Range has become the theme for cut-to-length harvesting suppliers both inhouse and as a sub-sector of the industry
Perhaps it was the timing of Elmia Wood in the European Summer this year that prompted machine technology suppliers to ready themselves for an assault on the harvesting market . Perhaps it was just coincidence . Or perhaps the improvement in the global economy , particularly emerging markets , has encouraged more building materials to be ordered . We could speculate all day around why equipment suppliers have chosen to invest in new innovations recently but all that matters to contractors is they have choice on a scale rarely seen before when it comes to the actual cutting tools on the end of their carriers .
With this technology review already stretching across a major chunk of this edition , we will keep the introduction brief , needless to say , if you ’ re a contractor in the market for a new head – there is definitely something in here for you .
Komatsu Forest offers a wide range of harvester heads for various types of logging . This is particularly true of the C-heads and the S-heads , where the C-heads are primarily adapted for high production , while the S-heads are known for their reliability . There are also custom-made heads for harvesting eucalyptus . The Multi- Tree Handling option is a way to further expand the range of use for the heads , as it helps keep the production high in forests
The Komatsu C124
with small stems or mixed forests . The function is available on the S82-S92 and C93-C144 heads .
C124 : refined head with four feed rollers The C124 is a versatile harvesting head that offers maximum productivity , quality and reliability . The concept of four driven feed rollers was introduced with the C144 and has proven to be a major market success . The design philosophy behind the C-heads is that the stem is held by the feed rollers .
They centre the stem , which ensures efficient feeding , while the low clamping pressure reduces friction , which means lower fuel consumption . The design also gives reliable length and diameter measurements . What ’ s more , on the C124 the diameter sensors in the delimbing knives are fixed , which means no calibration is needed after servicing .
The frame of the C124 combines light weight with retained strength . The felling link has a large tilt angle for effective harvesting in steep terrain .
This reduces strain on frame components , which has a positive effect on head reliability and operator comfort . The head has cast delimbing knives for maximum durability and good stem handling .
C144 : New Year model with many new options Komatsu C144 has been on the market since 2014 and is one of Komatsu Forest ’ s larger heads . In conjunction with the 2018 model
International Forest Industries | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2017 35