You may have heard of them: bunchers, skidders, fellers. These are just a few of the specialist machines used in the forestry industry. There are tools for bringing the trees down, removing branches, pulling them together, lifting them, and so on. Each machine at www.skylandequipment.com is a heavy duty piece of equipment only to be operated by fully trained professionals when these machines are in good condition.
The dangers of forestry work are extreme. Many men and women working in this industry are either maimed or killed during the course of a (sometimes painfully short) career. Still, manufacturers work hard to enhance safety and efficiency wherever they can.
One completely low tech safety feature is the bright coloring of most forestry equipment. It is typical to see pieces painted bright yellow, although white is not uncommon. Being seen is an essential part of forest safety since noise levels can cause confusion, and logging takes place in many isolated locations far from the nearest hospital.
Fuel economy is also important. Although these machines are running at low speeds and will be hauled in and out of a camp on the back of a transporter, they use a lot of fuel on the job owing to their size and the demands placed upon them. Ensuring good fuel economy means the boss can lower overheads and reduce harmful emissions.
Many of the components have become increasingly high tech over the years. There are the hydraulic lifting mechanisms and computerized systems, both of which can make running a machine easier, but fixing it more complicated. When a company buys its choice of logging machinery, it usually looks for brand names in the industry for a few reasons. If the engine and parts are recognized names, then it is relatively easy to find new parts for repairs. Also, brand names have lasted because they have proven themselves to be durable. Even a used skidder from a highly respected name in the industry is better than a shiny new unknown model.
The latest forestry skidders, log loaders, bunchers and fellers move more smoothly than their predecessors. Their parts are made of high tensile steel for heavy work in all kinds of conditions, snow and rain included. Designs take into consideration the chance of tipping so that the driver can remain upright even when taking on sharp dips and drops. Certain manufacturers customize their machines for discerning customers with highly specific requirements.