Fourteen years ago, the Upper Austrian machinery company Westtech Maschinenbau GmbH introduced the first felling grapple to the market. Technical finesse and in-house know-how led to a product series that sets new standards. But that’s not all! Just in time for Agritechnica 2023, a new flagship is being introduced:

The largest felling grapple to date, the Woodcracker® C650!

In this field of machinery, the cutting diameter is not the only crucial factor. Since this type of felling grapple was designed, for example, for road safety measures, the grapple also plays an important role. Accordingly, it has been further developed, and the gripping force has been significantly increased. This allows for a secure grip on the cut material during the cutting process and enhances worker safety. The 3-finger grapple also closes synchronously and offers a wide opening.

At Westtech, the robustness of the machines is always one of the highest priorities in development – as is the case with the new Woodcracker® C650. Given the ability to cut trees with a diameter of up to 70cm, the rest of the machine must be designed to handle the corresponding weight of the cut material. Therefore, only very high-quality and strong bolt bearings have been used to further increase robustness.

This felling grapple is also made of durable and wear-resistant Hardox® steel, and the body is cathodic dip-painted (KTL primed), as is customary in the automotive industry. The advantage of this type of primer is good corrosion protection and an even coating in all cavities. A powder coating is baked onto this primer, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Naturally, this felling head also possesses all the excellent features found in the entire product series. The cutting unit consists of a high-strength blade that is easy to sharpen. If the blade needs to be replaced due to significant wear, it can be quickly disassembled and exchanged thanks to the patented blade attachment.

Only two double-acting control units on the carrier vehicle are required for all functions of the Woodcracker® C650, including all expandable options. The hydraulic lines are protected, well-sized, and lead to a well-positioned attachment frame.

PHOTO:

The Woodcracker® C650 presents itself with unprecedented dimensions, such as a very high cutting diameter of 70cm. With this incomparably high cutting diameter, this machine stands out from the crowd! The required operating weight of the carrier vehicle should be between 28 and 40 tons.

An optional Power Tiltator is available. This makes the felling head more powerful when removing large trees, with double rotation and holding torque at a consistent speed.

Demo

At the Woodcracker® Demo Day, which will take place on Thursday, November 30th, in Knüllwald, Germany, it will be demonstrated live for the first time!

To read other Felling/Grapple related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

The September 2023 quarter edition of the Forest Sector Outlook was released in October 2023 by the Global Consulting Alliance. This report continues to highlight the impact of the ongoing Russia/Ukraine war on the global forest sector. It also considers the impact of rising interest rates and the slowdown of global economic growth on global forest products trade.

Key highlights for China/Asia

– Factories in China reported their first expansion in activity in September, providing a spark of optimism for the global economy. The nation’s manufacturing sector’s Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) rose to 50.2, signaling expansion. Similarly, the non-manufacturing sector saw growth, boosted by consumer spending on services and increased construction activity.

– The real estate market continues to face a downturn, with new home sales at major developers falling 29% in September compared to the previous year. China Evergrande Group, a major developer, faces financial troubles and regulatory hurdles, adding uncertainty to the sector. Country Garden is even bigger and it has some financial issues as well.

– China’s exports are shrinking, and tensions with the US-led West over trade and technology remain. Local governments are burdened with heavy debts. Economists suggest that Beijing needs to implement more stimulus measures to ensure a stronger and more durable recovery.

– Looking ahead, economists anticipate a challenging transitional period for China’s economy as the government aims to shift from a property-driven growth model to one fueled by advanced manufacturing. Most economist groups have lowered their economic growth forecasts for 2023 to around 5.0%, highlighting the need for successful rebalancing to establish a healthier economic footing. – China’s softwood log imports were lower for the first eight months in 2023 by 7.9% at 20.5 million m3 compared to the same period one year ago.

Top 5 suppliers to China/Asia were:

– New Zealand 11.5 million m3 +2.2%
– Germany 2.5 million m3 -34.5%
– Japan 877 000 m3 +16.6%
– USA 857 000 m3 +5.8%
– Poland 739 000 m3 +208%

The Forest Sector Outlook covers regional market updates from Australia, New Zealand, China/Asia, Europe, Russia, North America, South America and Africa.

Source: Margules Groome

Follow IFI on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

Ford will launch the F-150 Lightning Flash for 2024, a new variant of the electric pickup truck with more technology, including extended battery range.

The Flash, which expands on the XLT model line, gets an EPA estimated range of 320 miles, up from the standard range of about 300 miles, according to Ford. Other tech on the Flash: Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, which requires a subscription, and a standard 15.5-inch touchscreen.

Ford says it is offering the Flash at a “more accessible price” of $69,995 MSRP. It is the lowest-priced 2024 Lightning with extended battery range.

The company also named the other models in the 2024 lineup, with online orders at Ford.com starting in early 2024:<?p>

• The F-150 Lightning Pro with standard range starting at $49,995
• The F-150 Lightning XLT with standard range starting at $57,495
• The F-150 Lightning Lariat with extended range starting at $77,495
• The F-150 Lightning Platinum with extended range starting at $89,995
• The limited-edition F-150 Lightning Platinum Black with extended range, $97,995.

Ford notes that all of its Lightning pickups can access its BlueOval Charge Network, with over 84,000 public chargers in North America. Next year, those drivers will also be able to access Tesla Superchargers, of which there are more than 12,000. Ford says that will give it “the largest integrated fast-charge network across the U.S. and Canada.”

Ford also offers its Mobile Charger, which can charge overnight on the owner’s home 240-volt wall outlet. The Ford Connected Charge Station is also available for sale.

The version 1.2 BlueCruise on the Flash features Lane Change Assist, which allows the driver to change lanes hands-free by tapping the turn signal when the lane is clear, and In-Lane Repositioning, which helps keep the vehicle in its lane while subtly shifting position away from vehicles in adjacent lanes.

Ford is offering a 90-day free trial on the hands-free highway system with vehicle purchase.

Other features on the Flash:

• 15.5-inch LCD Capacitive Touchscreen with Swipe Capability.
• B&O Sound System with HD Radio with eight speakers and subwoofer.
• Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start – includes Approach Detection and SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad, Driver’s Side.
• Wireless Charging Pad.
• Power Tailgate.
• Tailgate Step with Tailgate Work Surface.
• Tow Technology Package, which includes Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Brake Controller, Smart Hitch, On-Board Scales, Smart Trailer Tow Connection and Trailer Reverse Guidance.
• Heat Pump, which is to optimize the vehicle’s energy consumption.

Follow IFI on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

Hughes Pacific, a (owned by the Hughes Family Trust of Washington State, USA) is an innovator in sustainable forestry and LiDAR carbon offset project development solutions, has announced a significant expansion of its operations in Canada.

The company has successfully acquired mature timberlands in Alberta and British Columbia and unveiled plans to acquire up to an additional 4,000 acres of mature timberland from private landowners across Canada. This expansion will not only support the production of renewable wood fuel products but also bolster the company’s precision forestry management capabilities.

“Our commitment to sustainable forestry and carbon offset project development innovation is at the heart of this strategic move. By acquiring these timberlands, Hughes Pacific is positioning itself to play an innovative role in the development of carbon offset projects throughout Canada while helping provide renewable energy solutions.” – David Hughes

Key Highlights:

1. Timberland Acquisitions: Hughes Pacific has completed the acquisition of mature timberlands in Alberta and British Columbia, securing a solid foundation for its operations in Canada. The company is actively seeking additional opportunities to acquire up to 4,000 acres of mature timberland from private landowners across the country.

2. Timber Rights Leases: Hughes Pacific intends to issue timber rights leases to local wood fuel product producers, facilitating the responsible and sustainable harvest of timber resources. This approach ensures that the land is used efficiently and supports the growth of the renewable wood fuel industry.

3. Reforestation Commitment: After harvesting tracts of timberland, Hughes Pacific is committed to implementing reforestation efforts, contributing to the long-term health and sustainability of Canada’s forests. The revenue generated from timber rights leases will also be reinvested into acquiring more land over time, creating a sustainable cycle of forest management.

4. Precision Forestry Management: Hughes Pacific is set to enhance its precision forestry management solutions by incorporating LiDAR services into the carbon offset market through means of easier accessibility to land owners. This technology will provide better accuracy in monitoring and managing timber resources, enabling the company to optimize its operations and minimize environmental impact. With its expanded presence in Canada, Hughes Pacific is well-positioned to assist in the development of carbon offset projects using LiDAR. Historically, LiDAR critical has weak points & strong points for providing data for carbon offset projects.

Hughes Pacific will utilize its new timberland as test sites to develop hybrid strategies and techniques to overcome weak points of LiADR solutions in the carbon offset market. These projects are crucial in addressing climate change and preserving the natural beauty of Canada’s landscapes.

Hughes Pacific’s dedication to sustainable forestry practices and innovation, coupled with its commitment to supporting the renewable wood fuel industry and carbon offset projects, underscores its mission to be a responsible steward of Canada’s forests.

About Hughes Pacific:

Hughes Pacific is a leader in sustainable forestry and carbon offset solutions, with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible land management. The company operates with a vision to create a sustainable future for Canada’s forests while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. Through its timberland acquisitions, precision forestry management, and participation in being a liaison during carbon offset projects, Hughes Pacific is actively working towards a greener, more sustainable world.

To read other Timberland related posts click here.

On October 28, 2022, SCA and Holmen communicated that the companies intended to carry out a feasibility study for a jointly owned sawmill in Rundvik, Västerbotten County in Sweden.

SCA and Holmen have now conducted the feasibility study regarding a jointly owned sawmill. The study shows that the conditions to jointly create a large-scale and competitive operation are good. Work now continues to evaluate the different development options that have been identified.

Holmen produces sawn and refined wood products for joinery, construction and builders’ merchants. Following the acquisition of Martinsons in 2020, Holmen also offer customised solutions in CLT and glulam for climate-smart, large-scale wood construction.

SCA is Europe’s largest private forest owner with 2.7 million hectares and, with its forest holdings at its core, has developed a well-invested industrial operation with sawmills, pulp mills, and manufacturing of packaging paper.

To read other SCA and Holmen related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram