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SUPPLIERNEWSLINE

By Tony Kryzanowski

DEMO International returns to the West Coast

Mark your 2016 calendar—the Canadian Woodlands Forum’s flagship event, DEMO International, will be held in Maple Ridge, British Columbia September 22-24, 2016.

The Faculty of Forestry at the University of British Columbia will host the event at their Malcolm Knapp Research Forest, about an hour’s drive east of downtown Vancouver.

This world class event, occurring only every four years, will mark the 13th edition of DEMO International. During the course of its 49-year history, DEMO International has evolved into one of North America’s largest and unique outdoor equipment shows. The “all live and in action, in-woods” equipment show will attract over 150 exhibitors featuring the latest technologies in equipment, products and services covering all aspects of woodlands operations. Past shows have attracted anywhere from 5,000 to 16,000 individuals interested in forestry, from around the world.

The UBC Knapp Research Forest has been helping fill the need for research, demonstration and education on 5,153 hectares of land owned by the University of British Columbia since 1949. The Knapp Forest is a unique “working forest” that contains stands ranging from new plantations to old growth and is accessed by a network of over 180 kilometres of forest roads, bridges and trails. It also contains a working sawmill and a retreat center at Loon Lake. The Knapp Forest is truly a multiple use research forest, providing an ideal location and forested venue for an event of the scope of DEMO International 2016.

In addition, the Canadian Woodlands Forum says that they will work once again with Master Promotions Ltd., Canada’s largest independent trade and consumer event management company, who will provide professional management services on behalf of the CWF.

The CWF is a not-for-profit membership based organization recognized for its commitment to improving the efficiency and profitability of knowledge-based woodlands operations. The programs and services offered by the CWF help foster improved communication and business relationships, and provide the opportunity for members to network and share best practices, technologies and innovation.

www.masterpromotions.ca

Tigercat FPT engine powers D-series loaders

Tigercat recently released its next generation 250D and T250D loaders. The D-series loaders are powered by the Tigercat FPT N67 Tier 4i engine, delivering 215 hp. The high horsepower Tigercat engine is said to be extremely fuel-efficient and positions the 250D/T250D at the top end of its size class.

Tigercat has introduced additional enhancements to the D-series loaders to increase productivity and performance, especially with respect to multi-functioning capabilities. With a highly refined hydraulic system, the main boom, travel and grapple functions are now routed through a new control valve, which improves multi-functioning performance and response. A separate valve is used solely for attachments and auxiliary hydraulics. The electronic controls have been replaced with pilot controls and the new joystick handles are taller, with improved ergonomics.

Other design features that maximize comfort and daily service access for the operator include the large entry platform, an air ride suspension seat and insulation and isolation mounting for reduced vibration and in-cab noise levels. The engine and hydraulic component layout has been improved, with easy access and serviceability in mind.

Tigercat FPT engines meet Tier 4 emission levels without the need for variable geometry turbochargers, an EGR system, a higher capacity cooling system, an intake throttle body or a diesel particulate filter. Furthermore, the engine series offers improved reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs.

www.tigercat.com

Andritz rolls out wireless heat sensor for pelletizers

The global demand for wood pellets as a cleaner fuel source used in heating and energy generation has placed tremendous pressure on the industry and equipment manufacturers to produce higher volumes, quicker and cheaper.

Andritz Inc. and SST Wireless Inc. have collaborated to produce a customized version of SST’s wireless heat sensor technology for deployment on Andritz’s wood pelletizers as an OEM option.

The system will include SST’s high temperature sensors that are installed directly on to the rollers to provide real time monitoring of critical temperatures. Andritz will install a complete system at its Muncy, PA facility to demonstrate the technology and establish best practices and recommendations to reduce downtime and accidents caused by overheating of rollers and bearing shafts.

SST’s Wireless Industrial Heat Detection (WIHD) offers an opportunity to directly measure the temperature of the rollers and other critical components inside the pellet machines while in operation. The system relays temperature readings in real time which provides actionable data for operators.

www.andritz.com

Prime-Tech improves top-of-the line PT-300 unit

Drawing on nearly 10 years of technical experience, the Prime-Tech team has just completed design of the new PT-300. The latest version of this 275 horsepower tracked, self-propelled carrier is said to be best suited for forestry management, land clearing and road construction.

The PT-300 introduces improvements for customers who are already familiar with the unit and have come to appreciate its outstanding performance and dependability, the company says.
In its brand new form, the PT-300 preserves the features of the previous model, with new additions such as a cabin that is 5” higher; an optional new compressed air cleaning system for the front windshield that ensures better visibility in case of dust or debris build-up; increased ground clearance from 16” to 18”; and a full tilting cabin for thorough servicing of all components.

www.prime-tech.com

Tech advances for Autolog’s ProGrader optimizer

Autolog is a pioneer in optimizing planing processes, with over 15 years of experience in linear technology, and the company has recently announced some additional technological advances for its ProGrader optimizer.

Optimizer :

• Analysis software allows for the classification of "decking" wood products (best face versus reverse face). It’s possible to make cuts in two with one of the two inverted pieces.
• A new generation of higher performing components has reduced the number of system computers by 30 per cent
• The process for tracking pieces for analysis and quality control has increased from 150,000 to 25,000,000 pieces
• Linear Tracking System :
• A control module called a Linear Tracking System (LTS) provides technical staff with detailed and precise data on the tracking and synchronizing of pieces according to their position, the space between them and the production line’s speed
• LTS features include:

– Automatic positioning of the drawer containing the 2D, 3D and tracheid readers, takes place during production changeover

– The system provides tools to monitor and improve the planer’s log drive flow to optimize the power supply for the trimmer and reduce downtime

– In optimal conditions, the LTS provides tools to diagnose and maintain the planing line’s complimentary systems, such as the moisture meter and the stress rating machine (MSR)

– An integrated oscilloscope improves calibration precision and cuts down repair time

Support for UV code printheads :

• A new support model for UV code printheads can be installed in a much more confined space at the back of the ProGrader
• The heads can be placed in three positions: top, bottom and sideways
• The system uses the same pneumatic adjustment system as the guide used in the front of the ProGrader, reducing the number of spare parts
• The module’s vertical clearance is pneumatic and requires no physical effort

www.autolog.com

Komatsu launches new C144 harvesting head

Komatsu America Corp now offers its new high capacity C144 harvesting head, the second model in its new C-series family of “carry-style” heads.

Weighing in at 3086 lbs, the high performance C144 has a recommended DBH working range of 8” to 20” diameter and has a 28” maximum cutting diameter. It is available installed on Komatsu 931.1 and 941.1 harvesters, and can be installed on other carriers as a loose head.

The C144 features a new robust frame design for improved durability and reliability, and a new swing damping system for more responsive head control. The 40 degree rearward tilt angle provides fast feeding performance and reduces head frame stress when harvesting and/or reaching on downhill slopes.

The feed system is completely new, using four hydraulic motors and four driven rollers. The standard single belly roller is now supplemented by an additional feed roller located in the feed path. The unique addition of the second roller ensures more contact with the stem, creating feeding force of up to 6654 lbf. With a maximum feed speed up to 16.4 ft/sec., Komatsu says that operators can handle more difficult trees and limbs. The feed roller hydraulic circuit has a differential function to ensure that stem feeding will continue even if one feed roller does not have a full grip on the stem.

The C144 is equipped with two upper and two lower hydraulically controlled delimbing knives, and a fixed vertical top knife. The upper knives are specially designed to handle trees with tough limbs, such as lodgepole pine. The leading right upper knife has a ramped cutting edge to assist in cutting larger branches.

www.komatsuforest.us

Trelleborg Tire Book app now available for all mobile devices

Trelleborg has extended its digital offering with the launch of its Tire Book app, the digital version of its technical catalogue, for use on iOS and Android smartphones.

The app, already available for use on iOS and Android tablets, enables users to access Trelleborg’s technical advice.

The intuitive app showcases Trelleborg’s forestry tire ranges, including information on the suitability of each range across multiple applications. It gives each tire’s optimum inflation pressures in relation to specific applications, loads and speeds and provides comprehensive practical advice on tire maintenance, storage and use.

The Tire Book app is regularly updated to ensure that technical data on Trelleborg tires and solutions is always up to date and accurate.

www.trellebog.com/wheelsystems/apps

Hyundai unveils new high chassis excavator

Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas Inc. recently unveiled its R330LC-9A HC excavator.

This model was built with many enhanced features and benefits compared to prior models including a certified Tier 4 Interim engine upgrade, improved hydraulics, increased operator comfort and added durability.

The R330LC-9A HC offers a high chassis feature making it an ideal match for forestry applications where maneuvering through piles of timber is essential.

The R330LC-9A HC has an operating weight of 74,960 lbs and is powered by a 268 hp Cummins QSL9 Tier 4 Interim Engine. The engine is complimented by Cummins’ VGT turbocharger, which continuously varies the airflow boost to precisely match engine rpm and load demands for optimal performance.

Other innovations such as the variable speed fan clutch, two-stage auto deceleration system and the economy mode help to conserve fuel and reduce environmental impact. Plus, operators can choose between three unique engine modes—power, standard and economy—which enable the machine to switch between full power and reduced fuel consumption, according to the user’s preference.

www.hceamericas.com

New Link-Belt X4 excavators now available

Four new Link-Belt X4 excavator models are now available in Canada. These new models feature advanced, electronically-controlled Isuzu engines that meet Final Tier 4 requirements, with up to 12 per cent improved fuel efficiency than previous models.

Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) are not required, and this emissions solution is used across all X4 models. New features include a 30 per cent larger control valve that creates a larger hydraulic passage area, and larger spools and advanced controls to maximize hydraulic system control and responsiveness. Two electrically-controlled Kawasaki variable-displacement axial-piston pumps and one Kawasaki gear pump assure that hydraulic flow is delivered precisely when and where it’s needed. The result is more maneuverability and precision across all operating modes, smoother machine operation and up to 12 per cent faster cycle times, says the company.

The X4 excavator cab is said to offer better operator ergonomics and comfort. A large, automotive-grade high-back seat provides unprecedented lumbar support and reclines at a 65 degree angle for a relaxed environment during breaks. Arm rests move proportionally with the console, which means that the distance and angle between joysticks and operator remains the same, no matter how the seat is adjusted. With a large, 7” LED color monitor to interface with the machine, an operator can easily navigate a full menu of user-friendly controls to take full command of the excavator and attachments.

www.lbxco.com

New wheel load scales with built-in solar charging

Intercomp, the world’s largest manufacturer of portable wheel load scales, has updated its most popular wheel load scale models.

A solar charger built into the scale indicator allows the scales to operate continuously without requiring direct power charging. This solar boost makes Intercomp scales even more turnkey, and eliminates the need to recharge batteries in between uses.

This time-saving, solar charging technology will be standard on all PT300, PT300DW, LP600 and LP600-15T wheel load scales.

www.intercompcompany.com