The efficiency of a forwarder under the guidance of an experienced operator is tens of times higher than the efficiency of a team of 8 people, and when paired with a harvester, the forwarder can easily replace almost a hundred workers. But in order for this scenario to come true, the forwarder must best suit the conditions in which it operates, and be initially focused precisely on solving the goals that are planned to be set for it.
A set of technical characteristics, combined with design and configuration features, allows different forwarders to solve different problems. Some forestry equipment is designed specifically for work in large fellings, others are designed for difficult conditions: mountain slopes and off-road conditions. Some prioritize the comfort and safety of the operator, allowing him to concentrate as much as possible on the work process, while others focus on maneuverability and mobility while collecting timber or speed while driving on the road...
The best choice will always be the forwarder that can most effectively support the implementation of a specific project and will be optimally suited to existing technical conditions.
We will look at several forwarder models that have appeared on the market in recent years, ranking them in descending order of capacity, and hope that this analysis will help you explore your own needs and outline the range of optimal models.
Technical characteristics of Ponsse Buffalo 8W
| Dimensions | |||
| Length: | 9,405 – 10,525 mm (+700 mm adjustable extension) | ||
| Width: | 2 690 – 2 990 mm | ||
| Height/transport. height: | 3750 mm | ||
| Ground clearance: | 695 mm | ||
| Net weight: | 14,800 /16,600 kg (depending on installed equipment) | ||
| Load capacity | |||
| Load bearing capacity: | 14000 kg | ||
| Cargo area cross-sectional area: | 4.5-5.4 m2 | ||
| Cargo space length: | 4240-6100 mm | ||
| Engine | |||
| Model: | MB OM906LA | ||
| Power: | 205 kW | ||
| Torque: | 1100 Nm/1200-1500 rpm | ||
| Traction force: | 180 kN | ||
| Movement speed: | Gear 1: 0-9 km/h, gear 2: 0-28 km/h | ||
| Fuel tank capacity: | 200 l | ||
| Transmission | |||
| Hydrostatic mechanical transmission 2 speed modes forward and reverse Automatic drive with electronic control system Rear drive disable | |||
| Differential lock: | Mechanical in both trolleys | ||
| Axis | |||
| Both axles are bogie type with wheel reduction and are equipped with planetary gears and differential locking mechanisms. | |||
| Tires | |||
| Front: | 6w: 600/700-34 or, 8w: 600/710-26.5 or | ||
| Rear: | 600/710-26,5 | ||
| Hydraulic system | |||
| OptiControl TM Load sensing system. Separate filtration and cooling systems | |||
| Manipulator pump: | 190 cm3 | ||
| Hydraulic oil tank capacity: | 200 l | ||
| Steering | |||
| Small steering wheel/continuous push button control system | |||
| Frame control, rotation angle: | ± 44° | ||
| Outer turning radius: | 8.0 m | ||
| Brakes | |||
| Drive brake: | Hydraulic multi-disc brakes: front and rear | ||
| Parking brake: | Spring loaded | ||
| Service brake: | Affects both front and rear braking systems | ||
| Electrical system | |||
| Voltage: | 24 V | ||
| Batteries: | 2 x 180 Ah | ||
| Generator: | 2 x 80 A | ||
| Working lights: | Max. 30 x 70 W | ||
| Cabin | |||
| Tilting cab Meets all safety standards | |||
| Glass: | Polycarbonate | ||
| Seat: | Bege 9000 SE with headrest | ||
| Air conditioner | |||
| Manipulator | |||
| PONSSE K90 | PONSSE K100 | ||
| Boom Reach: | 7.9 m (model S) | 7.8 m (model S) | 7.6 m (model S) |
| 10 m (model M) | 10.0 m (model M) | 9.5 m (model M) | |
| Lifting moment: | 106 kNm | 124 kNm | 145 kNm |
| Torque: | 24.5 kNm | 30 kNm | 33 kNm |
| Angle of rotation: | 360° | 360° | 360° |
The lineup
Ponsse offers a wide range of forwarders. They differ in size and some performance characteristics.
Buffalo 8W
This forwarder has an eight-wheel formula. This design feature helps to increase the traction force of the machine. The presence of such a wheeled chassis allows us to minimize the level of pressure exerted by the vehicle on the ground. For this reason, Buffalo 8W can be used even on soft soils. The model has a very convenient design, which facilitates repair work. An additional set of wheels is included as standard.
Technical characteristics of the Buffalo 8W forwarder:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 7900 |
| - width | 2840 |
| - height | 3800 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 655 |
| Engine power, hp | 197 |
| Engine power, kW | 145 |
| Torque, Nm | 705 |
| Fuel tank, l | 330 |
| Crane boom radius, m | 11 |
| Boom rotation angle, degrees | 240 |
| Angle of inclination of the bed, degrees | 15 |
| Tire size | 710/45-26,5 |
Photo of Ponsse Buffalo 8w forwarder
Buffaloking
This forwarder has a comfortable cabin and a powerful manipulator. With relatively small dimensions, the model has a maximum load capacity. This machine is built on the basis of the Buffalo model. The rear tires of the model are filled with a large amount of air, due to which the load on the ground is distributed evenly.
The presence of a preheater allows the power plant to operate the machine even at minimum temperatures.
Specifications:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 11225 |
| - width | 3120 |
| - height | 3900 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 730 |
| Total weight, kg | 20200 |
| Engine power, kW | 210 |
| Torque, Nm | 1120 |
| Load capacity, kg | 18000 |
| Fuel tank, l | 200 |
| Tire size | 4/750-26,5 |
| Hydraulic tank volume, l | 170 |
| Equipment | tracks and wheel chains; engine preheater; hydraulic oil heater; electrically pump for pumping fuel and oil. |
Photo of Ponsse BuffaloKing forwarder
Buffalo Activeframe
The eight-wheel forestry machine features a new cab suspension. A unique design solution helps reduce vibration levels during loading and unloading operations. As a result, operating the forwarder over a long period of time will not be accompanied by feelings of discomfort.
Compared to other machines presented in the model range, the Buffalo Activeframe has a higher speed potential. Manufacturers managed to achieve this by reducing the overall weight of the vehicle.
The model has a two-frame design. The fulcrum of the suspension system is located quite low. As a result, we can talk about maximum efficiency in eliminating any vibrations that appear during operation.
Technical characteristics of Buffalo Activeframe machines:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 10860 |
| - width | 3085 |
| - height | 3800 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 680 |
| Total weight, kg | 20500 |
| Engine power, hp | 275 |
| Torque, Nm | 1100 |
| Fuel tank, l | 200 |
| crane boom radius, m | 9,5 |
| Boom rotation angle, degrees | 360 |
| Tire size | 710/45-26,5 |
The video shows the Ponsse Buffalo forwarder in action:
ELK
This forwarder has a unique frame design. The model is characterized by maximum durability and ease of use. The modernized cabin allows you to operate the machine for a long period of time. The forwarder is equipped with two different manipulators to choose from.
The Ponsse K70+ manipulator is highly reliable and can be used under any conditions.
The Ponsse K90+ system is a more powerful manipulator, the use of which is advisable when loading large trunks. In this case, we can talk about the maximum level of performance.
Technical characteristics of Ponce ELK forwarders:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 9940 |
| - width | 3090 |
| - height | 3800 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 670 |
| Total weight, kg | 18800 |
| Engine power, kW | 150 |
| Torque, Nm | 800 |
| Fuel tank, l | 150 |
| Crane boom radius, m | 7,9 |
| Boom rotation angle, degrees | 360 |
| Tire size | 710/45-26,5 |
Photo of Ponsse ELK forwarder
Wisent
A characteristic feature of the Wisent model is the large size of the cargo compartment. This forwarder is capable of transporting cargo with a total weight of up to 12,000 kg. The increase in traction force contributed to the fact that the performance level of this variation of special equipment also increased.
The forwarder cabin is distinguished by the presence of a large number of compartments designed to store various attributes. The internal part is equipped in compliance with all ergonomic requirements. The highest quality materials were used to manufacture the cabin.
During the creation of the project, the developers paid special attention to the process of cooling and filtering the oil. For this purpose, a special electric pump was installed, which is capable of operating independently of the functioning of all systems.
This design solution allows you to maintain the oil in a clean condition over a long period of time. The use of this attribute also helps to reduce pressure in the system, resulting in maximum fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 9930 |
| - width | 2840 |
| - height | 3800 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 645 |
| Total weight, kg | 17300 |
| Engine power, kW | 150 |
| Torque, Nm | 800 |
| Fuel tank, l | 150 |
| Crane boom radius, m | 7,9 |
| Boom rotation angle, degrees | 360 |
| Tire size | 710/55-34 |
The video shows the Ponsse Wisent forwarder in action:
Gazelle
The Gazelle forwarder is characterized by mobility and practicality. With minimal dimensions, such a machine is capable of solving logging tasks of any level of complexity. The model is equipped with a powerful diesel engine capable of producing 129 kW. The K70+ manipulator is used as a component equipment. The integrated Opticontrol control system deserves special attention. Thanks to it, the operation of the machine is made many times easier.
Specifications:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Dimensions, mm: | |
| - length | 9080 |
| - width | 2690 |
| - height | 3800 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 600 |
| Total weight, kg | 1400 |
| Engine power, kW | 129 |
| Torque, Nm | 675 |
| Fuel tank, l | 130 |
| Crane boom radius, m | 7,9 |
| Boom rotation angle, degrees | 360 |
| Tire size | 710/45-26,5 |
Video review of Ponsse forwarders:
Design features
Ponsse forwarders have a suspension system with all-wheel drive. Sufficient tire width helps to reduce the specific pressure of the wheels on the ground. The front and rear parts of the frame are connected to each other using a universal joint. This design feature allows you to rotate the machine by changing the position of the semi-frames relative to the vertical axis.
The hydromechanical transmission has two speed ranges. Thanks to this, you can move as smoothly as possible in the forest with high traction force. The engine and driver's cabin are installed on the front half-frame, and a cargo platform with racks is installed on the rear half-frame. All forwarder models are equipped with a rotator, gripper and manipulator with a telescopic handle.
