch screen enables operators to quickly read machine performance indicators and change machine settings. A rear-view camera can be viewed from the touch screen for enhanced jobsite visibility and safety. An optional 360-degree all-around view monitoring (AVM) system is also available. For additional visibility, particularly in low-light situations, LED lights can be installed on both the front and rear of the DX89R-7.

Bluetooth audio allows operators to communicate easier without removing their hands from the joystick controls, as well as enjoying their favorite music or podcasts while operating.

Serviceability

The new DX89R-7 excavator has a swing-open tailgate and side-access hood, providing easy access to the excavator’s engine and pump package, valve bank, cooling system and hydraulic system. Everyday maintenance items like filters, fluids, air cleaner and battery are also easier to reach. A centralized grease bank makes it simple for the operators to properly add grease to the machine. Additional maintenance features include the following:

• Battery disconnect switch
• Color-coded and labeled wiring and hydraulic hoses
• DX89R-7 Mini Excavator Specs
• Horsepower: 65 hp at 2100 rpm (48.5 kW)
• Operating weight: 21,005 lb. (9,528 kg)
• Maximum digging depth: 13 ft. 6 in. (4 m)
• Maximum digging reach (ground): 22 ft. 6 in. (6.6 m)
• Maximum loading height: 15 ft. 5 in. (4.7 m)
• Travel speed: 1.8 – 3 mph (2.9 – 4.8 km/hr)

Specs reflect the standard excavator arm

Yanmar will show its new products as well as its mini excavators, wheel loaders and tracked carriers at booth W40059 in the West Hall.

“This will be Yanmar Compact Equipment’s first CONEXPO appearance since 2014 and we are thrilled to be returning to the show after an almost 10-year absence,” said Tate Johnson, president of Yanmar Compact Equipment. “We’ve grown immensely since our last visit to CONEXPO and the new products we will introduce will prove our focus on compact equipment growth in North America.”

The Yanmar CE NA booth will feature 12 machines and attachments, showcasing Yanmar Compact Equipment’s full line of compact equipment offerings suitable for any worksite. The booth will feature several vignettes marking Yanmar’s key pillars in the construction industry — heavy civil, commercial and residential. The booth will also display one of Yanmar’s renowned reliable engines — the heart behind its equipment solutions.

Yanmar Compact Equipment will exhibit new equipment at the show, as well as existing products.

“We are excited to make a splash at CONEXPO with a new product that meets our customers’ needs,” said Buck Storlie, product manager for ASV. “Between the new product introduction and recently introduced equipment we will display; we anticipate show attendees will be impressed with what our booth has to offer.”

ASV will highlight four powerful Posi-Track loaders ideal for landscaping, construction and forestry. Visitors to the booth will also get a close look at ASV’s patented undercarriage technology through a display of the Posi-Track system.