Redesigned Forest Harvester Takes Home Swedish Steel Prize
11/20/2015 - Finnish forestry machine maker Ponsse and its next-generation Scorpion harvester have been awarded SSAB’s Swedish Steel Prize.
“Ponsse has not only significantly improved operator ergonomics, but also enhanced functionality and safety, and increased productivity with this new design,” said Gregoire Parenty, jury chairman and SSAB executive vice president and head of market development.
The Swedish Steel Prize is given annually to recognize creative, innovative products or solutions that use high-strength steel.
SSAB said forest harvesters have largely remained unchanged over the years, putting a focus on function at the expense of operation. The Scorpion’s design changed that, SSAB said.
The machine features a symmetrical crane boom, allowing the operator to sit in the center of all movements. It offers the operator full visibility and the ability to work comfortably and efficiently.
The harvester uses SSAB’s Strenx high-strength steel in the crane arm and in the chassis. It also incorporates its wear-resistant Hardox steel in the cutter head.
The choice in steels lowered the machine’s weight, which allowed more bearings to be added, giving it better stability. Furthermore, fuel consumption was reduced.
This is the 17th year the company has awarded the prize. The other finalists were Brazil’s Facil System, South Africa’s Milotek and Germany’s Terex Cranes.
The Swedish Steel Prize is given annually to recognize creative, innovative products or solutions that use high-strength steel.
SSAB said forest harvesters have largely remained unchanged over the years, putting a focus on function at the expense of operation. The Scorpion’s design changed that, SSAB said.
The machine features a symmetrical crane boom, allowing the operator to sit in the center of all movements. It offers the operator full visibility and the ability to work comfortably and efficiently.
The harvester uses SSAB’s Strenx high-strength steel in the crane arm and in the chassis. It also incorporates its wear-resistant Hardox steel in the cutter head.
The choice in steels lowered the machine’s weight, which allowed more bearings to be added, giving it better stability. Furthermore, fuel consumption was reduced.
This is the 17th year the company has awarded the prize. The other finalists were Brazil’s Facil System, South Africa’s Milotek and Germany’s Terex Cranes.
