International Forest Industries

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.

To read previous Comact related posts click here.

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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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DECADES OF HIGHER-QUALITY PRODUCTS

This year marks 70 years since the first mass-produced Cambio debarker was delivered. Since then, nearly 7,000 machines have been built, and the name Cambio has become synonymous with rotary debarkers in many parts of the world.

Cambio revolutionized debarking, which until that point was mostly done manually out in the forest. The new machine was efficient while being gentle on the wood, characteristics that also define the modern machines and which made Cambio appreciated worldwide

The name Cambio comes from cambium, the Latin name for the cell division zone that lies between the wood and the bark. Cambio takes advantage of the fact that the strength here is lower than in the rest of the log.

Many designers in Europe and the United States worked after World War II to develop new debarking equipment because the methods at the time were unsatisfactory. However, the machines that were developed either caused large fiber losses or left bark residue on the log.

Decisive efforts to develop better debarking machines were made at a paper mill in southwestern Sweden. It is a classic inventor story of three men, Erland Andersson, Gunnar Brundell and Karl-Erik Jonsson, setting up a prototype in Andersson’s laundry room. They had to make holes in the wall to feed the logs. After a period of intensive development, a patent application was granted in 1948.

Changing Hands

 In 1951, Söderhamns Verkstäder (now known as USNR AB) acquired the rights to manufacture and sell debarking machines according to the patent from 1948. The machine represented a major technological breakthrough. But it was heavy and complicated and required perfect synchronization of log length and feed rate.

Gunnar Brundell and Karl-Erik Jonsson formed the company Brundell & Jonsson where they continued to develop debarking machines for Söderhamn’s Verkstäder, which led to Cambio. This machine had a large capacity while producing minimal fiber loss. Cambio worked well on all types of wood, even in extreme cold.

The first Cambio was delivered to a customer in 1954 and already by 1956, the annual production was up to 200 machines. Cambio soon became a volume product which, for 20 years, accounted for more than half of the company’s turnover. A dealer network was established around the world. Cambio was made in many sizes for both pulpwood and sawn timber, both stationary and mobile, and is still an important part of the USNR’s product program.

In 1971, Gunnar Brundell and Karl Erik Jonsson received the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences’s gold medal for their efforts in the field of debarking.

 The Secret to Success

 What has characterized Cambio right from the start are the triangular feedworks. These ensure that the log is automatically centered in the rotor opening. Since the original designers worked at a paper mill, the quality of the chips was important when developing the machine.

The pointed spikes of the feed rollers provide a good grip on the log while being gentle on the wood as they penetrate between the wood fibers without breaking them. Since the outer parts of a log become chips that are sold to paper mills, it is still important to the sawmills’ overall economy to deliver high-quality chips. The combination of the feed roller’s gentle handling of the logs and the gentle debarking means that the proportion of best quality chips is high with a Cambio.

 Cambio has undergone a series of development stages over the years. From the beginning, the feed speed was modest, about 130 feet per minute (40 meters per minute) as a maximum. Today’s modern machines have the capacity to run more than four times as fast.

Modern Advancements

 In 2000, the first CamShift-type system was delivered. This means that the debarking line is built up in separate modules with independent feed works and rotor units (debarking machines or butt end reducers). The name CamShift refers to the fact that the rotor units can be shifted out sideways to facilitate service and repair. The CamShift system provides, among other things, the possibility of high speeds and the debarking of short logs.s modern machines have the capacity to run more than four times as fast.

Modern Advancements

In recent years, Cambio has gone through a renaissance with several product developments and a clear upswing in new sales.

In 2000, the first CamShift-type system was delivered. This means that the debarking line is built up in separate modules with independent feed works and rotor units (debarking machines or butt end reducers). The name CamShift refers to the fact that the rotor units can be shifted out sideways to facilitate service and repair. The CamShift system provides, among other things, the possibility of high speeds and the debarking of short logs.

 The first model with high-speed ball bearings was the Cambio 600. The bearing, which is of the same type found in, among other things, wind turbines, allows significantly higher rotor speeds. This allows for, in addition to higher feed speed, the bark tools can be opened while running. If the debarking line needs to be stopped while a log is in the rotor, the rotor speed can be After being in trial operation last year with very good results, the Cambio 800AD is now being launched. It is USNR’s largest machine, now equipped with high-speed bearings for increased feed speed and with the same capability as the Cambio 600 to open the rotor during operation.increased so that the debarking tools are thrown out by the centrifugal force.

The Cambio 800D was presented in 2011, where the D stands for direct drive. This means that feed rollers have separate electric motors for operation, unlike previous models that have a motor connected to a chain that drives all the feed rollers. The direct-drive system has many advantages, among other things it means a higher redundancy and simplifies maintenance.

After being in trial operation last year with very good results, the Cambio 800AD is now being launched. It is USNR’s largest machine, now equipped with high-speed bearings for increased feed speed and with the same capability as the Cambio 600 to open the rotor during operation.

CamShift Debarker

The module-designed CamShift system can be delivered with or without flare reducing, and with one or two debarking rotors. The manually adjusted flare reducer rotor is infinitely adjustable for reduced diameters up to 560 mm (22″). The modular, pull-out design makes set-up and tool changes a breeze.

Cambio 800D

With its separately driven feed rolls and newly developed high-speed rotor, the Cambio 800D debarker is designed for high speed and all log sizes. The new rotor and its separate electric motors for each feed roll results in higher feed speed and lower costs for maintenance.

To read other USNR posts click here.

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Burton Mill Solutions has announced its acquisition of Menominee Saw & Supply, based in Menominee, Michigan. Menominee specializes in supporting wood processors in the Northern Great Lakes region and across the Midwest by supplying and reconditioning a variety of industrial cutting tools, including machine knives, small- and large-diameter circle saws, and wide and narrow band saws.

This acquisition significantly expands Burton’s geographic footprint and enhances its technical capabilities, enabling it to provide better service to primary wood producers. With the addition of Menominee, Burton strengthens its already comprehensive technical expertise in wood processing technology, including saws, knives, filing room equipment, technical services, and industrial wear parts.

Chuck Wert, Senior Vice President of Burton, commented, “We are excited to work more closely with the Menominee team. This partnership will allow us to elevate our service offerings and better address the needs of our customers in the Midwest.”

John Brock, General Manager of Menominee, shared his thoughts, saying, “Burton has been important partner for many years, but by joining forces, we’ll be able to significantly expand our network and capabilities. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions and sister companies USNR and Mid-South Engineering, added, “this acquisition aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency in the wood processing industry.”

Menominee’s Great Lakes location will complement Burton’s existing network of saw and knife reconditioning service centers in Maine, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana.

About Burton Mill Solutions

Burton Mill Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer and supplier of industrial saw blades, machine knives, filing room equipment, cutting tool reconditioning services, and vocational training to the lumber, pulp, and wood biomass industries, with a history dating back to 1832.

About Menominee Saw & Supply

Based in Menominee, Michigan, Menominee Saw & Supply specializes in designing, manufacturing, and reconditioning cutting tools and supplying a variety of related products to the primary and secondary wood products markets in the Northern Great Lakes region, and across the Midwest.

Image: Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions

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Karelia forests – Since late 2022, Segezha Group, a subsidiary of Russian AFK Sistema, has engaged in large-scale logging operations near Lake Maksimyärvi in Karelia, an area proposed for reserve status. Over one year, the company has cleared 1,700 hectares of old-growth forests with trees ranging from 150 to over 300 years old. These forests are home to 72 species listed in the Red Data Books of Russia and Karelia, including rare plants, fungi, and animals. Logging activities have destroyed six critical wildlife habitats and 73 documented sites of rare flora and fauna, as reported by Kedr.Media, which has been labelled a foreign agent by Russian authorities.

Until the fall of 2022, these forests were protected under a moratorium agreed upon by Segezha Group and FSC. However, FSC’s withdrawal from Russia and the loss of European markets led Segezha to abandon its commitments. Between June and November 2022, the company removed 1.5 million hectares of old-growth forests in Karelia from protection. These areas include sites intended for reserves such as Kuzharvi, Lakes Nyuk, Vygozersky-2, and Zaonezhsky.

Scientific research emphasizes the critical role of old-growth forests in carbon storage and climate regulation. A study titled “Large Trees Dominate Carbon Storage in Forests East of the Cascade Crest in the United States Pacific Northwest” revealed that large trees, constituting just 3% of total forest stems, account for up to 42% of stored carbon. Logging such trees not only releases significant CO2 but also undermines ecosystem resilience.

In Karelia, old-growth forests represent only 12% of the total forest cover, equivalent to 10% of the republic’s land area. These ecosystems are vital for biodiversity and support rare species, such as the northern reindeer. The Maksimyärvi area, with an average tree age exceeding 150 years, is considered a unique natural asset.

Delays in formalizing protections for these areas exacerbate the problem. While documentation to designate Maksimyärvi as a reserve was submitted in 2023, legal protection has yet to be implemented. Environmentalists appealed to the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office in April 2023 to halt logging, citing Ministry of Natural Resources Order No. 264, which mandates the preservation of habitats for species listed in the Red Data Books. Despite this, logging continues.

Nikolay Shmatkov, director of the Lesnoy Etalon certification system created by former FSC staff after its exit from Russia, confirmed to Lesprom Network that Segezha Group is logging in proposed reserves, including Maksimyärvi. “This is not an isolated incident, other reserves face similar threats,” Shmatkov stated. “The law requires forest users to identify and protect habitats of rare and endangered species, such as the northern reindeer in Maksimyärvi, yet these obligations are not being met.”

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USNR’s new Compact Shape Saw (CSS) system comprises multiple modules that work to provide unprecedented performance. This includes the CSS Canter, feed modules, and the CSS Gang.

It also features the latest in USNR controls and optimization technology. This includes their state-of-the-art Self-Adjusting Machine (SAM) Sensing technology. The system continuously compares the measurements to the optimizer’s solution to identify target versus actual cant widths.

It then calculates cutting errors for the saws or chippers, providing this information directly to operators and quality control (QC) staff. After scanning enough pieces, the Gang SAM determines the necessary bias adjustments and updates the settings for each device, either automatically or with approval from QC staff. Chippers are adjusted symmetrically to maintain optimal performance.

To learn more about the controls and optimization technology, as well as the entire CSS system, contact your USNR representative.

CSS Controls

The control system features a new hydraulic force control system for all pressrolls. It replaces the legacy hydraulic over air pressrolls. This more accurately controls how hard any given piece is held against the bed elements.

This reduces the wear and tear on components, the quantity of parts to maintain, and the ability for pieces to convey uncontrolled through the system.

CSS Optimizer

The USNR CSS Optimizer empowers sawmills with advanced curve sawing capabilities, enabling precise placement of products with customized values, targets, and wane rules within the cant.
Its geometric feature recognition accurately classifies user-defined grades based on key characteristics like diameter, length, taper, and sweep. With the CSS and downstream equipment fully virtualized within the optimization engine, mills can confidently project production outcomes and maximize product yield.

SAM Sensing

USNR’s Gang SAM System ensures precise, on-size cutting for lumber by automatically correcting errors in real-time. Using advanced laser sensors, the Gang system scans each cant before and after it has been sawn, capturing crucial data on sawing and chipping errors and making bias adjustments to correct any cutting issues.

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SPARTA BRASIL and B&S have announced the first Prinoth Raptor 800 in Brazil! One of the most powerful and productive equipment on the world market!

The robustness of the Raptor 800 with 640 hp of power, is capable of performing the most difficult jobs in the forestry and agricultural sector.

From shredding waste, resetting areas, realigning plantations, preparing for mechanized planting, lowering stumps on the surface and being able to go down to 40 cm deep, with an operational width of 2.35 m of cutting width.

The most productive and fastest for your challenges! SPARTA BRASIL Excellence in Equipment for Vegetation Control and Shredding 11 97638-9945 (WhatsApp)

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Ponsse is the third most reputable company in Finland in 2024. A survey by T-Media reveals that the most reputable companies in 2024 among Finns are KONE and Fazer. A total of 10 575 citizens responded to this year’s survey.

“Thanks for this award go to all our Ponsse employees and customers and their families, as well as to our stakeholders around the world. We don’t do this alone, but as a team and together we will succeed in good times and challenging times alike,” says Jarmo Vidgren, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ponsse Plc.

The top three companies in the survey – Kone, Fazer and Ponsse – are all family-owned or anchor-owned companies.

“Throughout the history of the Luottamus&Maine survey, reputable companies have often included family-owned companies, which speaks volumes about the importance of family-owned companies in Finnish society and economy. In many family businesses, reputation management is part of the company’s historical operating culture, and this is also clearly visible in our survey results.” ,” says Riku Ruokolahti, Development Director at T-Media.

T-Media surveyed the reputation of companies operating in Finland in June and July. Of the top three companies, KONE received a reputation score of 3.95, Fazer 3.93 and Ponsse 3.90. The survey used a five-point rating scale (1-5).

The organisations were assessed using T-Media’s Trust&Maine survey model, where an organisation’s reputation score is the average of eight different areas. These are corporate governance, finance, leadership, innovation, interaction, products & services, workplace and responsibility.

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Vancouver, British Columbia, November 1st, 2024 — We are pleased to announce the appointment of Travis McDonald as Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development at Comact.

Travis brings a unique blend of skills and experience, making him the ideal leader for this critical role. With over 30 years of expertise in engineering and strategic capital investments within the wood processing industry, and having successfully led Comact’s Project Services teams since 2018, he has been instrumental in driving Comact’s growth and delivering some of the most productive sawmills in North America.

In his new position, Travis will oversee the development of new business opportunities and growth initiatives across all verticals of the sawmill business, while also expanding into new geographical markets. He will continue to lead our efforts with Smith Sawmill Service, expanding our footprint in cutting tool solutions across North America, and guide CORE Integrators into new markets where our automation expertise can create significant value. Additionally, Travis will be responsible for building and maintaining key supplier relationships, fostering partnerships that will help us continually elevate the standards of products and services in the market.

“Travis’s leadership, deep industry knowledge, and customer focus will play a vital role in driving Comact’s continued growth,” said Simon Potvin, President and CEO of Comact. “His ability to build strategic partnerships and lead high-impact initiatives will help us strengthen our market position and deliver advanced, customer-centric solutions across all our business units.”

As part of this transition, the US Project Services teams —including safety, engineering, construction, procurement and sales —will be integrated into their respective role teams to centralize functions, maximize efficiency, and ensure standardization of our offerings.

We are confident that under Travis’ leadership, Comact will continue to innovate and strengthen its position as a leading supplier of OEM high-performance technologies in the wood processing industry. Committed to excellence and driven by innovation, we will continue delivering advanced solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

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USNR is supplying Rosboro Company in Springfield, OR, with a brand-new planer mill, complete with a Hydraulic Continuous Tilt Hoist, a 4200 planer, a Multi-Saw Clamshell Trimmer, Low-Profile Stacker, and Sorter Top with 36 bins.

The project also includes converting four of their dry kilns to USNR’s Uniflow Dry Kiln design with KilnBoss controls. All these new product installations are designed to support Rosboro’s new glulam production facility with higher output and higher-quality results.

USNR’s 4200 planer offers unmatched high speed performance. This maintenance-friendly modular design puts feed roll changes on the operator’s side, thus reducing change-out time.

The Uniflow Dry Kilns being installed at Rosboro are the first of their kind on the West Coast, meeting the most stringent emissions restrictions. The system is designed to achieve even higher throughput using an existing heat source with no loss of lumber quality.

USNR is honoured to be part of this significant undertaking and looks forward to the next phases of the project.

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VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, NOVEMBER 1, 2024 — After more than 10 years of transformational leadership and as part of a planned succession strategy, Comact President & CEO Alistair Cook announced he will take on a new role to help prepare the next generation of Comact leadership and usher in a new era of growth for the company.

On November 1, 2024, Cook will become Executive Chairman of Comact and Simon Potvin, currently President of the company’s Wood Processing unit, will become President & CEO of Comact.

Throughout his tenure, Cook has been instrumental in driving growth and fostering a culture of innovation in pursuit of increasing aftermarket products and services to support Comact’s valued customer base for the long term. His commitment to people and his ability to inspire and develop talent within the organization has been key to Comact’s sustained success and resilience in a competitive landscape.

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to lead Comact through a period of remarkable growth and innovation,” said Cook. “I am immensely proud of what our team has accomplished, and I have complete confidence that Simon is the right leader to guide Comact forward. With his deep expertise and commitment to our customers, I know he will build on our legacy and drive the next chapter of success for the company.”

Potvin joined Comact in 1990 as an aspiring mechanical engineer and held various roles of increasing responsibility throughout his esteemed career, most recently with his appointment as President of the Wood Processing unit in 2021. Simon and his talented team are responsible for developing industry changing technologies, value engineered solutions and differentiated aftermarket services for the Wood Processing industry.

“I am very proud to become the new President & CEO of Comact and honoured by this appointment,” said Potvin. “We recently commemorated our 100th anniversary as a company where we celebrated our history of customer commitment and innovation. With this new role, I am excited to pursue our mission and help drive our company forward into its next 100 years. Together with our dedicated team, we will help our customers achieve unprecedented efficiency and keep their businesses thriving.”

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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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USNR’s new Compact Shape Saw (CSS) system is comprised of multiple modules that work to provide unprecedented performance. This includes the CSS Canter, feed modules, and the CSS Gang.

The centering infeed system has a short lineal footprint that accommodates up to three scan zones and can be fed from either the left, right, or both sides. It operates at speeds up to 650 feet per minute (200 mpm) which is faster than the gang itself, ensuring the infeed will not be a choke point in production.

It centers a cant to the line and then secures it against the sharp-top chain using overhead press rolls. Cants then travel through the scan zones and the optimal solution is determined while the cant travels down the Quickscan Bridge. This bridge can vary in length to fit an existing mill. An overhead anti-roll shoe prevents cants from rolling when entering the Quickscan table.

The press rolls are all hydraulic and feature position and force control which improves overall contact with the piece. This ensures that cants are secured against the bed rolls with a consistent pressure, improving lumber quality.

USNR engineers worked with service experts extensively to ensure the CSS would be built with maintenance in mind. Quick-change press roll and bed roll assemblies allow for spare assemblies to be inserted while the damaged or worn assemblies are removed for maintenance offline, decreasing downtime and increasing the overall reliability of the system. The intermediate and infeed modules can also slide out for easy and safe saw change and maintenance. All cutting tools are easily accessible from either side of the line in the same open area in the center of the line.

To learn more about the feed modules and the entire CSS system, contact your USNR representative.

To read previous USNR posts click here.

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Finnish Kesla launched a new generation box-framed KESLA 165 forest trailer at the Agricultural Machinery Trade Fair in Helsinki, Finland 17.-19.10.2024.

KESLA 165 marks the beginning of a new era in tractor-drawn forestry trailers with its robot-welded box-frame-type structure and technical features earlier known from forwarders. The trailer has a standard load space area of 4 m² which can be easily expanded to an impressive 5 m² by simply turning the posts. Together with freely adjustable bunks, hydraulically movable front screen and extendable rear frame, the load space flexibly adapts to varying characteristics of different kinds of round wood. Load space length is 4,8 m which allows 6 m logs, or even longer ones, to be transported safely and efficiently. The new trailer is specifically designed for professional tractor contractors providing increased productivity in logistics and more earnings.

KESLA 165 is the only 167/2013 type-approved forest trailer with 16 tn payload 

Together with a tow bar mounted KESLA 326T timber loader the gross weight of KESLA 165 trailer is totally 22 000 kg consisting of 6000 kg deadweight and 16 000 kg payload. Due to an articulated tow bar and ISOBUS connected traction system the trailer follows the tractor perfectly especially in steep hills and tight turnings. Special attention is put on the bogies which are designed to climb over the obstacles.

Excellent gross weight-payload ratio provides the best fuel economy on the market per transported round wood m3. A powerful nave drive provides an extra 3,9 tons draw power (250 bar and at 2 km/h speed) when required. ISOBUS connected traction system benefits the tractor as the load is well synchronized and therefore causes less stress to the tractor. Trailer comes already from the factory with an EU wide 167/2013 type approval and can be therefore driven legally on the public roads.

 Awarded high-quality workmanship made in Finland

Already prior to its launch, the KESLA 165 trailer received an honourable mention in the New Product Competition organized by the Agricultural Machinery Trade Fair. All KESLA trailers are manufactured in Finland at Kesla Kesälahti plant which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year.

International sales of KESLA 165 starts in December with first deliveries during first quartile of 2025.

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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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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.

To read previous TP&EE posts click here.

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