This issue of Logging-on focusses on the SP 461 LF Next Generation.
This head combines low weight, compact dimensions, and impressive productivity. It is a good fit for both boom-equipped harvesters operating on strip roads and smaller, stand-operating machines. Thanks to SP’s unique Low Friction Concept, one gets a head that offers rapid feeding, low energy consumption, and high operational reliability. With patented solutions such as LogHold and proportionally angled feed rollers, the SP 461 LF NG delivers impressive efficiency even when thinning larger diameter trees.
The head reaches its peak capacity in stands with a diameter of 8 to 35 cm (3.1 to 3.8 in), but thanks to the LF concept, it can also handle larger diameter stems efficiently. Some of the specific benefits and features include:
- More productive and faster multi-tree handling.
- Reduced fuel consumption and increased productivity with a new generation hydraulic valve.
- More efficient with 50% larger chain oil tank with larger filling capacity and an improved strainer.
- More stable design with change of saw unit from SuperCut 100 to 100S.
- Faster feed speed with new generation of roller motors with improved energy efficiency, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and increased production.
- More reliable with improved hose routing.
- Knife Design - The delimbing knives are cast in high-strength steel and equipped with long cutting edges. This means that the limbs are cut off instead of being broken off. This minimizes friction during delimbing and allows the trunk to be fed through easily.
- Proportional pressure: Proportional pressure ensures that the harvester head automatically works at the correct pressure in relation to tree diameter. This means that the friction between the trunk and harvester head is minimized and that the harvester head run at peak efficiency. Individual settings per tree species maximises production further.
- LogHold - an evolution of proportional pressure and means that the delimbing knife pressure against the trunk can be reduced, without the risk of the trunk being dropped. If the trunk is about to fall, LogHold regulates the knife pressure so that the trunk is held in the right position. The amount by which the diameter may increase before LogHold takes action is set in the control system. No additional sensors are required.
- Proportionally angled feeder rollers - This smart solution means that when the harvester head is fully open, i.e. at maximum tree size, the feed rollers are at their greatest angle and provide maximum carrying force against the trunk. As the feed rollers carry the trunk, the pressure on the delimbing knives can be reduced, which means less friction and the harvester head can feed the trunk through quickly and easily. Source