thinking outside the box

Millwide
INSIDER
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | MARCH 2009
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
A novel approach pays off for an Australian mill
NO MORE BOTTLENECKS
UK Mill’s upgrade leads to higher production and recovery
SURVIVING THE TIMES
You can take action to get through difficult times
Millwide
INSIDER
MARCH 2009
Subscriptions
Tel.: 250.833.3028
[email protected]
Editor
Colleen Schonheiter
[email protected]
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Sonia Perrine
[email protected]
It’s a small world.
The world is getting smaller. We only have to look at the current
USNR Parts & Service
7/24 Service: 800.289.8767
Tel.: 360.225.8267
global economic woes to see exactly how inter twined our
economies are, and how factors in one area soon expand to affect
Fax: 360.225.7146
Mon. - Fri. 5:00 am - 4:30 pm PT
www.usnr.com
other areas.
While servicing our customers in Nor th America, for many
years both USNR and Newnes-McGehee have also set our sights
Newnes-McGehee Parts & Service
7/24 Service: 250.832.8820
on markets beyond those borders. We’ve had a lot of success,
Tel. :250.832.7116
Fax: 250.833.3032
we’ve cultivated many impor tant business relationships, and we’ve
gained a lot of friends along the way. We’ve learned many things
about how wood is processed in other regions and the challenges
Mon. - Fri. 5:00 am - 4:30 pm PT
www.newnes-mcgehee.com
those sawmillers face in their markets. We’ve also learned about
USNR Locations
Woodland, WA
the unique proper ties of different species of wood, and how those
Headquar ters
unique proper ties affect the way the wood is processed and the
360.225.8267
markets it is suited for. We’ve learned to adapt our systems and our
business to serve the needs of customers in global regions.
In this issue we bring you examples of how sawmillers outside
of Nor th America are adapting their processes to solve problems.
We also offer you some ideas for how you can resolve some of
Salmon Arm, BC
Hot Springs, AR
250.832.7116
501.262.1010
Plessisville, QC
Jacksonville, FL
819.362.7362
904.354.2301
your own operational issues. Lastly, we want you to be assured
that no matter where you are located, we are ready with a team
Parksville, BC
Eugene, OR
of exper ts to suppor t your systems. In this small world, your
250.954.1566
541.485.7127
success means our success!
Sincerely,
Colleen Schonheiter
Editor
© 2009, U.S. Natural Resources, Inc.
All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address
changes to 558 Robinson Road, Woodland,
WA 98674. Canada Post: Return Undeliverable
Canadian Addresses to: USNR c/o Colleen
Schonheiter, 3550 - 45th Street Southeast,
Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N2
Australia’s WESPINE
WESPINE Industries is not afraid
to take an unusual approach to
solve a problem. Recent capital
improvements are proof of just
how far outside the box it can get.
WESPINE Industries is located near the southwest tip
of Australia, in the state of Western Australia (WA).
The company is privately held and jointly owned by
Wesfarmers Limited and Fletcher Building Limited.
The WESPINE sawmill has been in operation since
1985 and specializes in processing Radiata pine,
a premium quality plantation timber. Radiata pine
comprises 90% of WESPINE’s log intake, with
the balance in Pinaster pine (which is also grown
extensively in western France). Pinaster is denser
than Radiata and more difficult to saw and dry.
WESPINE draws its saw logs from both WA
government owned and private pine plantations.
In 1991 it signed an agreement giving it a 40-year
supply contract for the supply of logs, ensuring a
secure source of raw material. The mill typically
processes in the range of 400,000 tonnes of logs per
year. Minimum diameter is 180 mm (around 7”) and
maximum is close to 750mm (30”). Around 15% of
volume is in diameters 450mm (18”) and greater.
The main thicknesses produced in Australia for house
framing are 35mm (planed size) and 45mm. In WA,
45mm is mostly preservative treated for outdoor use.
The main widths are 90mm (nominal 4”) through to
190mm (nominal 8”).
The sawmill’s capacity is approaching 200,000m3
output annually, however the global economic slowdown is having a marked effect on home building in
WA where the market is down by approximately 25%
on levels of a year ago. There is significant pressure
on prices, and wood processors in the region predict
the worst is yet to come because Australia’s economy
tends to lag the rest of the world.
In the mid-90’s WESPINE seized the opportunities
presented by a steady supply of raw logs and, at
the time, a strong market. The company set out
on a journey to increase its production capacity,
productivity and recovery. Consecutive capital
investments were made as follows: 1993, NewnesMcGehee sawmill lumber handling (optimized
trimmer, sorter and stacker); 1997, USNR optimized
board edger; 2003, Newnes-McGehee curve saw gang
A novel approach pays off
and planermill lumber handling equipment; 2005,
Newnes-McGehee Linear High Grader (LHG) automated
grading system; and 2007, USNR extended length
infeed line. Richard Schaffner, Business Development
Manager for WESPINE, explained the capital upgrade
process, “The continuous improvement drive led us to
do things in what may seem, to others, to be a strange
sequence. We made the upgrades in the sequence
shown very deliberately because each project showed
to be the next logical step and produced the best
incremental returns. We aimed always to get each
project settled in and working well, our people trained
and familiar with the new equipment, before we took
the next step. Our people now believe that constant
change is normal, and are eager to grapple with the
next challenge, whatever it is!”
The mill’s evolution to adapt new technology to
its process has been a carefully thought out and
carefully planned progression. Schaffner explains,
“We have followed a path of incremental, evolutionary
development and expansion over the last 15 years,
and will continue in this vein, I suspect. We endeavor
to understand new technologies in the context for
which they have been developed before we look at
what we could do with that technology. We do not
invest speculatively, and never on a whim. Projects are
carefully investigated by a team, options assessed, and
we only proceed to board presentation when all team
members are satisfied that the project is worthy.”
One-of-a-kind primary breakdown line
WESPINE may be cautious about incorporating new
technology, but certainly not faint of heart when it
comes to innovative thinking. One case in point is
the distinctive design of its USNR primary breakdown
line, that includes reciprocating a center cant back
through the quad bandmills for a second pass, thus
eliminating the need for a resaw. When asked about
the inspiration for this novel design, Schaffner
explained, “This came from the team approach.
Someone said, ‘Why should we have another whole
machine center when, given our relatively small
total volume, a new quad bandmill is going to spend
around one third of its life cutting air?! Wouldn’t it be
great if we could bring a center-cant from large logs
back to the infeed side of the saws for a second pass
without moving it off the sharp chain?’” It sounded
like the idea had merit, so it was presented to the
USNR team. After some careful consideration – and
head scratching – the design got off the drawing
board, and has since proven to be the correct
approach for this application.
The primary breakdown line also incorporates
USNR’s Precision Log Rotation (PLR) system, that
closes the loop in the data flow, allowing the system
to increase recovery by providing feedback that is
used to calculate the exact degree of turn, and then
correct the turn before the initial cut is made. USNR
system designers report that some mills have realized
recovery uplift in the range of 6-8 points with this
MARCH 2009 | Millwide INSIDER
system. Launched in 2005, the PLR system is proving
its worth in 12 installations.
Here’s how the system works. A log is presented
to the log belt conveyor, where it travels through the
scanning and positioning tools. At the log turning
optimizer, the trailing end of the log is marked and
a sensor takes the reference angle of the log. The
log is scanned and the optimizer determines the
optimal breakdown solution, which is passed to
the log turner via the PLC. The log turner performs
the initial turn, a sensor at the log turner measures
the exact degree of log rotation comparing the
reference angle with the new (uncorrected) angle,
then sends the data to the PLC to instruct the log
turner to perform a corrected rotation. The log turner
completes the corrected turn, and the log travels
on along the V-style conveyor through the Extended
Length Infeed (ELI) section that slews and skews to
further refine the log’s position for optimal recovery.
At the far end of the ELI is the Vee-Chipper. The
chipper’s design ensures the log is firmly held in
place, knives continually making contact with the log
at the bottom of the chip head, no matter what size of
log is presented, which allows the chipping action to
work with the log motion to create a superior surface
finish. The quad bandmill is located 7.2 metres (24
feet) behind the Vee-Chipper with the sharp-chain
running from the chipper, through the bandmill to the
sideboard separation unit. The bandmill removes side
boards from the exposed sides of the cant. When a
small log (180mm to 450mm) is processed the cant
continues on to the single-arbor gang. When a larger
log (450mm and greater) is processed, the thicker
sideboards that normally result would be routed to a
resaw. This system, however, is different. Once the
cant has cleared the bands, the bandmills and chip
heads open up and the cant is fed backwards on the
sharp chain until it is again on the infeed side of the
bandmills. The quad bandmills are reset and the cant
is fed through for a second pass, cutting additional
Millwide INSIDER | MARCH 2009
side boards before travelling on to the curve sawing
gang system. This solution is ideal for this site
because of the relatively small percentage of logs that
are large enough to require reciprocating the line.
Making grades
The Newnes-McGehee LHG automated grading
system was installed in 2005 equipped with profile
measurement and x-ray technology, and so far has
been used to assist and reduce the manual grading
component. Schaffner explained, “Our aim with the
LHG was to supplement the data from a machine
stress grader with information about the size and
location of knots. Knots had always been graded
visually before-hand. I believe that we had 4 people
grading per shift. We are now down to 1 visual
grader per shift who looks primarily for resin (pitch)
pockets and canals. The LHG has made a dramatic
difference to our operation and to the reliability of
our end product.”
WESPINE has really taken its LHG “to the limit”,
making the absolute most of the technologies with
which it is currently equipped. Extensive analysis
by the mill’s LHG team along with thorough training
has enabled it to perform to a very high level; the
next logical step would be the addition of vision
technology to further reduce manual intervention.
Vision technology would incorporate the capability
to detect fully assembled characteristics such as
knots, holes, stain, pitch, splits, shake, etc. as well
as non-contact stress grading for MSR/MEL lumber.
The Team approach
The WESPINE projects team comprises Leith
Shepherdson, who has recently taken on the role of
Operations Improvement Manager, Mill Manager Greg
Duff, Graeme Dickson who is Sawmill Supervisor,
and Wayne Luvis, Planermill Supervisor. David Fry is
Project Engineer, working closely with Paul Ferrari,
Maintenance Engineer. James Szabadics heads the
company’s Electronic Systems Group, and Richard
Schaffner, Business Development Manager, rounds
out the team. Marketing Manager Gary Kiddle provides
market input to all production development projects.
These people have been instrumental in bringing the
mill to its current state.
Schaffner had only good things to say about
working with the teams at USNR and NewnesMcGehee. “We have developed a very strong
working relationship with the USNR and NewnesMcGehee teams over the years. Importantly, our
people have grown to understand how USNR’s
engineers and technical folk approach problem
solving, project design, implementation, etc. and
can therefore interpret and rely upon all information
that we exchange. Communication is absolutely
fundamental, as is the will to work with others. We
believe that establishing on-going partnerships with
our key suppliers is fundamental to our business,
and we are very pleased to have established just
this sort of relationship with USNR and NewnesMcGehee. As we have learned to be better users of
technology, our relationships have strengthened.”
WESPINE’s investments in capital projects over
the past 15 years, its practice of taking each step
along the way with forethought, and putting in the
time and effort to adapt its processes and its people
to the technology, positions it well to take advantage
of good markets and ride out poor ones. Schaffner
reports that over this same period of time, the
company has seen a sharp increase in productivity
per employee, and an increase in fiber recovery of
about 35%. Whatever is next on the horizon for this
company, it has all the elements in place to expect a
successful journey.
LHG
On Target.
Whether your target is to reduce labor costs, control
below grade or reduce above grade in your packages,
LHG offers the performance to help you hit your mark.
On Grade. On Target.
Contact us at [email protected]
www.newnes-mcgehee.com
Lineal High Grader
Hit your target with LHG:
Reduced trim loss
► Above grade reduction
► Below grade control
► Positive grade
distribution shift
► No lug speed limits
► No elevation changes
►
Millwide. Worldwide.
► ALSC
recognized
► 3000 fpm autograding
► Integrated MSR/MEL
► Cut ‘N 2, 3 or 4
► 40+ sold
► Global installations
► Graderless
A Division of USNR
UK mill upgrade
improves production and recovery
Over the past 18 months, BSW
Timber’s Carlisle Sawmill has
seen capital improvements that
have removed bottlenecks in
the production process, leading
to increased piece counts and
better recovery.
BSW Timber is the largest sawmilling group in Great
Britain, with five mills based in the UK and a mill in
Latvia. Carlisle is the newest mill in the UK group,
with annual output in the range of 200,000m3. The
mill processes Sitka spruce harvested from within a
100 mile radius of the mill, with logs ranging in size
from 14-40 cm in diameter. The mill typically runs
two shifts per day, 5 days per week, but has curtailed
that slightly through the winter period due to slowing
markets. Products coming from the Carlisle mill
include lumber for the construction industry, fencing
and heat treated timber for pallets, and are sold
entirely within the UK.
With bottlenecks created as a result of outdated
lug loading and PLC system, the Carlisle mill first set
out to update its controls and optimization technology
on its board trim line in 2007, and then its deal trim
line in 2008. USNR was selected as vendor of choice.
The board line produces products 16-47mm thick,
75-225mm wide, and up to 4.8m long; the deal line
Millwide INSIDER | MARCH 2009
produces 19-150mm thick, 50-250mm wide and up to
4.8m long material.
The trim lines were designed to be nearly identical
except for a few variables related to size of products
processed. Each line consists of spiral rollcases fed
by existing unscramblers. The board line was given a
high-speed Quad Cam boardfeeder, trimmer optimizer
and 6-stage trimmer fence. The deal line received
an accelerating lug feeder, trimmer optimizer and
4-stage fence. Both lines were updated with the latest
Allen-Bradley ControlLogix controls technology for the
existing trimmer and sorter equipment.
The trimmer optimizers are both transverse
MillExpert™ optimizers with Smart TriCam™ laser
scanning. The high-performance 3D Smart TriCam
sensors provide unparalleled data density and
accuracy. Controlling trimmer flow, actuating trim
decisions, full coverage scanning and high-speed
processing are keys to achieving the optimum trimmer
performance and highest valued trim decisions.
MillExpert optimization coupled with ControlLogix
controls delivers it all.
The board line features the high-speed Quad Cam
boardfeeder. The Quad Cam’s simple design offers
smooth, low maintenance performance. Low impact
handling means less damage to the lumber and less
wear and tear on machinery. The board line operates
at a rate of 120 lugs per minute (LPM), and 100 LPM
on the deal line.
The Carlisle optimization personnel travelled to
USNR’s facility in Parksville, BC for training on the
MillExpert system. Further training was conducted at
the mill site.
The board line was started up in December 2007
with the deal line following in December 2008. Key
personnel involved with the projects were Alistair
Sommerville, the Carlisle mill manager, and Nigel
Patrickson, who served as the mill’s project manager
and electrical specialist. They worked closely with
the USNR team throughout the projects to ensure
each step progressed smoothly. A direct result of
this cohesive team approach to the projects, the first
day of scheduled start up the mill operated at 70%
production, and 100% on the second day. Extensive
performance testing set by the mill and USNR was
done and approved by the mill within a week of start
up for each line.
Along with the new technology, BSW Carlisle
received USNR’s software maintenance agreement
(SMA) that allows for regular updates of USNR
optimization software. This ensures that USNR
customer mills will operate with the latest software
that is available.
With its new optimization systems and controls
technologies, the Carlisle mill is seeing improved
productivity and increased recovery. It is well
positioned to continue to meet and exceed the needs
of its customers with high-quality products.
Helping you survive the crisis.
When your business changes, our business changes.
The key to survival in this environment is working
together. When times are good, USNR is there to
help you make more money. Now, when times are
bad, we’re here to help you stem the losses. Our job
is to help you survive this crisis. By doing so, we
will all thrive over time.
We understand that you aren’t buying new
equipment in these conditions. You have to find
ways to do more with what you have. There is a way.
USNR is a resource you can call on to help you find
your way through these dark days.
There are many things we can do to help. We have
some of the brightest engineers and technicians in
the industry, and we can figure out how to maximize
the performance of the systems you already have.
How can we help?
► We can reduce your lumber drying energy costs.
► We can ferret out the operating issues that are
► We can save you money on wear and
costing you money.
► We can tune machines to squeeze just a little bit
more lumber out of each log or piece.
► We can identify opportunities to extend the life
of your parts and equipment through preventative
maintenance.
replacement parts.
USNR is a resource for you in both tough times and
good times. We can help you. Contact us today to
find out how.
Optimizer Tune-up
It’s safe to say that most mills are not using
the full power of their optimizers. In many
cases, the optimization strategy still reflects
the mill’s goals at the time the system was
installed. USNR’s technicians can expertly
tune these sophisticated systems to work
within today’s market conditions and enable
you to produce more of what you can actually
sell, instead of leaving you to sell whatever
you can make.
customer satisfaction is our goal
USNR and Newnes-McGehee have assembled a
team of service professionals, backed by a support
network of many more individuals involved in parts,
warehousing, logistics, etc.
The service group comprises over 60 trained
technicians, located throughout North America. This
team is responsible for installation, commissioning
and ongoing support of your USNR and NewnesMcGehee equipment and systems. Every day,
members of the service group fulfill their mandate
to help you succeed. But don’t take our word for it.
Following are some of your comments about this
hardworking team.
“I would like to express my appreciation to Mark A.
for his hard work and perseverance. I’m very grateful
for the time he spent at the mill over every weekend
he was here, and helping us get through the mountain
of board testing required to get us to our goal of
automated MSR lumber evaluation.”
Stephen Holtorf, Technical Services Manager
Hyne & Son Pty Limited, Tumbarumba, NSW Australia
“I called Derek D. to thank him for his collaboration,
patience and the excellent work he has done to help
us improve the performance, and our understanding
of these optimizers. Steve (QC) and Larry (Mill
Supervisor) have benefitted immensely from their
time working with Derek, and his knowledge of your
product and what we want to do with it. I look forward
to sending Steve and Larry back (to USNR) to spend
some more time training with him. Please pat him on
the back for us, he’s been a tremendous help!”
Chris Verderber, Manager
Collins Companies, Chester, CA
“Glen S. did a superb job on our Trimmer, the
vibration is gone. Thank you for your help.”
Herman Liverpool Jr., Maintenance Supervisor
Potomac Supply Corporation, Kinsale, VA
No matter when or where you need us, we’re just a
phone call away!
USNR CONTACT:
800.BUY.USNR (800.289.8767)
Overseas Tel: 360.225.8267
NEWNES-MCGEHEE CONTACT:
250.832.8820
Parts Tel: 250.832.7116
Parts Fax: 250.833.3032
“I just wanted to tell you how impressed I am with
USNR’s phone support. I have had many occasions to
call with a question or with an issue in need of advice.
I have been uniformly impressed with the folks on the
other end of the line. You guys give really competent
phone support! Everyone from USNR I’ve worked with
has done a great job. You guys can be rightfully proud
of your service organization.”
A professional, third party in the industry
MARCH 2009 | Millwide INSIDER
Chip-N-Saw (C-N-S)
conversions are one of a
number of enhancements
USNR has developed to
keep your equipment
up to date and hard
at work for you.
C-N-S Conversions
In the 1960’s the Chip-N-Saw revolutionized the forest
products industry. Today USNR is keeping history alive
with upgrades and conversions that keep your C-N-S
running faster and more efficiently than ever.
The C-N-S conversions described here will
improve the speed and accuracy of your systems,
at a much lower cost than capital replacement.
USNR has performed many of these conversions,
with excellent results. Small improvements can help
elevate performance today, while setting the stage
for heavier production demand down the road.
USNR’s Al Richardson is a technical sales
representative who has been involved in the sale
and installation of many of these conversions. He is
an expert on the benefits customers have achieved
through these improvements to their C-N-S systems.
The diagram above shows the applicable area of the
C-N-S system for each enhancement.
Precision Vee-Flat Flighted Chain Upgrade
The Vee-Flat design provides the ultimate in straight
line tracking, even as system components wear.
USNR’s flighted chain is based on high-strength
steel alloy Mac MRB-124 welded steel roller chain.
Guides are made from light-weight, high-strength,
corrosion and impact-resistent self-lubricating
polymer compound for easy installation and long
service life.
► Very low friction coefficient means less drag on motors,
less wear on chains, and less lubrication required.
► Fully machined sprockets with flame-hardened
teeth extend the life of the chain.
► Narrow profile chain allows a wider field of view
for scanning.
► Optional replaceable wear pads bolt onto flighted
chain and reduce maintenance costs.
Quad Spike Roll Upgrade
Hydraulic linear positioners complete with air
Millwide INSIDER | MARCH 2009
cushion provide extremely accurate positioning of the
rolls for optimal control, and reduce surging caused
by overfeeding. Drives are mounted up and out of
the way to reduce the amount of moveable mass.
This results in faster, smoother operation. Rolls are
available in spiked or non-penetrating knurl.
► Extended-life, composite slide bushings provide
high performance and exceptional wear.
► Maintains greater performance accuracy, even as
system components wear.
► Applicable to most brands of existing slide frames
and bases.
► Auto lubrication is included.
True Flow Knife Upgrade
USNR’s True Flow high-performance knife system
is an outstanding alternative on both drum-style
and conical chipper heads. The chipping system
is designed to produce high quality chips, with
low operating costs. With lessons learned from the
manufacture and service of CM&E, Kockums Cancar
and Forano chippers of yesteryear, USNR engineers
created the True Flow system to incorporate the best
design features relevant to today’s technology.
► Allows smoother feeds and longer knife clamp life.
► Chrome-plated wear area extends the life of the knife
holder; saves wear to the knife clamp and knife holder.
► Heat-treated knives are ground to precision tolerances.
► Interchangeable knife seats allow quick, easy
adjustment of chip thickness.
► Accepts either babbitted or dual-edge babbittless
replacement chipper knives.
► Retrofitable to chippers from nearly any manufacturer.
► Available for conical or drum-style chip heads.
Al Richardson reported on one customer’s
experience with this upgrade (drum style). “The return
on investment was so great that within a year the mill
was able to upgrade the second chipping section.”
As Al Richardson reports, “After the upgrade was
performed on two side-by-side canter lines at one site,
the slideway system did not require maintenance for
four years!”
Quad Spike
Roll Upgrade
Top & Side Head Round Slideway Upgrade
The slide shaft assembly mounts directly to the
existing slide base. Round-ways are made with high
quality chromed and hardened shafting and require
no slideway adjustments.
► Reduces maintenance, and lowers costs for
replacement parts.
Top & Side Head Round Slideways
Introducing TeamViewer
A NEW TOOL FOR REMOTE SOFTWARE SUPPORT
Advancements in communication technology are
offering us new ways to work together, and new
ways for us to support our customers near and far
in efficient, cost-effective ways. For a number of
years USNR and Newnes-McGehee have offered
remote support for our optimization systems using
the WebEx Support Center platform. We are now
migrating to TeamViewer, a widely used but lesser
known internet-based collaboration tool that we
believe offers significant advantages versus WebEx.
As with WebEx, you can easily download the
TeamViewer software client to your USNR or
Newnes-McGehee optimization PC, or to any PC that
requires remote support. All that is required is a
high-speed internet connection.
For instructions on how to download and install
the TeamViewer remote support application please
visit www.usnr.com/support. Once installed on your
optimization computer, remote support is only a
phone call and a mouse click away.
We hope you’ll appreciate the advantages
TeamViewer has to offer the next time you need
remote support for your optimization system. If you
have any questions please give us a call. You can
also learn more about TeamViewer by visiting their
website at www.teamviewer.com.
UPGRADES
Key advantages of TeamViewer include:
► Fast download and setup: The TeamViewer client
downloads and installs in less than a minute on most
high-speed internet connections. Once installed, you
can launch a new support session in seconds.
► Broad platform compatibility: TeamViewer is fully
compatible with all PC operating systems used
with USNR and Newnes-McGehee optimization
software. WebEx has compatibility issues with
certain older operating systems.
► Secure yet simple: TeamViewer provides a secure
link between your PC and our support technician.
You control when a support session can be
initiated, connection status is clearly displayed on
the screen, and you can terminate a session with a
single mouse click.
► Small footprint: The TeamViewer client uses minimal
system resources on your optimizer PC, which
means it has virtually no impact on PC performance.
► Corporate network compatible: TeamViewer
works seamlessly in most corporate network
environments, and we will work with your IT staff
to resolve any issues that arise. We continue to
be able to use WebEx Support Center for any sites
that have trouble with TeamViewer.
The difference is profit... Yours.
Lookup table systems ask, “Which pattern can
I use on this size log?” MillExpert asks, “How
can I squeeze the most money out of this high
grade White Oak log, considering its unique
shape?” The difference is your profit.
• Value based log breakdown by fiber class
• Downstream mill modeling
• Automated routing
• Multiple breakdown scenarios calculate the
highest value yield for each log
Upgrading is easier than you think. Call today.
800.buy.usnr
www.usnr.com
[email protected]
Millwide. Worldwide.
MARCH 2009 | Millwide INSIDER
Remote Matchline Adjustment
FOR DOUBLE ARBOR GANGS
10 minute adjustment,
now takes just 10 seconds
USNR has developed a simple and effective method
to remotely adjust offset and calibrate the saws in
double arbor gangs and quad arbor saw boxes. The
ability to perform this critical grade-saving function
remotely makes the process easier, safer, and faster.
Often after a saw change, the saws produce
matchline due to blade tensioning and offset. To reduce
matchline errors and maintain optimal performance,
the top arbor sawguides need to be adjusted.
With USNR’s Remote Matchline Adjustment a 10
minute procedure now takes just 10 seconds. The
system uses servo cylinders to move the top saws,
so mill personnel do not have to shut down the
machine and lock it out to make manual adjustments.
The operator simply pauses the flow of wood to the
machine, enters the adjustment parameters directly
into the HMI screen and it’s done.
This simple and effective adjustment method
works on almost any double arbor gang or sawbox.
Call us at 800.BUY.USNR today for more information.
New Projects
Aserraderos Arauco, Vinales Sawmill in Chile
has ordered a new trim/sort/stack line. The line will
be a mix of USNR and Newnes-McGehee designs.
The project includes mechanical, optimization and
controls for the line, comprising Newnes-McGehee
multi-saw trimmer, pusher lug sorter with 48 bins,
bellcrank stacker, WinTally™ sorter management
and reporting system, and True-Read™ GL grade
mark reader. Optimization will be USNR’s MillExpert
Trimmer optimization system; controls will be based
on the A-B ControlLogix 5000 platform.
Hampton Affiliates of Tillamook, OR placed an
order to upgrade its Newnes-McGehee lineal curve
sawing gang optimizer. The order includes outfitting
the scanner frame with the high-speed LPL sensors,
offering much higher data point density (.035”) and
a tighter cross section scan down the length of the
piece, than the obsolete Hydra sensors.
Cargill of North Vancouver, BC has upgraded its
DynaStar computerized maintenance management
system to better optimize asset value and improve
manufacturing productivity. The system provides
advanced functionality that empowers maintenance
personnel and operators to effectively manage all
maintenance activities, improving manpower utilization
and extending asset life. Cargill is an international
producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial
and industrial products.
Chugoku Lumber has ordered two system upgrades
to fine-tune its state-of-the-art sawmill located in
Kamisu-City, Japan. The company is adding a USNR
scanning and optimization system to automate the
resaw twin, and is also installing a saw ladder and
measurement system to enhance the operation of the
10 Millwide INSIDER | MARCH 2009
sling sorter. The sawmill features USNR optimized
primary and secondary breakdown lines and trim/sort/
stack systems to make beams and other structural
lumber products for traditional Japanese post and
beam houses.
Morgan Lumber has ordered a primary breakdown
project for its plant in Red Oak, VA. The order includes
a double length infeed (DLI) with a log turner using
Smart TriCam scanning and MillExpert log optimization
with PLC controls. In 2006, Morgan Lumber installed a
complete new USNR Trim/Sort line with controls after
a fire destroyed most of the planermill.
New South, Conway, SC recently started up a
Newnes-McGehee 12” double arbor GenII curve
sawing gang system. The optimization system
includes Newnes-McGehee linear scanning; the
Newnes-McGehee controls is based on the AllenBradley ControlLogix platform.
Pierce Lumber has successfully started up a
YieldMaster G3 carriage optimizer for its plant in Belle
Plaine, IA. The company produces a variety of Northern
hardwoods and kiln-dried lumber.
25
26
7
22
12
19
15
14 11
2
13
4
17
24
27
18
16
9
6
21
10
5
3
23
1
8
28
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
USNR GLOBAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLATIONS
ARGENTINA
AUSTRIA
AUSTRALIA
BELGIUM
BRAZIL
BULGARIA
CANADA
8 CHILE
9 CHINA
10 CONGO
11 CZECH REPUBLIC
12 FINLAND
13 FRANCE
14 GERMANY
15 IRELAND
16 JAPAN
17 LITHUANIA
18 MEXICO
19 NETHERLANDS
20 NEW ZEALAND
21 PUERTO RICO
20
22 RUSSIA
23 SOUTH AFRICA
24 SPAIN
25 SWEDEN
26 UNITED KINGDOM
27 UNITED STATES
28 URUGUAY
USNR’s International Representation
Supplementing its well-trained,
professional sales team, USNR has
developed sales associations with
agents located in several areas of
the globe. They are well versed in
the specific needs and challenges
that face wood processors in their
respective regions. With a wide
global installation base, international
business associations help us serve our
customers near and far.
JAPAN
Hirota Corporation
Contact: Ryosuke Hirota
532 Ohyanagi-Minami
Shimada City, Shizouka-Pref 427-01
Japan
Telephone: +0547.38.3211
Fax: +0547.38.2122
E-mail: [email protected]
CHILE
Patricio Faundez y Cia. Ltda.
(USNR equipment)
Contact: Patricio Faundez
Leo 9011 Vitacura
Casilla 19004 Stgo. 19
Santiago 6681609 Chile
Telephone: +56.2.220.1517
Fax: +56.2.212.5948
E-mail: [email protected]
Solecia Ltda.
(Newnes-McGehee equipment)
Contact: Enrique Villalon
Parcela 11-A Lote-C
P.O. Box 3197, Villa Italia
Conception Chile
Telephone: +56.41.391.444
Fax: +56.41.282.366
E-mail: [email protected]
NEW ZEALAND
Skookum Forest Technology
Contact: John McLachlan
184 James Fletcher Drive
Otahuhu, New Zealand
Telephone: +64.9.276.2402
Fax: +64.9.276.2414
E-mail: [email protected]
RUSSIA
ZAO Expo-Trade
Contact: Sergei Matveev
6, Lesozavodskaya Street
Komsomolsk-na-Amurye,
Khabarovsk 681000 Russia
Tel/Fax: +4217.20.08.11/12/13/14
E-mail: [email protected]
Southern Cross Engineering
Contact: Paul Scott
P O Box 24-114
Christchurch 8642 New Zealand
Telephone: +64.3.384.2019
Fax: +64.3.384.1563
E-mail: [email protected]
Recognizing the importance of the
Russian forest products industry,
USNR has also established a
permanent presence in Russia, as well
as a Russian language website
www.usnr.ru.
Contact in Moscow: Lydia Volkova
Telephone: +7.917.511.8679
E-mail: [email protected]
Contact in St Petersburg: Oksana Filina
Telephone: +7.981.746.0156
E-mail: [email protected]
MARCH 2009 | Millwide INSIDER
11
With over 100 years of combined
experience in the forest products
industry, USNR’s International
Sales Team provides solutions to
customers around the world.
PROFILE
UPCOMING
EVENTS
Pictured, left to right: Oksana Filina, Toby
Slagle, Allan Czinger, Vern Pittman, John
With the acquisition of NewnesMcGehee, USNR now offers the
most complete line of sawmill
and planer mill equipment on the
market. Combined with sister
company Coe Manufacturing,
a leader in engineered wood
production equipment, USNR has
become the largest supplier of
integrated sawmill technology in the
world, with an unmatched ability to
deliver comprehensive solutions to
international customers.
Reed and Lydia Volkova.
Preparations are well underway for LIGNA HANNOVER
2009, taking place at Hannover, Germany May
18-22, 2009. This global bi-annual event promises
to be busier than ever. As of November 2008 show
organizers reported that the display space was already
90% booked. Organizers expect exhibitors to total
around 1,800 spread over 148,000 sq. meters of
exhibition space, to welcome 100,000 visitors from
around the globe.
MARCH 17-19
Hardwood
Manufacturer’s Association
Like the quiet giant of the
industry, USNR has built sawmills
all over the world in just about
every country. Toby Slagle,
International Sales Manager said,
“USNR will continue to expand its
global reach, helping international
companies meet the unique
challenges facing them today.”
The International Sales Team will
be on hand at LIGNA to discuss
ways USNR can help customers
survive and perhaps even prosper,
in the current economic crisis.
Come see us at the show!
USNR is excited to be a part of this event. The USNR
booth is numbered C63 in Hall 27, and will feature
products and solutions from USNR and its affiliates,
Newnes-McGehee and Coe Manufacturing.
APRIL 2-4
NeLMA
MAY 18-22
Ligna
Boston, MA
Hannover, Germany
APRIL 30 - MAY 2
BC Sawfilers
JUNE 11-13
Southern Forest
Products Association
Charlotte, NC
MARCH 25-27
Small Log Conference
Coeur d’Alene, ID
Kelowna, BC
New Orleans, LA
PRSRT STD
PO Box 310
Woodland, WA 98674
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
RIDGEFIELD, WA
PERMIT NO. 94
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper.