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Tigercat has released its L857 feller buncher and LH857 harvester, both built on the new sloping tail platform for steep terrain logging. Source: Timberbiz Tigercat has released two new track carrier models based on the new sloping tail platform for steep terrain harvesting operations. Both the L857 feller buncher and LH857 harvester are powered by the efficient Tigercat FPT N67 engine. Power is delivered to the track drives via a refined, efficient open loop hydraulic system, providing high tractive effort and excellent performance on steep slopes. The sloping tail platform takes ground based steep terrain logging to the next level. Optimized weight distribution and low centre of mass, along with Tigercat’s patented super duty leveling undercarriage provide the operator with comfort, stability and confidence on steep terrain. The sloped tail profile provides increased leveling capability to 26 degrees, and better cable clearance in winch assisted applications. For roadside processing applications, the sloping tail with its ability to clear obstacles allows the LH857 to work more effectively on smaller, congested landings. Other enhancements include further improvements to service access, and in-tank hydraulic filtration for extended service intervals. The side opening engine enclosure completely exposes the engine and most hydraulic components. When open, the enclosure roof serves as a safe, spacious and convenient work platform. The harvester can be equipped with several Tigercat boom and harvesting head options including the 573 and 575. The feller buncher is well suited to the 5702 and 5702-26 felling saws and 5185 fixed felling saw.

Metsä Group is constructing a research and development laboratory in Äänekoski, Finland, dedicated to developing veneer-based wood products. Source: Timberbiz The new facility will be located alongside the new Kerto LVL mill currently under construction in Äänekoski. The laboratory is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, and the investment value is approximately EUR 6 million. The laboratory will be a test environment for researching and developing new high-value veneer-based wood products in collaboration with Metsä Group’s partner network. The investment will establish the conditions for testing material-efficient load-bearing structures and enable product research based on a broader raw material base. “We are enhancing the production process of our products to improve material efficiency and reduce environmental impact. “We aim to utilise our raw materials precisely and generate the highest possible added value. With the new research and development laboratory, the lead time of our research and development projects will be significantly shortened, accelerating the development of our product portfolio in the long term,” said Jaakko Anttila, Executive Vice President, Metsä Wood. The Äänekoski mill area in Finland is the largest of Metsä Group, housing the company’s cartonboard, veneer, and bioproduct mills. A new Kerto LVL mill is currently under construction in the mill area, with production expected to start by the end of 2026. Metsä Group’s Kuura textile fibre and Muoto fibre product pilot plants are also located in Äänekoski. A demo plant for lignin products is also under construction in the mill area, and it is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

In 2023, the global glue laminated timber market size was valued at approximately $US 5.3 billion and is expected to reach around $US 8.7 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period. Source: Timberbiz The primary growth factor driving this market is the increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly construction materials, coupled with advancements in adhesive technologies and rising awareness about the long-term benefits of timber structures. Glue laminated timber, being a renewable resource, fits perfectly into this paradigm. It not only reduces the reliance on steel and concrete but also offers superior strength and versatility, making it an attractive option for modern construction projects. Additionally, it contributes to better indoor air quality and provides excellent insulation properties, which further enhances its desirability. Sustainability and Environmental Benefits: Glulam is recognized for its eco-friendly attributes, including a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional building materials like steel and concrete. Its production from renewable wood resources aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable building practices Design Flexibility and Structural Performance: The material offers superior strength, design flexibility, and aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive choice for architects and builders. Its ability to span large distances without intermediate supports allows for innovative architectural designs. Technological Advancements: Innovations in adhesive technologies and manufacturing processes have enhanced the durability and reliability of glulam, expanding its application scope in various structural applications. The glue laminated timber market is set to experience robust growth, propelled by the increasing demand for sustainable construction materials, technological advancements, and supportive government initiatives. As the construction industry continues to prioritize eco-friendly practices, glulam is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable building solutions. The glue laminated timber market is characterized by a high level of competition, with several key players operating in the industry. Most prominent key players are: Stora Enso Binderholz GmbH Mayr-Melnhof Holz Holding AG B&K Structures Structurlam Mass Timber Corporation Boise Cascade Company Pfeifer Group Hasslacher Norica Timber KLH Massivholz GmbH Schilliger Holz AG Eugen Decker Holzindustrie KG

Dion McKenzie has joined Private Forests Tasmania (PFT) as its new Forestry Specialist and Jenna Hammond has joined PFT as Engagement and Innovation Specialist. Source: Timberbiz Ms Hammond is a committed and passionate communications and stakeholder engagement professional with continually growing knowledge of the forest industry in Tasmania and strong established relationships and networks. Most recently, she has worked for Sustainable Timber Tasmania as its Senior Engagement Advisor, working collaboratively with regional operations teams to navigate and engage a variety of stakeholders and to develop communications approaches that supported sustainable forest management practices and outcomes across Tasmania’s public production forests. In 2023, Ms Hammond’s enthusiasm, authenticity, highly engaging approach and work was recognised with Forestry Australia’s Princes of Wales Award for outstanding achievement as a young professional in forestry. Ms Hammond started with PFT on 14 April and will be leading Private Forests Tasmania’s engagement, communications and innovation activities. Her work will include delivering stakeholder engagement, marketing campaigns, partnerships and collaborations, communications and media management. She is excited to bring creativity and meaningful engagement to support facilitating and expanding the development of Tasmania’s forest resource on private land. Mr McKenzie has a background in farming and agricultural science; however, he is a career forester with more than 25 years’ experience working in a variety of roles for Tasmania’s public forest sector. In his extensive career following an agricultural science degree at the University of Tasmania, Mr McKenzie has worked as a soil surveyor, research technician, silvicultural technician, operational systems manager, technical analyst, forest manager, stakeholder engagement coordinator and engagement and land management manager. Across these roles, he notably enjoyed his experience working in plantations research and promoting best practice establishment and growing. Mr McKenzie thrives on helping people develop and improve their on-ground practice by sharing science-based knowledge in a style which is simple and meaningful and can be translated into effective operations. Mr McKenzie started with PFT on April 14 and will be providing information and resources to a range of stakeholders to support the implementation of programs and activities to facilitate and expand the development of sound forest and land management practice in private forests. He is based in the Hobart office and is looking forward to getting out and about across the state, visiting landowners and understanding their properties and questions.