Autolog has announced the launch of a new revolutionary sensor called R-TRAC. This new sensor is taking live degree measurements while the log is rotating.

R-TRAC is a fully autonomous system that is independent of the log optimizer geometric model. Works with all types of log turners no matter which optimizer brand is installed. No mechanical modifications are required to the log turner or to the infeed chain. Very easy integration with any control system (PLC), as R-TRAC allows the use of a closed loop feedback to control the position of the log turner cylinders based on the rotation instead of their linear movement.

R-TRAC system maintains a continuous reading of the rotation angle while the log is in the field of view as opposed to applying a rotation correction after the rotation is complete.

Working principle is quite simple: a set of data is acquired for every inch the log advances, each set of data contains images of the log’s surface and geometric data, a rotation measurement is calculated for each pair of consecutive sets of data which gives a rotation value per inch of traveling.  The cumulative log rotation measurement is sent to the control system (PLC) and the PLC will use these measurements to control the log turner positions using a PID loop to turn the log perfectly each time.

R-TRAC has a precision better than 5 degrees of standard deviation using all data (no outliers removed as many do in their calculation). It comes with advanced statistical tools to help track the performance of the turners.  At this time, the maximum speed is 600 ft/min and can measure logs from 4″ to 24″.

The figure below shows the results of a test on 50 logs in a sawmill where the R-TRAC system is currently installed. The blue represents rotation error of a log turner system without the use of R-TRAC. The red is the same system but with the R-TRAC. You can see that the curve is a lot narrower with the R-TRAC. This can give you high gain on your recovery.

R-TRAC standard deviation in this test was 4.2 degrees compared to 9.8 degrees without it. This is more than 5 degrees gain on the log rotation error. An important point to note is the mean value. With the R-TRAC, it is practically at 0 compared to 1.1 degrees without it.

In summary, R-TRAC is a real time system that is compatible with all types of log turners without requiring any mechanical modification to the log turner. It turns the log perfectly each time without the need to correct the turning at the end. The standard deviation on the error is less than 5 degrees using all data (no outliers removed).

Södra is forming the Innovation business area. The initiative will involve a stronger focus on new, profitable business, while the other business areas will gain more traction for the development of their existing operations. Catrin Gustavsson, who is currently Senior Vice President Innovation and New Business at Södra, is to become the new Business Area President.

Södra’s Group strategy involves creating profitable and sustainable growth in an ever-changing world. It will guide the work going forward to maximise the value of the raw material from the members’ forests and to adopt a more prominent position in the bio-economy.

To live up to this Group strategy, strategic shifts and adaptations of Södra’s structure are required. For this reason, the Södra Innovation business area is now being formed. It will strengthen activities aimed at both improving the existing business and developing new business. Södra already has the Forest, Wood and Cell business areas.

“Södra will grow sustainably and generate more value from each cubic metre of our members’ forests. To succeed in this, we will need to work from a short and long-term perspective. We have two important tasks ahead of us: To constantly improve our current core business and to cultivate new business toward profitability. The Innovation business area is a part of this effort. It will shine a light on the commercialisation of new business and on forging partnerships and collaborations,” said Lotta Lyrå, Södra’s President and CEO.

Creates conditions for profitable growth


The new business area will lead Södra’s work on commercialisation and business development. Efforts will focus on such aspects as promoting innovation within growth initiatives, developing Södra’s subsidiaries and building new partnerships.

The development of two of Södra’s major investments in liquid biofuel, Silva Green Fuel and Sunpine, will be conducted within the business area, for example. This also applies to Södra Building Systems, which is under development and offers system solutions for solid construction in wood, and OnceMore, which is dissolving pulp for textile production based on recycled textiles and wood.

This will not entail any direct changes in, for example, the collaboration with customers or business partners. The central feature of the change is that it will generate more drive and improved conditions for the existing core activities and new business.

“We will assume a more prominent position in the bio-economy supported by a developed innovation programme and more partnerships. We will commercialise more products with distinct market potential, such as timber construction solutions and biorefinery products. This will raise the value for members and build an operation that can meet customers, suppliers and a business environment under change,” says Catrin Gustavsson, new Business Area President for Innovation as of 10 March.

For questions, please contact:

Södra’s Pressroom,
 Tel: +46 (0)470-890 90
E-mail: press@sodra.com

Founded in 1938, Södra is Sweden’s largest forest-owner association, with 53,000 forest owners as its members. We conduct modern and responsible forestry, and operate state-of-the-art mills in which we process our raw material. In 2020, net sales amounted to SEK 20 billion and employees totalled 3,100. Through value-generating relationships and a long-term approach, Södra shows the way for the next generation of forestry.

On February 10, 2021, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig issued a type examination certificate according to module B for the round timber measuring system of the type Logeye-DE-700 from Microtec.

This creates the prerequisites for using this type of measuring device for legally compliant invoicing of logs according to the new MessEG/MessEV in Germany.

Since 01.01.2015, the new Measuring and Calibration Act (MessEG) and the new Measuring and Calibration Ordinance (MessEV) have come into force in Germany, which newly regulates the calibration system.

On the basis of this law, the new measuring device type “round timber measuring systems” was introduced on 12.02.2020 by the PTB’s Rule Determination Committee (REA). In addition to the proven “Fixed Angle” (FW) method, this measuring device type enables diameter determinations of round timber with the “Variable Angle” (VW) method.

With the “Fixed Angle” method, even with the new type of device, it is possible to continue to invoice roundwood according to common practice (in the sense of continuity of existing “roundwood measuring systems”). The measuring method “Variable Angle” has the advantage of measuring logs independent of their position and thus enables highest repeatability.

Within the scope of the type examination according to Module B, extensive measurements were carried out on logs under practical conditions using a mobile fringe projection measuring system specially developed for such reference measurements by PTB in Braunschweig.

In addition, measurements were performed under extreme environmental conditions such as temperatures ranging from -30°C to +45°C. Due to the outstanding cooperation with PTB, it could be proven that the new log measuring system meets all requirements for a log measuring system.

The measuring device type Logeye-DE-700 from Microtec measures logs with and without bark without contact. The measurement is based on the principle of laser triangulation, whereby the measuring points on the log are recorded with a total of 8 cameras. The use of dual camera technology, which captures the measurement points from two different angles, minimizes shadowing and thus significantly increases measurement accuracy.

“With the newly approved measuring device type Logeye-DE-700, our customers from now on have the possibility to use a measuring device according to the current state of the art for legally compliant billing of logs and at the same time they can rely on the proven Microtec quality,” emphasizes Arianna Giudiceandrea, CSO at Microtec.

For further questions about the product, feel free to contact joern.rathke@microtec.eu and axel.creuzberger@microtec.eu

The no-compromise 875E logger introduces several new features, including an updated operator station, two undercarriage options, and various grapple configurations to tailor the machine to your specific needs.

The 875E logger is a multi-purpose carrier with two boom options for loading or processing applications. The machine can be equipped with the Tigercat FPT N67 Non-certified, Tier 4f or Stage V engine, producing 210 kW (282 hp).

The undercarriage is designed and built to withstand rigorous, full-time forest duty applications. Two options are available. The F7-150 undercarriage is standard. The larger footprint F7-162 undercarriage provides additional stability for heavy timber applications.

The 875E can be configured as a loader equipped with various power clam, butt-n-top, live heel, pulpwood and log grapple options. The carrier can also be configured as a high-capacity processor capable of running large harvesting heads in demanding duty cycles.

The spacious cabin has a new operator’s seat with built-in heating. Controls are now integrated into both sides of the joystick pods, eliminating the need for any bolt-on control pods. The optimally positioned controls and a large touchscreen display improve ergonomics and machine monitoring.

Reduced in-cab noise levels help the operator enjoy the auxiliary audio input port, Bluetooth® audio and hands-free calling. Additional new features include a standard equipped rearVIEW camera system, emergency stop button, and a key FOB to turn on exterior lights remotely when entering the cab in the dark.

Some of the many advantages of the 875E over excavator conversions include better service access, higher cooling capacity, a better operating environment, more robust undercarriage components and extremely efficient hydraulic circuits. The result is higher production, uptime and fuel efficiency.

Western Forest Products Inc. (“Western”)  have announced that Mr. James Arthurs and Mr. Lee Doney will not be standing for re-election as directors at Western’s Annual and Special Meeting on May 6, 2021, and that Mr. Randy Krotowski and Mr. John Williamson have been appointed as independent directors to Western’s Board of Directors.

Mr. Arthurs and Mr. Doney have been members of the Board since July 2004. The changes are consistent with Western’s ongoing Board renewal and succession process and demonstrates Western’s commitment to strong corporate governance practices. With the appointment of Mr. Krotowski and Mr. Williamson, four new members will have joined Western’s Board in the past two years.

Mr. Krotowski has held the position of Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Caterpillar and Chief Information Officer at Chevron’s Global Exploration and Production business. He previously held various senior management positions with Chevron Corporation and has served as an advisor to several Silicon Valley technology companies. Mr. Krotowski has extensive experience in digital strategy development and transformation execution, operations management and supply chain optimization.

Mr. Williamson is the past President and CEO of Atkore International Group Inc. He previously held various senior executive positions at ITT Corporation and Danaher Corporation. Mr. Williamson brings 30 years’ experience in manufacturing operations and has extensive expertise in the building products segment, acquisitions and international business.

Western is an integrated forest products company building a margin-focused log and lumber business to compete successfully in global softwood markets.

FAE is expanding its line of excavator forestry mulchers with the introduction of the new UMM/EX/VT/HP. It is the perfect solution for managing and controlling vegetation in wooded areas, maintaining green spaces, and for any job where a large mulching capacity is required.

The UMM/EX/VT/HP mulches vegetation and trees with a max diameter of 40 cm and is compatible with excavators from 30 to 36 tons. It has a hydraulic capacity of 180 to 300 L/min.

Compared to the standard model, the new HP has been designed to fit the most powerful excavators and meet the most challenging tasks. It comes standard with a 160 cc VT hydraulic motor, heavy-duty transmission components and added side-frame reinforcements.

The VT automatic variable displacement hydraulic motor offers increased torque for heavy duty work. The Poly Chain belt transmission guarantees optimum power transfer and reliability over time. The bolted-on counter blades work to finely mulch the material being processed and make maintenance easier. Its strong steel structural frame guarantees excellent reliability over time. The mulching chamber also features welded protections made of an anti-wear material.

The large type “C” rotor that comes standard lets you attach different tooth models for various types of vegetation and uses.  The rotor also comes with side teeth, which help keep the crushing chamber clean at all times.

Lecours Lumber at Calstock, ON is increasing the sorting capacity in its sawmill with a new 47-bin Pusher Lug sorter.

 The new vertical bin sorter will feature the Pusher Lug sorter top, ideal for high speed applications. The sorter is designed to operate at 140 lugs per minute. The 47 vertical bins will be fitted with bin deflectors to assist in even distribution of the boards in the bins. Live bin walls ensure smooth discharge of the lumber onto the floor chains. Click here to see a video of this sorter design in action.

The new sorter is scheduled to be installed in Q3 of 2022.

Sawmill scanning experts JoeScan have officially launch their latest JS-50 WX model scanner. A successful beta program saw scan heads put through the paces in mills across North America. JS-50 WX is being praised as a do-it-all sawmill scanner, with current installations covering machine centers from bucking lines to transverse edgers to trimmers.

“In order to facilitate the greatest range of options we tested the JoeScan’s against a number of other considerations and decided to standardize on the JS-50 WX as part of our core offering,” says Joe Korac, President at Automation and Electronics USA. “With our optimizing platform’s current projects requiring Log Merchandising, Whole Log Breakdown, Gang, Edger and Trimmer optimizers; the JS-50’s unique attributes made it an excellent fit for all our customers’ needs.”

Simplicity is the big advantage

Making scanners easier to install and maintain is the primary focus of the newest member of the JoeScan family. Sawmill-first features like Power over Ethernet single cable connectors and an intuitive new mounting bracket are aimed at simplifying the scanning experience for installers and operators alike. The API interface has been re-designed from the ground up to make the task of integrating JoeScan hardware with optimizer software as quick and easy as possible.

Early adopters have also been impressed by the next-gen performance and JoeScan’s well-earned reputation for reliability.

“The new scan head delivers accurate high-density range data, quality ‘Laser Imaging’ data for inspection of visual defects and knots, and scan rates sufficient for high-speed systems,” says Steve Fletcher, Director of Optimization at Timber Automation. “JS-50 WX provides us all this in a compact, reliable package. There is built-in redundancy with two cameras, and the 5-year warranty gives peace of mind to our customers.”

A fresh face

To help introduce their new scanner to the industry at large, JoeScan has hired a new Senior Business Development Manager, Blake DeFrance. Blake brings with him over 20 years of industrial automation experience and a passion for forging partnerships.

“I’m thrilled to join such a dedicated and talented team,” says DeFrance. “My #1 goal at JoeScan is to help our optimizer and OEM partners get sawmills the scanning solutions they need.”

The road ahead

Indeed, the JS-50 WX is just the latest innovation from a company that has dedicated itself to the sawmill industry for the last 20 years. JoeScan views JS-50 WX as the herald of a new age in sawmill scanning.

“The reception has been great so far, and we’re really excited to expand the benefits of this platform through the parts of the mill not covered by our new WX model,” adds DeFrance. “If someone is scanning it in a green mill, planer mill, or veneer mill, we want to find a way to make that process simpler and more reliable for them.”

Work has already begun on developing a single camera variant of the JS-50 WX that will offer many of the benefits in an even smaller package. JoeScan invites anyone that shares their vision of simpler, more reliable sawmill scanning solutions to contact Blake DeFrance at Blake.DeFrance@joescan.com.

For additional information about this topic or assistance with media files, please contact Brad Michael at +1.513.410.8568 or email at brad.michael@joescan.com.

Neiman Enterprises is improving systems as it restarts Gilchrist Forest Products in Gilchrist, OR. Neiman recently acquired this mill from Interfor, with plans to revive the site and inject capital to improve systems and tailor the site for their line of products.

The sawmill is replacing its dated Inovec Dynavision M6 scanner with a new USNR trimmer optimizer and scan frame fitted with a BioLuma 2900L scanning system. The sawmill is also installing a new USNR optimization system for the existing end dog carriage system, providing full 3D imaged solutions.

The sawmill will also receive a new Stick-N-Fork Stacker system. In addition to being the fastest automatic sticker stacker on the market, the Stick-N-Fork Stacker offers a host of other capabilities and options, including boxing load forks, random-width pullback, bad stick error detection, and more.

The planer mill will replace an existing 180 degree turn with two shorter 90 degree turn sections. Turn chains stretch over time & can get out of phase, so the new equipment will be more reliable and maintenance friendly.

The Gilchrist mill complements Neiman’s existing milling operations in Wyoming, South Dakota, and Colorado.  This mill produces 1×4 through 1×12 Ponderosa Pine and Lodgepole Pine boards, as well as 6/4 shop. It allows the company to further expand its customer base for high-quality ponderosa pine lumber products.

Metsä Group has chosen VR Transpoint as the logistics partner for roundwood transports to the bioproduct mill under construction in Kemi. This decision was based on more than two years of strategic cooperation during which an effective and environmentally friendly overall solution was designed for the transports. Annually, five million cubic metres of wood will be transported to the mill by rail, which means that an average of nine trains will arrive at the mill every day.

The number of wood transports by rail will be increasing significantly in Finland from 2023 onwards when the bioproduct mill in Kemi is commissioned. This means annual deliveries of more than five million cubic metres of wood, for which Metsä Group has chosen VR Transpoint as its transport partner. The logistics solution has been fine-tuned in close cooperation already for more than two years.

“The efficiency of transports and smooth flow of traffic are key factors when trying to attract major investments such as a bioproduct mill to our country. Finland is located far from the densely populated markets, so we have to catch up with more efficient logistics. We have now managed to create a solution in which the operations of the mill and railway transports are combined seamlessly,” says Martti Koskinen, Senior Vice President at VR Transpoint.

VR Transpoint is enabling a major investment of the forest industry for the second time: Metsä Group chose VR Transpoint as its partner also for the pulp transports of the Äänekoski bioproduct mill in 2016.

“We appreciate our long-term partnership with VR Transpoint and offer them a further opportunity to grow by supplying wood to the Kemi bioproduct mill. Railway transports play a significant role in the Kemi bioproduct mill’s wood supply, which requires this new, effective operating model,” says Juha Mäntylä, COO, Metsäliitto Cooperative.

Wood is transported from longer distances but with considerably fewer emissions

In the future, wood transport volumes to the new mill in Kemi will be equal to one-third of all VR Transpoint’s wood transports. Due to the increased use of wood, it must be transported from wider areas, from north and south of Kemi, but these transports are done with considerably fewer emissions.

“Sustainability is a crucial part of the strategies of both VR Transpoint and Metsä Group. Although the distance travelled by the wood deliveries increases, emissions are reduced by 20% per cubic metre due to effective railway transports. Together, we are reducing the emissions from traffic and speeding up the journey towards a carbon neutral Finland,” says Martti Koskinen.

In practice, eight to ten trains will arrive at the Kemi bioproduct mill every day. The efficiency of the transport system is based on perfectly fine-tuned wagon rotation: the time between two consecutive loadings, including all the stages, takes only half the time of an average wood transport.

Rolling stock investments enhance delivery reliability

Due to the new contract, VR Transpoint is investing in approximately 200 new roundwood wagons. The bioproduct mill’s railway transports will require a total of more than 400 wagons. The newest electric and diesel locomotives will be used as the tractive stock. The new electric locomotives can handle loads of up to 2,500 tonnes, which means approximately 20–25% more wood per train.

“Investments in modern rolling stock regarding locomotives as well as wagons are part of ensuring delivery reliability and logistics efficiency. It is also important that the traffic infrastructure has been considered from the start of the project and planned together with the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency,” says Koskinen.

Photo: VR Transpoint