Feller Buncher
Feller-Buncher
A feller-buncher is a specialized type of harvester used predominantly in logging operations. This impressive piece of forestry equipment is equipped with an attachment designed to quickly gather and cut trees before they are felled. It is an essential tool in modern timber harvesting, where efficiency and safety are paramount.
Design and Operation
A feller-buncher is typically a motorized vehicle, either tracked or wheeled, which boasts a self-leveling cabin for enhanced operator comfort and safety. Its primary function is to perform the tasks of both felling and bunching trees. The machine is equipped with a robust tree-grabbing device that can be fitted with a chainsaw, circular saw, or a shear—a pinching implement designed to efficiently cut small trees at their base.
The versatility of the feller-buncher allows it to operate on various terrains. For instance, the tracked variant is particularly suited for steep slopes due to its high traction and stability, making it invaluable in challenging terrains.
Economic Aspects
The investment in a feller-buncher is substantial, with purchase costs around $180,000 USD. Additionally, these machines exhibit high fuel and lubricant consumption, contributing to their significant operational costs. With an approximate hourly cost of $99.50, it stands as one of the more expensive pieces of mechanical harvesting equipment when compared to grapple skidders and other similar machinery.
Role in Timber Harvesting
In the context of timber harvesting, the feller-buncher plays a critical role. It combines the tasks traditionally performed by a lumberjack, such as felling and preparing trees for transport, into a single, mechanized operation. This integration enhances productivity while reducing the manual labor required, contributing to both economic efficiency and worker safety.
The feller-buncher is often used in conjunction with other forestry machines such as the forwarder or skidder. These machines work in tandem to optimize the process of moving felled logs to collection points for further processing or transportation.
Manufacturers and Industry Impact
Several companies specialize in the production of feller-bunchers, with notable names such as Tigercat Industries, which introduced its first model, the Tigercat 726, in 1992. These manufacturers continue to innovate, enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of feller-bunchers to meet the demands of modern forestry operations.