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Canfor’s $10.5 million investment at its Mobile County, Alabama lumber facility marks more than a routine capacity upgrade — it signals a decisive shift toward high-throughput, continuous drying technology in the US South.

At the centre of the project is a dual-path continuous dry kiln, designed to expand drying capacity, improve operational efficiency and reinforce long-term competitiveness in one of the world’s most productive lumber regions.

Delivered through New South Lumber Company, the upgrade reflects a broader structural trend across Southern Yellow Pine operations: investment in technologies that remove bottlenecks, stabilise output and maximise fibre recovery.

From batch to continuous: a structural shift

Drying has long been one of the most persistent constraints in sawmill performance. Traditional batch kilns — while proven and flexible — inherently limit throughput and introduce variability between charges.

Continuous systems, by contrast, redefine the process:

• Higher throughput through uninterrupted material flow
• Greater consistency in moisture content and product quality
• Reduced handling and dwell-time inefficiencies
• Seamless integration with modern, high-speed sawline

For mills operating at scale in the US South, these advantages are no longer incremental – they are strategic.

Drying is no longer a support function. It is a core production driver.

Supplier still under wraps

Despite the clarity around the technology, one key detail remains undisclosed: the kiln supplier.

No OEM, EPC contractor or technology partner has been formally named in project announcements or trade coverage –  an unusual, though not unprecedented, situation for a project of this scale.  However, the specification itself significantly narrows the field.

A tight field of contenders

In North America, dual-path continuous kiln systems are delivered by a relatively small group of highly specialised suppliers –  each with distinct strengths in integration, energy systems and process control.

 Primary contenders

• USNR – a dominant force in US South mill modernisation, offering tightly integrated sawing and drying solutions and a strong regional footprint
• Valutec – gaining momentum in North America, with advanced continuous kiln technologies and a strong emphasis on energy efficiency
• Comact – a major North American player with deep expertise in optimisation, scanning and full-line integration; particularly well positioned where drying forms part of a broader, system-wide upgrade

Strong contenders

• Mühlböck – internationally recognised for high-capacity continuous kilns and advanced control systems, with a proven track record in large-scale installations

 Also, in consideration

• Wellons – especially relevant where biomass energy systems and thermal integration are central to the project
• Brunner-Hildebrand – known for high-end continuous drying solutions and precision engineering
• Italian Drying Group – an established European supplier with growing international reach, particularly in engineered kiln systems and flexible drying solutions

Given the project’s scale, compressed timeline and location in the US South, industry attention is now focused on which of these suppliers secures the contract.

 Why no announcement – yet?

The absence of a named supplier typically points to one of three scenarios:

1. A recent contract award, with OEM announcement pending
2. A bundled delivery model, where the kiln is part of a wider mill upgrade package
3. A staged communications strategy, with disclosure aligned to installation or commissioning

With construction scheduled between April and June 2026, a supplier announcement is widely expected in the near term.

 US South: a battleground for drying technology

Canfor’s investment is part of a broader wave of capital deployment across the US South – a region where mills are competing intensely on:

• Throughput and recovery rates
• Energy efficiency and cost control
• Product quality and consistency

As sawlines become faster and more sophisticated, drying systems must evolve in parallel. Continuous kilns are no longer viewed as optional upgrades – they are increasingly central to mill architecture.

The bigger picture

This project extends beyond Mobile County. It reflects a clear industry direction:

The transition from batch to continuous drying is accelerating – and competition among suppliers is intensifying.

When the kiln supplier is finally confirmed, it will do more than complete the story. It will signal which OEMs are gaining traction in one of the most strategically important lumber markets in the world.

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The post Who Wins the Kiln? Canfor’s Mobile Upgrade Signals Shift to Continuous Drying   appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Through close collaboration with production teams, USNR has identified the real-world challenges lumber manufacturers face.

These insights have guided the evolution of their equipment to meet the industry’s most critical needs. Over time, these needs crystallized into a focused set of priorities. These priorities now define the Paragon Design Standard, USNR’s official design framework.

Decades of industry experience have taught USNR that debris is an unavoidable byproduct of wood processing. They have also learned it doesn’t have to disrupt your operation.

Paragon equipment incorporates advanced containment features that capture and control debris at the source. By minimizing the spread of chips, dust, and offcuts, we reduce cleanup time, protect sensitive components, and enhance operator safety.

The result is a cleaner, more efficient work environment that supports continuous production and reduces wear on your equipment.

Visit USNR’s website to learn more.

USNR – Benchmark for Excellence

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Tele Radio presents its latest safe and smart wireless control solutions at IFAT Munich, held from May 4 to 7, 2026 at the Trade Fair Center Munich. Visitors are invited to stop by for hands-on demonstrations and expert guidance at booth C4.114, where the company will showcase how safe wireless radio remote control solutions help operators work at a safer distance, maintain clear visibility, and keep equipment running reliably in demanding environments.

 Tele Radio’s systems support a wide range of applications found in the water and wastewater, recycling, and municipal technology sectors — including pumps and valves, conveyors, compactors, cranes, and mobile machinery. The focus: maximum safety, uptime, and ease of operation.

Stefan Augste, Sales Director at Tele Radio Germany, said: “IFAT Munich will signify an important step toward Tele Radio’s future. We will proudly put the spotlight on the new PAQ line, which brings safety improvements such as certification at Ple/CAT4/SIL3 level. Safety is our top priority, and we will never give up pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this field.”

Along with its sister companies Åkerströms and Sistematica – all sailing under the Allgon Group flag – Tele Radio will be pre sent at booth C4.114. As the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies, IFAT brings together decision-makers and practitioners across water, waste management, and circularity – offering the ideal setting to explore safer and smarter ways to remotely control machines built for these purposes.

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The post IFAT 2026: Tele Radio Demonstrates Next-Gen Wireless Remote Control appeared first on International Forest Industries.

ÅSA Alström has been appointed head of brand, marketing and communication, and will become a member of the Volvo CE executive management team.

Since 2018, Ms Alström has served as head of strategic communication at Volvo CE, where she has been responsible for both internal and external communications at a global level. She brings over 20 years of experience within Volvo CE across communication, marketing sales, key account management, aftermarket and within operations.

Melker Jernberg, president of Volvo CE, said: ‘Brand, marketing and communication are essential in supporting the company’s transformation. Åsa has extensive experience within Volvo CE and in these areas, and I look forward to working closely with her going forward.’

Ms Alström succeeds Bill Law, who has taken on a new role supporting the development of the Volvo Group’s defence business. She assumed her new role on 1 April 2026, based in Eskilstuna, Sweden.

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Comact, a global leader in high-performance OEM wood-processing technologies, announces the completion of its acquisition of Oleson Saw Technology, a well-established leader in wide bandsaw blade manufacturing.

The transaction strengthens Comact’s cutting and saw technology offering and further expands its aftermarket and consumables portfolio for the wood processing industry.

Based in York, Pennsylvania, Oleson Saw Technology has built a strong reputation for supporting sawmills across North America with quality-manufactured wide bandsaw blades and filing room equipment. Oleson will continue operating from its existing York facility, ensuring continuity for customers and employees. As part of the transaction, Comact reaffirms its commitment to supporting Oleson’s continued distribution of high-quality, Swiss-made ISELI filing room equipment for bandsaws and circular saws.

“Oleson Saw Technology has been built on a strong commitment to its employees, its customers, and delivering high-quality bandsaw blades to the industry,” said Mary Chairs, President of York Saw & Knife and Oleson Saw Technology. “We are confident that Comact will build on this legacy and bring a shared culture that will support the continued success of the business in the years ahead.”

“This acquisition represents an important step in strengthening our cutting and saw technology portfolio,” said Adam Infanti, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Comact. “Oleson’s expertise in wide bandsaw blades and its strong market reputation complement our existing capabilities and strengthen our position in cutting solutions. We are pleased to welcome the Oleson team and to build on their legacy together while continuing to support customers with reliable, high-performance solutions.”

As part of this transition, Oleson Saw Technology will introduce an updated visual identity aligned with Comact’s branding, along with a new website at www.olesonsaw.com in the coming days.

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As Earth Day 2026 calls on governments and businesses worldwide to take bolder action to protect forests and the climate, West Fraser is highlighting the major advances the company has made in strengthening due diligence, enhancing supply chain transparency, and accelerating its journey toward net zero in the UK.

As one of the world’s largest producers of timber panel products, and long recognised as a leader in FSC® certification, West Fraser views official accreditations not as endpoints, but as essential foundations for a far broader environmental management strategy. Today, that strategy is embedded in every aspect of the company’s procurement and sustainability operations.

Leading the way on EUDR Compliance and net zero

 In alignment with Earth Day’s mission to safeguard natural resources for future generations, West Fraser is making significant progress towards full compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). In the UK, the company’s operations are also ahead of schedule in their transition to Net Zero.

The company has invested heavily in strengthening systems, procedures and continuous auditing, all overseen by Kevin Thomas, Wood Manager, who plays a central role in ensuring rigorous due diligence across all purchasing activities.

Kevin works closely with customers and suppliers throughout each procurement cycle, providing transparency and reassurance at a time when responsible sourcing is increasingly recognised as a commercial priority. “Customers today consistently want proof that the timber they buy is legal, ethical and traceable,” Kevin says. “That level of scrutiny is now just as important as price.”

Technology driven transparency

 To meet, and exceed, expectations, West Fraser launched a new supplier portal in 2024. The platform provides real time dashboards, risk alerts, and data driven analysis for every consignment entering UK mills.

Beyond traditional certification schemes, the company employs advanced tools including:

• Geo location polygon data from the forest floor
• Satellite imagery and environmental risk reporting
• Comprehensive species and harvesting date verification
• Audits covering machinery efficiency, fire prevention systems, and renewable energy use in harvesting zones
• This elevated standard is designed to eliminate risks such as illegal timber trade, the misuse of accreditation systems, or the importation of controlled species.
• Kevin Thomas notes: “While FSC® certification covers all our UK production, we go much further. Every shipment is assessed. We are far ahead of our competitors on EUDR compliance, and all our UK suppliers are now fully integrated into the polygon-based mapping system – a term few had even heard before last year.”
• West Fraser’s due diligence extends not only to forest thinnings and responsibly harvested timber, but also to the waste wood stream, which makes up 68% of the particleboard produced in the UK. Much of this material originates from recycled pallets and timber recovered from demolition—supporting the circular economy and reducing pressure on forests. All UK manufactured panel products are net carbon negative, made with locally grown timber to reduce embodied emissions, and produced in mills accredited to ISO 14001 environmental standards. Every UK panel is also FSC® certified (C012533).

“West Fraser is very proud of the systems we’ve built,” Kevin concludes. “We have taken due diligence to a whole new level and remain absolutely committed to meeting and exceeding all legislation. Our goal is simple: to ensure every product we make supports the health of forests, communities, and the planet.”

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/

Kevin Thomas, Wood Manager at West Fraser

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MiCROTEC AB has announced it is to relocate its operations from Linköping to Örebro as part of a strategic reorganization of its Swedish activities. This will allow the Swedish subsidiary to fully concentrate on Service, while Sales for Sweden and Norway will be continued in cooperation with the long-standing partner LOAB.

Claes Otterbeck, owner of LOAB, will assume the role of Managing Director of MiCROTEC AB in addition to leading LOAB. MiCROTEC and LOAB share a long and successful partnership. Federico Giudiceandrea, President of MiCROTEC, states: “Since the mid-1990s, Claes Otterbeck and I have jointly developed the Swedish market. Especially in challenging market conditions, trust and a proven collaboration are essential – especially for our customers.”

With the new structure, MiCROTEC AB will focus entirely on service operations. This includes a local spare-parts warehouse and on-site service technicians for the Swedish and Norwegian markets, covering the entire MiCROTEC product portfolio. Complementary functions, such as 24/7 remote support, R&D, and project management, will be managed directly again by MiCROTEC’s headquarters. In addition, support for existing legacy Woodeye systems will continue. Sales activities in Sweden and Norway will be handled by LOAB, together with MiCROTEC´s responsible Area Sales Manager, Giacomo Cagnin, ensuring continuity and strong market support.

Claes Otterbeck adds: “I am very much looking forward to leading both the sales activities via LOAB and the highly important service operations in Sweden and Norway as Managing Director of MiCROTEC AB. I am confident that this structure will provide stability and long-term value for our customers.”

 

 

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Tele Radio presents its latest safe and smart wireless control solutions at IFAT Munich, held from May 4 to 7, 2026 at the Trade Fair Center Munich. Visitors are invited to stop by for hands-on demonstrations and expert guidance at booth C4.114, where the company will showcase how safe wireless radio remote control solutions help operators work at a safer distance, maintain clear visibility, and keep equipment running reliably in demanding environments.

 Tele Radio’s systems support a wide range of applications found in the water and wastewater, recycling, and municipal technology sectors — including pumps and valves, conveyors, compactors, cranes, and mobile machinery. The focus: maximum safety, uptime, and ease of operation.

Stefan Augste, Sales Director at Tele Radio Germany, said: “IFAT Munich will signify an important step toward Tele Radio’s future. We will proudly put the spotlight on the new PAQ line, which brings safety improvements such as certification at Ple/CAT4/SIL3 level. Safety is our top priority, and we will never give up pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this field.”

Along with its sister companies Åkerströms and Sistematica – all sailing under the Allgon Group flag – Tele Radio will be present at booth C4.114. As the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies, IFAT brings together decision-makers and practitioners across water, waste management, and circularity – offering the ideal setting to explore safer and smarter ways to remotely control machines built for these purposes.

Stefan Augste, Sales Director at Tele Radio Germany

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The post IFAT 2026: Tele Radio Demonstrates Next-Gen Wireless Remote Control appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Through close collaboration with production teams, USNR has identified the real-world challenges lumber manufacturers face. These insights have guided the evolution of their equipment to meet the industry’s most critical needs. Over time, these needs crystallized into a focused set of priorities. These priorities now define the Paragon Design Standard, USNR’s official design framework.

Every mill has its own layout, production goals, and operational constraints. That’s why Paragon equipment is built on a modular architecture that allows for tailored configurations and seamless integration. This modularity not only accelerates installation and commissioning but also makes it easier to upgrade or expand your system as your needs evolve. Whether you’re scaling up capacity, adding new product lines, or integrating advanced technologies, Paragon systems are designed to grow with you.

Visit USNR website to learn more.

USNR – Benchmark for Excellence

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BrasPine has launched a major greenfield sawmill project in Uruguay and chose MiCROTEC as the sole supplier of scanning solutions across the entire production process.

The Brazilian manufacturer of pine frames and mouldings is expanding its presence in Uruguay with a new sawmill project with the name Oceano. Once fully operational, the sawmill is expected to become one of the largest in South America, with a projected production capacity of 35,000 cubic meters of sawn timber per month.

As part of the project developed in cooperation with Linares, MiCROTEC will supply all scanners for the logyard, sawline, green mill, and the dry mill, including four Logeye, two Truespin, and two Goldeneye Transverse scanners. The mechanical lines for the sawmill are supplied by Holtec, Linck, and Springer.

With this investment, BrasPine significantly strengthens its production capabilities across South America and sets a new benchmark for modern, high-capacity sawmill operations in the region.

“Our goal was to select a supplier with whom we have built a long-standing relationship. This is not the right moment to take unnecessary risks, and working with a well-established supplier with proven experience in our region is a key consideration for us. We look forward to making this a successful project together,” says Pedro Pinilla, Industrial Director at BrasPine.

“After delivering scanners for several projects to BrasPine in the past, we are proud that they have once again chosen MiCROTEC for this project. This decision builds on a long-term partnership and reflects mutual trust in proven solutions and technical expertise,” says Ronald Klotz, Sales Account Manager for South America at MiCROTEC.

 

Pedro Pinilla, Industrial Director at BrasPine.

Ronald Klotz, Sales Account Manager for South America at MiCROTEC.

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Ponsse continuously develops solutions that improve the work of forest machine operators and is now introducing the next-generation Opti 5G information system also for tracked based machines. The system is specifically designed to enhance productivity, ease of use, and data management in demanding conditions.

“Opti 5G brings all key harvesting functions together into one clear interface, reducing the need for separate systems and improving daily work efficiency. The system includes, among others, cutting control, automatic cutting, calibration, data management, and reporting – all in one view,” says Markku Savolainen, Product Manager, Harvester Heads, Ponsse Plc.

The new system improves logging optimization, machine control, and operator confidence. The customizable My View display allows quick setting adjustments without interruption, and the active map view enhances safety and situational awareness, Savolainen adds.

Opti 5G produces accurate, real-time data on machine performance, working time, production, and fuel consumption. Thanks to standardized StanForD 2010 data, the system is compatible with international harvesting systems and can be expanded with additional applications. Designed for global use, Opti 5G supports multiple languages and units of measurement. The system also allows marking tree specific data, such as decay or insect damage observations, for reporting purposes.

Usability has been significantly improved: fast response time, clear menus, and three main logical views (work, planning, and machine) support smooth operation. The experience is complemented by the new Opti 8X display, offering excellent visibility and high touch precision even in demanding conditions.

Opti 5G forms a strong foundation for future innovations and is now available as standard equipment for all harvester heads installed on tracked machines.

More information:

Markku Savolainen
Product Manager, Harvester Heads, Ponsse Plc
Tel. +358 40 542 4409, markku.savolainen@ponsse.com

Documents

Ponsse Opti 5G 1

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Ponsse introduces the world’s first felling assistant developed by a forest machine manufacturer. The new OptiFellingAssist enhances harvesting quality and supports operators with intelligent, productivity boosting assistance features. The new solution enables precise and productive felling cuts, reduces equipment wear, and increases safety.

“OptiFellingAssist makes the operator’s work easier and more efficient while improving the quality of the work. It supports successful fellings in every situation. The result is increased safety, reduced saw bar and chain wear, a more durable boom, and increased productivity with less stress. OptiFellingAssist helps the operator in pre‑tensioning for the felling cut, which prevents the saw bar from getting pinched and enables safer tree felling,” describes Timo Koskiahde, Product Manager, Information Systems, Ponsse Plc.

“It is also good to note that the OptiFellingAssist solution improves work safety and optimizes working time. The forest machine operator can focus on productive work when saw bars and chains do not need to be replaced as often,” Timo Koskiahde adds.

Assistive feed tracking

OptiFellingAssist assists with the vertical movement of the harvester crane according to feeding. This is especially useful in deep snow conditions where the harvester head must be fed to the felling height through the snow cover.

Assistive pre tensioning

The system performs the pre‑tensioning after gripping the tree to be felled, allowing the operator to proceed directly to the sawing phase. Combined with lifting during the felling cut, this ensures a complete cut-through and a high‑quality result.

Technical requirements and availability

OptiFellingAssist works together with PONSSE Active Crane and PONSSE Opti 5G 3.3 software or newer. The feature is available as an optional add-on for new PONSSE machines.

Further information

Timo Koskiahde

Product Manager, Information Systems, Ponsse Plc

timo.koskiahde@ponsse.com, Tel. +358 50 557 4653

Timo Koskiahde Product Manager, Information Systems, Ponsse Plc

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Komatsu will showcase its next-generation equipment, digital technologies and service solutions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, highlighting the theme “Connected performance, driving your success.” With new machines and digital offerings, Komatsu will demonstrate how to turn equipment insights into practical business results that may help enhance productivity, promote safety and control total cost of ownership.

Komatsu’s exhibit, located in booth W41945 (West Hall), will feature one of the company’s strongest lineups of new equipment in years, including several machines that will be unveiled to the North American market for the first time. Each machine is built to deliver strong performance but can provide even greater value when connected to the company’s comprehensive digital ecosystem spanning everything from telematics and fleet management to artificial intelligence and autonomy.

Excavators: Komatsu’s new PC220LCi-12 excavator and PC365LC-11 multifunction plus excavator, both designed for enhanced operator comfort, will showcase the company’s commitment to integrating advanced technology with practical machine design to help support more efficient and productive jobsite operations. An additional new excavator will also be unveiled.

Wheel loaders: Models including the WA485-11 and WA475-11 will demonstrate how the proprietary Komatsu Hydraulic Mechanical Transmission, enhanced cab design and embedded technology can help boost cycle times, reduce fuel consumption and promote operator awareness.

 Dozers: Two next-generation dozers will be showcased with new advanced steering systems and operator-focused cabs. New technology within these dozers is designed to help operators of varying experience levels achieve consistent results while supporting efficiency and productivity on the jobsite.

Haul trucks: Komatsu will highlight the HD605-10 with enhanced performance and Smart Quarry integrations, along with Smart Quarry Autonomous, a solution that enables autonomous operation, available for both new quarry trucks and as retrofits to existing trucks. An all-new articulated truck at the higher end of the industry payload range with innovative traction control engineering will also be unveiled.

Komatsu will highlight how its integrated approach supports owners and fleet managers at every stage  –  from selecting the right equipment to training, managing fleets, analyzing performance and planning future work. The company’s goal is to make hard work easier, provide actionable insights, and help companies sustainably and profitably reach their goals.

This includes the evolution of autonomous operation, software-defined vehicles, and AI technologies throughout the product line as initiated with recent partnerships and developments that will drive innovation throughout the entire product line.

“Owners and fleet managers want equipment and technology that work together to create value across the entire enterprise, not independently as one-off solutions,” said Rod Bull, CEO, Komatsu North America. “Connected performance is our commitment to deliver machines, data and services that help make better decisions, improve daily productivity and build long-term value in their operations.”

Komatsu will also feature expanded capabilities within My Komatsu, the company’s central enterprise platform. Visitors can explore personalized digital experiences and learn how the platform connects fleet information, planning tools and support resources in one interface that can continuously grow to leverage AI and data analysis, shorten business decision cycles and improve fleet performance.

Smart Construction digital solutions will be demonstrated through hands-on displays and live demos showing how the suite of software and hardware tools can help track and plan work, dig precisely to plan and streamline communications — including new products such as Smart Construction Dashboard mobile.

Additional products and solutions showcased at the booth will span forestry applications, drilling equipment and crushing solutions. Featured attachments from Komatsu-owned manufacturers Montabert, Lehnhoff and Hensley will demonstrate how these solutions can help expand versatility and support efficient material handling across jobsites. Montabert and Hensley will exhibit in adjacent booths to showcase end-to-end solutions for the industry.

Komatsu team members will lead or be part of three education sessions:

• Quarry Kaizen: How little changes can add up to big improvements — Wednesday, March 4, 2:30-3:15 p.m.
• Connected machines: Precision GPS solutions for every machine on the jobsite — Thursday, March 5, 9:30-10:15 a.m.
• The autonomous shift: Innovations and impacts in quarry operations (panel discussion) — Thursday, March 5, 1-2 p.m.

* All comparisons based on previous machine model

About Komatsu

Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Front-line industries worldwide use Komatsu solutions to develop modern infrastructure, extract fundamental minerals, manage forests and create consumer products. The company’s global service and distributor networks support customer operations to help enhance safety and promote productivity while working to optimize performance.

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Forest machine manufacturer Ponsse is planning to strengthen its Vieremä factory’s productivity and capabilities through an investment of approximately ten million euros.

The company aims to expand the facilities used for welding operations and invest in production technology, machining and automation. The planned extension for welding operations will cover approximately 1,300 square metres.

“This is a significant investment for us. The extension and related production equipment will improve our production’s flexibility and efficiency, strengthening our strategy and capability of manufacturing the main components of our forest machines in-house. By investing in machining and welding automation, we are also improving the company’s risk tolerance,” says Tommi Väänänen, COO at Ponsse.

The project is currently in the planning phase, and its schedule will be specified as the spring progresses.

Further information:
Tommi Väänänen
Chief Operations Officer
Ponsse Plc
Tel. +358 400 373 178

Ponsse Plc specialises in the sale, production, maintenance and technology of cut-to-length method forest machines and is driven by a genuine interest in its customers and their business operations. Ponsse develops and manufactures sustainable and innovative harvesting solutions based on customer needs.

The company was established by forest machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgrén in 1970 and has been a leader in timber harvesting solutions based on the cut-to-length method ever since. Ponsse is headquartered in Vieremä, Finland. The company’s shares are quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Nordic List.

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Ponsse celebrates a significant milestone as the 22,000th forest machine manufactured at the company’s Vieremä factory is delivered to Irish customer G&G Timber Harvesting. The milestone machine is a Ponsse Elk forwarder, valued for its agility, productivity and suitability for a wide variety of forestry work.

“This is a significant milestone in our cooperation with G&G Timber Harvesting. Along with the Ponsse Elk, a Ponsse Scorpion Giant harvester, which is one of our flagship models is also being delivered in the same shipment to complement their fleet. We thank the G&G Timber Harvesting team for their trust and wish them safe operations in Ireland’s forests,” says Ville Mansikkamäki, Vice President, Europe, Ponsse.

G&G Timber Harvesting – A family‑rooted forestry business

G&G Timber Harvesting, established in 2009 by brothers Greg and Garrett Cuddy in Camross, County Laois, operates at the foot of the Slieve Bloom mountains. The company has since grown to include another brother, David, Greg’s son Greg Jr, and their cousin Pakie. With six of the seven Cuddy brothers working in forestry, the business represents a strong multigenerational commitment to the industry.

Their first experience with Ponsse came in 2020 with the purchase of two pre‑owned machines; a Gazelle and a Beaver. Over time, their fleet expanded to include two harvesters and two forwarders, representing different brands of machines. In September 2025, the company upgraded one of their forwarders to a Ponsse Buffalo with Active Cabin, which quickly impressed them with its operator comfort, power and productivity. This encouraged them to continue modernizing their fleet with a Scorpion Giant harvester and the milestone Elk forwarder.

During a demo arranged by Ponsse Ireland, Greg Cuddy highlighted the Scorpion Giant’s powerful crane, industry‑leading cabin visibility, cutting head performance and even its “cool design”. The Elk was selected for its reliable performance across diverse terrain and the additional comfort provided by the Active Cabin solution.

Working across diverse and demanding environments

G&G Timber Harvesting operates in a wide range of conditions, including steep slopes, flat bogs and sensitive habitats, serving both private clients and the state‑owned forestry sector. According to the company, their recent investment in Ponsse machines is driven by:

• Trust in the Ponsse brand
• Confidence in the service and support provided by Ponsse Ireland
• Strong alignment with Ponsse’s business partnership approach
• Attractive financing options supporting cost‑effective ownership.

Ponsse looks forward to supporting G&G Timber Harvesting in the years ahead and continuing a long and mutually beneficial partnership.

Further information

Ville Mansikkamäki
Vice President, Europe, Ponsse Plc
Tel. +358 40 569 7236
ville.mansikkamaki@ponsse.com

Ville Mansikkamäki, Vice President, Europe, Ponsse.

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International Forest Industries (IFI) takes a closer look at the Log Max 6000V Top Saw, a next-generation harvester head designed to improve productivity, measurement accuracy and operational control in modern forestry operations.

Developed for both wheeled and tracked harvesters, the Log Max 6000V Top Saw introduces several engineering refinements aimed at operators working in demanding harvesting conditions – including steep terrain, heavy branching and large-diameter timber.

Tilt Control for complex harvesting environments

One of the defining features of the Log Max 6000V Top Saw is its new Tilt Control system, which allows operators to lock the felling link and position the harvester head at a precise angle during processing.

This added control is particularly valuable when working in:

• Dense crowns with thick branching
• Steep or uneven terrain
• Situations requiring controlled processing of the upper stem

By improving head positioning, Tilt Control helps maintain smoother processing flow and reduces unnecessary stress on both machine and operator.

 Optimised saw box design for larger timber

The 6000V Top Saw features a redesigned and extended saw box geometry, now capable of accommodating saw bars up to 90 cm. The repositioned saw unit enables the head to process trees with larger root structures while maintaining stability and cutting performance.

Additional protective elements – including a reinforced root bone plate – help extend chain and bar life, reducing downtime and maintenance requirements in high-output operations.

The maximum cutting diameter reaches approximately 78-80 cm, making the unit well suited for high-volume harvesting applications across logging, biomass and sawmill supply chains.

Improved length measurement accuracy

Accurate measurement is critical in modern forestry, and Log Max has focused heavily on improving this area in the 6000V platform.

Updates include:

• Reinforced measuring wheel arm and attachment
• Improved hydraulic circuit design
• Revised measuring wheel cylinder geometry

Together, these changes allow the measuring system to follow the stem contour more precisely, delivering improved length accuracy and reducing costly measurement errors during processing.

Robust saw unit and service-friendly design

The Log Max 6000V Top Saw is equipped with dual 318 MK2 saw units, featuring durable materials and thoughtful serviceability improvements. New forward-positioned grease points allow lubrication even when the head is tilted, improving safety and reducing maintenance time.

Other enhancements include:

• Reinforced bar holder with Hardox 450 material
• Improved sealing to prevent dust and debris ingress
• Simplified safety shaft design replacing traditional safety chains

These refinements are designed to maximise uptime while maintaining long-term durability in demanding forestry environments.

Designed for productivity, sustainability and precision

Underpinning the 6000V Top Saw is Log Max’s Active Friction Control (AFC) system, which optimises feed force to minimise friction and unnecessary wear. By reducing excess pressure during processing, AFC helps improve timber quality, lower operating costs and support more efficient use of energy.

Combined with the Log Mate 510 control system – compliant with StanForD 2010 standards – the 6000V Top Saw integrates seamlessly into modern forestry data and optimisation workflows.

Availability and applications

The Log Max 6000V Top Saw is suitable for a wide range of harvesting operations, including:

• Commercial logging
• Biomass harvesting
• Sawmill supply operations
• Large-diameter timber processing

The unit is scheduled for availability from Q1 2026.

(Video content below showcases the Log Max 6000V Top Saw in operation and highlights key design features and performance benefits.)

    Surely the best Forestry Video for a long time!

To read previous Log Max related posts click here

 

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The post NEW Log Max 6000V Top Saw: Tilt Control Technology Redefining High-Productivity Forestry Harvesting appeared first on International Forest Industries.

USNR will be exhibiting at the 2026 IHLA Convention & Exposition in Indianapolis, IN.

Their looking forward to connecting with other hardwood specialists to share their latest developments for the industry.

In particular they want to share their ongoing application of deep learning AI technology. USNR uses deep learning in its industry-leading grade scanning and optimization systems, including the Bioluma sawmill grade optimizer, the Automated Lineal Grading System, and the Transverse High Grader (THG). These systems are smart and simple solutions to the demands of hardwood grading applications.

If you’re headed to Indianapolis as well, then stop by the USNR booth #405 to say hello and learn how USNR’s advanced technologies can help your hardwood operation!

USNR booth #405

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MiCROTEC will be present at booth 6C86 where their wide multi-sensor quality scanner for softwood (Goldeneye Wide) and hardwood (Woodeye Wide) will be on display.

Their specialized sales team is ready for interesting conversations about scanning and optimizing solutions and would be happy to give you more insights into MiCROTEC’s product range!

Global Sales

+39 0472 273 611           salesmicrotec.eu

To read previous Microtec related posts click here

 

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The post EUROBOIS is the leading woodworking industry trade fair in France with visitors from all over Europe. MiCROTEC will be present at booth 6C86. appeared first on International Forest Industries.

A SUCCESSFULL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT HAS REACHED ITS GOALS

The Haslestad plant is more than just a sawmill. It also includes a planing mill and finger-jointing facility, making it one of the more comprehensive production plants in the Bergene Holm Group. The plant processes 230,000 m³ of spruce timber annually, turning timber into lumber for construction, panels, and biofuel products, with great care for the raw material and environmentally friendly processes.

To meet their increased need for higher production capacity while reducing its carbon footprint, Bergene Holm AS Haslestad decided to invest in new equipment at the plant’s largest bottlenecks. After comparing quotes and solutions from different suppliers, the choice fell on USNR, and a development project started. The goal was reached in early 2025 and celebrated by an inauguration attended by representatives from all participating parties, including USNR, who delivered their first full-electric Tilt Hoist and new stick handling.

For the future

The new equipment is an important step forward for Bergene Holm Haslestad. It ensures both increased production and reduced environmental impact, says a very excited Glenn Andre Jensen, CEO of Bergene Holm Haslestad, who held a speech at the inauguration: – We take our environmental impact very seriously. We are determined that our investments must follow our environmental objectives. Timber is our raw material, and in Norway demand is now outpacing supply, he says.

Bergene Holm compete with timber exports, which means that they are in a position where they want to increase their timber production. That is why they have made major investments in the plant’s production capacity in recent years.

Higher production capacity

The larger intake of the adjusting machinery means that we are now able to process much larger packages of sawn material than before. It is 2 meters deep, 5.5 meters wide and 1.5 meters high.

The new Tilt Hoist holds 40% more volume and has a longer buffer conveyor, ensuring a very good filling rate and good production flow. This has increased the production capacity significantly.

The project also includes a new stick handling system that collects all the sticks in a stick bin, which is then transported to the green sorting system, where sticks and dunnage are separated.

Many advantages

It was important for Bergene Holm to find a reliable supplier that would provide the best technical solution possible. They required the new Tilt Hoist to be entirely electric, replacing the old hydraulic motors.

This new technology offers many advantages, lower power consumption, reduced costs and reduced service needs for the hydraulics.

Lower service costs

A package of dried timber can weigh up to 10 tons, which requires a lot of power from the Tilt Hoist. A traditional hydraulic drive would require very large generators and produce more emission. The service and operating costs required by hydraulically powered machines are not incurred by the electric Tilt Hoist, while also reducing emissions and environmental impact.

Kristin Sofie Ruud Karlsson, Project Manager at Bergene Holm and the person in charge of liaising with the USNR project manager during the project, is impressed with the efforts:

“We have worked very well together! USNR has presented their idéas and concerns and prioritized them to find the most optimal solution. They have been available for questions throughout the whole project and particularly helpful during the software and controls training,” she says.

Glenn Andre Jensen, Bergene Holm CEO, also emphasizes USNR’s excellent cooperation:

“It is very clear that our employees are very happy. The communication with our project managers has been very good, and USNR have done a tremendous job. They are a great supplier to work with and relate to,” he adds.

Left: Glenn André Jensen, CEO, Bergene Holm AS department Haslestad. Center: Kristin Sofié Ruud Karlsson, Project Manager, Bergene Holms AS department Haslestad. Right: Sten Jarle Solheim, Account Manager, USNR

Sensational in Europe

Sten Jarle Solheim, Account Manager at USNR, was present at the inauguration and was surprised by the attention the project has attracted:

“The new technology has attracted great interest all over Europe. I’m want to visit Bergene Holm Haslestad to see the new electric Tilt Hoist. The project has been very smooth. USNR was responsible for the dismantling, demolition and assembly of the new equipment. Everything went according to our schedule and all tests succeeded on the first try. The project was very successful from start to finish,” he says.

The project clearly means a lot to Bergene Holm Haslestad. It has given the opportunity to continue their growth and become an even bigger manufacturer in the years to come, Glenn Andre Jensen explains: “The new intake at the adjusting plant allows us to produce at a much higher capacity, and we are able to utilize and sort the raw material in a better way. It has also made the every daylife at work much better for our employees,” he adds.

A recipe for success

The project and collaboration between Bergene Holm Haslestad and USNR can be described as a recipe for success, where some ingredients stand out a little extra – a strong intersest to technical solutions, lower environmental impact, innovation, and good communication skills. By investing in more environmentally friendly technology, Bergene Holm has demonstrated that high production capacity can be compatible with lower carbon emissions.

The new equipment, supplied by USNR, has already become a great asset yielding great results, increased production efficiency, and an improved work environment for the employees who spend their days at Bergene Holm Haslestad

To read previous USNR related posts click here

 

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The post USNR – Powerful all-electric Tilt Hoist for Norway appeared first on International Forest Industries.

International Forest Industries (IFI) takes a closer look at the Log Max 6000V Top Saw, a next-generation harvester head designed to improve productivity, measurement accuracy and operational control in modern forestry operations.

Developed for both wheeled and tracked harvesters, the Log Max 6000V Top Saw introduces several engineering refinements aimed at operators working in demanding harvesting conditions – including steep terrain, heavy branching and large-diameter timber.

Tilt Control for complex harvesting environments

One of the defining features of the Log Max 6000V Top Saw is its new Tilt Control system, which allows operators to lock the felling link and position the harvester head at a precise angle during processing.

This added control is particularly valuable when working in:

• Dense crowns with thick branching

• Steep or uneven terrain

• Situations requiring controlled processing of the upper stem

By improving head positioning, Tilt Control helps maintain smoother processing flow and reduces unnecessary stress on both machine and operator.

Optimised saw box design for larger timber

The 6000V Top Saw features a redesigned and extended saw box geometry, now capable of accommodating saw bars up to 90 cm. The repositioned saw unit enables the head to process trees with larger root structures while maintaining stability and cutting performance.

Additional protective elements – including a reinforced root bone plate – help extend chain and bar life, reducing downtime and maintenance requirements in high-output operations.

The maximum cutting diameter reaches approximately 78-80 cm, making the unit well suited for high-volume harvesting applications across logging, biomass and sawmill supply chains.

Improved length measurement accuracy

Accurate measurement is critical in modern forestry, and Log Max has focused heavily on improving this area in the 6000V platform.

Updates include:

• Reinforced measuring wheel arm and attachment

• Improved hydraulic circuit design

• Revised measuring wheel cylinder geometry

Together, these changes allow the measuring system to follow the stem contour more precisely, delivering improved length accuracy and reducing costly measurement errors during processing.

Robust saw unit and service-friendly design

The Log Max 6000V Top Saw is equipped with dual 318 MK2 saw units, featuring durable materials and thoughtful serviceability improvements. New forward-positioned grease points allow lubrication even when the head is tilted, improving safety and reducing maintenance time.

Other enhancements include:

• Reinforced bar holder with Hardox 450 material

• Improved sealing to prevent dust and debris ingress

• Simplified safety shaft design replacing traditional safety chains

These refinements are designed to maximise uptime while maintaining long-term durability in demanding forestry environments.

Designed for productivity, sustainability and precision

Underpinning the 6000V Top Saw is Log Max’s Active Friction Control (AFC) system, which optimises feed force to minimise friction and unnecessary wear. By reducing excess pressure during processing, AFC helps improve timber quality, lower operating costs and support more efficient use of energy.

Combined with the Log Mate 510 control system – compliant with StanForD 2010 standards – the 6000V Top Saw integrates seamlessly into modern forestry data and optimisation workflows.

Availability and applications

The Log Max 6000V Top Saw is suitable for a wide range of harvesting operations, including:

• Commercial logging

• Biomass harvesting

• Sawmill supply operations

• Large-diameter timber processing

The unit is scheduled for availability from Q1 2026.

(Video content below showcases the Log Max 6000V Top Saw in operation and highlights key design features and performance benefits.)

The post Log Max 6000V Top Saw: Tilt Control Technology Redefining High-Productivity Forestry Harvesting appeared first on International Forest Industries.