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USNR’s Catech-brand edgers are known for their high speed and accurate volume recovery. Now, with the addition of full-color vision, they will also be offered with value optimization. Several systems have found their way to the market and Millwide Insider has visited one of them, at Moelven Mjøsbruket in Norway.

The Swedish range of Catech edgers originates from the mid-seventies, when the first computerized edger optimizers were designed. Since then, Catech has been the leading brand in high-speed edging and more than 600 systems have been installed. Catech also pioneered the technology for unmanned operation, and even today most competitors need a dedicated edger operator to run the systems.

Today’s edger optimizers are highly developed precision machines. The geometric scanning and optimization match the speed and accuracy of the mechanical entities, such as the infeed table and edger saw box. In other words, the speed and volume recovery are at the very limit of what is possible for today’s technology.

While European-style edgers traditionally have relied on geometric scanning and optimization for maximum volume, USNR’s North American operations have utilized vision scanning and value optimization since 2009, when the first system was installed in the US.

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Indexator – In today’s globalized economy, manufacturers face a wide range of choices when it comes to sourcing components and products. While cost-efficiency often drives decisions, the importance of quality, reliability, and local production cannot be overstated, especially in industries like forestry, recycling, and transport, where equipment performance and longevity are critical. This is where the rotator manufacturer Indexator stands apart.

“- At Indexator, we take pride in the fact that all our rotators and key components are manufactured in Sweden. Our commitment to local production allows us to maintain stringent control over every step of the manufacturing process. From design to assembly, each part is crafted with precision and care, ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed the demanding standards of the industries we serve.” Mattias Edin, Production Manager at Indexator.

In contrast, many competitors have opted to source components or even entire products from low-cost countries in Asia. While these imports may come with a lower price tag, they often lack the same level of durability and performance. This is particularly concerning when it comes to equipment that must withstand the harsh conditions and heavy loads typical in forestry and recycling operations.

Furthermore, some manufacturers in the region are branding imported rotators as their own, which can lead to misconceptions about product origin and quality. Customers may assume they are buying locally-made, high-quality products, when in reality, they are purchasing imported goods that may not adhere to the same rigorous standards.

“- At Indexator, we believe that true quality cannot be compromised. By keeping our manufacturing local, we support not only the Swedish economy and workforce but also the environment, through reduced transport emissions and a more sustainable production process. More importantly, it enables us to ensure that every rotator leaving our factory is built to last, offering superior performance and reliability to our customers.” Mattias Edin, Production Manager at Indexator.

In the end, quality speaks for itself. Companies that invest in high-quality components experience fewer breakdowns, longer service life, and ultimately, better value over time. As the industry continues to evolve, Indexator remains committed to upholding the principles of quality, innovation, and local manufacturing that have made them a trusted name in forestry, recycling, and transport technology.

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Opticom Tech proudly announces the 20th anniversary of Heidi Schmidt, a seasoned leader in the video technology industry. With two decades of expertise, Heidi has made significant contributions to the fields of CCTV, industrial video applications, product development, and video network solutions. As a sales leader at Opticom Tech, she has been instrumental in helping customers implement solution-driven video monitoring in some of the most unique and harsh industrial environments.

Since joining the industry, Heidi has continuously pushed the boundaries regarding the different uses of video technology, staying ahead of trends and driving innovation in industrial monitoring. Her dedication to providing reliable, robust solutions has earned her the trust of clients and colleagues alike. From designing custom systems to managing complex integration into existing systems, Heidi has a deep understanding of the technical challenges and solutions that the industrial sector demands.

“Reaching 20 years in a tech-related field is an exciting milestone,” says Schmidt. “The technology has changed dramatically, but the core objective remains the same—ensuring that businesses have the most reliable, secure, and effective video monitoring systems to protect their operations and improve efficiency.”

At Opticom Tech, Heidi’s leadership continues to make a lasting impact as she works closely with clients to solve the unique challenges posed by harsh and hazardous environments. Her passion for innovation and excellence in service has made her a key figure in the industry, and her contributions are expected to shape the future of industrial video technology for years to come.

Click here for more information about Heidi Schmidt’s work and Opticom Tech’s video monitoring solutions.

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The Segezha Group has launched an extensive reverse engineering program to maintain and upgrade its industrial equipment at Segezha Pulp and Paper Mill, the company announced in its Telegram channel. Source: Nip Impressions The initiative follows a halt in equipment supplies from Western manufacturers after sanctions were imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. As Western suppliers suspended operations, Segezha and other Russian forest industry firms have turned to Chinese manufacturers or in-house solutions to maintain production. Before the sanctions, Segezha relied heavily on suppliers like Austria’s Andritz AG and Germany’s Voith for critical machinery. Andritz had upgraded cooking plant No. 4 and other fibre line equipment, while Voith installed paper machine No. 11 at Segezha’s facility. Since sanctions were introduced, Segezha has begun using reverse engineering, a process involving 3D scanning and digital modelling of machinery components to replicate or improve parts that are no longer available. This method generates detailed computer-aided design (CAD) models that guide precise manufacturing. The company plans to accelerate its import substitution strategy in 2024-25, targeting the replacement of key components such as press rolls and seals, as well as conducting repairs on the headbox of paper machine No. 9. According to Segezha Group, digital “twins,” created through laser scanning, will facilitate the precise manufacturing of these parts. This approach aims to enhance production stability and further minimize dependence on foreign suppliers, the company stated.

Tigercat has replaced the 250D loader with a new and improved 250E model. Tigercat 250 series loaders are a staple on southern US landings for tasks such as delimbing, slashing, merchandising and loading trucks. Source: Timberbiz Among other improvements, the latest 250 series iteration has an improved operator’s cab, greater swing torque, and a new boom system. On account of the increased swing torque, the boom system has been strengthened to handle the increased lateral forces now available to the operator for tough pull-through delimbing applications. The boom cylinders are cushioned at the end of stroke for smoother boom operation. A through-tip yoke routes hydraulic hoses to the grapple through the end of the boom for increased hose protection. The new operator’s station is roomier with 16% greater internal volume, enhancing leg room and adding width. The joysticks and switches are mounted on the armrests within comfortable reach. An improved climate control system allows the operator to set the desired temperature for a more comfortable and temperature-consistent working environment. Climate controlled cupholders keep drinks hot or cold for longer. Dedicated in-cabin storage areas include a space for a full size Tigercat insulated lunchbox. Operator visibility has been improved with larger front and side windows. The wiper motor, radio and touchscreen display control system have all been relocated for improved sightlines. A work light has been added to on the right side of the engine enclosure for better visibility to the delimber during early morning and low light operating conditions. The redesigned swing motor cover further improves the operator’s line of sight to the work area. The cover has integrated storage for tools and grease. The DEF tank fill cap has been repositioned lower on the machine for added ease of access and safety. The 250E is also equipped with an electric pump hydraulic oil fill system. These added conveniences enhance the operator experience and make daily maintenance routines more efficient.

Stora Enso has entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of the Finnish sawmill company Junnikkala Oy. This acquisition aims to secure a cost-efficient wood supply to Stora Enso’s packaging board site in Oulu, Finland, and to support Stora Enso’s wood products business with new production assets. Source: Timberbiz The total enterprise value (EV) for the transaction is up to EUR 137 million, a significant part of it being contingent upon achieving specific production milestones. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the first half of 2025. Junnikkala Oy is a Finnish producer of sawn timber and processed wood products for domestic and export markets. It operates three sawmills in Finland including its new state-of-the-art sawmill, less than 10 kilometres from the Stora Enso Oulu site. The acquired sawmills will create synergies with the integrated board site in Oulu through long-term supply of raw materials such as wood chips, pulpwood and internally sourced biomass going from the sawmills to the Oulu site. “We are preparing for the start-up of our new converted packaging board line in Oulu and this acquisition will establish a solid foundation for our wood procurement. It will also further enhance operational efficiency and optimise the Oulu production site and sawmills as an integrated unit, while also strengthening our wood products offering,” said Hans Sohlström, Stora Enso’s President and CEO. The transaction will strengthen the Group’s wood supply operations and reinforce its position in sawlog and pulpwood sourcing in the Baltic Rim wood market. Stora Enso’s annual wood procurement in Finland will hence increase by approximately 1.7 million m³ and the Group’s total saw-milling capacity by approximately 700,000 m³. The integration of the value chain will reduce costs and improve resource efficiency. Stora Enso harvesting operations in Finland generate a stable supply of sawlogs, pulpwood and energy wood to the Group’s Finnish production sites. Through integrated and efficient sawmilling capacity in Finland, Stora Enso can secure a balanced sawlogs and pulpwood supply. Additionally, the sawmills play an important role in increasing the sawmill by-product supply for pulp and energy use for Stora Enso’s Oulu site. Junnikkala’s sawmill operations will be fully incorporated into Stora Enso’s Wood Products division and the wood procurement activities will be integrated into the Forest division. The acquisition is expected to gradually generate synergies of approximately EUR 15 million annually once the new sawmill in Oulu is fully operational and will have no operational impact on Stora Enso’s current sawmills. Junnikkala’s sales in 2023 were EUR 115 million (EUR 141 million in 2022). The company has approximately 230 employees all of whom will transfer to Stora Enso.  

In a drive to strengthen the link between the design community and the forest and wood products sector, Responsible Wood and the CSAW University of Tasmania recently hosted a field trip in Launceston, Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz Held in collaboration with Sustainable Timber Tasmania (STT), Timberlink, Forico Pty. Limited, Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), and the Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA), the event offered architects and designers a firsthand look at sustainable forest management and ethical timber supply chains. The field trip showcased Tasmania’s leadership in certified forestry, offering a unique opportunity for participants to observe the timber supply chain from forest management to processing. The event placed a spotlight on Responsible Wood’s certification standards, which ensure responsible forestry practices and sustainable outcomes. The day included visits to Timberlink’s state-of-the-art processing facility and tours of certified forests managed by Forico and STT. These visits illustrated the comprehensive environmental management and technological sophistication that underpin certified forestry. The participants learned about the intricate balance of sustainability, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation embedded in forest management. One highlight was the emphasis on Responsible Wood certification to the Australian Standards (AS/NZS 4708 and AS 4707). These standards ensure timber is sustainably sourced and processed, supporting transparency and best practices from forest to final product. “Seeing the care and expertise that goes into Tasmania’s forest management was eye-opening,” said Sarah Downey, Head of Marketing and Communications, FWPA. “For architects and designers, understanding the source of their materials is key to promoting sustainable construction. The field trip reinforced the importance of certified timber in achieving low-carbon building outcomes.” Responsible Wood’s Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, underscored the importance of engaging design professionals with the forestry sector. “Bringing architects and designers into the heart of our industry is essential for fostering sustainable construction practices. This experience allowed them to see how certified timber is responsibly sourced, giving them a deeper appreciation of its environmental and social benefits,” he said. By stepping out of their studios and into the bush, participants experienced firsthand the origins of the timber they use in their designs. They witnessed how modern forestry integrates biodiversity monitoring, growth modelling, and sustainable harvest techniques, balancing environmental stewardship with economic needs. “The architects left with a stronger connection to the forests and a deeper understanding of the materials they work with,” said Nick Steel, CEO of TFPA. “This connection enhances their ability to advocate for sustainable materials in their projects.” A central theme of the field trip was the ethical sourcing of timber and the role that sustainable supply chains play in reducing the carbon footprint of the built environment. Timberlink, Forico, and STT provided participants with insights into how responsibly sourced wood contributes to climate action by sequestering carbon and reducing reliance on carbon-intensive materials. “We need to ensure that the timber supply chain remains ethical and sustainable, from forest to end product,” Steven Rymer of STT said. “Events like this highlight the commitment our industry has to climate solutions, ensuring that architects and designers can confidently choose certified timber for their projects.” Gary Fleming, Wood Encouragement Officer at the University of Tasmania, emphasised the importance of cross-industry collaboration. “The field trip fostered stronger partnerships between the design and forestry sectors,” he said. “When architects and designers see these sustainable operations firsthand, they’re more confident in advocating for certified timber in their work. The enthusiasm for sustainable design was clear.” As global demand for eco-friendly materials grows, the need for collaboration between forestry and design becomes increasingly important. The Launceston field trip reinforced this, demonstrating how partnerships can drive the adoption of sustainable timber solutions in construction. For Responsible Wood, the field trip marked another step in its mission to engage the design community in sustainable construction. With the continued expansion of certified timber use in architecture, events like this bridge the knowledge gap between sustainable forest management and design. “By bringing architects and designers closer to the origins of the materials they use, we can foster greater collaboration,” said Trevor Innes, Timberlink. “Certified timber plays a critical role in lowering the carbon footprint of the built environment, and this field trip helped demonstrate that.” As the national benchmark for sustainable forestry standards in Australia, Responsible Wood remains committed to promoting responsible timber use, protecting the environment, and supporting rural communities. Through continued collaboration with architects and designers, the organization aims to champion climate-friendly materials and encourage the use of certified timber in future building projects.

A training program where new forestry recruits learn to make crucial thinning decisions through immersive virtual reality simulations of forests could be just around the corner. Source: Timberbiz And the technology to get us there could also be used for training across the forestry processing chain and to refresh experienced workers’ skills. Scion recently developed an interactive, 3D virtual reality training tool to supplement forestry worker training on-site. The prototype has caught the attention of industry players who are exploring how it can be customised to depict their own forests. Trainees who put on the virtual reality headset find themselves in the middle of a computer-generated model reflecting a realistic production forest in New Zealand. The trees are based on physiological-based models of Pinus radiata (Radiata Pine). Scion developed the tool as part of the Virtual Thinning project funded by Forest Growers Research’s Precision Silviculture Program. Scion portfolio leader Grant Evans says the tool combines science, technology and gamification. “We’re using fundamental science – what we know about the physiology of the trees – with VR technology and gamification which is making it more engaging,” he said. “This simulation is based on real-world attributes and we’re able to generate scenarios that really enhance first stage training or decision making.” Using the tool also makes training logistically easier given travel is not needed, and mistakes made in virtual reality aren’t reflected in real forestry blocks. A trainer watching on screen can guide the trainee. “VR has been around a long time in entertainment. Now people have started to see the real applications,” Mr Evans said. Options for the tool are limitless. “Levels” can be created to make choosing which tree to thin easier or harder. Variables can be changed to adjust stocking rate, tree species and age. There are decades of tree bioinformatics available to draw on and more than 70 potential variables. The current focus is on variables that impact log quality and forest value such as sweep, branching and broken tops. Mr Evans says industry leaders engaging with the initial prototype have already identified further applications and extensions such as connecting it to other software like geographic information system operator ArcGIS. Scion forest management scientist Lania Holt says Scion is now working with industry to ensure the tool can reflect their forests. “Companies are looking for realistic scenarios. Ultimately where they want to go is to take the prototype and combine assets with industry in a way that depicts the forest based on their data.” Ms Holt says the work through the Precision Silviculture Program has led to a prototype that’s allowed synthetic data to be created and used. Ms Holt, who has been involved in thinning research for the program, says a tool like this could improve thinning processes and health and safety. It could also allow training in a broader range of scenarios than the conditions in accessible forests on any given day. FGR’s Precision Silviculture Program manager Claire Stewart says the tool fits with the programme’s aims of digitising, mechanising and automating forestry tasks to make them more efficient and safer. She says the tool could help trainees understand complexities without the immense pressure of a forest environment and help them understand the economic value in forests. The technology also paves the way for teleoperation of the future and sets the foundation for how these technologies will need to work. “Thinning is one of the most critical tasks within the life of the forest … It’s where you can add or subtract a lot of value,” Ms Stewart said. “There are many other tasks in the forest beyond thinning that would benefit from this training – pruning, establishment tasks, surveillance and monitoring, harvesting and processing. “We are fully committed to exploring new interactive and digital ways of training and attracting the workforce.” Scion is working to customise the tool for forestry company Rayonier-Matariki Forests, who are responsible for more than 110,000 hectares of forest nationwide. “I’m hugely impressed,” says Rayonier-Matariki Forests Quality Manager Fraser Field, who is part of the development testing team. “I immediately fell into training mode when I tested the tool.” Last year Rayonier built its own VR process for entry-level workers, but Mr Field says this is “a huge step forward.” “We will be able to build a virtual forest with sizes, features, and characteristics specific to our own conditions. We will modify and improve our training practices now to incorporate Scion’s VR, including training for NZQA unit standards. I have lots of ideas now about how to extend the use of this tool in training.” Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28Aub5eADhI  

Results of the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF’s) testing trial on timber species and harvest origins has clearly demonstrated the need for the Albanese Government’s tougher illegal logging laws with some alarming results from the study, according to Australian Forest Products Association CEO Diana Hallam. Source: Timberbiz The recently completed DAFF trial tested 146 timber products and 39 distinct species using different scientific methods including DNA, stable isotope, trace element, wood fibre and wood anatomy analysis. A quarter of the tested products were found to be inconsistent with declared species, origin, or both. Illegal logging is a global problem and is the most profitable transborder environmental crime, with wide-reaching and devastating impacts on climate, nature and people. “We welcome DAFF’s trial but unfortunately the results show there’s plenty of work to do on supply chain custody and ensuring Australia is free of illegally logged timber and fibre products,” Ms Hallam said. “These results are something we have suspected and feared. “Earlier this year, AFPA strongly supported updated Commonwealth legislation aimed at cracking down on illegal imports and these results show just how important a stronger legislative and regulatory framework is to combat this issue. We know many importers are doing the right thing, but those that aren’t, are undermining Australia’s biosecurity and deceiving consumers. “For example, we’ve been made aware of some private product testing which showed the breakup of some laminated veneer lumber (LVL) product, 80 per cent originating in China and 20 per cent from Russia, with the Russia component not declared,” she said “Importers and certifiers need to be on notice, so we are pleased the Albanese Government and DAFF is taking the issue of illegal timber very seriously. Obviously, the best way to avoid illegal timber and fibre is to buy Australian grown and manufactured which also supports our economies and communities, but we must work to a future where all imported product is above board.” Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said last week that globally it has been estimated that about 15-30 per cent of all wood traded is a product of illegal logging and illicit wood. “Use of timber testing technologies will strengthen Australia’s ongoing efforts to address this problem by enhancing existing compliance and due diligence efforts under our illegal logging prohibition laws,” Mr Lowe said. “They offer a means of verifying if claims made about the species and harvest origin of timber are accurate. “The trial tested 146 products and 39 distinct species. A range of scientific methods were used including DNA, stable isotope, trace element, wood fibre and wood anatomy analyses. “The results showed approximately 25% of products tested had an inconsistency with declared species, origin, or both. “While not representative of the entire Australian market, the findings highlight that there is room for improvement for our regulated community to mitigate the risk of illegal logging timber entering our market. “The department will continue to review the recommendations of the trial and work across the Australian Government and with industry stakeholders to inform future implementation of timber testing technologies under reformed legislation. “This trial provides great insight into the benefits of introducing timber testing technologies to help mitigate the risk of illegally logged timber entering Australia’s market and better support the forestry sector. “The Australian Government is committed to playing its part and working with industry stakeholders and the international community to address illegal logging. That is why we passed the Illegal Logging Prohibition Amendment Bill in 2024.” For more information visit: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/forestry/policies/illegal-logging

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water is developing voluntary greenhouse gas accounting standards for agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors as farmers face higher pressure from supply chains and the finance sector to provide accurate GHG emissions data. Source: S&P Global The government’s obligatory climate-related financial disclosures, traceability requirement for market access, as well as the employment of science-based emissions reduction targets are some of the factors driving this demand, the department said in its release. These reporting standards aim to enhance the accuracy and consistency of accounting methods and tools, fine tune GHG accounting at the farm level for greater market access and further mitigation action support, and finally reduce the reporting burden on farmers and landowners by giving them reliable tools to understand their emissions. Further, the government has established a Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Estimation and Reporting Standards Reference Group that is intended to guide and aid in the development of standards for the aforementioned sectors, as well the as eventual incorporation of these standards into existing GHG calculators and accounting tools. The Reference Group encompasses stakeholders from the industry, supply chains, agricultural service providers, First Nations, the finance sector, research organizations, and the government. Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, previously reported that the Australian Senate proposed a legislation for medium and large-sized companies to measure and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions by type, referred to as scopes. This mandatory climate reporting is expected to come into force on 1 January 2025, starting with the largest emitters, companies, and financial institutions.