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Ponsse South America took 110 people to visit the company’s headquarters in Finland and also the FinnMetko trade fair, one of the most important in the world for the forestry sector. Among the highlights pointed out by visitors were the new technologies that they were able to see at the fair.

“The visit was spectacular from the point of view of forestry equipment development and also to learn about another operational reality, in a country very different from ours, which does not have such a verticalized operation”, highlighted Cenibra’s Forestry Equipment Development Specialist, Políbio Martins Nogueira.

FinnMetko traditionally presents the latest developments in the industry to the world. Countries around the world are keeping an eye on the trends and how new technologies should be applied.

“Finland offers an environment for learning and experiencing long-term forest management. The need to make a small and medium-sized private property profitable through forest management establishes a link and care for natural resources. This model intensifies the development of equipment aimed at mechanizing forestry processes and managing waste, some of which are seen at FinnMetko,” said Dexco Operations Manager Matheus Esteves.

“It was an excellent opportunity to learn about innovations in the forestry market and to be up to date with the most advanced technology in the segment. We were also able to see first-hand the improvements in machine structures and components, in addition to following new launches and understanding how demand in the forestry market outside Brazil is behaving and what its future prospects are. This is certainly useful information for professional growth and market strategies,” added the director of Vale do Amazonas, Francisco Dartora.

Ponsse Spirit

The delegation’s trip also included visits to some of Ponsse’s operations, such as the logistics area and the company’s headquarters in Vieremä. This is always an opportunity to bring the brand closer to its consumers around the world. For Marini Compensados’ Forestry Manager, Alexandre Bedin, getting to know the Ponsse spirit was the highlight of the trip.

“What caught my attention the most was the Ponsse spirit. Getting to know the family, the founders and their generations and that the family principles of honesty, trust, excellence in production and quality are fundamental for the company to reach greater heights. Getting to know this here at Ponsse, I was able to realize that I already had a lot of this at home, these fundamental values ​​and their importance for structuring and consolidating a company”, highlighted Alexandre.

Odesio Hess Júnior, owner of Transdi Madeiras, said that being at Ponsse’s headquarters made him understand much more about the passion for the sector. “What caught my attention the most was the love they have for the machinery, just as we love our service.”

The guests invited to participate in this trip were customers and other stakeholders of the brand from South American countries. Argentines, Brazilians, Chileans, Colombians, Paraguayans and Uruguayans participated.

Travelers from other countries around the world were also able to meet Ponsse and FinnMetko. “Moments like this are essential for our customers to always be connected with trends and our brand. Being close to each of them, listening to them and understanding their needs is also part of the Ponsse spirit,” highlighted Martin Toledo, Vice President of Ponsse South America.

To read previous Ponsse posts click here.

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The post Argentine, Brazilian, Chilean, Colombian, Paraguayan and Uruguayan customers of the brand participated in the tour in Finland, which also included a visit to the company’s headquarters appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Saddle up and witness the wildest duel of the century! In this thrilling short film, two legendary cowboys face off in a high-stakes standoff. Who will claim victory? Get ready for heart-pounding action and see how innovation takes the lead in the wild, wild west. Don’t miss out—watch now and discover how Log Max 6000V Top Saw can make you the champion of your own adventure!

6000V Top Saw will be available on the market during Q1 2026.

Log Max 6000V Top Saw is well-suited for both wheeled and tracked harvesters. With the Top Saw, you can maximize the timber yield from every log, and the new function, Tilt Control, enables you to place the head at any desired tilt angle.

Log Max 6000VTS – Log Max | Harvesting Heads

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The 2024 version of the Timber Processing & Energy Expo (TP&EE) was one of the best yet, as 1,126 attendees joined up with 825 exhibitor personnel at the biennial event held September 25-27 at the Portland Exposition Center in Portland, Ore

It marked the sixth TP&EE produced by Hatton-Brown Expositions, an affiliate of Hatton-Brown Publishers and Timber Processing, Panel World and Wood Bioenergy magazines.

Seventy-five wood producer companies, representing hundreds of lumber and panel mill operations, sent personnel to comb the aisles of 180 exhibitor companies who displayed machinery and supplies on 45,000 square feet of booth space.

“It was the most impressive show floor we’ve ever had,” commented Rich Donnell, TP&EE Show Director and Editor-in-Chief at Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. “Many exhibitors put up big machinery and all of the exhibitor booths were first rate. I can’t express enough my appreciation for their time and efforts.”

Donnell also expressed his appreciation for the numerous wood products producer companies and their personnel. “There have been numerous mill closures in the Northwest in recent years, but if you attended the expo you saw that the wood products industry out here is anything but going away,” Donnell said

The first two mornings saw long lines of registrants getting their badges, but the lines moved briskly thanks to the top-notch registration team. Not even Portland rains kept them away on the first day. Several wood products companies sent dozens of personnel, enjoying a little time away from the mill while enjoying the latest technologies on the show floor.

Andy Pollard of Pollard Lumber in Appling, Ga. received the 36th annual Timber Processing Magazine Person of the Year award at a special ceremony on the first day of the show. Pollard co-invented the curve-sawing gang and invented the dual path continuous dry kiln, while along with his family managing a stellar southern yellow pine sawmill and timberlands operation. Several Pollard family members were in attendance as well. A reception hosted by Carbotech followed the presentation and acceptance speeches.

Nelson Brothers Sawmill String Band performed on the show floor stage during lunch on Thursday. The three-piece bluegrass and country group featured Uncle Tony Fuentes and Jeff Nelson of Nelson Brothers Engineering and Joey Nelson, founder of JoeScan. Several listeners informed show organizers that they, too, were in bands, and there’s much discussion already about a multi-band, mini-concert for the 2026 event.

The Sawmill Productivity & Efficiency Conference and the Panel Manufacturing Today Conference featured nine speakers. A hot topic was the implementation of Artificial Intelligence throughout mill operations, and the benefits and results seen in process flow, product quality, and safety dynamics. Conference speakers included representatives from Comact, MicCROTEC, Valutec, Carbotech, Biomass Engineering & Equipment, Grenzebach, Evergreen Engineering, Raute and Westmill.

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SP was founded in 1978 and presented the world´s first ever single grip harvester head in 1980. They have the longest experience of all in the field of development and manufacture of harvester heads for the professional forestry,

Introducing the Dasa 7 Wireless. The main advantage with the wireless system is that customers will never have to worry about broken data cables again – which of course means increased uptime.

Branches and constant movements will not be a problem since the wireless unit is mounted in the head. Replacing the cables with a high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi connection means communication between the operator and the bucking unit isn’t sensitive to physical circumstances.  This gives you total freedom to move the crane or boom and rotate the head without any risk of communication failure.

The Dasa7 is the latest generation control system and offers lightning fast reaction times, robust/proven modules and a used friendly interface. The Dasa7 Wireless can be supplied in three different versions – H50, H60 or H70 software to be able to perfectly match the needs of your specific logging operation, from the simple and cost effective H50 to the advanced windows based and fully Stanford 2010 compatible H70 system.

In order to be able to offer harvester heads perfectly suited for tracked harvesters and very demanding operations SP have developed heavy-duty, so-called HD versions, of head models SP 661 LF and SP 761 LF.

Both the 661 and 761 head models are available with options such as processing knives, find end sensor and top saw making them just as productive processing decked wood out of a pile as when cutting and processing at the stump

To read previous SP Maskiner posts click here.

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Tigercat releases lower weight class 544 harvesting head for track carriers.

The new 544 is Tigercat’s lowest weight class harvesting head for track harvesters. Based on the proven 534 design, the 544 is a three-wheel drive head with triangulated wheel arm geometry. The chassis, covers and tilt frame are designed to handle the rigors of track carrier operating conditions. Four cast steel knife arms, and fixed front and back knives provide excellent delimbing quality.

Targeting trees in the 15-50 cm (6-20 in) diameter range, the 544 has a maximum main cut capacity of 790 mm (31 in) along with a 790 mm (31 in) feed wheel opening, and 760 mm (30 in) maximum knife arm opening to handle the occasional larger tree.

Available with an optional 560 mm (22 in) cut capacity top saw , the 544 is a great match for selective harvesting applications in mixed diameter hardwood and conifer stands. Operating weight ranges from 1 700 kg (3,760 lb) with standard rotator and link up to 2 140 kg (4,720 lb), allowing the head to be mated to Tigercat H822 and H855 series carriers with standard or telescopic boom sets.

The hydraulically actuated measuring wheel promotes positive contact and reduces component wear. Diameter measuring on the wheel arms and front knife arms provides accurate measurement. An efficient high-flow hydraulic system matched to Tigercat carriers provides excellent performance and outstanding fuel economy.

Optional 360 degree continuous rotation with through-tip hose routing and robust, stable wireless communication is available on select carriers. Various rotator, feed motor, feed wheel, knife arm, and wheel arm choices are available to tailor the 544 for specific applications.

For maximum productivity and performance in eucalyptus processing applications, the 544 debarking package includes several features to increase productivity and performance. The feed wheels and the wheel arm geometry are designed for debarking, spiraling the trees during feeding for better performance. The feed motor sizes are tuned for high demand and productivity. Unique front and back knife geometry provides comprehensive tree coverage.

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International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order to supply a dry fiberboard recycling line to Sonae Arauco’s mill in Mangualde, Portugal.

The line will recycle end-of-life fiberboards back into valuable fibers as new raw material for fiberboard production. It will be the first industrial-scale fiberboard recycling line in the world.

Paulo Pinto De Sousa, Director at Sonae Arauco, says: “Recycling fiberboards is an important step towards a circular economy. It reduces the consumption of natural resources and energy. We know ANDRITZ as a strong supplier of solutions for the fiberboard industry and are convinced that they are the right partner for our innovative fiberboard recycling project.”

The dry fiberboard recycling line is based on continuous steam treatment with a special discharging system using the ANDRITZ Steam-Ex discharger, which minimizes steam consumption and maintenance requirements. This allows continuous processing of fiberboard material with very low steam consumption and high runnability.

Michael Frint, Technology Director at ANDRITZ, adds: “By combining our proven pressurized refining systems with ANDRITZ Steam-Ex, our pretreatment process based on steam explosion, we have developed an efficient solution for fiberboard recycling. We are proud that Sonae Arauco placed their trust in us to build world’s first industrial-scale fiberboard recycling line.”

Start-up of the fiberboard recycling line is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.
Sonae Arauco is one of the world’s largest producers of wood-based panels. This order confirms ANDRITZ’s market position as the leading supplier of machines and systems for the fiberboard industry, and its expertise in high-quality and resource-saving components.

ANDRITZ GROUP

International technology group ANDRITZ offers a broad portfolio of innovative plants, equipment, systems, services and digital solutions for a wide range of industries and end markets.

Photo:
Sonae Arauco’s mill in Mangualde, Portugal, will be the first one worldwide to have a fiberboard recycling line.
© Sonae Arauco

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USNR has announced at Timber Processing & Energy Expo, the all-new Compact Shape Saw (CSS) system, the industry’s most advanced secondary processing system. It offers more durable and reliable performance with higher accuracy for superior quality lumber and chip production. All in a significantly smaller footprint.

The CSS requires 53% less linear space than an equivalent HSS layout and improves contact with each piece as it’s processed, providing stability and improved board quality.

It’s also taken maintenance access to the next level with a unique walk-up design that’s the most ergonomic on the market. This, plus maintenance advancements like Quick Change Assemblies and Automatic Maintenance Pins, make for safer, quicker repairs.

USNR’s Compact Shape Saw (CSS) is the industry’s most advanced secondary processing system.

It offers durability, reliability, and higher accuracy, resulting in superior quality lumber and chip production, all in a significantly smaller footprint.

 Smaller footprint, better output

The Compact Shape Saw (CSS) was designed from the ground up to provide advanced solution capabilities including skewed sideboards, improved lumber finish, and less off-size lumber. The result is higher recovery and higher value.

The machine requires 53% less linear space than an equivalent USNR HSS layout and it significantly improves contact with each piece as it is processed, adding stability and improving the quality of boards being produced.

Easier installation and maintenance

USNR accomplishes as much pre-assembly as possible in the shop, so very little is left to be done in the field, lowering overall installation cost. The CSS then scales up quickly to production levels for faster ROI.

We have also taken maintenance access to the next level with a walk-up design that is the most ergonomic system on the market. The CSS also comes with maintenance advancements like Quick Change Assemblies and Automatic Maintenance Pins for safe and quick repairs and operation.

The CSS is comprised of individual modules all working together to provide the highest-quality products and the most efficient operation.

CSS feed modules

• Infeed, intermediate, and outfeed modules feature rolls driven either by coupled gearboxes or drivelines
• Interchangeable, lift-out press roll assemblies
• Interchangeable, slide-out bed roll assemblies
• Infeed and intermediate modules slide sideways for best-in-class maintenance access

CSS Canter

• Delivers the best secondary breakdown solutions on the market when paired with the Compact Shape Gang
• Best-in-class stability
• Profiler and canter function independently to accurately follow the solution curve
• Achieves a 96’ curved radius or 4” per 16’ on curved solution
• Chipper-profiler system operates with ±6° of rotation

Chipper can process up to 12” nominal cants

CSS Gang

• Variable bedline sawbox always splits the cut between the top and bottom arbors on all cant sizes
• Designed from the ground up for shifting timber pockets on top and bottom arbor
• Fully automatic saw mismatch and arbor wear adjustment via setworks on top and bottom arbors
• Vertical saw guides give unparalleled access for saw change
• Oversized turret bearing used as pivot for increased stability and precision

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SPRINGER’s Noth America team – Jürgen Segner, Michael Doerflinger, Cameron Jansen, Tim Burnham and Farlan Beck – are presenting the E-Kicker with Log Catcher at this year’s Timber Processing & Energy Expo in Portland.

Don’t miss your chance to see it live – stop by BOOTH #309 and discover how they are pushing the boundaries of innovation in the woodworking industry.

Visit from 25-27 September 2024.

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Join us as our special guest and witness this exciting moment for yourself at our booth #711. We’ll be unveiling our newest product solution at the Timber Processing & Energy Expo in Portland, OR. It’s shaping up to be an event to remember and we want you to be there!

You can also see our other displays, including new advances in optimization and panel technology and offerings from our parts and upgrades teams.

See you there!

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Lubricant specialist Zeller+Gmelin presents its latest developments at the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg (October 22nd to 24th) for the first time. At the trade fair stand in Hall 1, Stand 1210, innovative Thermosure products for direct battery cooling and Multicut cutting oils for non-ferrous metal processing will be presented, among other things. The focus is on progresses in the field of e-mobility, thermal management and powertrain.

As an established partner to the automotive industry, Zeller+Gmelin is strengthening its activities in the area of e-mobility. The highlights of the trade fair include the Thermosure products, which were developed specifically for the requirements of direct battery cooling and the cooling of PEM fuel cell technology. “Our Divinol Thermosure products are designed to maximize thermal efficiency in electric vehicles and charging infrastructures,” explains Thorsten Wechmann, Strategic Business Unit Manager at Zeller+Gmelin. “Thanks to their advanced properties, they reliably prevent overheating and improve both the performance and service life of electronic components.”

Efficient thermal management with Divinol Thermosure

The trade fair exhibits include the dielectric coolant Divinol Thermosure BCF 10, which ensures reliable heat dissipation thanks to a high thermal conductivity of 0.136 W/mK at 60 °C. The silicone-free Divinol Thermosure GF28-27 is presented for applications in battery systems and power electronics, which impresses with a high thermal conductivity of 2.8 W/mK and is particularly suitable for automated applications. Another highlight is the glycol-based coolant Divinol Thermosure FC 40, which was
specially developed for cooling PEM fuel cells. It is characterized by a low viscosity of 3 mm²/s at 40 °C and an electrical conductivity of 1.14 μS/cm at 50 °C.

Multicut cutting oils for non-ferrous metal processing

At the IZB, Zeller+Gmelin is also presenting Multicut products that have been specially developed for the requirements of non-ferrous metal processing. Particularly noteworthy are the label-free high-performance cutting oil Multicut FSE HSC 15 NF, which is particularly effective in demanding and precise machining in the décolletage, and the high-performance grinding oil Multicut Grind HP 10 NF for cylindrical and profile grinding.

“With Multicut we meet the growing demands of modern industry. Our cutting oils achieve excellent results, both with difficult-to-cut materials and with sensitive non-ferrous metal alloys such as beryllium copper,” explains Dr. Irene Kreitmeir, product manager at Zeller+Gmelin. She also emphasises that the Multicut NF products are particularly economical due to their reduced consumption: “Due to low oil mist formation and low evaporation loss, consumption drops significantly, which reduces both process costs and environmental impact.”

The portfolio shown at the trade fair also includes the versatile cutting oil Multicut Basic HP 15 Extra NF, which is suitable for the most difficult cutting tasks on steel and non-ferrous metals, as well as Multicut Plus 10 NF, a flexible all-round product for medium-heavy cutting work.

With a view to the Wolfsburg supplier exchange, Dr. Irene Kreitmeir: “All Multicut NF products are compatible with non-ferrous metals and offer decisive advantages for different applications in metal processing. We are glad to provide IZB trade visitors our advice in order to find the optimal solutions for their processes.”

Zubora: More power for the drive

The “Powertrain” division also focuses on the latest water-miscible high-performance cooling lubricants. Worth mentioning is the new, pictogram-free cooling lubricant Zubora TTS PF, which does not contain any critical ingredients and still offers maximum performance. Thorsten Wechmann explains: “This cooling lubricant combines optimal cutting performance with the important requirements for health, occupational and environmental protection. This offers users long-term economic benefits through lower storage and handling costs.”

At the IZB, the experts from Zeller+Gmelin would like to demonstrate how modern lubricant solutions can be optimally tailored to developments in powertrains. “The requirements for the drivetrain are evolving rapidly – both for electric drives and for conventional combustion engines. At Zeller+Gmelin, we therefore attach particular importance to offering holistic solutions that cover both the machining of individual engine components as well as their calibration and forming. With our broad product portfolio, we respond to this dynamic and offer tailor-made lubricants for every link in the drivetrain,” explains Mr. Wechmann. “The IZB offers us the ideal platform to present our latest innovations in the powertrain sector. We look forward to welcoming many trade visitors and presenting our tailor-made solutions to them.”

Cover image: Trade fair stand (Image source: Zeller+Gmelin)

Caption: Zeller+Gmelin at IZB 2024, Hall 1, Stand 1210: The focus this year is on powertrain and e-mobility

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Speaker, Gilles Gauvin with Carbotech Group joins the afternoon session, “The Ins & Outs of AI Implementation,” with his talk: “The Logmeter and the AI: Aiming for Another Level of Digitalization of Logs on Truck Loads.” Gauvin joins Levesque, Weithofer and Laudon in this can’t-miss session.

Conference registration is now open as part of TP&EE show registration—add it to your TP&EE plans today!

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The 2024 edition of the Sawmill Productivity & Efficiency will co-locate with the Timber Processing & Energy Expo to be held in Portland, Oregon on Thursday, September 26. And in the afternoon, it’s all about AI.

Confirmed Speakers:

• Dane Floyd, BE&E
• Anne-Marie Levesque, BID Group
• Gilles Gauvin, Carbotech Group
• Karl Aicher, Grenzebach
• Norvin Laudon, MiCROTEC
• Robert Weithofer, Valutec

Conference registration is now open as part of TP&EE show registration—add it to your TP&EE plans today!

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Combilift gains further global recognition as it secures awards in 2 categories at the recent UK Materials Handling Association Awards in Birmingham on Saturday the 14th of September. Up against some of the biggest names in Material handling, they walked away with the coveted ‘Ergonomic Innovation of the Year’ and the ‘Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year’.

The Combi-CB70E was celebrated for its groundbreaking ergonomic design. The 7-ton electric-powered, multidirectional counterbalance forklift is the shortest 7-ton capacity truck on the market, making it highly efficient with long loads in tight spaces. The truck’s surprisingly spacious cab, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass, provides operators with excellent visibility and enhanced safety.

One of its standout features is the Auto Swivel Seat, which automatically swivels 15 degrees to the left or right, depending on the direction of travel. This feature significantly reduces driver strain, particularly when reversing.

The CB70E also incorporates a gas strut suspension system, typically found in larger industrial machinery. This advanced suspension and large super-elastic tyres ensure a smooth ride, even across rough or uneven terrain or during extended shifts. Combilift’s independent electric traction system -previous Red Dot award winner- provides 100% traction control for all front and rear drive wheels. This system eliminates the need for a differential lock on slippery surfaces, reduces load swing, and enhances safety and precision when transporting long, heavy loads particularly when navigating sideways, regardless of ground conditions.

Combilift’s second award, the ‘Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year’, went to the Combi LC Blade, a cutting-edge machine designed specifically to address the growing challenges of transporting offshore wind turbine blades from the manufacturing plant to storage or transportation facilities.

These blades, which can reach up to 115 metres in length and weigh up to 70 tonnes, have long posed logistical challenges due to their size, fragility and complexity.

Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team, known for developing pioneering solutions like the Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry worked hand in hand with Siemens Gamesa, a leading supplier of offshore wind turbines, the LC Blade ensures unparalleled stability and safety during transport.

Now implemented in manufacturing sites across the world, Combilift has transformed the logistics of handling wind turbine blades and set a new industry standard.

Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar; “We are more than delighted to have won not just one, but two prestigious accolades at this years Archies 2024, making this our 12th Archies to date. Competing against such high-calibre competitors highlights what a fantastic team we have, which are willing to push the boundaries of the material handling industry.”

These awards solidify Combilift’s winning momentum after taking home ‘Design Team of the Year’ for the LC Blade and the ‘Industry Leader Award’ – recognising McVicar’s transformative leadership at the UK EMA Awards in London, bringing a total of 4 awards for the Irish manufacture within two weeks!

As Archimedes once said, “Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world.” Combilift embodies this spirit of innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of material handling solutions.

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Gatineau, Quebec – The Canadian Woodlands Forum’s flagship event, DEMO International®, is set to take place in the Venosta, Quebec forest region from September 19 to 21, 2024. This renowned event is one of North America’s largest LIVE in-woods forest equipment expos, with this year marking its 14th edition.

DEMO International promises excellent photo and video opportunities, featuring hundreds of pieces of live-action forestry equipment in operation. Attendees can witness cutting-edge technology and innovative machinery in action over a 3.2 km route, showcasing equipment for forest harvesting, forwarding, biomass processing, and more. Interactive Site Map

The event will showcase over $100 million worth of forestry machinery from top global manufacturers. In addition, visitors can watch or participate in the Log Loader Competition, presented by Barko and Équipments Marquis, which will run throughout the 3-day event.

Public Registration: Available online. Pre-registration is $40+tax for a one-day pass. Tickets at the door will be $60 for a one-day pass, or $80 for a three-day pass.

This event promises to offer some of the most impressive forest machinery demonstrations and exclusive insight into the future of forestry technology. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!

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Norra Timber recently announced a three-phase upgrade of its Hissmofors, Sweden, sawmill with an investment of up to SEK 150 million (US$14.8 million). Approximately 70 people are currently employed at the sawmill and the associated planning mill.

Henrik Jönsson, Industrial Manager at Norra Timber, said, “The sawmill contributes to both local jobs and smart climate products. For us, it is important to invest here and thus balance the technical degree and competitiveness of our sawmills.”

Norra Skog’s Board of Directors has previously made a policy decision regarding the investments in Hissmofors. The planned investments will take place in three stages and will begin with new post-processing along the saw line. The new machine equipment will have significantly higher capacity than the previous one and therefore enable production increases.

The sawmill in Hissmofors currently has an annual production of approximately 170,000 m3, with the goal of increasing production to 200,000 m3 within the next two years. The mill currently produces spruce and pine rough sawn and planned into boards and planks, and the wood products are sent on to customers both in Sweden and abroad.

The investment in the new machine equipment amounts to approximately SEK 40 million (US$3.9 million) and will mean a production increase of 10,000 m3sv annually. The next two investment steps that are planned involve upgrades in the sawmill line and comprise approximately SEK 100 million ($9.8 million).

“Of course, the investments feel great for us at Hissmofors. We secure jobs and get a receipt that Norra Skog believes in us here in Jämtland. This announcement inspires confidence in the future,” says Thomas Haiduga, sawmill manager in Hissmofors.

Facts Hissmofors saw

The sawmill in Hissmofors currently has an annual production of approximately 170,000 cubic meters, with the goal of increasing production to 200,000 cubic meters within the next two years. Here, spruce and pine are sawn and planed into boards and planks, and the wooden products are sent on to customers both in Sweden and abroad. To make use of all parts of the forest’s raw material, Stallströ and Agricultural litter are made from the chippings from the planer. It becomes a litter product that is clean and free of dust, which creates a healthy environment for both animals and people. Today, around 70 people work at the saw and planer, which is located just outside Krokom.

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Combilift, a leading global innovator in material handling solutions, has achieved dual recognition at this year’s UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024, securing two highly prestigious awards.

Design Team of the Year

The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award was presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team for their exceptional work on the groundbreaking 12-Wheel “Combi-LC Blade.” This cutting-edge machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades, which can reach up to 115 meters in length and weigh as much as 70 tonnes. The design significantly enhances the ability to transport these large, non-uniform loads safely and efficiently from manufacturing sites to storage and deployment locations.

This innovative solution addresses the growing needs of the renewable energy sector, where the demand for efficient logistics systems is increasing as the size and scale of offshore wind turbines continue to grow. Prior to the development of the Combi-LC Blade, existing transportation methods were often inadequate and posed logistical challenges. Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team drew upon their extensive experience in engineering complex transport systems, previously creating the renowned Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry ranges.

In collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, one of the world’s largest suppliers of offshore wind turbine technology, Combilift designed a transport system that offers unparalleled stability and safety in moving these massive turbine blades. The Combi-LC Blade has now been successfully deployed at manufacturing sites across the globe, demonstrating its effectiveness and transforming the way wind turbine blades are handled and transported. Combilift is renowned for its customer-centric approach and ability to develop customized material handling solutions specifically tailored to meet customers’ needs. This award, sponsored by *Eureka Magazine*, not only recognizes the team’s exceptional skill, collaboration, and dedication to solving one of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy logistics, but also highlights the company’s commitment to providing innovative customer-led solutions.

Industry Leader Award

In addition to this remarkable team achievement, Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, received the coveted ‘Industry Leader Award’, sponsored by *Menzies*. This accolade honors McVicar’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have played a pivotal role in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector.

Martin McVicar’s leadership has been instrumental in Combilift’s success. Since co-founding the company, McVicar has overseen its rapid growth, transforming it into one of Ireland’s top exporters, with a projected turnover of €500 million this year. His approach to leadership combines technical expertise with a hands-on, inclusive management style. Known for his engineering prowess, McVicar has a background as Chief Engineer at Moffett Engineering, a role he held at the young age of 19.

Under his guidance, Combilift has become synonymous with innovative problem-solving in material handling, consistently delivering tailored solutions for complex logistical challenges. The judges highlighted McVicar’s ability to navigate the company through a range of external challenges, from the impacts of the pandemic to global supply chain disruptions, while maintaining a forward-thinking approach that identifies opportunities for growth and transformation.

Beyond business success, McVicar is deeply committed to fostering a strong corporate culture. Combilift’s headquarters, the largest factory under one roof in Ireland, serves not only as a manufacturing hub but also as ambassadors for corporate social responsibility. The company regularly hosts apprenticeship schemes,  charity events, family days, and educational visits, further solidifying its role within the local community. Combilift also sponsors the local Ladies GAA team, demonstrating McVicar’s commitment to supporting gender equality in sports.

Combilift’s double win at the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024 is a testament to the company’s innovative spirit and visionary leadership, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the material handling industry.

For further information about the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024, please visit www.engineeringmanufacturingawards.com

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BID Group, a leader in the wood processing industry for over a century, has announced its new identity as Comact.

This transition marks a significant evolution in the company’s journey and reflects its commitment to innovation and excellence. From its origins as an OEM, Comact has been instrumental in transforming the wood processing industry.

The company has consistently invested in research and development, addressed customer challenges, and adapted to their evolving needs. Through strategic alliances and acquisitions of leading brands, Comact has established itself as a world-class leader and pioneer renowned for its high-performance technology and equipment and its exceptional customer engagement.

“The decision to transition to Comact aligns with our strategic plan to expand as a high-tech OEM with key customers worldwide,” explained Alistair Cook, president and CEO. “This new identity signifies the beginning of a transformative phase for us. We are reaffirming our commitment to being the premier OEM in the industry by delivering cutting-edge technologies, world-class project services, and unparalleled dedication—qualities that have cemented Comact’s reputation as a market leader in high-performance, innovative solutions.”

As Comact, the company will continue to focus on what matters most to its clients: optimizing operational performance, leveraging advanced technologies, and delivering exceptional field support. Our comprehensive project services, including construction and installation, will continue without interruption.

The company has also unveiled its new brand identity and logo, which embody its customer-centric approach and the robustness and high performance of its equipment.

The company will gradually implement the new brand across all touchpoints starting now. Customers, partners, and stakeholders can expect a seamless transition with no disruption to its operations. Further details will be shared soon.

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, click here.

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• Transformation needs flexibility: ZF invests in hybrid drivetrain technologies and introduces TraXon 2 Hybrid to further support the decarbonization of commercial vehicles

• Decarbonization beyond the drivetrain: trailer and power take-off technologies also in focus

• Electrification portfolio: ZF anticipates global demand

Friedrichshafen, Germany. ZF continues to lead the charge towards developing innovative technologies to make commercial vehicles more sustainable. As the industry undergoes its greatest transformation since the invention of the internal combustion engine, ZF will continue to set the pace of innovation by actively responding to customer needs with a full-flex portfolio.

The company will showcase as such during this year’s IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany, from September 17th-22nd.

As the world’s largest component and system supplier with the broadest portfolio to the commercial vehicle industry, ZF is well positioned to provide the technical expertise, manufacturing flexibility and cross-divisional technology transfer needed to provide cost-effective solutions. ZF anticipates that customer demand for e-mobility to grow over the next few years.

Hybrid technologies

ZF is investing in hybrid drivetrain technologies as a rapid solution to reduce commercial vehicle emissions. ZF’s latest variant of its successful TraXon 2 transmission, the TraXon 2 Hybrid, is a new concept that effectively enables OEMs to incorporate hybrid technology into their existing design platforms with reduced effort and complexity. The system facilitates clean, safe and efficient mobility, while bringing total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits.
Hybrid technologies offer significant emissions reduction potential while retaining many of the advantages terms of range and refilling capabilities. With its extensive experience in developing hybrid technologies for passenger cars, ZF is able to leverage its technical and industrial capabilities to develop viable, cost-effective hybrid solutions.

Zero emissions technologies: ZF’s E-Mobility Kit

ZF’s family of next generation electric drives provides all the elements manufacturers need to electrify their vehicles. ZF’s E-Mobility Kit employs a unique modular approach, seamlessly integrating components to create a compact, lightweight and powerful system. ZF’s in-house development of key components, including inverters, e-motors, transmissions, e-actuators, and electronic control units including software, allows them to tailor e-drive solutions to the unique specifications of OEM customers across various vehicle applications.

Catering to a wide range of customer requirements, ZF’s kit includes a central drive platform – the CeTrax 2 dual and CeTrax 2 – which can slot into the same space as a conventional transmission, as well as an axle drive platform – the AxTrax 2 dual and AxTrax 2 – which sits closer to the wheels, providing greater design flexibility.

OEMs have the flexibility to use complete e-drive systems from ZF or integrate individual components, software, or subsystems. This versatility facilitates a smooth transition to electric mobility, offering electric drive solutions that can either be easily integrated into existing vehicle platforms or provide additional design flexibility to meet various applications.

Electrified Trailers

The trailer will play an increasingly significant role in helping to decarbonize road freight transport, whether hauled by an ICE or electric truck. ZF’s electric trailer concept, which integrates its in-house developed AxTrax 2 e-Axle together with its trailer EBS and battery system box into a trailer, effectively converts an ICE powered truck into a hybrid. In the case of an electric vehicle, the electric trailer concept effectively extends the vehicle’s range.

When pulled by an ICE, the technology can help reduce CO2 emissions by up to 16% through recuperation, while up to 40% with the plug-in-hybrid solution. The concept is possible thanks to the development of ZF’s latest electrified traction axle, the AxTrax 2, which was originally designed for trucks, buses and coaches. Integrating its e-mobility technologies such as the AxTrax 2 combined with ZF´s leading expertise in braking control systems demonstrates how ZF applies its technical-transfer capabilities to meet a wide range of applications effectively.

eWorX

ZF also excels in the domain of electrified power-take off solutions (ePTO). ZF’s eWorX integrates components including a 50-kW e-motor, inverter and electronic control unit with application-specific software. eWorX powers a range of equipment including hook lifters, skip loaders or loading cranes installed on electric commercial vehicles. Developed in close collaboration with OEMs and body manufacturers, the concept is proving highly successful with demand for eWorX products expected to double over the next few years.

ZF’s latest version of eWorX is integrated into the frame of the truck and uses the truck’s cooling system. The innovative design reduces installation space and allows the system to be used in a wider range of vehicle applications. Additionally, ZF will soon introduce a next generation to the ZF eWorX family with a 70 kW, 800 V, cyber security capable drive for electric power take-off solutions as well as a multifunctional, bidirectional I/O device to power applications on electrified commercial vehicles.

Photo: World premiere: Speeding up decarbonization with the new TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission system for heavy commercial vehicles.

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Gatineau, Quebec – The Canadian Woodlands Forum flagship event, DEMO International will be moving into the Venosta, Quebec forest region later this month. DEMO International is one of North America’s largest and unique LIVE in-woods forest equipment expos. 2024 will mark the event’s 14th edition and will be taking place September 19th through 21st.

“We can’t be more thrilled to get this event off the ground.” Said National Show Manager, Mark Cusack. “The planning process has been extensive so it’s exciting to see some of the larger equipment finally start to roll in.”

Visitors can look forward to seeing over $100 million in forestry equipment and machines on display from top manufacturers and suppliers internationally. The DEMO route is over 3.2 kms long and will showcase both large- and small-scale equipment including forest harvesting, forwarding, biomass, firewood processors and more.

Registration is available now online for those interested in attending. Pre-registration is just $40+tax per person for a one-day pass (one day pass will be $60 at the door, three-day pass will be $80 at the door)

There will also be a Log Loader competition presented by Barko and Équipments Marquis. Guests wanting to test their skills will have the opportunity to compete over the 3-day event.

There will also be a 2-day technical conference in conjunction with the event held at the Delta Ottawa City Centre. Organized by the Canadian Woodlands Forum in collaboration with the Canadian Wood Fibre Centre, FP Innovations, and Université Laval, the DEMO International conference’s theme is “Adapting to New Forestry: Unlocking Innovative Solutions.” Register HERE to be part of the conference.

For complete details and updates on DEMO International, please visit the show’s website at www.demointernational.com or find the show on Facebook or Instagram.

SHOW INFORMATION

Thursday, Sept. 19: 9 am – 5 pm
Friday, Sept. 20: 9 am – 5 pm
Saturday, Sept. 21: 9 am – 4 pm

Social Media:

• Twitter: @DemoIntl
• Facebook: @DEMOIntl
• Instagram: @DemoInternational

To read previous DEMO International posts click here.

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Ce mois, DEMO International s’installe à Vénosta, au Québec

Gatineau, Québec – L’évènement phare du Forum canadien des opérations forestières, DEMO International, prendra en charge la région forestière de Vénosta, Québec plus tard ce mois-ci. DEMO® International est l’un des salons d’équipement forestier LIVE et en forêt les plus impressionnant et uniques en Amérique du Nord.  2024 marquera la 14ème édition et se déroulera du 19 au 21 septembre.

« Nous ne pourrions pas être plus enthousiastes pour le démarrage de cet évènement. » A dit Mark Cusack, Directeur national de salon. « Le processus de planification a été long donc nous sommes ravis de voir certains des plus gros équipements commencer enfin à arriver. »

Les visiteurs peuvent s’attendre à voir plus de 100 millions de dollars en équipement de foresterie et des machines en expositions provenant de fabricants et fournisseurs au premier rang de l’industrie international.  La route DEMO s’étend sur plus de 3.2 kms et présentera des équipements à petite et grande échelle, notamment pour l’abattage, la transportation, la biomasse, la transformation de bois de chauffage, etc.

Pour ceux qui sont intéressés, l’inscription en ligne est disponible maintenant . Le coût de préinscription est de 40$ + taxes par personne pour un laissez-passer d’une journée (le laissez-passer d’une journée sera 60$ à l’entrée, le laissez-passer de trois jours sera de 80$ à l’entrée).

Il y aura également une compétition de chargeuse à bois présentée par Barko et Équipments Marquis. Les invités qui souhaitent mettre leurs habiletés à l’épreuve auront l’occasion de participer à la compétition lors de l’évènement de 3 jours.

De plus, il y aura une conférence technique de deux jours précédant le salon qui se tiendra au Delta Ottawa City Centre. Organisée par le Forum canadien des forêts en collaboration avec le Centre canadien sur la fibre de bois, FP Innovations et l’Université Laval, la conférence DEMO International a pour thème « Adaptation à la nouvelle Foresterie : Débloquer des solutions innovantes ». Inscrivez-vous ICI pour participer à la conférence.

Pour obtenir tous les détails et toutes les mises à jour concernant DEMO International, veuillez consulter le site web du salon à www.demointernational.com ou retrouvez le salon sur Facebook ou Instagram.

INFORMATIONS POUR LE SALON

Jeudi le 19 sept: 9h – 17h
Vendredi le 20 sept: 9h – 17h
Samedi le 21 sept: 9h – 16h 

Médias Sociaux:

• Twitter: @DemoIntl
• Facebook: @DEMOIntl
• Instagram: @DemoInternational

The post DEMO International Moves Into Venosta, Quebec This Month appeared first on International Forest Industries.

As their old equipment started to lag behind what was needed for the business, Bright Wood turned to USNR’s AddVantage scanners for a solution. Bright Wood purchased eight systems with the plan to replace existing scanners and to add more locations.

The goal was to utilize the system’s AI defect programming to help reduce the amount of waste, create fewer cutbacks, and produce an overall better product for their customers.

An outdated scanning system can be severely detrimental to any facility. From slow processing time to misallocated manpower to excess waste, it can be the weak link that costs a mill thousands of dollars every year. This is exactly what led Bright Wood to search for alternative scanner options.

The AddVantage uses AI-driven defecting technology that provides industry-leading detection and classification of defects. But finding the AddVantage was just the beginning. Upgrading and refining their process has now led Bright Wood to new ventures and better product.

Read the full article here.

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