Tigercat Releases LX877 Feller Buncher

Canadian corporation Tigercat recently launched its second model in the new sloped tail, steep slope track carrier platform – the LX877 feller buncher, which is equipped with Tigercat’s well-proven closed loop drive system. Equipped with a 260 kW (350 hp) engine, it is best suited to high production, steep slope, mature-timber clear fell applications.

The updated model boasts optimized weight distribution and a low centre of mass, along with Tigercat’s patented super-duty leveling undercarriage, which provides the operator with comfort, stability, and confidence on sloped terrain.

One of the most important LX877 design features is the sloped tail profile. It provides increased leveling capability to 26 degrees, and better cable clearance in winch-assisted applications.

Tigercat also redesigned the ER boom system to provide a larger envelope with tighter tuck, and increased below-grade capability. Through-tip hose routing offers better protection of the boom hoses leading to the felling head. The boom has three operating modes – ER, semi-ER, and conventional – and can be set based on operating conditions, tree size, and operator preference.

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 top and both sides of the engine and most hydraulic components. When open, the enclosure roof serves as a safe, spacious and convenient work platform.

According to the company, the LX877 is best matched to the Tigercat 5702 and 5702-26 felling saws.

John Deere Debuts New Forestry Feature: TimberMatic™ Maps Auto Pickup for Skidder Line-ups

In October, John Deere debuted a new feature, the Auto Pickup, for its skidder line-up. The industry-exclusive feature within John Deere TimberMatic Maps makes it easier for skidder operators to collect production information while enhancing the ability to monitor job progress.

Without Auto Pickup, operators must manually interact with the display to show the production completed on the job. This time-saving feature simplifies the collection of operation, requiring less engagement from the operator.

“This brand-new feature was developed to help meet our customer needs and boost efficiency and awareness in the woods, and we are confident that Auto Pickup will improve jobsites and operator performance upon first use,” said Matt Flood, Product Marketing Manager at John Deere. “The technology will automatically collect critical jobsite data, taking the guesswork out of the collection process.”

Auto Pickup can be activated at the beginning of a shift by simply tapping an icon on the TimberMatic Maps display. Once engaged, the Auto Pickup feature stays on between key cycles unless manually disengaged. Therefore, the operator does not need to focus on frequently turning the feature back on, keeping the operator concentrated on the job.

Once activated, the operator simply selects the appropriate landing where loads need to be placed, and using machine intelligence, Auto Pickup will continually monitor machine functions to determine if a bunch is properly being picked up. As the operator picks up a bunch, Auto Pickup will automatically select it, and after an adjustable, preset amount of time, the bunch is added to the chosen landing. This new feature helps simplify the collection process, and is ultimately a hands-free method, requiring less engagement from the operator.

While using Auto Pickup, skidder operators no longer need to pause and track their production. This helps confirm that production information and inventory moved to the loader is up to date in live time, instead of calculated hours after collection. As the job progresses, production data and logging routes are updated in real-time on TimberMatic Maps, displaying the actual status of the jobsite, helping to minimize guesswork. While Auto Pickup data is being collected, owners, supervisors and foremen can monitor live progress remotely using TimberManager. This provides full visibility of a jobsite from any remote location, minimizing the need to be present on the logging site to monitor operations.

Auto Pickup is now available on existing machines where TimberMatic Maps is installed.

To learn more about Auto Pickup technology, as well as the full suite of John Deere forestry solutions, visit www.deere.com/en/technology-products/forestry-and-logging-technology.

Volvo Unveils New-Gen Articulated Haulers Packed with Productivity and Safety Upgrades

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has fully revamped its lineup of articulated haulers, while continuing to provide cutting-edge, safe, and productive solutionsfor the most rugged worksites.

The seven new-generation models include significant updates to the 28 to 61-ton articulated dump trucks and an entirely new size class with the 50-ton A50. This launch marks the latest makeover of a Volvo CE product line, following the introduction of the company’s new-generation excavators in 2024.

Updates in the new articulated hauler series include improved fuel efficiency, a redesigned cab with a host of new features, enhanced safety, simpler maintenance, and much more.

“Articulated haulers handle some of the toughest tasks in the most challenging terrain,” said Tyler Smith, Product Manager – Articulated Haulers. “We took customer feedback and completely redesigned what was already the world’s best articulated hauler lineup. These new Volvo haul trucks are built to be the workhorses customers need to get their toughest jobs done on time and on budget.”

Enhancements in the new haulers include:

• A new electronic system and a new Volvo-developed transmission help reduce fuel usage across the product range. 
• A predictive gear selection that adapts to operating conditions
• A downhill speed control function relies on Volvo’s industry-leading braking systems to further enhance efficiency, safety, and comfort.
• A frame and body design that provides market-leading tipping clearance and material flow when dumping, minimizing the need for support equipment on the jobsite. 
• An optional overhung tailgate with longer arms for a quicker and wider opening when dumping.
• A redesigned cab with a larger floor area, new hanging pedals and steering wheel, a heated or cooled storage box for food and drink, an adjustable seat, Bluetooth® connectivity, USB ports for charging devices, ergonomic levers and switch layouts, and better noise reduction.
• A startup button now found at ground level, illuminating the stairs and booting up controls. 

The new haulers are engineered for durability with reinforced axles that are capable of withstanding heavier loads and higher torque. Safety is also prioritized with new harness anchor points in the cab that meet OSHA and WorkSafeBC regulations.

Maintenance is now safer, simpler and faster because of longer service intervals and easier component access. A new access ladder is hidden under the hood, and the hood can be raised or lowered with the push of a button. The entire engine compartment is illuminated, and the condenser package has moved to the right side of the cab.

Additionally, industry-leading greasing intervals of 250 hours eliminate the need for daily or weekly greasing, further boosting productivity and reducing downtime. In general, Volvo articulated haulers require less fluid volume than other brands, which benefits the environment and reduces operating costs.

Volvo’s updated models make it even easier for them to stay in-the-know with two in-cab screens that display essential information.

The updated interactive Volvo Co-Pilot display offers easy control of functions like media, camera settings, climate control, and machine status. A dynamic instrument cluster positioned in front of the steering wheel provides important vehicle data at a glance.

The new-generation A35, A40, A45 and A50 are available to order in North America starting in Q1 of 2025, with additional models launching later in 2025 to round out the full lineup of seven models.

Learn more about the new Volvo ADT series at www.volvoce.com/united-states/en-
us/products/articulated-haulers/wild.

Comact Introduces Game-Changing Hybrid Sawline

In January, Comact launched the new hybrid sawline, which is designed to address the evolving challenges of the sawmilling industry. Combining circular saws, bandsaws, and advanced smart technologies, this – literal and figurative – cutting-edge system sets a new benchmark for speed, flexibility, and operational efficiency in handling a wide range of log diameters.

Comact’s hybrid sawline is a transformative solution, able to slice through a broad range of log diameters. The sawline’s ability to seamlessly integrate multiple cutting modes – including double profiling, quadruple circular cutting, and sideboards splitting – enables mills to produce diverse lumber products on a single line, optimizing recovery and reducing costs.

The hybrid sawline is further strengthened by Comact’s Smart Vision system, powered by artificial intelligence. This advanced technology optimizes log feeding to ensure a smooth and consistent production flow. Complementary features like the Primary Breakdown Closed Loop Smart Tool enhance precision and value recovery, offering sawmills greater efficiency and automated quality control.
The introduction of the hybrid sawline underscores Comact’s commitment to driving progress in the wood processing industry. This launch reflects a century-long dedication to providing solutions that empower sawmills to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Learn more at www.comact.com.

Epiroc Launches Battery-Electric Scooptram ST10 G Underground Loader for Smaller Drift Sizes

In January, Epiroc launched the Scooptram ST10 G, which brings Epiroc’s industry-leading benchmark in safety, productivity, and battery autonomy, to smaller drift sizes. Built on well-proven technology from the field, the underground loader is now added to Epiroc’s leading electrification portfolio, featuring a payload capacity of 10 tonnes – and up to four hours of drive time on a single battery charge.

“Scooptram ST10 G is a great choice for forward-thinking mines aiming to go electric in drift sizes down to 3.5 x 3.5 meters – with maintained control of their investment costs,” says Mary Zhu, Global Product Manager of Scooptram. “Based on the reliable Scooptram ST1030 and paired with our proven electric drive train and battery system, the technology used in this 10-tonne loader already has thousands of hours from customer sites.”

With a nominal battery capacity of 270 kWh, the Scooptram ST10 G can operate up to four hours without stopping. The battery can be swapped if needed or benefit from on-board opportunity charging through a standardized CCS charging interface. The battery also features active and passive safety systems to meet the highest safety standards.

“Working with open standards and OEM agnostic solutions is an essential part of our electrification offering that makes the transition towards electrification easier for our customers,” said Mattias Petterson, Global Portfolio Manager Loaders. “The electric infrastructure and chargers can support not only our own machines – but also other equipment in the mine, which is crucial to help accelerate the transformation towards more sustainable mining operations.”

Compared to a traditional diesel-powered underground loader, one single battery-electric Scooptram ST10 G can lower CO2 emissions with up to 262 000 kg per year. At the same time, toxic gases, heat, and noise are significantly reduced for operators working in the mine. Adding to that, the overall efficiency of the powerful electric drivetrain reduces maintenance cost and improves productivity.

The Scooptram ST10 G also improves ergonomics and overview by introducing a large 10-inch touch display inside the FOPS/ROPS approved cabin. This gives operators easy access to battery status from the on-board battery management system, as well as other machine data.

Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining and infrastructure customers, with a goal to accelerate society’s sustainability transformation. Epiroc develops and provides innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and tools for surface and underground applications. Learn more at www.epiroc.com/en-ca.

Waratah Forestry Equipment launches new HX line with Trio of High-Performance, Extreme Application Heads

Waratah Forestry Equipment recently launched an all-new HX line with its 624HX and 626HX harvester heads and purpose-built LPX loader-processor head. Building on generations of Waratah HTH attachments, the new extra-large harvester and loader-processor heads have been redesigned for extreme applications.

“All part of our new HX (harvester extreme) line, the 624HX, 626HX and new loader-processor LPX are more durable and higher performing than previous models,” said Brent Fisher, product marketing manager for Waratah.

“We understand the challenges loggers face to produce more wood each day, and we listen and evolve our products to meet their needs. These heads are designed to deliver tremendous performance so our customers can confidently take on extreme applications and experience measurable results.”

Weighing in at 3990 kg (8,796 lb.), the redesigned 624HX harvester head delivers impressive log picking, feeding, and handling with unmatched uptime. This efficient 600-Series head provides the durability, reliability, and speed loggers need to maximize every minute of work.

The new 626HX harvester head redefines Waratah’s legendary Bigwood head with even more performance. Weighing in at 4600 kg (10,141 lb.), this 600-Series head takes feeding and delimbing to the next level. Its large 950-mm (37.4-in) sawing capacity helps boost productivity day in and day out.

In addition, the 624HX and the 626HX boast a slew of beneficial HX-line features. The main frame and tilt frame provide improved durability and are optimized for weight and strength. The heads feature stronger clamping force to provide better log grip at the deck and holding power.

With HD-swept profile delimb arms, the 624HX and 626HX feature improved log picking thanks to larger delimb openings. Feeding is improved by new diameter sensor technology, while arm design helps log transport. Larger saw capacities, improved saw control plus larger saw motors contribute more efficiency and power to the cut.

A new main control valve provides better flow, cooler operation and higher working pressures. It also allows an improved layout and better feed-motor synchronization. The valve cover is stronger and sleeker with tough hinges and a quick latching system.

Features like the new auto-tension top saw, an improved measuring arm design, a hinged and removeable oil tank and feed arm hose bulkheads contribute to accessible and simplified servicing. Easy-access grease points and grease banks enable the greasing of the entire head in less than 15 minutes.

Loggers can tailor the heads to their operation with options like higher-torque feed motors, a variety of feed wheels, dual rotate motors, LED and SED colour-marking systems and more.

The all-new LPX is a purpose-built loader-processor head that includes many of the new HX line features. With a weight of 4070 kg (8,973 lb.), this durable head is built to work in tight spaces, with balanced grapple and processing capabilities to improve daily productivity.

The LPX makes no compromises on log processing quality. Its wide grapple opening and two delimb/grapple arms provide optimum delimbing, deck processing and log handling to keep timber moving.

The new auto-tension top saw on the LPX has even more capacity, allowing for sawing large-diameter or multiple logs, and greater rotate torque and power improve log placement capability. Additionally, the high, wide saw box improves log picking over the side of a landing. The LPX’s sleek, short-tilt frame tilts for feeding and decking logs on slopes and reduces swinging for smoother operation in and out of the log deck. It also provides better servicing and valve accessibility than previous LP models.

The LPX, 624HX, and 626HX heads all use the TimberRiteTM H-16 control system for optimum head performance, productivity and measuring accuracy. These heads are now available to customers in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, Brazil, and Latin America.

Volvo CE Premiering First-Ever Zero-Emission-Only Lineup at Bauma 2025

Volvo CE is set to make history at Bauma 2025 on April 7-13 with the unveiling of its first-ever zero-emission-only lineup. This showcase will feature an exclusive all-electric range and marks a significant milestone in Volvo CE’s commitment to sustainable innovation.

The company’s all-electric lineup is designed to meet the diverse needs of the construction industry, offering cutting-edge technology and efficiency. The show will also see the worldwide, never-before-seen launch of a brand-new Volvo zero-emission machine designed for use in key industrial segments in the construction industry.

In addition to its zero-emission lineup, Volvo CE will also illustrate that conventional diesel options are available to customers for all zero-emission models on display. These models are engineered to deliver industry-leading fuel efficiency, with improvements of up to 15%, and exceptional productivity. This multi-technology approach ensures that Volvo CE continues to provide versatile solutions that cater to a wide array of customer requirements, wherever they are in their transformation journey. According to the company, the showcase at Bauma 2025 represents Volvo CE’s most extensive product portfolio overhaul in decades. With over 35% of its range renewed in the past 12 months, Volvo CE is setting the stage for the future of construction equipment.

“We are at a critical moment in our industry’s transformation,” said Melker Jernberg, President of Volvo CE. “With our biggest launch ever, featuring a range of versatile technologies, we are prepared to offer
industry-leading products, services, and solutions to assist customers at any stage of their transformation journey. We stand firm in our commitments to innovation, sustainability and leadership in the industry.”

Komatsu Announces New TimberPro TN230D Log Loader

Komatsu is pleased to introduce its newest log loader, the TimberPro TN230D. The new machine was built from the ground-up, based on customer and distributor feedback, and was carefully engineered to help improve productivity and provide additional operator benefits.

The 197-HP TN230D offers a 36-foot reach and 58,224 foot-pounds of swing torque. It also features Power Max, which temporarily increases engine horsepower and hydraulic flow to support tough forestry tasks.

The machine is built with proven, high-quality Komatsu components and its hydraulic system, powertrain, control valve, and interior components are designed and manufactured in-house to help ensure performance and quality control.

The TN230D is the first machine in its class segment to feature dual service platforms with electrically actuated platforms on the left and right sides, offering improved access for service and cleaning.

New benefits include easy access via a large, rear entry cab with service walkways and safety railings, premium heated and cooled seats with adjustable armrests, an elevated cabin with large windows and a front view camera to improve visibility, LED lights and a large overhead skylight.

“We know how demanding forestry environments are – the tough work requires equipment capable of standing up to the job,” said Kyle Kovach, Product Planning Manager. “When we set out to develop a new log loader, we gathered feedback on customer needs then unleashed a team of talented engineers to design this product from the ground up. The result merges quality components with the latest technology to offer a range of productivity, safety and comfort benefits.”

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. For more information, visit www.komatsu.com.