millwide insider #37

THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 37

Insider

CAMBIO 800 DEBARKER MAKING BIG GAINS AT CARTER HOLT HARVEY

USNR’S NEW BOARD FEEDER THE LATEST TREND IN INSPIRED DESIGN

CARRIER LUMBER INVESTSIN PLANER INFEED, IMPROVES ITS PROCESS

USNR introduces more new products, designs and processes than any other manufacturer world wide. We make it a practice to leverage the exper tise and knowledge we’ve obtained through acquiring some of the best and brightest designs, and use that as a springboard to launch even better concepts. This issue is chock-full of examples of our creativity.

We’ve done it againISSUE 37

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tel.: 250.833.3028

[email protected]

EDITOR

Colleen Schonheiter

[email protected]

USNR

Woodland, WA, USA: +1.360.225.8267

Mon. - Fri. 5:00 am - 5:00 pm PT

24/7 Service: +1.360.225.8267

[email protected] | www.usnr.com

SÖDERHAMN ERIKSSON

Söderhamn, Sweden: +46.270.746.00

Mariannelund Sweden: +46.496.218.00

Mon. - Fri. 07:30 - 16:30 CET

[email protected] | www.se-saws.com

© 2015, U.S. Natural Resources, Inc.

All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to

1981 Schurman Way, Woodland, WA 98674.

Canada Post: Return Undeliverable Canadian

Addresses to: USNR c/o Colleen Schonheiter,

3550 - 45th Street Southeast,

Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1X1

VISION TILT

One of the benefits of the new cooperation

between USNR and Söderhamn Eriksson is

access to Vision Tilt. It is the only system on the

market that monitors and controls your band saw

per formance. It improves lumber size accuracy,

minimizes wear on saws, wheels and guides, and

lowers energy consumption. Check it out.

VIRTUAL LUG LOADER

It’s no secret that USNR is a master inventor

for its integration of new designs. Fresh off

the drawing board is a new board feeder, our

6th offering for this purpose, and likely the

most unique and elegant design you could ever

imagine. We call it the Vir tual Lug Loader, and

we think you’ll love it!

CARTER HOLT HARVEY

Australia’s largest lumber producer recently

installed a new debarking line at its facility at

Morwell, Victoria. Front and center in the line

is the Cambio 800 debarker, a workhorse that

is ably turning out higher production with no

increase in labor.

CARRIER LUMBER

A collaborative effor t reaped big gains for

Carrier Lumber with its newly redesigned

planer infeed line. USNR did the design and

engineering, and manufactured the proprietary

pieces, and Carrier ’s own exper t craf tsmen

turned out some of the more standard elements.

The result is inspiring.

CONTENTS

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Production has increased by approximately 15% and is continually rising. Downtime has dropped, and we no longer operate with a planer feeder.

In early 2013 USNR was awarded the contract to install a world-class planer infeed system at Carrier Lumber’s Tabor mill at Prince George, BC, to increase the throughput to match the speed of the planer. At the same time Carrier wanted to reduce downtime and the reliance on human intervention.

Working toward those same goals USNR had developed new technology that Carrier was eager to incorporate. The result is a planer infeed line that reflects inspired innovation, improving production significantly and reducing downtime, as well as the draw on resources.

Carrier Lumber

Design fits the billINNOVATION COMES FIRST FOR CARRIER’S NEW PLANER INFEED

Over the years Carrier and USNR have developed a great cooperative relationship that has

allowed both companies to innovate and thrive. This project at Carrier Lumber is a prime example

of a great result that can come with a collaborative effort between vendor and customer.

Millwide Insider | ISSUE 37 | www.usnr.com | www.se-saws.com4

Carrier Lumber dates back to 1951, founded by William Kordyban Sr. Today the company is still privately owned by his son, Bill Kordyban. In 1976 the company built on its current location, called the Tabor mill. The Tabor complex currently comprises a two line dimension sawmill, planer mill, dry sheds, a wood yard, and dry kilns. The mill has continually upgraded its equipment to enable it to maintain its reputation for producing high quality lumber, yielding 1x4” through 2x12” in 8-20’ (2.5-6 m) lengths of J-grade, Stud, Premium 2&Btr, #3 and Economy. Logs are obtained through the mill’s timber licenses supplemented with private wood, and are hauled from up to a 150 mile radius. The mill processes Lodgepole pine and spruce logs with a 4” top and up to a 24” butt. Sawmill operations in the Carrier group include Carrier Forest Products at Big River, Saskatchewan, a reload facility at Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, and a strategic alliance with First Nations and a local community that have spawned Cheslatta Forest Products at Ootsa Lake, BC. The combined total annual output from the Tabor and Big River mills is in the range of 500 million board feet (1.2 million m3) of lumber.

A significant story in its history, Carrier pioneered the development, manufacture and use of portable modular mills for fire and insect-killed salvage, all done in remote operations. Some of the equipment

in the company’s modern mill complexes at Tabor and Big River has been built with the portable mill concepts that Carrier Lumber developed at its own fabrication shop, touted to be the largest in Northern British Columbia.

Collaborative effor tBill Kordyban explained that the primary purpose for the investment was to increase production at the planer. The new planer’s location was upstream from the old machine, and necessitated a relocation of the existing infeed equipment. Bill decided it made sense to build an entirely new infeed that would keep pace with the faster planer capacity.

Bill continued, “We chose to work with USNR because we like to manufacture our own equipment and USNR was amenable to allowing us to manufacture much of it, while USNR produced those pieces of a proprietary nature. The infeed was therefore a collaboration between USNR and ourselves, which we always find very refreshing.”

Continuous Tilt HoistThe new planer infeed starts with USNR’s Continuous Tilt Hoist. The tilt hoist has evolved over time, with the latest design capable of unstacking up to 22 tiers of lumber per minute, depending on package size. This design incorporates linear transducers and servo valves, actuated

from the PLC, for continuous performance with no inhibitions based on environment (temperature, etc.). The Carrier system is designed for packages 5’-0” wide x 5’-0” high x 20’-5” long stickered, with packages stacked 2 high at the tilt hoist and dunnage between.

Bill Kordyban commented, “The continuous tilt hoist increased our production and provides smooth operation.”

Carrier also wanted to automate the stick/dunnage collection process. The new system efficiently separates sticks from dunnage. Bill advised, “This is now almost automated. We still have an attendant monitoring, and we are working with USNR to completely automate this process.” (See following pages for details about the Continuous Tilt Hoist.)

Vir tual lug loaderThe Virtual Lug Loader (VLL) is downstream from the lugged let-down and storage tables. The VLL is a unique design with no overhead feeding apparatus; it is fitted with a series of belts that are progressively adjusted to separate, then feed the boards into lugs. The design speed for this installation is 200 LPM to accommodate future planer mill requirements. The VLL lug loader is setup to run each of the product widths at the optimum speed and timing to minimize user intervention.

LUG LOADERPRE-GAP TABLE

VIRTUAL LUG LOADER

WANE SCANNERBOARD TURNERDUAL ARTICULATING GATE

MILLTRAK

NEW PLANER INFEED LINE

CARRIER LUMBER – DESIGN FITS THE BILL


MILLTRAK

VIRTUAL LUG LOADER

TILT HOIST INFEED CHAINS

CONTINUOUSTILT HOIST

The Virtual Lug Loader is controlled and monitored from above by the MillTrak lumber flow control system.

LUGGED LET-DOWN

PATENTED


For the Carrier Lumber application, the VLL uses 4 sets of belts to accommodate the planer infeed layout and lumber recipe, and a single MillTrak sensor controls both the backlog and actuation of the belts.

Bill is pleased with the operation of the VLL, “It needs no overhead feeding structures creating clutter, and operation is very smooth.” (See following pages for details about the VLL.)

Wane scanner, on-demand board turnerThe mill employed an older Newnes scan frame fitted with LPS geometric sensors to serve as a wane scanner. Bill said, “We wanted to orient the lumber “wane up” so any excess planing allowance would be removed from the waney face, which will result in a higher grade outturn.”

A board turner assembly is situated immediately downstream from the wane scanner, and turns only the boards as determined by the scanner. Two sets of turner arms are mounted on alternate sides of the board turner chains, and

each set of arms on the same side turns every second board (in effect, each board turning operation can be completed over 2 lug spaces to allow smoother operation). The turner arms move with the lug transfer so as not to inhibit the speed as boards are turned.

Downstream from the board turner is a dual articulating smart gate that drops out boards with excessive bow, twist, crook or moisture (moisture measured via moisture meter located immediately downstream from the scan frame).

The complete line features electric actuation with the exception of the smart gate that utilizes pneumatics, and the Continuous Tilt Hoist which uses hydraulics.

Meeting targetsBill reiterated that the goals for the new planer infeed line were increased production, smooth operation and labor savings. He commented, “Production has increased by approximately 15% and is continually rising. Downtime has dropped, and we no longer operate with a planer feeder.”

He noted some of the challenges in the project were attributable to first-of technology like the VLL and board turner. He said, “This challenge was overcome by training, and persistent technicians working long hours and committing to improvement as the start-up progressed.”

The Continuous Tilt Hoist increased our production and provides smooth operation.

The new board turner design turns only the boards as determined by the scanner. Two sets of turner arms are mounted on alternate sides of the board turner chains, and each set of arms on the same side turns every second board. The turner arms move with the lug transfer so as not to inhibit the speed as boards are turned.

Watch the line in action: https://vimeo.com/ 127765968

PATENT PENDING

CARRIER LUMBER – DESIGN FITS THE BILL


He also commented about the success of some key components in the line. “The Continuous Tilt Hoist works better and smoother than we anticipated.” He continued, “On the Vir tual Lug Loader with MillTrak control, our technicians need to become better versed with it. It is a gem to watch.”

As with any new system, training is essential to make the most of the technology and the investment. Bill commented that there was a steep learning curve with the new systems, but it is working out well. He gives credit to Aaron Parent, fabrication shop manager, and Dylan Tobin, plant manager, for making this project such a success.

The Tabor mill is well positioned with a new front end to its planer line. Bill’s plans for the future include investments to automate further down the line and handle the increased production the planer mill is realizing with its new infeed. USNR’s collaboration with customers like Carrier Lumber is a huge win-win. Both vendor and customer benefit from the shared talent, expertise and commitment, and can take great pride in the result.

The Virtual Lug Loader needs no overhead feeding structures creating clutter, and operation is very smooth. It is a gem to watch.

Pictured above, the new stick and dunnage collection system effectively separates sticks from dunnage and transports each into designated bunks via automated handling.

Top: Sticks exit the tilt hoist area onto a wide landing belt.

Middle: From the landing belt the sticks drop onto the stick transfer chains, where they are transported to the stick bunks.

Bottom: Dunnage goes to the same wide landing belt, drops onto the same transfer chains, and a chain shear drops the pieces of dunnage onto a belt that transports them to the dunnage bunks.


Developing new technology is a way of life at USNR. In a few shor t years we’ve introduced many new products, systems and processes to expand your capabilities. We’ve brought you new concepts like MyMill1, PGLR2, BioVision3, THG4 and BlockLogix5, new scanning systems like MillTrak6 and BioLuma7,

innovative configurations like cut-n-two that don’t require empty lug spaces, and a host of others. In answer to our customers’ challenges we’re leading the industry at adapting new concepts. Now we’ve developed a unique lug loading design that is elegant and effective. We think you’ll love it!

1 - Wireless mobile control, optimization

2 - Log turn correction and verification

3 - Transverse automated green mill grading

4 - Transverse automated dry mill grading

5 - XY lathe charger scanning based on ControlLogix platform

6 - Automated material flow control

7 - Industry-leading sensor technology integrating geometric, vision,

GrainMap™ grain angle measurement, and more

PATENTED

Virtual Lug Loader

Efficient design, less maintenanceELEGANT NEW CONCEPT OFFERS RELIABLE PERFORMANCE

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Our newest addition to our lug loader lineup is the Virtual Lug Loader™ (VLL). VLL uses a system of belts in combination with our MillTrak lumber flow control to quickly and efficiently load boards into lugs. This all-electric board feeding solution is a unique design with no overhead feeding apparatus; a series of belts are progressively adjusted to separate, then feed the boards into lugs.

The VLL lug loader can be setup to run each of the mill’s product widths at the optimum speed and timing to minimize user intervention. In a typical application two MillTrak sensors are mounted above the flow; the first controls the backlog to the VLL, and the second controls each successive sets of belts. The VLL operates at speeds up to 200 lugs/minute.

The design of the VLL looks deceptively simple. It uses the barest of mechanical apparatus to perform its task. With no cams, no cylinders, no overhead devices, lumber just flows seemingly effortlessly. Here’s why you’ll like it:

� Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance is required

� Far less chance of jam-ups than with other designs

� Reliable production, no matter what your product mix

� All electric, no pneumatics

� Better line-of-sight with no overhead feeding apparatus

� Efficient control via MillTrak mounted above the flow

The first Vir tual Lug Loader was installed at Carrier Lumber’s planer infeed area in early 2015, while interest in this new design is growing.

The VLL is USNR’s sixth board feeder, joining its counterparts: ElectraTong, QuadCam, Revolver, Gatling and Newtronic. With so many designs in its kit, USNR has a machine that will suit any budget, product recipe and throughput requirement. Contact us to learn which one is best for you.

New

Product Focus

Watch the VLL in action: https://vimeo.com/ 127765968

The first set of belts creates a gap by running faster than the chains on the upstream storage table. The second, third and, if required, fourth sets of belts (depending on product and application) successively correct the board’s skew. Each of these skew correction belts has its own motor for independent actuation, allowing the lug loader to straighten each of the skewed boards. The final set of belts (phasing belts) time the board to the lugged transfer, depositing each board into a separate lug.

� Immediately upstream from the VLL, a backlog table is controlled via USNR’s MillTrak system, with a sensor mounted above the flow.

� A gapping table with beltways initiates the gap between boards.

� Next is the skew correction table #1, where each of the beltways is independently driven to facilitate skew correction.

� Skew correction tables #2 and 3 also utilize independently driven beltways to complete skew correction.

� Finally the phasing table sequences the boards to the speed of the lugged transfer, while feeding them into the lugs.

� A second MillTrak camera is mounted above the VLL to control the beltways for gapping, skew correction and phasing actuations.

HOW IT WORKS

www.usnr.com | www.se-saws.com | ISSUE 37 | Millwide Insider


USNR’s Continuous Tilt Hoist has evolved over time, with this latest design capable of unstacking up to 22 tiers of lumber per minute, depending on package size. This concept incorporates linear transducers and servo valves, actuated from the PLC, for continuous per formance with no inhibitions based on environment (temperature, etc.).

How it worksA package advances to the tilt hoist and is loaded onto the primary hoist knees, then knees and frame tilt. Once fully tilted, the knees hoist the package until the top layer of lumber spills onto the lugged let down, and successive tiers continue to be indexed and spilled. When there is approximately 30 inches of package remaining on the primary hoist knees, the secondary hoist knees are extended into position via rack and pinion assemblies. Once into place, the secondary hoist takes over the indexing process from

the primary hoist, continuing to spill the remaining tiers of lumber. Concurrently, the primary hoist lowers and returns to the upright position to accept the next package. Then the primary hoist tilts back and hoists up its load to just below the secondary hoist knees.

When the secondary hoist has spilled its last tier, its knees will retract to allow the next package on the primary hoist knees to move up to the spill position. The secondary hoist frame will lower back to home position, ready for the next cycle. The

Continuous Tilt Hoist

NEW DESIGN UNSTACKS CONTINUOUS BLANKET OF BOARDS

Speed and agility

11

handoff from primary hoist to secondary hoist is in the range of 3 to 5 seconds, allowing for nearly continuous unstacking of lumber.

All hoisting and tilting is controlled with closed-loop feedback to servo valves from linear positioning transducers, resulting in precise and smooth control of the machine.

USNR has sold 6 tilt hoists with this latest design that was released in 2011, and a conversion of an existing tilt hoist to this design. Tilt Hoist conversions, either an older style continuous or beam style hoist, can be readily performed depending on the design of the equipment and the existing structural building, to allow the new components to be pre-assembled and brought into the structure. Contact us to discuss your best options.

Design Im

provement

Above: The secondary hoist nears the end of its load, while the primary hoist ascends from below to take over the next cycle.

Below: Frost thumpers are mounted to the tilt hoist frame to thump and separate the tiers of lumber from the load when frosty temperatures freeze the tiers together.

Watch the Continuous Tilt Hoist in action: https://vimeo.com/ 127765968


Cut-n-two / no skip-a-lugA conventional system demands that for every board that is cut-n-two, a lug space must be created to accept one half of the board. That requires the line to run faster to handle the additional boards that are produced. This new design allows the line to run at a consistent speed while cutting longer products.

After the board is cut in half at the trimmer both halves remain in the same lug space. The far end half of the cut-n-two board is diverted up an elevator where it is even ended to the clear line. Meanwhile the near end board remains on the lower deck and even ended to the lumber line, it travels up an incline and the two boards are merged again into the same lug space at the top, just prior to entering the sorter.

At the sorter, the clear line cut-n-two boards are diverted into the first sort bins along the clear line. All the full length boards and lumber line cut-n-two boards are diverted into downstream bins along the lumber line. Once the clear line cut-n-two boards reach the stacker infeed, a long rollcase shifts them to the stacker’s lumber line.

When presented with a challenge our teams strive to come up with a solid solution that will not only resolve the issue, but go one better. Case in point is a new process for handling cut-n-two lumber that was implemented as par t of a recent project. Along with a new planer mill trim/sor t/stack line, USNR introduced

a cut-n-two configuration that does not require the need to skip a lug. This allows the mill to expand its range of products, put more wood in the sor ter without a throughput penalty, and without increasing planer speed or labor.

Cut-n-two boards merge into the flow, prior to entering the sorter.

No more skip-a-lugREVOLUTIONARY CONCEPT YIELDS BIG GAINS IN PRODUCTION

Cut-N-Two Innovation


Rethinking the processThis configuration provides an opportunity for mills to make two short length boards from one lower value long length board, without sacrificing line speeds or throughput volumes. The improvements implemented at this mill removed significant bottlenecks, allowed it to expand its range of products, and reduce its operating hours.

Other configurations similar to this concept have subsequently been developed, such as side-by-side or tandem bins where each half of a cut-n-two board goes into a tandem bin fitted with independent bin floors.

Please contact us to discuss how we can reconfigure your lumber handling process to improve your line’s performance.

Process Innovation

The unique cut-n-two handling is achieved by splitting the flow via an elevator (top right). Clear line boards are even ended at the top of the elevator (right). Lumber line boards are even ended to the lumber line and travel up an incline.

Cut-n-two boards merge into the same lug space once again at the top (opposite page), prior to entering the sorter.

At the sorter, the clear line cut-n-two boards are diverted into the first sort bins along the clear line. All the full length boards and lumber line cut-n-two boards are diverted into downstream bins along the lumber line (bottom right).

Watch the Cut-N-Two system in action: https://vimeo.com/76635698

TRIMMER ELEVATOR

CLEAR LINE ENDING ROLLS

LUMBER LINE ENDING ROLLS INCLINE

CUT-N-TWO ENDS MERGE

NEW CONFIGURATION


The vision camera is mounted on the return

side of the saw blade where it is protected

by its enclosure, while it monitors the band

saw blade in real time.

Rörvik Timber in Myresjö, Sweden recently invested in an upgrade to its saw line. As par t of the project the company selected the Vision Tilt control system for its bandmill. Vision Tilt improves sawing accuracy and extends saw blade service life. The patent-pending

Vision Tilt system controls saw blades by actively tilting the band wheels. It can easily be installed in new and already existing band saw lines, processing any species, in any region worldwide.

Rörvik Timber

There isn’t any equivalent to the Vision Tilt system being offered by any other supplier.

Vision Tilt: ultimate band saw controlIMPROVED MEASUREMENT ACCURACY, REDUCED WEAR ON SAW BLADES, AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE


Rörvik Timber is one of seven sawmills in the Rörvik Group. The sawmill has a staff of 55, working two shifts. Annual production amounts to approximately 140,000 m3 (60 mmbf) of sawn spruce products in larger dimensions. The mill also undertakes further timber processing in its large finger-jointing facility. Rörvik’s products are sold primarily to builders’ merchants in Scandinavia and Germany, where requests often come for exact cut lengths of up to 13 m (43 feet).

Rörvik’s Production Manager, Tommy Halldin described the company’s reason for taking on the project. “We undertook a thorough evaluation of the entire sawmill and compiled a list of the main reasons for stoppages. We saw that there was great potential for improvement in this area. We are dependent on accurate measurements, and to achieve that the bandmill wheels have to be in exactly the right position.”

After implementing the new Vision Tilt system on the bandmill, Tommy described the positive results. “Besides improved accuracy, the wheels are now subject to less wear and the saw blades last longer. We feel much more confident that we are getting accurate measurements. We have also

improved our flaw detection in the saws, which gives us a great level of confidence. If a saw blade drops out, that can mean a big problem for the working environment, and serious damage to the equipment.”

Tommy explained why Rörvik chose to work with Söderhamn Eriksson (SE) on this project. “We already have several SE solutions in the sawmill and we were looking for a supplier who could take total responsibility for the equipment in the entire sawline. We were confident Söderhamn Eriksson would be an excellent partner for us. We are also aware that there isn’t any equivalent to the Vision Tilt system being offered by any other supplier.”

Efficiency is of vital importance to Rörvik. They recognize that competition is extremely tough, and raw materials are expensive. “It’s a matter of getting the best recovery from our raw logs and maximizing the efficiency of our production. We can’t afford not to be accurate. Vision Tilt contributes to both increased measurement accuracy and improved equipment life.”

Though the system had only been operating a short time, Tommy noted better value and volume recovery. “It’s too early to say, because we’re still in the running-in period. We are noticing, however, clear improvements when running at full speed.”

SE and Rorvik worked well together throughout the project, and have built a strong relationship. “Most of all, I appreciate having an open and well-functioning relationship that I feel is extremely valuable. We’re dependent on the assistance we are getting from Söderhamn Eriksson to be able to develop and make the improvements necessary to maintain and expand our position in the market for the future.”

We are dependent on accurate measurements, and to achieve that the bandmill wheels have to be in exactly the right position.

Besides improved accuracy, the wheels are now subject to less wear and the saw blades last longer.

We already have several SE solutions in the sawmill, and we were looking for a supplier who could take total responsibility for the equipment in the entire sawline.

With the Vision Tilt system a cut-out section

in the bandmill’s shrouding allows the vision

camera access to monitor the saw blade.


Vision Tilt, developed by Söderhamn Eriksson, improves your lumber sizes as well as saw blade service life. The patent-pending Vision Tilt system controls saw blades by actively tilting the band wheels and can easily be installed in new and already existing band saw lines. It is available for processors in every region, processing any species, both hard and softwoods, worldwide,

What makes Vision Tilt unique is that it detects deviations from the normal saw band position in real time and with very high accuracy. Using vision technology, it measures exactly how large the deviation is and triggers a signal that actuates the band wheel tilt to rectify the saw band position. The camera itself is placed behind a guard so that it cannot be damaged by saw band rupture or the like.

� Improves lumber size accuracy

� Minimizes wear on saw bands, band wheels and saw guides

� Reduces saw band rupture

� Lowers energy consumption

� Accuracy of measurement corresponding to ± 0.5 mm

� Applicable for new and existing band mills from any vendor, worldwide

The equipment includes a vision camera sitting protected on the return side of the saw blade. Level with the upper band wheel’s center, the camera monitors the saw teeth position in relation to the band wheel’s front edge. Incorrectly aligned saw blades over time generate cracks in the tooth base as well as wear on band wheels and saw guides. Vision Tilt actively corrects the saw band’s position on the band wheel, which not only minimizes wear but also improves sawing accuracy.

Besides the camera, Vision Tilt also includes a PLC with software for monitoring and adjustment. The surveillance images from all saws are displayed on one and the same screen for the operator’s visual information. The intelligent saw band control system alerts the operator to faults such as saw bands showing signs of imminent rupture.

Please contact us for more information about Vision Tilt and how it can benefit your bandmill process.

This screen capture shows how the

Vision Tilt camera monitors the saw

teeth position in real time, and in

relation to the band wheel’s front edge.

Over time, incorrectly aligned saw

blades will generate cracks in the tooth

base as well as wear on band wheels

and saw guides.

USER RECOGNITION

“This is a very smart solution that feels safe and reliable in every respect.” – Jörgen Törnqvist, Älgsjö sawmill, Sweden

HOW VISION TILT CAN BENEFIT YOU

RÖRVIK TIMBER – VISION TILT: ULTIMATE BAND SAW CONTROL

The combined product line of USNR and Söderhamn Eriksson offers a wider variety of advanced sawmill solutions, giving you more options when it comes to planning a project. More options means more opportunities for you.

Our expanded manufacturing capacity enables us to deliver more efficiently. You’ll soon discover the same experienced team you’ve come to count on is still designing, servicing, and supporting all of our products.

Combining our resources and expertise creates a winning combination for USNR, Söderhamn Eriksson, and for you.

More options. More opportunities.

www.se-saws.com Millwide. Worldwide. www.usnr.com


Car ter Holt Harvey Ltd. is Australia’s largest group of producers and distributors of lumber with several production facilities in their home country. Now they have invested in a new debarking line from Söderhamn Eriksson for their saw mill in Morwell, Victoria.

Mark Bass, Greenmill Reliability and Plant Improvements Manager at Carter Holt Harvey Morwell, describes why they invested in the new Cambio 800 debarking line from Söderhamn Eriksson.

“Our old equipment was worn out and about to give up,” he says. “Downtime periods got longer and longer, and maintenance costs skyrocketed. We opted for Söderhamn Eriksson’s equipment because it is perfectly suited for our capacity and our mixture of

species and log dimensions. In addition, the line was easy to fit into our facility without necessitating major changes.” Carter Holt Harvey’s experience with equipment from Söderhamn Eriksson also comprises a merry-go-round saw line delivered earlier.

“Their machines are reliable and built to last”, Mark Bass says, explaining why it was easy to opt for Söderhamn Eriksson once again. “The machinery is so productive that we can skip extra shifts and overtime

Carter Holt Harvey

The machinery is so productive that we can skip extra shifts and overtime to meet our production targets.

We opted for Söderhamn Eriksson’s equipment because it is perfectly suited for our capacity and our mixture of species and log dimensions.

INCREASED PRODUCTION, WITHOUT INCREASED LABOR

Cambio 800:Perfect fit


Among the improvements most important for

the customer is a feature making it possible

to stop the debarker at any time, no matter

where the log is,” explains Jonas Blomberg,

Cambio product manager. He adds, “Modern

processing lines rather avoid having a buffer

of debarked logs between debarking and saw

lines. This means that when the saw line stops,

also the debarking line must be stopped. And

this we have solved by making the debarking

tools open up when feeding stops.”

Debarking tools that automatically release the

log are essential for continuous feeding without

log gap, which increases capacity and is easy

on the wood and the machinery. Debarking

tools play a vital role in obtaining high-quality

debarking where all the bark is stripped from

the log without wood fibres following along.

This is why our debarking tools undergo

continuous development to ensure optimum

results independent of changing seasonal

conditions and raw material.

Another important improvement that Jonas

Blomberg is eager to point out are individual

drives for each feed roller. Earlier models

employed one motor with a chain transmission

driving all the rollers. “Our design is based on

redundancy. This guarantees robust systems

that operate independently and are resistant to

jam ups and stoppages.”

One more interesting feature is automatic control

of the feedworks’ pre-opening mode. This is

of great advantage when debarking unsorted

logs, as it reduces strain on the machine while

ensuring perfect log clamping. Two new infeed

conveyors which allow for increased feed

speeds, have also been developed. The new

infeed conveyors are designed to facilitate the

elimination of log gaps.

Another example of product development for

Cambio is a completely new debarking rotor

that is being tested by one of our customers.

“I would also like to tell you about our new,

patent-pending feedwork tensioners with power

transmission integrated into the feed roller

linking system. This reduces strain on the

machine frame,” says Jonas Blomberg.

And last but not least, the Cambio team is

working on comprehensive improvements for

the work environment. The machines should

be easy to service, and it should be clean and

pleasant to work inside a debarking facility.

to meet our production targets. This also makes it easy for our service people. As we have now increased production within a shorter period of time, we are able to shut down the line for scheduled service.” The installation was trouble-free, according to Mark Bass. He thinks the project was handled very well by all people concerned.

“From the planning stage through installation, everybody cooperated to achieve the best possible results for Carter Holt Harvey. My impression of Söderhamn Eriksson and their employees’ competence and know-how is very good indeed.”

With the new debarking line, the sawmill in Morwell has increased its production without increasing hours, decreased its overtime costs and gained time for scheduled maintenance. That’s how Mark Bass summarizes his company’s investment in Cambio 800.

Cambio debarkers are available in every region, processing any species, both hard and softwoods, worldwide,

Please contact us to learn more about our signature Cambio debarkers.

CAMBIO: IT GETS BETTER AND BETTER

A team of design engineers whose sole mandate is to further develop our Cambio debarkers, assisted

by fabricators and service technicians specializing in Cambio, comprise the experience and expertise

behind the many recent improvements in Söderhamn Eriksson’s debarking lines. The aim is a

smooth, continuous flow debarking line for optimum production and minimum maintenance.


Making every turn countLOG TURNING DESIGNED FOR MAXIMUM RECOVERY

PGLR Rotation Correction

USNR has made great advancements to improve scanning and positioning of the log for initial breakdown. USNR’s Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system is a key example. The PGLR system monitors and corrects the log rotation process in real time, and increases recovery by reducing log rotation error.

The PGLR scanning system is located at the log turner machine section. Four SmartTriCam 3D sensors scan the log as it is being rotated. The actual log rotation path is compared to the autorotation optimizer’s projected log rotation path to generate log rotation corrections. The log rotation corrections are transmitted to the PLC for correction of the log rotation path on-the-fly as it continues through the log turner. Log rotation error is typically reduced by 50% or more.

PGLR can compensate for log turning errors due to the following:

� Mechanical wear

� Feed speed changes during the turn

� Irregularly shaped and crooked logs

� Transfers from one conveyor to next

� Interaction with pressrolls

� Slippage and hesitations


One mill’s experienceAn installation at a mill in the Southeast US is proof positive that the PGLR system delivers impressive payback. Griffin Lumber Company at Cordele, Georgia is a family-owned operation. The mill processes Southern Yellow Pine logs from 5-24” diameters and 8-16’ (2.5-5m) long. Finished lumber ranges from 1x4” to 2x12”, but the vast majority of the mill’s production goes to 5/4 x 4” and 5/4 x 6” decking.

The operator feeds logs onto the autorotation vee-flight chain where it is first scanned with Smart TriCam sensors in a dual zone orientation, and the scanned image is sent to the MillExpert log rotation optimizer. The optimizer analyzes the image for sweep, and if the log exceeds a certain sweep threshold it is turned horns down. If the log is within the sweep threshold it is turned for best value.

Then the log passes through the PGLR sensors and is scanned as it is travels through the turners. The PGLR provides continuous feedback to the PLC about the orientation of the log to correct the log’s rotation on-the-fly and achieve the target turn angle.

After it has passed through the turners the log travels on a short flighted chain with centering rolls. The log is impaled on a very unique rising sharp chain. This setup is extremely efficient as the log does not need to be thumped onto the chain.

The log travels through two more scan zones and the scanned image is sent to the MillExpert canter optimizer to generate the best value solution. The log optimizer has a turn detect component that analyzes the actual orientation of the log and provides feedback regarding the accuracy of the turn.

The log travels through a side chipper\quad bandmill arrangement where opening faces are revealed, and sideboards are sawn off and sent to an outfeed that feeds the edger.

The cant remains on the sharp chain and is scanned by a single zone Smart TriCam scanner, and the cant image is sent to the System Quality Inspector (SQI) which provides QC analysis information for the mill. The cant exits the sharp chain onto an outfeed deck that feeds the gangsaw.

Recognizing the valueJesse Griffin said they chose USNR for several reasons. “We know USNR can optimize a log better than anyone out there, and start-ups have always gone flawlessly.” The Griffin team was clear about the significance of accurate log rotation, particularly on logs that need to be turned horns down for sweep. Because of their rising sharp chain arrangement they realized the importance of having two points of contact on the sharp chain on logs with lots of sweep. This could only be guaranteed with a PGLR system that would ensure the log was being rotated correctly.

The final performance test numbers tell the story. Jesse explained, “We ran 20 logs,

and 19 out of 20 were off 3.19 degrees and 18 out of 20 were off 2.84 degrees. We also only lost 0.375% of the volume from the initial scan to the final solution scanner. I don’t think anyone can argue against those kinds of numbers.”

Jesse continued,“It is a real testament to the whole system when you can scan a log, rotate it, impale it on the sharp chain, send it through the chip heads and saws, and the log only moves 3 degrees. That really shocked me when the results started coming in.” He continued, “We’ve seen enormous uplift in productivity and yield. We are very satisfied.”

To read the full story, go to: www.usnr.com/Griffin-PGLR.pdf.

To learn how PGLR can improve your recovery, please contact us.

We’ve seen enormous uplif t in productivity and yield. We are very satisfied.

The turn detector compares images of the log before and after the turner tomeasure the actual turn error on every log.

Product Focus


Battle Lumber – Trimmer Optimization SystemThe Battle Lumber mill at Wadley, Georgia is investing in a new Trimmer optimization system for its new tie mill operation. The system comprises a new scan frame outfitted with BioLuma 2900L HD laser profile sensors, and the MillExpert optimization platform.

The optimizer will improve recovery and increase uptime with simplified calibrations, improved diagnostics, and supportable hardware. The Trimmer optimizer supports linear positioner or stacked cylinder positioning fences and smart tipple configurations including trim/save, cut-n-two and trim/reman.

Bennett Lumber – Gang Optimization UpgradeThe Bennett Lumber operation at Princeton, Idaho is upgrading its Gang optimization system with MillExpert optimization paired with BioLuma 2900LX HD laser profile scanning. The PLC system will also be upgraded to the ControlLogix platform. Training for the new technology will be provided at USNR’s Woodland, WA facility.

Blue Nor th Forest Products – Trimmer Optimization UpgradeThe Blue North mill at Kamiah, Idaho is upgrading its Newnes Sawmill Suite Trimmer optimization system to the latest software version release, V7.2. This version release features improvements to some of the features including random width logic enhancements, shift rotation setup, operator assisted trim for grade, bow recovery for multi-board pieces, and more.

Boise Cascade – Veneer DryerBoise Cascade at Florien, LA has ordered a 6-deck, 21 section gas-steam Veneer Dryer. The new dryer will feature the Automatic Dryer Exhaust Control (ADEC) system and Cooler Pressure Balance Control that together are proven to reduce:

� thermal energy cost

� volume of dryer exhaust to be processed

� fugitive emissions at front of dryer

� hydrocarbon build up at front of dryer

� production labor cost

Boise Cascade – Core DriveThe Boise Cascade plant at Chester, SC is investing in a new Core Drive for its lathe. The Model 1380 Core Drive unit will minimize deflection of the block, allowing it to be peeled to very small diameters and thus improving recovery. The new technology also substantially reduces spin-outs at the chucks due to splits or soft ends in the block. This unit is designed to peel blocks in the range of 5” to 36” diameter.

Car ter Holt Harvey – Lineal Edger Opt. UpgradeCarter Holt Harvey at Hazelwood, Australia is upgrading its Newnes Sawmill Suite Edger optimization platform to the latest version release, V7.2. This new version improves Edger solution diagnostics, features Edger repositioning with risk analysis, full Trimmer decision logic, tailer setup to improve throughput, and more.

Also part of the project, the obsolete Hydra sensors will be replaced with LPL sensors, and modifications to the scan frame will accommodate the new sensors.

EACOM Timber – Planer Mill EquipmentThe EACOM Timber Timmins, ON mill is modernizing its trimmer line with a new Revolver Lug Loader and Multi-Track Fence.

Groupe Savoie – Horizontal Twin BandmillGroupe Savoie is investing in a 63” Horizontal Twin Bandmill Resaw for its plant at Saint-Quentin, NB. The equipment is scheduled to be started in early 2016.

Hood Industries – Counter-Flow Kiln & RepanelHood Industries at Waynesboro, Mississippi will install a new Counter-Flow Dry Kiln with Kiln Boss control system.

The company is also investing in a new roof, walls and gable end panels for an existing double track, steel framed dry kiln.The new panels will be pre-fabricated to 3” thickness utilizing the USNR panel design.

New Projects


Maibec – Log Sor ter OptimizerThis Saint-Pamphile, Quebec operation is upgrading its log sorting process with USNR’s MillExpert Log Sorter Optimizer system. The system will allow scanned logs to be sorted based on pattern, full breakdown solution, or geometric features including length, diameters, ovality, taper, sweep and surface variability.

Rex Lumber – Edger Optimization UpgradeThe Rex Lumber operation at Brookhaven, Mississippi is upgrading its transverse Edger optimization system with BioLuma 2900L laser profile sensors paired with MillExpert optimization. The MillExpert Edger Optimizer supports almost any machine type including traditional side-loading edgers to high-speed lineal systems with multiple scan zones.

Spanish Trail Lumber – Revolver Lug LoaderSpanish Trail Lumber has ordered a Revolver Lug Loader for its sawmill at Marianna, Florida.

Tulsa SA – Lathe Core DriveThe Tulsa SA veneer plant located at Lota, Chile has ordered a new M1396 core drive for its veneer lathe. This design will minimize deflection of the block as it is peeled to very small diameters. It substantially reduces spin-outs at the chucks that can occur with splits or soft ends of the block. This powered core drive design permits peeling incoming blocks from 5” to 36” in diameter, and takes advantage of diminishing block sizes to aid in usable veneer recovery.

Versowood Group – CamShif t 600The Versowood Group is Finland’s largest privately owned wood processing group with a total annual production of some 1.3 million m3 lumber. For its sawmill in Otava, Versowood has ordered a debarking line from Söderhamn Eriksson. The line includes a modular-designed CamShift 600 debarker with a pull-out rotor and separate feedworks.

The CamShift 600 debarks at feed speeds up to 130 m/min with one debarking rotor and features a log-releasing tool function as well as tool pressure adjustment during operation. The equipment is to be shipped from Söderhamn Eriksson’s manufacturing unit at Söderhamn, Sweden in mid-December 2015.

Western Forest Products – Headrig Carriage OptimizationThe Western Forest Products mill at Nanaimo, BC will upgrade its process with new carriage scanning and optimization. The system will feature MillExpert carriage optimization paired with LASAR2 3D sensors, for both front and back side scanning.

MillExpert optimization software has been installed very successfully in both softwood and hardwood carriage applications. Up to 300 degrees of log coverage can be achieved by adding back side scanning to the basic front side scanning system. Seeing the whole log allows for more accurate product fits on the front and back side of the log, which in turn leads to better recovery. Additionally, the back side scanner can be used as a backup for the front side scanner in case of a scanner failure.

COMPLIMENTARY SUBSCRIPTIONFor your complimentary subscription to USNR’s Millwide Insider magazine e-mail [email protected] or go to www.usnr.com/about/news

PO Box 310Woodland, WA 98674

Millwide Insider is printed on recycled paper.

NOV. 24–27 WOODEX Moscow, Russia

Christian Winlöf is Sales and Marketing Director for the Söderhamn Eriksson division, based at Söderhamn, Sweden.

Christian has worked for Söderhamn Eriksson (SE) for nearly 10 years, with experience in capital sales in a variety of geographical regions. In his current role he is responsible for managing the capital sales activities for the SE product lines world wide.

He recalls a few major projects he has been involved with, “The first sawline I sold in 2004 stands out in my mind, a Super Saver

line in north Sweden. Another was the new line installed at SETRA, Nyby Sawmill with the Eurosaw S6D, a new design at the time.”

Christian says he most enjoys interacting with customers all over the world, helping to improve their mills’ outcomes. He also appreciates his management role that affords him the opportunity to impact the SE organization to remain a top producer.

With his free time, Christian enjoys spending time with family, and golfing and boating in the summer, and hockey, skiing and snowmobiling in the long, dark Swedish winters.

DEC. 2 OptiSaw Montreal, Quebec

FEB. 2–4 IHLA Indianapolis, Indiana

MAR. 9–11 HMA Fort Worth, Texas

MAR. 22–24 Wood Convention Montreal, Quebec

APR. 6–8 COFI Kelowna, British Columbia

UPCOMING EVENTS

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