International Forest Industries

Since 2023, the Ponsse Scorpion Giant with 24 tonnes operating weight is the new model in the Scorpion family.

Thanks to a reinforced middle frame and the stronger C50+ crane, this harvester can even be equipped with the H8 unit with a 10 m crane reach.

With its unique and distinctive design, the Scorpion offers the driver maximum visibility during all work. The new frame construction consists of three segments that are connected to each other via robust swivel joints.

The front and rear segments with the bogie axles can adapt to the ground independently of the middle segment with the cabin. The movements that occur are compensated by hydraulic cylinders, which allows the driver to work very ergonomically.

The proven 8-wheel chassis and the low centre of gravity ensure extremely high stability when working. There is also an actively controlled stabilisation system. This patented system controls the support cylinders on the rear frame depending on the crane and load situation.

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UNMATCHED FLEXIBILITY AND CONNECTIVIT Y FOR INDUSTRIAL MOTION CONTROL

Delta Motion, a leading innovator in industrial motion control, announced the addition of EtherCAT MainDevice capability to its RMC200 Motion Controller.

By partnering with acontis technologies and leveraging their robust software suite, Delta Motion has successfully implemented a full-featured and highly flexible product. The addition of EtherCAT MainDevice capability to the RMC200 offers unparalleled flexibility for connecting to and controlling any devices needed for high-performance hydraulic and electric motion control in industrial applications.

Why acontis

Delta Motion faced challenges with other options that didn’t meet their standards. Turning to acontis, they immediately recognized acontis’ renowned competency, comprehensive product portfolio, and responsive support. acontis provided detailed support and accommodated numerous requests, enabling Delta to tailor the software for a seamless customer experience.

With acontis’ 20-year track record as a leader in EtherCAT technology, and ongoing maintenance and updates of its software, Delta is confident this will be an enduring partnership that keeps Delta’s software abreast of the latest EtherCAT developments.

“Delta is known for providing the best possible combination of performance and ease of use,” says Steve Nylund, CEO of Delta Motion. “We wanted our EtherCAT implementation to be as user-friendly and robust as our customers have come to expect from Delta. Teaming up with acontis technologies was crucial for achieving this, and our engineers were pleased with their responsiveness and support during the integration process. Initial response to the product has confirmed that we are meeting our high standards.”

Tested and Proven Reliability

In addition to the decades of testing and field experience that acontis’ has put into its EC-Master EtherCAT MainDevice stack, Delta’s integration of the stack into the RMC200 has undergone extensive beta testing with a range of customers and applications. These trials allowed Delta Motion to fine-tune the EtherCAT implementation, ensuring stability and performance across diverse use cases. Multiple firmware updates during the beta phase incorporated real-world feedback, creating a product ready for immediate deployment.

“Our beta testers played a crucial role in helping us refine the EtherCAT modules capabilities,” says Steve Nylund. “The feedback we received confirmed that our solution delivers exceptional performance and reliability right out of the gate.”

I/O Your Way

The RMC200, already renowned for its robust performance and versatility, now offers more options with the addition of EtherCAT support. The RMC200 can handle up to 50 axes of position and pressure control, and supports any combination of directly-connected and EtherCAT I/O. For example, on machines incorporating

both hydraulic and electric motion, users may choose EtherCAT-enabled drives for electric axes, paired with traditional directly-connected servo-proportional valves and feedback sensors for the hydraulic axes.

“Electric drives with EtherCAT often provide significant advantages with no cost adder, while the benefits for other devices depend on the application,” says Steve Nylund. “Our goal is to give our customers the capability to implement best-in-class systems.”

Why EtherCAT

High-Speed Communication: EtherCAT technology, known for its high speed and minimal jitter, ensures precise real-time control of complex motion systems.

Scalability: The RMC200 supports up to 50 axes of motion, extending its application into larger systems. EtherCAT can handle a large number of networked devices without significant performance degradation.

Flexibility: The widespread global adoption of EtherCAT, especially for motor drives, means more devices can easily connect to Delta’s RMC200 Motion Controllers.

Reduced Wiring: EtherCAT can significantly reduce wiring costs and complexity for many systems, reducing installation time and costs.

Contact Information

For more information about the RMC200 with EtherCAT support, please contact:

Delta Motion

Phone: +1 (360) 254-8688

Email: technicalsales@ deltamotion.com

Website: www.deltamotion.com

For more information about EtherCAT software and services, please contact:

acontis technologies

Phone: +49 751 5 60 30 30

Email: sales@acontis.com

Website: www.acontis.com

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An aging but sturdy Newnes tilt hoist at Western Forest Products’ Nanaimo, BC, mill has received a major upgrade thanks to the USNR Upgrades Department. Following a full service audit, the USNR Service Team determined exactly what needed to be upgraded and improved to ensure the tilt hoist would keep running at peak efficiency.

These upgrades included a new tilt hoist knee assembly and skate wheel rack assembly, complete with affordable replacement parts for long-term maintenance savings. Through close collaboration with Western Forest Products, the upgrades were approved and installed, allowing for more reliable production.

USNR is pleased to work with Western Forest Products on this upgrade project. You can also view their full list of standard upgrades on their website

USNR – Upgrades and Conversions

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EXHIBITORS RELY ON LIGNA AS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER

Hanover, Germany. LIGNA in Hanover from 26 to 30 May 2025 will be one of the most important milestones for the woodworking and wood processing industry on the way to the hoped-for industry turnaround. Three months before the trade show opens its gates in its 50th anniversary year, more than 1,200 exhibitors from all over the world occupy around 112,000 square metres of exhibition space, sending a strong signal in a challenging industry situation.

“LIGNA is currently almost at the same level as the previous event,” says Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Executive Board, Deutsche Messe AG. “In view of the economic conditions, we are very grateful to everyone involved for their confidence in LIGNA. We are convinced that the world’s leading trade fair for the industry will ensure greater productivity and sustainability through fantastic innovations and thus provide the much-needed motivation and confidence for investments.”

“Hardly any exhibitor skips LIGNA – and for good reason. Especially in challenging times, direct dialogue with customers is crucial to generating new investment momentum through innovative solutions. LIGNA is the platform where pioneering technologies are presented to an international audience of experts. And it’s not just manufacturers who cannot afford to miss this opportunity – customers, too, must be there, as the future course of the industry is set right here in Hanover,” says Dr. Bernhard Dirr, Managing Director of the VDMA Woodworking Machinery Association, Frankfurt am Main.

About LIGNA

The world’s leading trade fair for the woodworking and wood processing industry is jointly organized by Deutsche Messe and VDMA Woodworking Machinery in Hannover, and is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. It showcases the entire range of products and services for the primary and secondary industries – tools, machines and systems for custom and mass production, surface technology, wood-based panel production, sawmill technology, energy from wood, machine components and automation technology, as well as machines and systems for forestry.

Further information on LIGNA is available at www.ligna.de

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LIGNA, the world’s leading trade fair dedicated to woodworking plants, machinery and tools is back and, like Incomac, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Join them from 26 to 30 May 2025 at Booth L22, Hall 25 of the Hannover Messe to hear all the news of the Incomac world and the newcomer Nardi.

Systems for the treatment of any type of wood

Incomac drying systems are designed to treat all types of wood. The kilns are built to meet all structural and operational requirements, ensuring durability against extreme temperatures and varying environmental and weather conditions.

Incomac’s technicians handle the installation and testing of the kilns on-site. At Incomac, every detail is focused on enhancing the performance and extending the lifespan of the drying system, from the load-bearing structure and weld joints to the doors and screws. They use aluminium and stainless steel for their corrosion resistance, durability, and ability to endure temperature fluctuations and high production cycles.

Each model is engineered to support snow loads of 160 kg/m², with an optional upgrade to 300 kg/m² upon request. They are also resistant to wind pressures up to 120 km/h and can be equipped with enhanced thermal insulation for colder climates.

Their systems offer capacities ranging from 5 to over 1000m³, with pre-drying capabilities. They offer a range of drying systems tailored to different supply methods and treatment types, all designed to meet the specific needs of every customer. Available in various sizes, our models come with either front or tunnel loading options.

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GLAD 2025: The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) has announced the return of Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD) 2025 on Thursday 12th June 2025, with the theme “Lifting Careers, Building Futures.” This year, GLAD is dedicated to tackling the growing skills shortages across the lifting industry, promoting practical tools to attract new talent, and using the day as a launchpad to inspire the next generation to explore careers in lifting.

The lifting industry plays a crucial role in global infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, logistics, and more, yet many employers are struggling to recruit and retain skilled professionals. As recruitment challenges intensify, GLAD 2025 aims to provide practical solutions to help businesses identify, develop, and retain top talent.

What to Expect on GLAD 2025

Throughout the day, LEEA and its industry partners will roll out a series of activities, resources, and discussions designed to:

 Support Employers – Providing insights into recruitment best practices, apprenticeships, military resettlement programs, and effective interview techniques to help businesses attract and retain the best talent.

 Empower Job Seekers – Showcasing why the lifting industry is a fantastic career choice, highlighting career pathways, training opportunities, and advice on how to enter and progress in the field.

 Promote Industry-Wide Engagement – Encouraging all stakeholders, from business leaders to training providers, to collaborate and invest in the workforce of tomorrow.

A Special Industry Report & Webinar

As part of GLAD 2025, LEEA CEO, Dr. Ross Moloney and Matt Barber, LEEA Director of Membership, will host a special webinar launching an exclusive industry report that highlights the most pressing issues related to skills shortages, skills gaps, and recruitment across the lifting sector. This report will provide valuable insights into the challenges facing businesses today and actionable strategies to ensure a sustainable and skilled workforce for the future.

A Launchpad for the Next Generation

GLAD 2025 is not just about today’s challenges—it’s about securing the industry’s future. By raising awareness of the diverse and rewarding careers available, GLAD will serve as a springboard for young people, career changers, and underrepresented groups to explore opportunities in lifting. Dr. Ross Moloney, CEO of LEEA, commented: “The skills shortage in our industry is a challenge that we must address together. GLAD 2025 provides a platform for businesses, educators, and job seekers to come together, share solutions, and shape the future of lifting. It’s time to lift careers and build futures.”

Get Involved

LEEA invites industry professionals, businesses, and training providers to join the conversation on GLAD 2025 by sharing success stories, promoting career opportunities, and engaging with the wealth of resources available. Follow the campaign and share your stories using #GLAD2025.

For more information, visit globalliftingawarenessday.com

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USNR’s Automated Lineal Grading System is a cutting-edge solution for planer mills, offering advanced lineal optimization and grading capabilities. Its compact design allows for easy installation and seamless integration into existing production lines.

Leveraging precise measurements and AI-driven technology, this system delivers exceptional accuracy while handling both standard and custom grades, all of which are fully configurable. Additionally, a specialized configuration for hardwood grading, based on USNR’s renowned NHLA-grade rules, is also available.

This elegant AI-driven system accurately and efficiently grades lumber at mill speeds. Its simple design throughout the hardware, software, and mechanical frame makes this system easy to use and maintain.

With over 70 units installed in North America, this grading system’s proven results speak for themselves.

To join the list of planer mills that have benefited from USNR’s Automated Lineal Grading System, contact your USNR representative today.

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Komatsu has introduced its newest log loader, the TimberPro TN230D. The new machine was built from the ground up based on customer and distributor feedback and was carefully engineered to help improve productivity and provide additional operator benefits.

The 197-HP TN230D offers a 36-foot reach and 58,224 foot-pounds of swing torque. It also features Power Max, which temporarily increases engine horsepower and hydraulic flow to support tough forestry tasks.

The machine is built with proven, high-quality Komatsu components and its hydraulic system, powertrain, control valve and interior components are designed and manufactured in-house to help ensure performance and quality control.

The TN230D is the first machine in its class segment to feature dual service platforms with electrically actuated platforms on the left and right sides, offering improved access for service and cleaning.

New benefits include easy access via a large, rear entry cab with service walkways and safety railings, premium heated and cooled seats with adjustable armrests, an elevated cabin with large windows and a front view camera to improve visibility, LED lights and a large overhead skylight.

“We know how demanding forestry environments are – the tough work requires equipment capable of standing up to the job,” said Kyle Kovach, Product Planning Manager. “When we set out to develop a new log loader, we gathered feedback on customer needs then unleashed a team of talented engineers to design this product from the ground up. The result merges quality components with the latest technology to offer a range of productivity, safety and comfort benefits.”

The TN230D will be on display at the Oregon Logging Conference Feb. 20-22, 2025.

Photo:  The TN230D merges quality components with the latest technology.

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Edmundston, NEW BRUNSWICK – February 10, 2025 –

Acadian Timber Corp. (“Acadian”) (TSX:ADN) has signed an agreement to purchase assets of A & A Brochu, LLC (“A & A Brochu”) and its affiliates for a total price of U.S. $4.8 million.

The assets include harvesting, trucking, and road building equipment, as well as related real estate, in the Millinocket, Maine region. “We are pleased with the opportunity to purchase this turnkey operation,” commented Adam Sheparski, President and Chief Executive Officer. “A & A Brochu has provided contractor services to Acadian for many years.

The transaction will address the historical harvesting capacity challenges in Maine and enable greater control over costs as well as sustainable forestry practices, while allowing Acadian to invest in the communities in which we live and work.”

The asset purchase agreement was signed on February 10, 2025 and the transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of 2025.

Photo Adam Sheparski, President and Chief Executive Officer.

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During 2025, Setra will investigate the possibilities of divesting the sawmill in Malå. A divestment is expected to contribute to Setra’s opportunities to further strengthen its position in Central Sweden, where the company’s raw material supply is expected to improve in the coming years.

During 2024, Setra took major steps in an extensive upgrade of the sawmill in Malå with new timber intake, new sawing line, updated raw sorting and increased drying capacity. The new saw line has been installed and start-up of the saw is proceeding according to plan.

The full potential is expected to be reached in 2027 when the capacity of sawn goods increases from the current 160,000 m3/year to 340,000 m3/year.

Malå is located in one of Europe’s most attractive raw material areas, both in terms of quality and growth.

The geographical location, combined with a well-invested sawmill, equipped with the latest available technology, creates good conditions for long-term good earnings and the opportunity to find a good industrial home for the sawmill in Malå.

The sales process will take place in a structured process during the first half of 2025, where Access Partners has been mandated as coordinating advisor.

For further information please contact: CEO Marcus Westdahl: or CFO Johanna Lindén

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In 2025, it will be 55 years since forest machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgren founded a forest machine factory in Vieremä, Finland. The anniversary year will start on a high note as the 21,000th PONSSE forest machine has been manufactured and will be delivered on February 6th, 2025, to Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. from Minnesota, USA.

Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. is a family business established in 1977. Today, Jhace Pearson, the company’s representative in the third generation, came over to the Ponsse factory with his best friend Matthew Vosika to receive their new Ponsse Buffalo.

It is an honour for Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. to receive Ponsse’s 21,000th forest machine. Scheff Logging considers it vital that Ponsse’s entire personnel are committed to excellent service. Scheff has grown into a three-generation harvesting and transport company and employs more than 40 professionals. Scheff Logging would like to thank everyone at Ponsse for this magnificent machine!

Logging together worldwide for 55 years

Throughout its history, the Finnish family-owned company has focused on the development and production of cut-to-length forest machines and the provision of maintenance services for them. While all forest machines are still manufactured in Vieremä, Ponsse is at home in forests around the world, as the company currently operates in the logging sites of almost 40 countries.

“Since the earliest days, Ponsse’s driving force has been the belief that only the best people, in cooperation with customers and stakeholders, can develop and manufacture the best forest machines in the world. Still today, forest machines are developed and manufactured in the same way by more than 2,000 Ponsse employees. As a result of long-term cooperation, Ponsse has grown over the years to become the world’s leading manufacturer of cut-to-length forest machines,” says Jarmo Vidgren, Chair of Ponsse’s Board of Directors. In honour of the anniversary, we are going on a worldwide tour to meet our customers and stakeholders,” Vidgren emphasizes

Events around the world

In accordance with the theme of the anniversary year “Logging together worldwide”, Ponsse is celebrating the milestone by inviting customers, stakeholders and Ponsse people to join the anniversary tour. The anniversary tour starts from Finland on March 18 and continues around the world during the year.  Welcome to the events: https://events.ponsse.com/

Jarmo Vidgren

Chair of the Board of Directors

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Southeastern Timber Products announced this week it is investing $123.4 million to expand its operations in Ackerman, which could create as many as 40 jobs.

Southeastern Timber Products is a family-owned-and-operated manufacturer of southern yellow pine lumber, timber and decking products. The company is expanding its Ackerman sawmill to increase production capacity from 120 million board feet per year to 300 million board feet per year.

To facilitate the project, Southeastern Timber Products will install a new sawmill line, new dry kilns and storage facilities.
Southeastern Timber Products has a joint venture partnership with Tolko Industries Ltd., a company based in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada.

One of the largest Canadian investments in Mississippi, Tolko has embarked on what will ultimately be a $150 million investment in the STP lumber mill that was announced in 2022. Under the banner of Southeastern Timber Products LLC, the project is a joint venture with STP Holdings, LLC.

“Today’s announcement enables us to further invest in our people, customers and local community,” said David Manley, Tolko Industries U.S. Ltd. vice president. “We greatly appreciate the Mississippi government’s support of all strategic investments that will help us by continuing to grow STP’s capacity to 300 million board feet per year.”

The news comes at a time President Donald J. Trump wants to sign an executive order introducing a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on goods from China. The order on China went into effect on Tuesday, while the orders on Canada and and Mexico have been put on hold as of Wednesday.

Canada is Mississippi’s largest trading partner and Mississippi would likely feel negative impacts from a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Canada. There also would likely be some reactionary impacts on goods that are exported from Mississippi to Canada.

Reported by Ross Reily Mississippi Clarion Ledger

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Valmet will deliver a chipper feeding line upgrade to the woodyard of Unilin Panels in Vielsalm, Belgium.

The order is included in Valmet’s orders received of the fourth quarter 2024. The value of the order will not be disclosed. The delivery will take place during the mill’s annual shutdown in the third quarter of 2025.

The mill’s current chipper feeding line is approaching the end of its lifecycle, leading to chip quality variation and limited production capacity. Mechanical wearing of inlet parts increases the risk of discharged metal parts in the chipper.

“The chipper feeding line upgrade with the new infeed chute, open top spout and durable chipper hood will extend the lifetime of our woodyard area and secure safe operation environment for our employees for the next years. We are looking forward to the upgrade and improvements in the chip consistency,” says Antoine Deparpe, Improvement Engineering Manager at Unilin Panels.

“We are thankful for this opportunity to deliver this customized solution to Unilin Panels, as it shows our expertise also in woodyard upgrades. We are looking forward to our skilled field service team taking care of the installation and helping the customer to take their performance to the next level,” says Nils Anspach, Product Sales Manager at Valmet.

Technical information about the delivery

The chipper feeding line upgrade includes the delivery of several parts such as infeed chute, spout, durable chipper hood, couplings, bearing assemblies as well as the installation of those parts.

Information about the customer

Unilin Panels produces innovative wood panel solutions for the construction and interior sectors. The production unit in Vielsalm, Belgium, produces MDF for the domestic and international customers. Unilin Panels is part of the Unilin Group.

Valmet has a global customer base across various process industries. They are a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries, and with their automation and flow control solutions they serve an even wider base of process industries

Photo : Valmet will deliver a chipper feeding line upgrade to the woodyard of Unilin Panels in Vielsalm, Belgium.

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Comact, a global leader in wood processing solutions, has announced the launch of its new hybrid sawline, a groundbreaking innovation designed to address the evolving challenges of the sawmilling industry. Combining circular saws, bandsaws, and advanced smart technologies, this cutting-edge system sets a new benchmark for speed, flexibility, and operational efficiency in handling a wide range of log diameters.

Comact’s hybrid sawline is a transformative solution, particularly for southern USA mills, where a broad range of log diameters and highly flexible operations are critical to maximizing results. The sawline’s ability to seamlessly integrate multiple cutting modes—including double profiling, quadruple circular cutting, and sideboards splitting—enables mills to produce diverse lumber products on a single line, optimizing recovery and reducing costs.

“We strongly believe that this new sawline design will be a game changer, especially for our southern USA customers,” said Simon Potvin, Comact’s President and CEO. “These mills face unique challenges in processing a wide range of log diameters, which would typically require two separate sawlines to achieve optimal productivity. The new hybrid sawline provides the flexibility to handle all log sizes on a single line while maximizing efficiency and results. This innovative system is a testament to how deeply innovation drives us as a company.”

The hybrid sawline is further strengthened by Comact’s Smart Vision system, powered by artificial intelligence. This advanced technology optimizes log feeding to ensure a smooth and consistent production flow. Complementary features like the Primary Breakdown Closed Loop Smart Tool enhance precision and value recovery, offering sawmills greater efficiency and automated quality control.

As Comact celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024, the introduction of the hybrid sawline underscores its commitment to driving progress in the wood processing industry. This launch reflects a century-long dedication to providing solutions that empower sawmills to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

ABOUT COMACT

For over 100 years, Comact has been a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support. Driven by innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to helping our customers address their most pressing operational and business challenges in today’s industry.

Whether for brownfield or greenfield projects, Comact’s expertise provides wood processing facilities with the confidence that their investments will yield superior performance, throughput, and ROI. This ensures they remain competitive and achieve sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. Trust Comact to deliver exceptional performance every time. For more information, visit www.comact.com.

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Sawmill in Maine – Saint John, New Brunswick — Irving Forest Products, which owns and operates wood processing facilities in Maine and New York State, has acquired the Masardis Sawmill in Masardis, Maine. The sale closed January 5, 2025.

Previously owned by Groupe Lebel, the Masardis operation has a long history of producing random-length spruce and fir lumber. It currently employs 80 people and has the capacity to produce 115 million board feet annually.

The sawmill is located within close proximity to Irving’s 1.3 million acres of timberlands in Maine.

“We are excited to grow our lumber production capacity in the state of Maine,” said Jerome Pelletier, VP of Irving Forest Products. “The Masardis mill is well-located to access high-quality timber. It is also serviced by the Maine Northern Railway and benefits from having a team of highly skilled and dedicated employees who have worked together for decades to ensure the success of their operation.”

With the addition of the Masardis operation, J.D. Irving, Limited now operates 10 sawmills as part of its solid wood operations, with a total annual capacity of 1.3 billion board feet.

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Koskisen is launching a comprehensive investment program in the plywood production of its Panel Industry business in Järvelä. The investment program extends until the end of Koskisen’s strategy period, i.e. 2027. The first phase of the investment program will be implemented during 2025 and the total value of the related investments is approximately EUR 12 million.

“In line with our strategy, we are creating sustainable growth and the focus of investments is now shifting strongly to the Panel Industry. In recent years, we have invested heavily in the Sawmill Industry: the total investment value of the new sawmill and related operations, such as the log yard to be put into operation in early 2025, is approximately EUR 75 million,” says Koskisen’s CEO Jukka Pahta .

According to Pahta, the demand outlook for Koskisen’s wood products is stable and will strengthen, driven by the green transition, urbanization, and the development of trade and transportation. Wood products that bind carbon for a long time are a key part of a more sustainable bio-circular economy.

The systematic investment program in the sheet Panel industry will enable volume growth, streamline production, and facilitate related internal logistics. The investments also include automation of production phases.

“The key objective of the investment program is to improve the productivity, quality and yield of plywood production. As a result of the program, the plywood production capacity will increase from the current 65,000 m3 to 85,000 m3. This requires significant development of the machinery and investment in it,” says Tom-Peter Helenius, Director of the Board Industry Business Unit .

The first phase of the investment program focuses on developing the veneer manufacturing processes.

The plywood factory produces customized, high-quality birch plywood products for light and heavy transport vehicles, stamping tools, interior design, fixtures and furniture. The largest customer groups are the automotive, transport, construction and furniture industries.

“The existing production line has been built in stages and currently places restrictions on production development and volume growth. It is great that with the investment program being launched now, we have the opportunity to think about things with new eyes by modernizing the different stages of production and their mutual relationships,” says Helenius.

Koskisen is an international wood processing specialist with over a century of experience. They utilize the valuable wood raw material carefully, down to the last sawdust. They manufacture high-quality and sustainable bio-circular economy products that bind carbon for decades.

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Bruks Siwertell has received an order for a state-of-the-art Bruks Klöckner drum chipper from Bioena, a leading bioenergy company in Colombia. It will reliably deliver consistent quality wood chips and features a custom-designed knife and infeed configuration, supporting Bioena’s commitment to sustainable, high-capacity energy production.

Bioena is at the forefront of the renewable bioenergy industry. Its industrial plant, located in Santa Marta, produces biomass wood pellets from sustainably sourced wood, which play a vital role in the global move away from the use of fossil fuels.

Bruks Siwertell’s pioneering fiber- and wood-processing equipment and bulk handling technology is already playing a pivotal role in supporting renewable energy transitions worldwide.

“For Bioena, the choice was clear,” says Rafael Escamilla, Project Development Engineer, Bruks Siwertell. “Our Bruks Klöckner drum chippers have a proven track record for performance and reliability. With our strong presence in South America, we are excited to support Bioena in this project, and by fast-tracking the delivery, we are demonstrating our commitment to meeting its timeline and operational needs.”

Bruks Siwertell is able to offer unique equipment configurations depending on the needs of its customers. For Bioena, the horizontal-fed Bruks Klöckner drum chipper has a customized knife configuration to produce specifically sized wood chips, and its first two infeed rollers, closest to the drum, are segmented, enabling efficient and powerful material flows into the chipper. It also has a tailored infeed belt conveyor, while Hardox steel components, including the rotor, rotor hood, chip mantle, and chip pockets, enhance the chipper’s durability and performance.

“This partnership not only underscores Bruks Siwertell’s expertise in wood-processing technology but also celebrates our mutual commitment to environmental stewardship,” adds Escamilla. “Together, Bruks Siwertell and Bioena are proving that innovative solutions are able to drive meaningful change in renewable energy.”

Engineered to process whole eucalyptus logs at 50t/h, the new Bruks drum chipper will enable Bioena to expand its production capacity and keep pace with its growth and sustainability goals. The unit is planned for delivery from Germany in the first quarter of 2025.

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Tigercat has released the LX877 feller buncher, the second model to be built on the new sloped tail platform. The LX877 is equipped with Tigercat’s well-proven closed loop drive system. Equipped with a 260 kW (350 hp) engine, it is best suited to high production, steep slope, mature timber clear fell applications.

Optimized weight distribution and low centre of mass, along with Tigercat’s patented super duty levelling undercarriage, provide the operator with comfort, stability and confidence on sloped terrain.

One of the most important LX877 design features is the sloped tail profile. It provides increased levelling capability to 26 degrees, and better cable clearance in winch assisted applications.

Along with the improved levelling angles, Tigercat redesigned the ER boom system to provide a larger envelope with tighter tuck, and increased below grade capability. Through-tip hose routing offers better protection of the boom hoses leading to the felling head. The boom has three operating modes – ER, semi-ER and conventional – and can be set based on operating conditions, tree size and operator preference.

Other enhancements include further improvements to service access, and in-tank hydraulic filtration for extended service intervals. The side opening engine enclosure completely exposes the top and both sides of the engine and most hydraulic components. When open, the enclosure roof serves as a safe, spacious and convenient work platform.

The LX877 is best matched to the Tigercat 5702 and 5702-26 felling saws.

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SAINT-GEORGES, QC, DECEMBER 10, 2024 — As 2024 comes to a close, Comact, a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support supplier, is proud to celebrate its 100th-anniversary short film that highlights a century of innovation, evolution, and leadership in the wood processing industry.

This year has been a pivotal one for Comact. Alongside commemorating its centennial, the company introduced a refreshed brand image and welcomed a new management team. These milestones mark its continued growth while staying true to the values that have defined Comact for 100 years: performance, innovation, and commitment.

“At Comact, our roots run deep. While we’ve grown and evolved over the past century, our core mission remains unchanged—empowering the wood processing industry with the tools, technologies, and support needed to succeed,” said Simon Potvin, Comact’s President and CEO.

The 100th-anniversary film reflects this journey and Comact’s vision for the future: pushing boundaries, delivering results, and driving progress for generations to come.

To watch the film and learn more about Comact, click here or visit comact.com.

ABOUT COMACT

For over 100 years, Comact has been a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support. Driven by innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to helping our customers address their most pressing operational and business challenges in today’s industry.

Whether for brownfield or greenfield projects, Comact’s expertise provides wood processing facilities with the confidence that their investments will yield superior performance, throughput, and ROI. This ensures they remain competitive and achieve sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. Trust Comact to deliver exceptional performance every time. For more information, visit www.comact.com.

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Monaghan, Ireland – 9 December 2024 – Combilift, the global leader in material handling solutions, has been awarded Company of the Year at the prestigious Business & Finance Awards 2024, in association with KPMG Ireland. This remarkable achievement marks Combilift’s 9th major win in the last three months, solidifying its position as an industry leader.

The Company of the Year award, presented to Combilift’s CEO Martin McVicar by Seamus Hand from KPMG at the 50th Business & Finance Awards ceremony – held in Dublin, is a testament to the company’s significant impact on both the Irish economy and the global market. Combilift, with annual revenue exceeding €500 million, has continued to thrive with its export-focused business model, with 98% of its operations serving international markets.

Since its founding in 1998, Combilift has built a global reputation as the largest manufacturer of multi-directional, articulated, and sideloading forklifts, as well as large material handling equipment such as straddle carriers, with over 85,000 units in operation across 85 countries. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and research and development has been pivotal to its exceptional growth, making it a true leader in the material handling industry.

Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift, said:

“This award reflects the bold vision and relentless drive that has been at the heart of Combilift since Robert Moffett and I started in 1998. Every forklift, every innovation, and every milestone reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and transforming material handling worldwide. This moment belongs to our employees, our dealers, and our customers, who rely on us to deliver quality material handling solutions to optimise their warehouse space.”

Joining a Legacy of Excellence

Winning this award places Combilift among an elite group of previous winners, including industry giants Glen Dimplex, Kingspan, Primark, Google, and Intel. As a homegrown Irish business with a global footprint, this latest recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the company’s ongoing success and its critical role in shaping the future of the material handling industry.

Photo  L-R. Ian Hyland – Business & Finance, Martin McVicar -Combilift, Seamus Hand – KPMG

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