Worksite safety is the top priority at Mondi, which is apparent on the SENNEBOGEN machines.

Mondi, the international packaging and paper company based near Prague, CZ, is operating three widely different models of SENNEBOGEN log-handling equipment to support the same mill. In total, the Mondi log-handling fleet is comprised of five machines including 835, 825 and 735 models.

Two stationary 835 electric material handlers are the centerpieces of the new log yard, feeding materials into the wood processing area. Two 825 M machines handle truck-loading requirements, while the 735 “pick & carry” unit moves and stacks wood between the yard's storage areas.

Mondi has operated one of its largest pulp and paper factories in Štětí, approximately 26.7 miles (40 km) north of Prague, since 1949. Log yard logistics were reorganized recently, and the SENNEBOGEN machines formed the core of its new fleet. Site manager Tomáš Wojnar reports that half of the operation's logs are delivered by train, and loaded directly from the wagon into the wood processing area. The two SENNEBOGEN 835s, powered by 215 HP (160 kW) electric motors, stand directly alongside the tracks. The stationary machines are mounted on a 20 ft. (6 m) high pylon with a total reach of 200 ft. (60 m).

Safety plus savings thanks to the electric drive

Worksite safety is the top priority at Mondi, which is apparent on the SENNEBOGEN machines. Railings on all sides and walkways on the upper carriage protect Mondi personnel during servicing and maintenance. The machine will not operate while the cab door is open. A telescopic escape ladder allows workers to exit the machine within seconds in the event of an emergency, and an acoustic warning system alerts the driver if anyone enters the working radius of the machine.

With this focus on safety, there is no compromise on the bottom-line performance of the electric-drive. Mondi estimates that operating and energy costs are around 50% of the cost of diesel-powered machines in a direct comparison. Low maintenance costs and the ability to work without refueling are additional advantages.

Mobile "pick & carry" concept provides support for loading

Wojnar explains that the nimble 735 log-loader takes on a key role in keeping the mill's loading station well fed. He calls the "pick & carry" concept “an impressive solution,” with its compact dimensions allowing the machine to maneuver quickly between the wood piles. It can pick and stack logs up to 37 ft. (11 m) high.

This story also appears on Forestry Equipment Guide.

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