March 2016 Vol. 41. No. 5 · woodworking industry with big international conferences taking place in March including Holz-Handwerk and Fensterbau Frontale. These promise to provide

March 2016 Vol. 41. No. 5

1March 2016 // Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times

March 2016 Vol. 41 No. 5

Publisher: Ken Nortje [email protected]

Editor: David Poggiolini [email protected]

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Journalist: Danielle Petterson [email protected]

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editorial

There has been a lot of change at Wood Southern Africa and Timber Times of late and unfortunately there is more to come as I bid farewell to the team and embrace a new opportunity.

This is the last edition of Wood Southern Africa and Timber Times that I will see through to completion, but I leave you all in the capable hands of our recently appointed editor David Poggiolini. David is re-entering the world of timber after years away and I have full faith that he will guide the magazine to greater heights.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Malnor (Pty) Ltd, in particular the Wood SA team. I would also like to extend a warm thanks to every person I have met during my time at the magazine, particularly those who welcomed me into their forests, factories, sawmills and offices and who shared their knowledge and expertise with me. It has truly been an adventurous and interesting time getting to know the industry.

With that being said, I would like to report back on the ICFR Annual Research Meeting I recently had the privilege of attending. The aim of this meeting was for researchers and industry players to come together to take a look at past and present research at the ICFR.

There is definitely a lot going on in the labs and in the field. A total of

26 presentations were given on a wide

variety of topics, and, according to ICFR

Director Prof Colin Dyer, this was only

the tip of the iceberg, with the

organisers having difficulty narrowing

down the research to be presented.

It is good to know that so much work is

being done not only to address

problems plaguing the forest industry

but also to improve current practice.

Work presented looked at topics like

baboon damage, addressing the

pressing wattle rust problem, clones

and hybrids, planting materials and soil

quality, among a host of others.

Research like this is crucial for the

continued success of the forestry

industry. It was encouraging to see so

many people in attendance and

actively participating and asking

questions to learn more and improve

their operations.

Keep an eye out for feedback on some

of this research in the April and May

editions of Wood Southern Africa and

Timber Times.

This is also a busy time for the

woodworking industry with big

international conferences taking place

in March including Holz-Handwerk and

Fensterbau Frontale. These promise to

provide some interesting insight and

development into the joinery industries

in particular. On the home front we

continue to look forward to WoodEx in

June. Wood Southern Africa and Timber

Times will bring you the latest news from

all of these conferences and keep you

up to date on the latest developments.

I hope that you will enjoy this edition.

Remember to continue to contact the

team with any news, views and

developments.

Farewell,

Danielle Petterson

w

The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher,

editorial and advertising staff. No part of this publication may be reproduced without

written permission of the editor.

Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times is now available online

Be sure to visit Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times at

www.woodsa.co.za

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2 March 2016 // Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times

March 2016 Vol. 41 No.5

Editorial ..............................................................................................................1

Cover story: The age of edgebanding ............................................50

Classifieds .........................................................................................................80

FORESTRYLegislation

Expropriation Bill to be debated at the

National Assembly .....................................................................................3

FSA highlights concerns over diesel rebate systems ................8

Study proves FSC certification profitable for businesses ........12

New minimum wage for forestry workers .......................................13

General

ICFR meeting highlights developments in

forestry research ...........................................................................................14

Morbark introduces new Wood Hog 3200

horizontal grinder .........................................................................................16

Former SAPPI forester builds a contracting business

with Bell ..............................................................................................................18

Under pressure to make choices? ......................................................22

TRANSPORTBreaking the limits ........................................................................................24

SAWMILLING6th WOOD Conference promotes climate regulations ..........26

Biomass

The Finnish connection .............................................................................28

Waste wood to biomass in one pass ................................................31

Kara Energy Systems commissions new biomass

steam plant .....................................................................................................33

Treatment

Highlands Sawmill receives Arch’s renowned

“Hand-In-Hand” service ............................................................................36

Understanding hazard classes .............................................................38

The vital importance of heat treating your pallets ....................40

General

Farleigh Eco-Furniture Factory creates desks, jobs

and skills ............................................................................................................42

Sustainable harvesting in Ecuador ....................................................47

WOODWORKING

Cover story

The age of edgebanding .......................................................................50

Kitchens

Kitchens evolve .............................................................................................52

Kitchen predictions from the experts at Decorex 2016 ............58

KSA – protector of client and contractor ........................................60

General

A truly invisible glue line ...........................................................................64

The three Cs ....................................................................................................66

Engineered quartz on top .......................................................................67

Introducing Abranet: Dust-free perfection .....................................68

The story behind your solid bed base ..............................................70

When East meets West ..............................................................................76

WoodEX for Africa is here to stay ........................................................78

20


Expropriation Bill to be debated at the National Assembly

The controversial bill was introduced in 2015 and, after being sent back to the Department of Public Works for corrections, has now been adopted by the Portfolio Committee. If signed into law it will set the rules under

which the state can lay a claim to urban and rural property, and gives the Public Works Minister the right to expropriate land for a public purpose, such as building a road or erecting a power line, or in the public interest, for instance to institute land reform.

The Expropriation Bill sets out the law of general application for property expropriation, as required by section 25 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa under property. It details the process to be followed, including the time given as notice of expropriation, the exact steps, how the price of the land is determined and what the appeals processes are.

The bill will now be debated at the National Assembly to be further voted upon. Should the bill pass there, it will be held up for public hearings and voted on again at the National Council of Provinces, after which it will be sent to the President of the Republic of South Africa to be signed into law.

There has been much controversy surrounding the Expropriation Bill, with some suggesting it not only threatens property rights, but may also deter investment and reduce growth. The amendments made by the Portfolio Committee have been met with mixed reactions, with one of the biggest causes of concern being the definition of “expropriation” itself as outlined in the bill, which reads as follows:

“the compulsory acquisition of property by an expropriating authority or an organ of state upon request to an

expropriating authority…”

According to Agri SA, this definition was inserted by the Portfolio Committee quite late in the process and has two important elements:

1. It indicates that this Bill does not grant the powers of expropriation to organs of state which do not have the power to expropriate in terms of any other legislation.

This must be read with the definition of an ‘expropriating authority’, which is an organ of state or person empowered by the Act or any other legislation to acquire property through expropriation. The only organ of state empowered by the Bill to expropriate is the Minister of Public Works. Any other organ of state will need to acquire that power by means of alternative empowering

legislation. Where this is the case, the organ of state will be regarded as an expropriating authority in its own right. The effect is that by reading these two definitions together, it effectively puts the argument to bed that the Act empowers multiple organs of state to expropriate property. It therefore clarifies that this is not the case.

2. The definition appears to limit the scope of expropriation to those instances where the state conduct results in the acquisition of property. In other words, it seems to exclude the possibility of constructive expropriation in the event that state regulation impairs the owner’s use and enjoyment to such an extent that the owner loses effective control over it.

The former is viewed in a positive light by Agri SA, while the latter is cause of concern. Johannes Möller, President of Agri SA explains: “We are concerned about the proposed definition of the term “expropriation” as it seems to limit the scope of what is regarded as an expropriation to those instances where the state acquires the property itself.

“Only when a government action is deemed an expropriation is the government obliged to pay compensation in terms of the

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The Expropriation Bill that was adopted by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public Works on 2 February in Cape Town will shortly be presented for debate at the National Assembly.

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Minister of Public Works, Thulas Nxesi, will have the power to expropriate land if the Bill is signed into law. Photo: GovernmentZA, Flickr


Constitution. There may be instances where state actions deprive the owner of the use of the property to such an extent where it could amount to a de facto expropriation. If a court regards this action as tantamount to an expropriation within the context of the Constitution, the definition may be found wanting.” Agri SA therefore believes that the definition should be left out altogether to avoid any possible constitutional challenges.

However, Möller has urged his sector to keep perspective and not to be swayed by sensationalist statements regarding the Bill.

"Expropriation, especially within the context of land reform, is a sensitive matter and is often confused with confiscation without compensation. Whilst Agri SA maintains that there are less invasive means to effect land reform, we also acknowledge that the state has an existing right to expropriate property to effect legitimate public aims. This right comes directly from the Constitution and is regulated by a number of different laws."

Möller believes the Bill should be treated on its own merits; "The Bill in question will simply regulate the procedure that must be followed as well as the manner in which compensation must be calculated. The actual power to expropriate already exists within different legislation. The broader debate on expropriation therefore does not only hinge on this Bill. Expropriations have been taking place in this country for decades." Despite concern over the definition of “expropriation”, Agri SA also believes there are positive amendments in the revised Bill: "In calculating compensation, the trauma caused by the property being taken without consent can now be factored in if there are good reasons to do so.

“The expropriating authority will no longer be permitted to hold back 20% of the compensation in the case of a dispute and the owner will no longer be ‘deemed' to accept the state's offer of compensation if he or she does not approach a court within 60 days.

After the amendments the parties can either go for mediation or the state must approach the court if they can't settle on the amount of compensation. Lastly, the Bill now states very clearly that there will be recourse to the courts in the event of any dispute on any matter relating to the application of the Bill."

Further amendmentsBelow is a list of further amendments to the Expropriation Bill as laid out by Agri SA:

Definition of “Property”

The definition of property has been amended but it now simply refers to ‘property as contemplated in section 25 of the Constitution’. This definition is essentially superfluous. The Constitution does not define property other than to say that it is not limited to land.

The courts have the right to interpret and develop the definition in the Constitution anyway so referring to it is actually superfluous. In addition, any attempt to define it restrictively could result in it being unconstitutional if the courts do not interpret section 25 of the Constitution restrictively.

Section 3 – Powers of Minister of Public Works to expropriate

This section has been reworded somewhat, but the Minister of Public Works is still permitted to expropriate on behalf of an organ of state that requests it or for the Department’s own purposes. Where previously the Minister was only permitted to expropriate land and movables connected to the land, he is now permitted to expropriate any property.

He is however only permitted to expropriate for purposes within his mandate. His mandate was previously open as it ‘included’ the provision of accommodation, land and infrastructure whereas now it is limited to those functions.

Section 5 – Investigation and gathering of information for purposes of expropriation

In subsection (5) (a) the owner was previously required to inform the expropriating authority of all holders of unregistered rights, non-compliance used to constitute an offence, however after the amendments this is now the subject of a civil (administrative) fine only. This has been amended so that the owner only needs to inform the authority of all holders of unregistered rights known to him. Any reference to holders of unregistered rights throughout the Bill has been changed to ‘known’ holders.

Furthermore the list of government departments that must be included in the communication is no longer a finite list but includes all departments ‘whose functions and responsibilities will be materially affected’. This only places an additional burden on the expropriating authority.

The process that must be followed to claim compensation for damage done during the investigation. Firstly, one could previously claim if ‘a person suffers damages’ whereas one can now only claim if the property that is the object of the expropriation is damaged.

The previous process with a 12 month prescription period whereby the authority must be given one month’s notice of the claim has now been replaced with a letter of demand and reference to the Legal Proceedings Against Certain Organs of State Act.

Section 7 – Notice of intention to expropriate

Should the expropriating authority decide not to follow through with the expropriation, it now has to publish its decision in addition to informing the owner and rights holders.

Section 8 – Notice of expropriation

The reference to the date on which the expropriating authority ‘takes possession’ has been replaced with reference to ‘the right

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from page 3Expropriation Bill to be debated at the National Assembly



from page 5Expropriation Bill to be debated at the National Assembly

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to possession of the property’ passing. This may have been done to clarify the distinction between ownership and possession. Consequential amendments were made throughout the Bill.

Section 9 – Vesting and possession of expropriated property

Clause 9 (2) (b) previously stated that possession would be deemed to pass on the date of expropriation in the absence of an agreement to the contrary. This has now also been replaced with a clause stating that the ‘right to possession’ passes on the date of expropriation in the absence of an agreement to the contrary.

Clause 9 (3) (a) – If possession passes after expropriation, the former owner now has to take all ‘reasonable steps’ to maintain the property as opposed to ‘caring for and maintaining’ the property.

Section 12 – Determination of compensation

All of the factors under sub-section (2) could previously not be taken into account in determining compensation. With the new amendment, a court should not take them into consideration “unless there are special circumstances in which it would be just and equitable to do so…”.

It remains to be seen what these ‘special circumstances’ are but at least it affords the courts some leeway.

Section 15 – Offers of Compensation

Previously, if an owner did not accept the state’s second counter offer and failed to institute legal proceedings within 60 days, he was deemed to accept it.

This was now amended to the effect that the parties can go to mediation or the state can initiate legal proceedings in terms of the reworked section 21 of the Bill (mediation and determination by court).

Section 16 – Requests for particulars and offers

The section has been reworded to make it clear that the party requesting particulars of the amount offered as compensation (this can apply to both parties as counter offers can be made) bears the burden of approaching the court for an order compelling the other party to furnish particulars.

Section 17 – Payment of amount offered as compensation

Section 17 (1) has been reworded to clarify that the owner is entitled to payment by no later than the date at which the right to possession passes (previously this was when the expropriating authority took possession), subject to sections 18 (mortgage bond), 19 (municipal rates) and 20 (deposit of money with the master).

The section regarding the payment of 80% of the compensation has been removed. In its place, it states


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that full payment must be made on the date that the right of possession passes irrespective of any on-going disputes regarding the compensation.

Should the court determine that the amount is actually lower than the state’s original offer (which was paid in full), the ex-owner must repay the excess plus interest.

A dispute in relation to compensation will still not prevent the state’s right to possession from passing.The parties are still permitted to agree on a later date of payment provided that if they cannot agree, an application can be made to the court to decide on the date.

Section 18 – Property subject to mortgage or deed of sale

This section has been redrafted in its entirety. The essence of the section is the same in that the owner and mortgagee must reach an agreement, failing which a court can determine the apportionment.

Whilst the dispute is raging, the money can be deposited with the Master.

The only real difference in the new wording is that it places the obligation fairly on the owner and mortgagee to inform the authority, within 30 days of when the right to possession passes, failing which the money can be deposited with the Master.

Section 19 – Payment of municipal property rates and other charges out of compensation money

This section has also been entirely redrafted, however the provision seems to be substantively the same.

Section 21 – Mediation and determination by court As we requested in Nedlac, the Act now makes provision for voluntary mediation to settle a dispute on the quantum of compensation prior to formal court procedures being followed. Mediation is not mandatory, the Bill simply makes provision for it.The reworded text places the obligation on the state to initiate court proceedings for the determination of compensation if no agreement can be reached (following mediation if consented to or immediately if both parties do not consent to mediation).

Subsection (3) has been added to confirm that the courts have the competency to hear ‘any matter relating to the application of this Act’. This provision clarifies that a court can be approached to settle any dispute relating to the Act.

Sub-clause (4) states that a court can make any order it considers just and equitable in the event that the Act has not been complied with but then, strangely, factors are provided that the court can take into consideration. They include:

The nature of the interests of the plaintiff;•Materiality of non-compliance;•The stage of the expropriation process; and•The interests of other persons who may be affected.•

This list is not exhaustive. This section seems strange as the court can surely take these matters into consideration anyway. All provisions attempting to direct the court in how costs should be awarded have been removed.

Clause 22 – urgent expropriation

This clause was amended to clarify that a ‘temporary’ expropriation relates to the length of time that it is urgently required. A ‘temporary’ expropriation can therefore only take place for so long as the property is urgently required. In addition, a phrase was added to clause 22 (5) that payment must be made as soon as possible after notice was given that the property is temporarily required.

Clause 27 – Civil fines and offences

Previously, a person would be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine or imprisonment not exceeding six months if that person failed to:

Inform the authority of any holders of unregistered rights •known to him;Inform the authority of any lease, purchase agreement or •lien over the property; orProvide the above information when the authority calls •upon him to do so in the notice of intention to expropriate.

After the amendment, the listed conduct would no longer constitute an offence but rather the expropriating authority can impose a civil (administrative) fine not exceeding an amount yet to be prescribed.


FSA highlights concerns over diesel rebate systemsAlthough supportive of the diesel rebate system for forestry operations currently allowed by SARS, Forestry South Africa (FSA) has highlighted some concerns. The FSA Transport Committee made the following submission to SARS on the diesel rebate system last month.

Introduction to Forestry South AfricaForestry South Africa (FSA) is an Association which represents the interests of its members in particular and the promotion and wellbeing of the South African commercial forestry industry in general.

Although voluntary in its nature, FSA’s membership includes all 11 corporate timber companies, including their subsidiaries, operating in South Africa, 1 100 commercial timber farmers and over 20 000 small-scale black timber growers.

This membership represents over 90% of the industry as a whole and virtually all the private sector involved in the industry. Due to this representivity, FSA is viewed by both government and the private sector as the body which represents the South African forestry industry.

FSA is involved in a host of areas such as research, education and training, water and environmental affairs, forest protection, bio-energy, business development and transport. We thus regard ourselves as qualified to give comments on the current situation regarding the diesel rebate regulations.

This submission, for which we are grateful of the opportunity to be able to make, is made on behalf of the South African forestry industry by Forestry South Africa’s Transport Committee.

Background to the South African forestry industryThe South African forestry industry is, by any measure, an important sector of the economy, employing 62 000 people directly, producing over R7bn worth of products annually and supporting a primary processing sector which employs a further 50 000 people directly, which produces value added products worth over R20bn.

In 2014 exports of forest products earned the country net foreign exchange earnings of R5.9bn. In addition, the industry is a major catalyst for rural development and has the potential to create an estimated 30 000 extra jobs in the country, particularly in Zululand and the Eastern Cape.

It needs, however, to be noted that the cost structure of the forestry industry has changed over the years. Whereas in the past, the greatest production cost related to harvesting activities, in recent years this has changed dramatically –

transport costs have now become the biggest single input cost. Diesel costs, being a major component of these costs, have therefore a major bearing on the profitability of timber operations.

The diesel rebate system for forestry operations, currently allowed by SARS, is thus most welcome and of great benefit to timber growers, both large and small. It is all in our interests that the rebate system not be abused.

Because of various issues raised by industry (through organised agricultural and forestry organisations, including Forestry South Africa), SARS, to their credit, decided to hold a series of workshops throughout the country to inform diesel rebate beneficiaries in various industries (including our own) on how the diesel rebate system would work and how players in these industries could claim diesel rebates.

The focus of these workshops related to the information that needed to be submitted to SARS in terms of “log book” requirements in order for beneficiaries to claim the applicable diesel rebate.

We have, in this submission, made other comments and recommendations not specifically related to the log books.

Forestry industry concernsDespite the fact that Forestry South Africa is well aware of the need for SARS to administer the diesel rebate concession applicable to timber growers in a fair manner, we nevertheless have some concerns which we would like to bring to your attention. These issues are detailed below.

Onerous reporting requirements vis à vis the completion of log booksAlthough stated by SARS that the reporting requirements required of agricultural and forestry operations in terms of the details needed in log books is far less onerous than those applied to other sectors (e.g. mining), we still have major concerns.

These problems primarily relate to the operational environment in which we work. For example, it is simply not feasible to fill up a bowser on the first day of the month. Likewise, if a tractor

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for example, has to perform two functions in one day this is highly problematic.

If a tractor is carting timber in the morning and ploughing in the afternoon, the current regulations stipulate that the tractor must travel (maybe many kilometres) to a bowser to fill up so that the fuel used on (in this case) ploughing, can be accounted for. This is totally impractical and extremely costly.

The stringent criteria regarding fuel usage per piece of equipment, per activity, per day, needs to be relaxed dramatically. The current system places an immense administrative burden on farmers, especially given that most tractor / equipment operators are illiterate.

The current system whereby diesel usage has to be measured per machine, per activity, per day is, quite frankly, impossible to comply with from a practical point of view.

Recommendation: We propose that a monthly record be kept for such equipment – after all, we are not concerned about what that tractor did during the day, we need to record how much diesel it used on agricultural / forestry activities during the month. This could then be reconciled with the amount of diesel used from the bowser which should also be recorded each month.

The diesel rebate vis à vis the transport of wattle barkIn terms of the current regulations, diesel used in the transport of wattle bark does not attract a rebate. The question needs to be asked as to why this is so. In terms of the National Forests Act, wattle bark is classified as a “forest product”. In terms of the Income Tax Act, a diesel rebate can be claimed on the “cartage of timber” or any other activity related thereto.

Wattle bark is a major forest product – in fact for every five tons of wattle timber produced, one ton of bark is produced. It needs to be noted that in the past wattle bark was regarded as the primary crop and the wattle timber was regarded as a by-product and often left in-field to rot and thus enhance the nutrition in the soil.

Although wattle timber is now sold as a product, wattle bark fetches a far higher price than the wattle timber itself. Current wattle timber prices average R1 100 per ton whereas wattle bark prices are R1 400 per ton.

Given the above, we as an industry find it absurd that SARS regards the diesel used for the transport of wattle bark to mills as “un-rebatable usage”.

This is more absurd when the diesel used for the transport of sugar “cane tops” (a by-product used for cattle feed) is allowed in terms of the rebate.

Recommendation: Diesel used in the transport of wattle bark to mills (and back) be eligible for a diesel rebate.

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from page 9FSA highlights concerns over diesel rebate system

The diesel rebate vis à vis the transport of farm workersIn terms of the current regulations, diesel used in the transport of farm workers to their place of work and back does not attract a rebate. The question needs to be asked as to why this is so.

Given that many farm workers live “off farm”, why would SARS not allow a diesel rebate to those farmers who, out of their own goodwill (and out of their own pockets), and in the course of their daily farming activities, transport their workers to and from their farms?

Recommendation: Diesel used in the transport of workers to and from their work places be eligible for a diesel rebate.

The diesel rebate vis à vis empty return trips from processing plantsIn terms of the current regulations, diesel used in the transport of timber from a farm to a processing plant is eligible for a rebate. However, diesel used on the return trip back to the farm is not. This is highly problematic and quite frankly, nonsensical.

The current SARS diesel rebate regulations stipulate that a

diesel rebate can apply to “any activity” involved with the

“cartage” of timber products.

The cartage of timber involves the loading of trucks with timber

at the farm, the transport of this timber to a processing plant

(often many kilometres away) and then a return trip (empty)

to load up the next load of timber. Timber trucks are designed

specifically to transport logs – they cannot transport any other

products. They cannot therefore travel back from a processing

plant with other cargo – they are empty!

Given the above, we find it totally irrational for SARS to allow a

diesel rebate on the diesel used to get timber to a processing

plant but not that used on the (empty) return trip.

Recommendation: Diesel used in the transport of forest

products (timber and wattle bark) to processing mills be

eligible for a diesel rebate.

We trust that SARS will accept our comments in the spirit with

which they were made and take cognisance of their content.



Study proves FSC certification profitable for businessesA new WWF cost-benefit analysis of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification on a cross-section of forest operators finds that tropical and small or medium producers, regardless of geography, can benefit significantly from attaining FSC certification.

The Profitability and Sustainability in Responsible Forestry: Economic impacts of FSC certification on forest operators report found that on average, the companies examined earned an extra US$1.80 for every cubic

metre of FSC-certified roundwood or equivalent, over and above costs associated with certification. The Net Present Value (NPV) of the decision to pursue FSC was, on average, $6.69 per cubic metre of roundwood or equivalent – a strong positive business case overall for the decision to pursue FSC. These outcomes were achieved through price premiums, increased efficiency and other financial benefits. Results varied significantly by company size and geography. Tropical companies as well as small- and medium-size enterprises – regardless of geography – showed financial gains, while temperate and large producers were found to experience small losses. On average, it took the companies that were studied six years to break even on their investment in FSC. “The results of WWF’s new report challenge the assumption that the costs of FSC certification, particularly in the tropics, are greater than the benefits,” said Rod Taylor, Director, WWF’s Global Forests Programme. “This study shows that while the investment costs of entering into an FSC certification process can be considerable, for tropical forest operators and small or medium enterprises, the investment can be good for the bottom line. This is an important finding given the crucial role of these groups in safeguarding forests for the future.” The report is designed to help forest companies plan financially for forest certification, and provides important insight for forest companies and buyers of wood products, as well as governments, financiers and others with a stake in the impact of FSC certification. “The methodology can be applied by a company on their own operations to do a practical calculation of what they would gain from FSC certification,” Taylor said. “Advocates of responsible forestry need to support forest managers and investors with tools to assess where investing in certification brings most benefit. WWF has begun work on such tools but a broader alliance of partners is required to make these standard practice.” There is a noticeable gap in existing literature when it comes to quantitative and detailed analysis of FSC certification. WWF’s

Profitability and Sustainability in Responsible Forestry: Economic impacts of FSC certification on forest operators report takes a new approach to analyse a wide range of quantitative and qualitative data that has been acquired in cooperation with forestry consultants Form Valuations B.V. The WWF study included research on 11 companies in seven countries, and explores whether there is an economic case for forest operators to adopt FSC certification, and for financiers to prefer it. Financial data was collected primarily through in-person interviews with company management, as well as a review of financial reports, audit reports and other supporting documentation.

“Previous studies have shown that FSC certification has a positive impact on the environment, and the people who live and work in forests, but it’s been harder to show the true financial benefit for the businesses who partner with us. We are an NGO, but we are also an important tool in the marketplace, and we can only be successful in safeguarding the world’s forests if it makes good business sense. That is the premise of certification, and it’s the success of FSC,” remarked FSC Director General, Kim Carstensen.

“Tropical forests are vital to the future of our planet, and the communities who rely on them for their livelihoods need better market access. FSC certification helps provide that, and the price premiums reflect the high-end and niche markets they tend to supply. Investing in sustainable tropical timber is essential to the future of our forests,” concluded Carstensen.

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New minimum wage for forestry workers The sectoral determination for forestry workers was amended in February, bringing the implementation date for the new minimum wages for forestry workers into effect on 1 March 2016.

Unlike in previous years, there has not been a quantum increase in the wage in terms of this next three year cycle. The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries saw fit to take into account current

conditions in the agricultural and forestry sectors, particularly the drought, and has thus implemented an increase for 2016 based on the CPI. The consequent increase is 6.6%.

The minimum rate for employees in the forestry sector for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 is as follows:

Monthly: R2 778.83 Weekly: R641.32Hourly: R14.25

This is based on workers working nine hours per day OR 45 hours per week. The following prescribed minimum wage for the 2017 and 2018 annual increases was also included: 1 March 2017 to 28 February 2018: Previous year’s minimum wage + CPI + 1%

1 March 2018 to 28 February 2019: Previous year’s minimum wage + CPI + 1%

The CPI to be utilised is the available CPI excluding owners’ equivalent rent as released by Statistics South Africa six weeks prior to the increment date.

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ICFR meeting highlights developments in forestry researchThe Institute for Commercial Forestry Research (ICFR) hosted its Annual Research Meeting on 2 and 3 March at the Cedara Agricultural College in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal.

Attendees of the 2nd ICFR Annual Research Meeting. Photo courtesy of ICFR

At the meeting, ICFR researchers showcased recent research outcomes and activities in the form of short presentations. The event also offered researchers, stakeholders and industry players the valuable

opportunity for engagement and interaction.

This two-day meeting builds on the first such meeting held by the ICFR in 2015, which ICFR Director Prof Colin Dyer called “a huge success, strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones that enable depth in the research effort.” The aim is to build a forum where researchers can present and discuss aspects of their work with their research peers and stakeholders in the forestry sector.

Research at the ICFR is focussed around supporting the South African forestry sector in facing current challenges and changes, including the need to produce more wood which is fit-for-purpose in several different markets, more efficiently, and with less risk of crop loss. With this in mind, the programme was diverse, covering the broad spectrum of research in which the institute is engaged. Among others, sessions focused on risk mitigation, tree breeding, forest health and soil quality studies.

Prof Dyer concluded the event, saying: “We have looked at aspects ranging from the molecular scale to the systems level and everything in between. Each presentation, although focused on a specific aspect of research shows, links in building bigger pictures and eventually forming a series of puzzles that we are starting to put together.”

Prof Dyer also spoke to the ICFR’s intention to create a dialogue. “I think that active engagement between research peers is vitally important.” He acknowledged the good networking he witnessed at the event and highlighted its importance. “From the research group at the ICFR, we value and appreciate that kind of engagement and interest in our research.”

Prof Dyer thanked all of the ICFR’s funders who enable the research, and thanked the research team and collaborators for their presentations and the work they have done.

Keep an eye out for articles on the research presented at the ICFR Annual Research Meeting in future editions of Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times.



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Hog 3200 horizontal grinderLocal Tigercat distributor and forestry equipment supplier AfrEquip reports that Morbark has identified the need for a horizontal grinder to fill in the gap between the very successful 2600 and 3800 machines in the 400 hp to 600 hp range while keeping the width under 2,6 m wide for normal road use.

The first 3200 horizontal grinder in South Africa has already joined the fleet of other Wood Hog grinders serviced and maintained by AfrEquip. This unit will be used to grind down invasive timber and vegetation

to manufacture compost, reports AfrEquip National Sales Manager Flip Breytenbach.

The 3200 Wood Hog is an aggressive, productive grinder for processing and clearing debris, yard waste, storm debris and other mixed wood feedstocks into saleable products. Its proven drive line protection system protects against catastrophic damage from contaminants.

Aimed at wood and green waste recycling applications, the Morbark 3200 Wood Hog is a smaller, lighter, and more affordable unit with all of the benefits of a large grinder. The 3200 can handle green waste, regrind, sawmill residue, pallets, and logs up to 36 cm in diameter with ease. Available as a tracked unit for greater mobility or with electric power, the 3200 can be built with Morbark’s most popular options.

FeaturesMorbark Integrated Control System (MICS): The MICS automatically adjusts feed rates and monitors pressures and the feed wheel position to maximise production and efficiency.

Hammermill and grates: The laser-cut upturn rotor is factory balanced with forged hammers and offers unsurpassed durability and smooth operation.

Feed system: The variable speed infeed system consists of one 72 cm diameter top compression feed roll with internal drive and a 5 m long x 1,5 m wide live floor equipped with four strands of WDH-110 chain in a staggered configuration. The internal planetary drive has no chains and sprockets for lower maintenance, more torque and better durability.

Discharge System: The discharge system consists of a hydraulically driven, horizontal 1, 07 m x 2, 87 m aggregate belt conveyor discharging onto a 1 m x 8 m stacking discharge conveyor that has a hydraulic fold for transport.

What makes the Morbark range of horizontal grinders unique from any other brand?It is that the Wood Hog series drive the drum towards the product in an upwards direction as the anvil is at the top of the drum and not on the floor as general practice on other machines. This allows opportunity for sand and debris to fall off the material and because it is cut or mulched away from the floor the sand influences the material less. This also allows the rakers and screens to process material the whole way down on the back of the drum into the desired size.

It is time for the Eucalyptusto be afraid...

Very afraid.

Flip: +27 72 708 9091Paul: +27 78 918 [email protected]

www.afrequip.co.zaIn a plantation near you!

www.logmax.com


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Former SAPPI forester builds a contracting business with BellEmmanuel Mashile is a qualified forester with a difference. He is business-minded too and, judging from his dabbling in retail sales and services, it must have been clear to everyone that Mashile would soon become self-employed.

Mashile grew up amongst the forests of Graskop and Sabie. So when he finished high school, it did not come as

too much of a surprise to his parents, who both worked in the timber industry, that he planned to study forestry at the Saasveld Forestry College situated between George and Knysna.

“After qualifying, my first job was with the Hans Merensky group in Tzaneen, where I worked as a Junior Harvesting Forester for a year,” he says. “I then joined Sappi at their Ngodwana Division and was fortunate to be appointed as a Management Forester, a position I held for five years. I gained lots of experience working in both gum and pine plantations.”

During that time, Mashile came into firsthand contact with Bell Loggers as his teams used them every day to load timber infield, at roadside depots and rail sidings. Little did he know what the future would hold for him.

“I’m quite business-minded and I am forever looking for gaps in the market: be it in direct sales or services,” Mashile continues. “I had started an internet café in my home town of Graskop and for a while owned a hair salon in the Riverside Mall in Nelspruit and managed to sell these businesses once they were established.”

Mashile currently owns a manufacturing business in Nelspruit, which specialises in glass and aluminium and services both retail and wholesale sectors with garage doors, shop-fronts and shower doors. He covers the entire Mpumalanga, Swaziland and parts of Mozambique, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.

“I have always wanted to be self-employed, especially in forestry and I must commend my former employers Sappi, for recognising my entrepreneurial skills and drive,” Mashile says.

“With Sappi’s encouragement, I applied through a strict tender process for the contracts they had advertised and was fortunate enough to become a preferred supplier.”

He resigned from Sappi in July 2015 and started his own contract timber harvesting company, which he calls Dikwata, the Sotho word for timber. He landed his two contracts with his erstwhile employers Sappi in October 2015.

“These were and still are exciting times for me as I looked to be working in the Sappi Highveld Area just north of Piet Retief, where I would be tasked with felling and extracting timber and doing the short-haul to roadside for the first contract and then unloading timber at the rail siding and loading rail trucks for the second contract.”

“Fortunately the loading contract kicked off first and I could hire in two Bell 225A Loggers for that task as the felling contract only commenced in January 2016.

“The later start gave me room to build up some cash flow as I needed to pay my staff and the hiring of the Bell Loggers,” he adds.

“As a start-up company and with contracts in hand, I could confidently apply for financing from the National

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(From left): Johan Visser (Sappi Management Forester Harvesting), Alvin Bronkhorst (Sappi Harvesting Manager Highveld Area), Mashile Mahile (Owner, Dikwata) and Charles Inggs (Bell Equipment Sales Representative)



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from page 23Former SAPPI forester builds a contracting business with Bell

Empowerment Fund with which to buy forestry equipment and my equipment was delivered to me in January 2016.”

Mashile needed to contribute to the start-up capital and with five-year contracts awarded to him, he could repay the loan over five years at preferential rates.

His choice of loading and material handling equipment fell on Bell 225A Loggers as they were the machines of choice for so many operators in the timber industry and he had

firsthand experience of their legendary toughness in all types of terrain. The short-haul side would see him using a Bell 1716A Rigid Haul Tractor with a 25-tonne timber trailer obtained from another supplier.

Alvin Bronkhorst is Sappi’s Harvesting Manager for the Highveld area and he is pleased to welcome Mashile and his Dikwata staff to his area. “We know what Mashile is capable of and have set him the steep target of harvesting 50 000 tonnes of Eucalyptus for us per year, felling and cutting this hardwood to length,” he says.

“With the rail-siding loading contract, he will also have his work cut out for him and we were very pleased to see that he has invested in quality equipment from Bell Equipment.”

“When you negotiate the contract, you have to put forward your working method as well as your business plan,” Mashile explains. “Fortunately my past experience taught me what systems work and mechanisation is definitely the way to go. I should

also mention the guidance I received from Charles Inggs, the Bell Sales Representative in Nelspruit.

“This is the reason why I bought four, Bell 225A Loggers, one for the infield harvesting side and three for the rail-siding loading contract where we would need to load a block of 40 rail wagons, within a 24-hour cycle. I am fully confident that our Bell 225A Loggers will see us through for many years to come,” Mashile concludes

Mashile started out with two Bell 225A Loggers

Bell’s 225A Loggers are the machines of choice for many operators in the timber industry



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Under pressure to make choices? What is the best solution when you need volume of water instead of pumping reach? A pump expert is helping foresters make smarter decisions.

Safequip, the distributor of the Davey Water Products range of pumps and water treatment products in southern Africa, is helping the forestry industry make informed and important decisions about the engine

driven pumps they choose for certain applications.

Safequip supplies both Davey’s 5155H single stage Firefighter and 5255H twin stage Firefighter models. At present, the latter is the most popular but, in some instances, it is being used in applications where the 5155H is better suited.

SafeQuip’s Malcolm Corns tells Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times that tighter economic conditions and the water crises that the country is facing at present warrants suppliers of pumps and water products to help its clients overcome these challenges by recommending solutions.

“Davey has always been an extremely well-positioned brand in South Africa. As the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM’s) partner, our focus is on ensuring that the market makes informed decisions about the use of these pumps that enables them to enjoy better performance, as well as the lowest total cost of ownership,” says Corns.

A sound example of this is the company helping its customers in the forestry industry discern between the use of a single stage and twin stage model.

“In some instances, a single stage pump is better suited to a multitude of applications in the forestry industry. For example, plantation owners in KwaZulu-Natal could rather use our ‘yellow’ offering for tasks, such as establishing fire breaks than our twin-stage ‘red’ model,” he says.

As he points out, in these applications, the volume of water matters, as opposed to pumping pressure to achieve reach, and this solution is 20% more cost-effective than a twin stage pump, which is a better solution for firefighting applications.

“The single stage firefighting model is a multi-functional pump where you do not need the pressure and, more importantly, you don’t pay for that pressure. Here, the user of the pump wants the best solution to achieve the maximum flow and volume of water for the task at hand. This is very important in these challenging economic conditions,” says Corns.

The drought that the country is facing means that there will be an increased need for a single stage pump that meets general agricultural and domestic applications on the plantations.

The Davey 5155H single stage Firefighter model is able to pump 500l a minute at seven bar pressure, and pump up to 60m in height, and gives significantly more volume of water than its twin-stage counterpart.

Like its very popular “red” 522H twin stage counterpart, it is powered by a Honda engines but is available with diesel options as well.

Davey is a premium brand that has been in the market since the 1970s. For this reason, it has been a dominant player in the sub-Saharan African pump market. In fact, Corns says that the brand is enjoying significant growth in Safequip’s supply territories with new markets opening up every day.

This significant market share can be attributed to the host of patented innovations that set them aside from their competitors. This includes novel clamped impeller design and smoother waterways for increased performance and suction ability, complemented by independently floating neck rings to ensure optimal performance is maintained even after long periods of use.

A thrust balance drum and equalisation holes in the impeller reduce thrust forces to extend engine and seal life.

Meanwhile, Davey’s well-injector kit allows both ranges to extract bore water from depths down to 40 m.

Corn is optimistic about the future of the Davey brand in Safequip’s territories. This is considering the important role specialist vendors can play in helping their markets better manage their scarce water resources. And, Safequip and its principal are certainly in the position to do exactly that!

By David Poggiolini

“The drought that the country is facing means that there will be an increased need for a single stage pump that meets general agricultural and domestic applications on

the plantations.”


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Breaking the limitsA trailer manufacturer is continuing its drive to boost payload in the timber haulage sector.

The timber haulage industry continues its quest to increase payload, despite the challenges that lie ahead, Leon van de Wetering, sales director of Afrit, tells Wood Southern African & Timber Times.

He says that the company continues to push the boundaries - synonymous with work it did on the SAM I, II and III trailer concepts that enabled it to seize the majority share of this niche market. SAM is an acronym that stands for Sappi, Afrit and MAN.

Sappi, South Africa’s leading pulp and paper producer, and MAN, the well-known truck original equipment manufacturer, partnered to break new grounds in timber haulage. Payloads of 34t to 35t achievable with rigid draw-bar trailers were

challenged, with SAM I pushing this up to 38t and SAM II increasing this even further to 40t. The cornerstone of this research and development was using stronger high-tensile steel from Sweden that was used to make the chassis and the links of the trailer, lowering its weight significantly.

“This allowed us to use thinner steel with the same or even better strength. This resulted in a big weight saving,” says Van der Wetering.

SAM III refined work achieved on its predecessors, but bigger breakthroughs in the field have been few and far between. As Van de Wetering points out, more developments in reducing the weight of trailers and therefore boost their ability to carry more have been curtailed by limitations in material technology.

The company has been a forerunner in trailer design in the country


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“There have simply been no new lighter materials that have lasted,” says Van de Wetering.

This is especially the case in South Africa where the state of roads is definitely “not getting any better”, and haulage equipment is subject to potholes and uneven surfaces, notorious for wreaking havoc on mechanical equipment.

In an industry that is characterised by large haulage contracts and small margins, timber haulage contractors need a trailer that lasts for 10 years or more.

The next step after the SAM projects was going the performance-based standards (PBS) route - the only way to improve payload.

Van de Wetering says some of Afrit’s PBS projects have broken the 2-million km mark. Timber Logistics and Timber 24 are just two of the major players in the sector that are still running these trailers today.

Afrit’s PBS trailers with a maximum payload of about 47t were its next collaboration with Sappi after its SAM developments.

A virtue The industry will have to be patient to hear more about new development in the company’s pipeline as they will first be subjected to major tests in the South African forests, known for their arduous haulage requirements.

While Van de Wetering points out that modern day requirements have placed pressure on the trailer manufacturer to shorten its prototype periods, compared to the past when it gained a foothold in the industry through its work on SAM. Any new developments will be subjected to “an extensive period of field trials”.

Afrit’s 15 years in the industry mean that it knows all the “ins and outs” of the forestry environment. He says that this means that the company is able to undertake finite element analysis on the chassis, bunks and stakes.

“We know where they travel and their road conditions very well. We understand their unique working environments - where they load and where they start their haul,” says Van de Wetering.

“You can design up to a certain point. On paper, it will always look very good, but the field tests will always reveal a completely different story. The trailer needs to be taken into the plantations and onto the road.”

This same approach was undertaken with the shorter 23m trailer, one of Afrit’s fastest movers in its timber haulage offering. The unit has a payload of about 48 t.

Clearly, South African forestry is keeping this trailer manufacturer on its toes, but Van de Wetering is not complaining. “We like it that way,” he says. And, that’s the attitude that gives you an 80% share of a market segment, albeit a small component of the company’s overall business.

By David Poggiolini

Better materials are the cornerstone of increasing payloads


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6th WOOD Conference promotes climate regulations

The 6th WOOD Conference, with over 440 participants, was considered a great success.

The event, was held on 15 February in Cape Town and after an initial 70 participants at the 1st Wood Conference in 2010 the number of participants has increased annually. 2015 was a highlight with

750 interested persons from a variety of sectors including architecture, the public sector, politics, universities, design, wood construction and students. The Wood Conference has established itself as one of the most important conferences in sustainable construction and green building in South Africa. Wood is a natural building material predestined to establish itself in sustainability. The wood technology and extensive know-how in wood construction allows architects and engineers to realise multi-storey buildings in timber construction and hybrid construction. What is considered construction of the future in Europe, can become a reality in South Africa. The Wood Conference serves as a neutral platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas, and the international exchange of information and networking. Sustainability, ecologically valuable and energy-efficient construction, as well as new concepts and new designs form the focus of the Wood conference.

This year the sixth Wood-conference was launched with a workshop, where answers were provided to questions from the audience. Thomas Rohner chaired the interactive panel discussion/workshop with questions about fire resistance, sound insulation, acoustics, sustainability, price, life cycle and new products. The market partners involved in the panel answered questions from the participants on these topics. This was followed by eight lectures, including international speakers from Switzerland, Max Renggli (CEO Renggli AG) and Josef Hess (Vice Director of FOEN).

Roger Kuratle opened the 6th Wood Conference and welcomed all guests, the speakers and the Swiss Consul General. Kuratle was followed by Bernadette Hunkeler Brown who referred to the wood and forest policies in Switzerland and South Africa.

Josef Hess, Vice Director of FOEN, presenting at the conference


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Josef Hess then described vividly the Swiss forestry and forest policy of the past, the present and the future. Hess stressed the fundamental importance of this conference not only for the timber industry and the wood technology, but also for the forest and timber policies and measures for climate regulation.

Thomas Hugo, Melanie Blumentritt, and Eliška Oberhofnerová presented the research project Hout Bay House. This house was constructed from NOVATOP CLT and a PAVATEX insulation. The wall structures are monitored by means of sensors for several years on temperature and humidity history. Therefore the high efficiency of timber construction can be detected. Peter Brown presented the two standards for energy efficiency and energy consumption of buildings in a paper. In it were in the past 5000 building professionals, mostly architects of South Africa, formed on these two topics. Peggy Sithole discussed the need for training of youth and women and the training of skills in areas of great poverty. She emphasised the importance and value of timber in the population and called on the timber industry to increase exposure to these topics. Max Renggli demonstrated the use of timber in modular building and explained this as a key for the entry of wood in the modern urban design, regardless of the size of objects. He ended his remarks with the phrase "The one who builds, bears responsibility - beyond today and beyond generations". Trynos Gumbo spoke about the huge demand for housing and living spaces, which corresponds to the social conditions in Africa. In the definition of housing and public buildings such as schools and municipal buildings he stressed the importance of renewable building material, wood.

Schalk Kapp's key messages were that high energy prices in Africa can be reduced, in the mass of organic and sawmill byproducts energy is obtained. The objective is the reduction and the replacement of fossil fuels with energy from bio-mass. Mr. Kapp pointed to four major projects in Africa. Christian Balanche and Jannick Jahnke presented the modern freeform structure of the French Pavilion in Milan. They explained the digital model in its emergence from engineering, to press bed creation to machine control. Jacques Cronje ended the conference with a presentation on the Wood Student Foundation which promotes the use of wood in all training courses and student projects.

For the first time the Bern University of Applied Sciences was a partner of the conference, represented by Thomas Rohner, Professor for Timber Engineering and BIM.

The international exchange between universities in South Africa and Switzerland was guaranteed by the Centre for Development and Cooperation. Several South African universities were invited to participate, namely the University of Cape Town, University of Johannesburg, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Pretoria, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Stellenbosch University.

The 7th Conference Wood is set to take place on 28 February 2017 in Cape Town.

Article and photos: www.woodconference.co.za

Edited by Danielle Petterson


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The Finnish connection Biomass is on the agenda and the Finns are interested in sharing their knowledge in the field with South Africans.

All eyes are on South Africa as it continues to diversify its energy mix from being mainly reliant on fossil fuel-based energy resources to an economy that is also powered by renewable energy.

The country has already made major strides in the field through its highly acclaimed Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPP) programme. Set to be used as a blueprint in other Southern African Development Community countries, it has been very successful in attracting private sector investment into the country from Ireland, the United Kingdom, Spain and Saudi Arabia, to name a few.

While the focus has been on wind and solar, as well as limited micro-hydropower generation capacity, focus is also shifting to the immense potential of the country’s biomass resources.

One of the first movers in the field was the forestry sector’s counterpart, the sugar-processing industry. Already, a biomass plant is being developed in KwaZulu-Natal under the REIPPP programme banner.

While bagasse is being used as the fuel source, the country’s government has also identified the tremendous potential that exists in harnessing the power of residues produced by the forestry and sawmilling industries.

As such, South African energy policymakers are now laying the foundation for more work in the field. At the same time, the industry has been extremely proactive, and made significant

strides, in terms of using its residues to relinquish its reliance onthe strained national electricity grid through an array of co-generation projects. Leaders in the field have taken note of these developments and it is not surprising then that Finnish firms, such as Indufor and VTT, recently convened in Johannesburg, Gauteng, to showcase their expertise in the field.

Jarno Seppala, head of forest industry and biosolutions of Indufor, sees significant potential for biomass from the forestry and sawmilling industries not only in South Africa, but also in the larger southern African region.

According to Seppala, the “low hanging fruits” reside in processing the residues generated directly by operations. This includes in pulpwood and sawmilling operations, as well as from thinning, however, depending largely on exact geographical location and case. He says some of this potential can be exploited from the clearing of unwanted species, such as in the northern estates.

However, the biggest power production potential comes from building critical mass by also processing resources produced from other operations.

According to the company’s research, potential exists. This includes pulpwood operations, as well as the harvesting of residues and thinnings. In certain projects, the longest distance that the residues would have to be hauled is just more than 25 km.

The biggest potential comes from the harvesting of residues and thinnings, as well as pulpwood and sawmilling operations.

The clearing of unwanted species from northern estates also offers potential by incrementally increasing haulage distances. However, haulage increases to more than 35 km.

Bringing skillsMuch of the successes of the REIPPP can be attributed to the learnings gleaned from developed countries.

>>30



from page 27In-house grading of structural timber on the horizon for sawmills


from page 28The Finnish connection

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This has allowed South Africa to avoid many of the mistakes made in other parts of the world, and finely tune the parameters in which these IPPs operate in the country. And, an opportunity has emerged again with South Africa now being able to learn from the leaders in biomass energy production, and leap-frog into a new era.

As Jaana Huso-Kallio, deputy minister of the Finnish ministry of agriculture and forestry, noted, Finland is the biggest consumer of bioenergy in the European Union. At present, bioenergy sources contribute towards more than 20% of the country’s energy mix.

She says that the country has become a global leader in the use of wood-based biomass energy generation due to its exceptionally strong forest cluster and extensive investments in bioenergy research and development since the 1980s.

The strides that it has made in the field are reflected by the fact that it was awarded second place in the Global Cleantech Innovation Index in 2014, as well as the European Union Eco-innovation Index in 2013.

Huso-Kallio points out that Finland is a pioneer in three main areas.

This includes the co-production of electricity and heat, making it possible to use biofuels and the implementation of new technologies to refine various biomasses into biofuels. In addition, the country is the custodian of an advanced forestry management, wood harvesting and transportation chain.

She points out that the Finnish biomass-based co-production of heat and power (CHP) boiler technology is a leader in its field, doubling a plant’s energy efficiency by as much as 80%.

From kilowatts to kilometresMeanwhile, she points out that the use of bio- and wood-based transport biofuels is on the rise in Finland.

The development is being led by major forestry and energy companies, such as UPM, Neste and St1. This industry comprises medium-sized companies and start-ups focusing on new innovative technologies and solutions.

Huso-Kallio expects the estimated annual revenue for biofuels in Finland to be EUR5-billion.

Vesa Turpeinen of St1 reports that the company has also ventured into an array of industries geared at replacing fossil fuels with waste based bioethanol in a profitable and

sustainable way. The company has several projects that have turned food industry waste and municipal biowaste into bioethanol. The company is also starting up a new sawdust based ethanol plant in the autumn of 2016.

The company is no stranger to South Africa, and is already driving a biofuels project in the country.

Turpeinen details that ST1’s customer New Africa Biofuels Ltd is still looking for a suitable site, having completed the feasibility studies for the project in 2015.

These fields of expertise are supported by the Finn’s advanced forest management, wood harvesting and transportation solutions. This includes heavy-duty bioenergy machinery, such as harvesters, log trucks, stationary chippers, crushers and cutters, complemented by wood storage, transportation management and optimisation systems using GPS tracking for wood.

South Africa is set to follow a worldwide trend, considering that international demand for bioenergy is said to be rising. This is being driven by population growth which is expected to see demand for energy grow by 45%, food by 50% and water by 30% by 2030. Also driving this growth in biomass energy is climate change and urbanisation.

According to Turpeinen, biomass represents about 14% of global energy consumption, at present. This share is expected to increase by more than 20% by 2030. And, if things go as planned, South Africa with its long and proud tradition in the forestry industry, and its new focus on renewable energy, there is no reason why it should not be a major contributor towards this growth.

By David Poggiolini


Biom

assWaste wood to

biomass in one passTerex® Environmental Equipment, part of the wider Terex Materials Processing group, is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of static and mobile wood processing and recycling equipment.

Terex Environmental Equipment’s drive to introduce new technology to the waste processing market is shaping the industry for years to come. This is no more evident than the partnership between Terex and leading German

shredder manufacturer Vecoplan, creating an industry-first mobile medium speed shredder – the TDS V20.

This medium speed, double shaft machine with shaft speeds of up to 168rpm and a highly accurate cutting action creates minimal fines, while replaceable sizing screens control the maximum size of the product generated. The intelligent tramp material protection system gives operators the necessary confidence when unsuspected contaminates appear in the feed material.

This unique combination of features has helped launch this machine to the market place with great results. The reduction in fines and the controlled piece size enable waste wood processors to remove unnecessary screening equipment and oversize reprocessing systems, increasing production and greatly reducing operational costs.

The versatility of the TDS V20 means that it can be used as a primary or secondary shredder should the need arise. With user friendly control interface, complete with pre-installed programmes, the TDS V20 is ideal for processing difficult materials such as waste wood, green waste, domestic and industrial waste and is particularly suited to producing SRF.

Ecotec RangeRecent acquisitions of Continental Biomass Industries (CBI) and Neuson Ecotec Environmental Technology, combined with an aggressive Research & Development strategy, have seen TEE develop a world class ‘Ecotec Range’ of mobile equipment that will shape the industry for years to come.

For the large scale wood processing and recycling industries, the Ecotec product portfolio includes horizontal grinders, trommels, slow speed and medium speed shredders, waste handlers, windrow turners, biomass chippers and recycling screen with Spaleck technology.

The range of innovative machines available provides efficient production, low operational costs and ease of maintenance, so end users are sure to find the correct machine for their applications.

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Rayco Forestry Mulcher

Rayco Stump Grinder

Terex TBG680

Terex TBG 640

Terex 435VT

Rayco Horizontal Grinder RH1754


Bio

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from page 31Waste wood to biomass in one pass

A world class dealer distribution network provides the sales and aftermarket service demanded in the market place, giving customers the support required to maximise production and minimise downtime.

Terex® Environmental Equipment is supplied locally by Mfangano Solutions. They supply a wide range of Ecotec products, including:

TBG 620The TBG 620 is a powerful, compact and flexible high-speed industrial grinder that can be utilised for various grinding tasks in the field of waste wood. Due to a multitude of possible settings for the grinding process such as material feed rate, engagement of backing device and flail type, a variety of materials can be ground on site to the customer’s desired size. Applications include shrubbery clippings, garden waste, compost material, organic waste, bark, trunk and root wood.

TBG 625The versatile TBG 625 high speed shredder can process a variety of different materials including garden and park waste, compost material, organic waste, bark, root wood, pallets and building demolition wood. This robust 650Hp machine, with a swinging hammer rotor measuring 1 040mm diameter x 1 530 mm wide and a maximum intake opening of 530 mm, offers impressive production levels, self-explanatory operation and time-saving design features for quick service and easy maintenance.

TWT 500Powerful yet compact, the TWT 500 is the ideal windrow turner for both high volume production and yards with confined space. The patented design allows customers to process up to 30% more material within the same footprint as conventional windrow turners.

The unique material handling system ensures unrivalled aeration and product mixing reducing decomposition times

and increasing productivity. Superior operator comfort, excellent visibility and features such as Auto pilot ensure the TWT 500 exceeds customers’ requirements.

THC 465The THC 465 is an innovative industrial wood chipper which can create high quality wood chips with the added benefit of being easily converted into a root chipper for processing difficult material such as soil contaminated roots and stumps. The unique hybrid design allows the log chipper rotor to be easily replaced with a root chipper rotor giving operators unrivalled application flexibility and maximum return on their investment.

This powerful machine uses a 480 kW (653 HP) V8 Deutz engine and is available with a number of different wheeled chassis options and machine configuration allowing for complete machine rotation and discharge conveyor positioning. Easily replaced sizing screens, ranging from 30 mm to 125 mm, allow chip size to be controlled guaranteeing operators the end product they require.

TTS 520 & TTS 520-3The TTS 520, a mobile two-fraction screen, is a powerful and compact screen that can be utilised for various screening tasks. A variety of materials can be screened onsite due to its flexible feed rate, drum speed and inclination angle. Powered by a 105 HP (77kW) John Deere diesel engine its drum measures 2 000 mm diameter x 5 150 mm length.

A completely new and considerably cheaper alternative to the star screen, the TTS 520-3 complete with disc screen enables material separation in three fractions, all while offering the same advantages of a drum screen (low maintenance, higher screening quality, easy set-up). When being transported its dimensions are the same as a two-fraction drum screen, which enables maximum mobility and flexibility.

The TDS V20


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assKara Energy Systems commissions

new biomass steam plantKara Energy Systems B.V. and renewable energy company, Sustainable Heating, launched their newest biomass steam plant end 2015 at Paarl Media Cape in Milnerton, Western Cape. By using renewable energy in their print facilities, the print leader will witness a staggering amount of electricity and carbon emission savings.

Minister of Economic Opportunities Alan Winde attended the grand opening of the impressive Kara Energy Systems Biomass Steam facility at Paarl Media Cape, the flagship plant of Paarl

Media, known as the print division of Novus Holdings. Novus Holdings prides itself on its environmentally sound business practices focused on delivering the highest quality work with the least impact on the environment.

“At Novus Holdings, we do business the sustainable way and take into account energy costs. With constant electricity tariff increases and load-shedding occurrences, the Kara Energy Systems Biomass Steam Plant reduces production costs in the long run and creates a buffer against electricity inflation, while working towards creating a neutral carbon footprint in

developing steam for our gravure press,” says Peter Metcalfe, Novus Holdings Group Executive: Sales.

The Kara Energy Systems Steam Plant is owned and managed by renewable energy company Sustainable Heating, their third Kara Energy Systems installation in South Africa for 2015 and with four more scheduled for construction in 2016.

Paul Gorremans, founder of Sustainable Heating, mentions that there are numerous benefits of the newly constructed Kara Energy Systems Biomass Steam Plant, which operates on woodchips as opposed to fuel or paraffin. “Through the biomass facility, we will see an approximate 218 000 tons of carbon reduction over 15 years. The plant is 85% to 90% energy efficient, with fuel only being used to transport the woodchips.”

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ssfrom page 27In-house grading of structural timber on the horizon for sawmills


from page 33Kara Energy Systems commissions new biomass steam plant

Their facility at Paarl Media Cape took a mere 17 weeks from inception to completion – a great achievement for Kara Energy Systems and Sustainable Heating. “It is a team effort, at one point there were 50 workers per day on the construction site to complete the facility.”

Sustainable Heating, which is funded by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Mergence, has long-term agreements with sawmills, pallet factories and manufacturers with wood offcuts. “We have a strong untreated wood supply and the efficiency of the Kara Energy Systems Biomass Steam Plant keeps the emissions at the lowest,” says Gorremans. “The ash produced by the plant can also be easily reused to make bricks and is acceptable for composting.”

Through this Kara Energy Systems Biomass Steam Plant, Sustainable Heating has created over 12 permanent jobs such as boiler artisans and operators, managers, general helpers, drivers and waste handlers. Each Kara Energy Systems

installation supports local entrepreneurs in various fields ranging from waste handling to engineering.

Through this model, Kara Energy Systems and Sustainable Heating’s clients experience massive savings in electricity, fuel and carbon emissions. All Kara Energy Systems Steam Plants can be controlled remotely from a computer or laptop enabling the Kara Energy Systems and Sustainable Heating team to tend to any problem, anytime, anywhere.

All businesses who need heat output can benefit from Kara Energy Systems Biomass Boilers, including sawmills, hospitals, fisheries, dairy plants and chemical processors. “Our team is striving to do better and be better and we are aiming to complete our next project within fifteen weeks,”

For more information on Kara Energy Systems B.V., please visit www.kara-greenenergy.com or contact Gert Reinders on 078 171 2557.



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Highlands Sawmill receives Arch’s renowned “Hand-In-Hand” serviceUnderstanding and meeting the requirements of each customer’s unique needs, irrespective of the size of their operation, is a founding business principle of Arch Wood Protection. This was recently demonstrated when Highlands Sawmill, a small mill servicing the Harding, Weza and rural areas, decided to take a big step and expand their operation by installing a Tanalised® C treatment plant.

Being the local suppliers of sawn timber, we were often faced with the dilemma of having to turn away customers who requested treated timber. This led to our decision to expand our services by installing a Tanalised® C wood preservative treatment plant. As a small operation, the process was at first daunting. However, the team from Arch made this a smooth transition for us with their ‘hand-in-hand’ service from start to finish,” said Geoff Hogg, the owner of Highlands Sawmill.

From the first enquiry through to the installation and official commissioning of the plant, Highlands Sawmill benefited from Arch’s expertise as a highly qualified team dedicated to the supervision of the site.

Every phase of the project execution was meticulously managed from the design of the civil drawings to the plant erection, installation and commissioning to ensure a timely completion within quality and safety requirements.

“I am very impressed with the high level of expertise and professional service received from Arch. We are very excited about the successful commissioning of our Tanalised® C wood preservative treatment plant, and look forward to the positive

impact it is going to have on the growth and development of our business,” added Geoff.

The Arch after-sales support team has taken over the reins and will provide ongoing support that goes beyond the supply of treatment products. This includes the implementation of Arch’s Tan-Treat™ electronic Quality Support System, which will enable Highlands Sawmill to reap the benefits of all-important cost savings and improved efficiency in their business.

“Assisting our customers with a future in the treatment industry is an integral part of our commitment to supporting the growth and development of the timber industry as a whole. We look forward to a longstanding relationship with Highlands Sawmill, and wish them every success with the expansion of their business into Tanalised® C wood preservative treatment,” concluded Doug Sayce, General Manager of Arch Wood Protection.

Highlands Sawmill is a family run business with Geoff’s wife, Vee in the office and son, Gary managing timber procurement. Gerhard Pretorius has recently been employed to manage the sawmill and has also received timber treatment training from Arch.

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Sawmill manager Gerhard Pretorius together with the owner of Highlands Sawmill, Geoff Hogg and his wife, Vee.



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The vital importance of heat treating your palletsThe correct treatment of wooden pallets and crates for export purposes is vitally important to protect against the spread of pests and diseases. South Africa is one of a number of nations that complies with ISPM 15, an international standard prescribing the correct heat treatment of pallets. This international standard requires that the wood be debarked, heat treated, and then stamped with a mark of compliance.

Pests associated with wood packaging materials are known to have negative impacts on forest health and biodiversity. Wood packaging material is frequently made of raw wood that may not have undergone

sufficient processing or treatment to remove or kill pests and therefore remains a pathway for the introduction and spread of quarantine pests.

Furthermore, wood packaging material is very often reused, repaired or remanufactured, making the true origin of any piece of wood packaging material difficult to determine, and thus its phytosanitary status cannot easily be ascertained. The implementation of ISPM 15 is considered to significantly reduce the spread of pests and subsequently their negative impacts.

ISPM 15 was developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) back in 2002 and was revised in 2009. The ISPM 15 guidelines cover all forms of wood packaging material that may serve as a pathway for pests posing a pest risk mainly to living trees, namely wood packaging material thicker than 6 mm such as crates, boxes, packing cases, dunnage, pallets, cable drums and spools/reels.

The follow exemptions do not have to comply with the standard as they are considered sufficiently low risk:

wood packaging material made entirely from thin wood •(6 mm or less in thickness)

wood packaging made wholly of processed wood •material, such as plywood, particle board, oriented strand board or veneer that has been created using glue, heat or pressure, or a combination thereof

barrels for wine and spirit that have been heated •during manufacture

gift boxes for wine, cigars and other commodities •made from wood that has been processed and/or manufactured in a way that renders it free of pests

sawdust, wood shavings and wood wool •

wood components permanently attached to freight •vehicles and containers

Approved treatmentsAccording to ISPM 15, all wood packaging material must be made of debarked wood, irrespective of the type of treatment applied.

Various energy sources or processes are considered suitable to achieve the required treatment parameters. Conventional steam heating, kiln-drying, heat-enabled chemical pressure impregnation and dielectric heating (microwave, radio frequency) may all be considered heat treatments provided they meet the correct heat treatment parameters.

NPPOs should ensure that treatment providers monitor the treatment temperature at a location likely to be the coldest, which will be the location taking the longest time to reach the target temperature in the wood, to ensure that the target temperature is maintained for the duration of treatment throughout the batch of wood being treated.


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When using conventional heat chamber technology such as a steam or dry kiln heat chamber, the fundamental requirement is to achieve a minimum temperature of 56°C for a minimum duration of 30 continuous minutes throughout the entire profile of the wood (including its core). This temperature can be measured by inserting temperature sensors in the core of the wood.

Alternatively, when using kiln-drying heat chambers or other heat treatment chambers, treatment schedules may be developed based on a series of test treatments during which the core temperature of the wood at various locations inside the heat chamber has been measured and correlated with chamber air temperature, taking into account the moisture content of the wood and other substantial parameters. The test series must demonstrate that a minimum temperature of 56°C is maintained for a minimum duration of 30 continuous minutes throughout the entire profile of the wood.

Where dielectric heating is used (e.g. microwave), wood packaging material composed of wood not exceeding 20 cm3 when measured across the smallest dimension of the piece or the stack must be heated to achieve a minimum temperature of 60°C for one continuous minute throughout the entire profile of the wood (including its surface). The prescribed temperature must be reached within 30 minutes from the start of the treatment.

Methyl bromide treatment In the absence of alternative treatments being available for certain situations or to all countries, or the availability of other

appropriate packaging materials, methyl bromide treatment is included in the ISPM 15 standard. Despite its inclusion, national plant protection organisations are encouraged to promote the use of alternative treatments approved in the standard, largely because methyl bromide is known to deplete the ozone layer.

Mark of complianceAll wood packaging material that has been subjected to approved phytosanitary treatment in accordance with ISPM 15 must be marked. This mark has the following required components:

the symbol •a country code •a producer/treatment provider code •a treatment code using the appropriate abbreviation •

The size of the mark must be sufficient to be both visible and legible to inspectors without the use of a visual aid. The mark must be rectangular or square in shape and contained within a border line with a vertical line separating the symbol from the code components. No other information may be contained within the border of the mark.

For more information on the correct heat treatment of wooden packaging material consult ISPM 15.Pallets heat treated in South Africa bearing the mark of compliance.

Photo: Tony Hisgett - PalletsUploaded by oaktree_b, CC BY 2.0


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Farleigh Eco-Furniture Factory creates desks, jobs and skillsWood Southern Africa & Timber Times visited the Eco-Furniture Factory at Farleigh in the Garden Route National Park to learn more about this government initiative.

The Eco-Furniture ProjectInvasive alien species cause billions of rands of damage to South Africa’s economy every year, posing a direct threat not only to South Africa’s biological diversity, but also to water security. The Department of Environmental Affairs, through the Natural Resource Management programme, and funding from the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) as well as the Jobs fund, initiated the Eco-Furniture Project to use invasive alien plants to make school desks for the Department of Basic Education, with a focus on producing products to meet government furniture needs.

These desks are supplied to schools throughout the country. The Department of Basic Education is a major role player in the programme, with an order of 200 000 school desks currently being manufactured for the department, mainly for schools in the Eastern Cape. Ancillary products such as affordable coffins and furniture are also produced at the factory.

The Eco-Furniture Programme was first piloted in December 2005 in Cedara, KwaZulu-Natal, in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Invasive Alien Species Programme, with seed funding from the World Bank. It has since grown into a national programme with a presence in the Southern Cape, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

The Eco-Furniture Programme is a job creation initiative which offers opportunities to unemployed South Africans. The programme, which is implemented through the South African National Parks Agency (SANParks), seeks to make optimal use of the biomass cleared through the WfW programme, create work opportunities to make products that help government to meet its needs and thereby empower communities.

Eco-Furniture Factory at FarleighThe Farleigh Eco-Furniture Factory, situated in the Garden Route National Park was established in late 2010 with only a drymill, providing jobs for 35 unemployed locals. The factory has now

grown to include a wetmill and employs 144 people – all of whom were previously unemployed – and includes a satellite factory in the nearby Rheenendal township for converting pine timber to coffins, which is run by women.

Employment is done through independent contractors and Farleigh currently has contractors in place for all areas of its operations – three for harvesting in-field, two in the wetmill, and three drymill contractors.

The Farleigh eco-furniture team is currently working on opening a bigger factory in George with plans to be operational from 1 April. The existing Farleigh factory will then be downscaled into a training facility. Emile Mopp, harvesting manager at the Farleigh operation, explains that this will allow for the expansion of the factory in terms of size, capacity and number of employees.

The current location of the factory in the Garden Route National Park, high up in the mountains, does not facilitate shift work as workers cannot be transported to the factory after dark – the workers from surrounding Karatara and Rheedendal

Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa, visited the eco-furniture factory for its opening back in 2011


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are transported to the factory on a bus organised by the company. The new location will enable shiftwork and allow for the employment of 100 new staff members.

There are also plans to use the sawdust created during the production process to generate electricity at the new factory in George.

One of Farleigh’s three portable Lucas Mills

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An example of the school desks produced


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from page 43Farleigh Eco-Furniture Factory creates desks, jobs and skills

The majority of the timber used in the eco-furniture factory comes from the surrounding SANParks forest. The areas being harvested form part of the exit areas identified by the Western Cape Exit Policy.

The areas are currently covered mainly with Pine and will be restored to their natural state once completely exited. The supply of timber available from these areas gives the factory a lifespan of approximately 15 years.

However the team also works with landowners and the local municipality to harvest alien trees in surrounding areas.

The factory manufactures approximately 100 school desks per day out of eucalyptus, while pine is used for value-add

industries, particularly the eco-coffins manufactured at the

Rheenendal factory.

Behind every school desk All timber is brought into the wetmill where the process begins.

The wet-mill operations are fairly simple; the timber logs are

broken down into blocks by three Lucas Mill 830 portable

circular sawmills supplied by local sawmilling specialist

company Nukor.

The Lucas Mill 830 facilitates cutting dimensions of up to

215 mm x 215 mm and a cutting length of up to 6,1 m and

features a 30 hp electric start V-twin petrol engine, side shift

winder and standard track extensions. The portable mills are

Logs are loaded onto the Lucas Mill by a Bell three wheeler


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easy to use and set up and offer good production, and their simple, sturdy and rugged design with the ability to process logs accurately make them a good option for work in field and in rural areas.

A Saw King horizontal double arbor resaw works with the Lucas Mill portable circular saws for better recovery and production.

One of the biggest challenges at the Farleigh operation is drying, explains Mopp. This is because the kiln at the wetmill does not have the capacity to dry timber as quickly as is needed and the drymill needs a steady flow of timber in order to be productive. A large portion of the drying is therefore outsourced to local timber driers. This not only ensures supply, but helps stimulate the local industry and economy.

A solar kiln – essentially an adapted plastic agricultural tunnel – was installed at the wet mill a few years ago. These kilns have been successfully used at other operations, with the only downside being long drying times. However, the solar kiln was not as successful for Farleigh and has been replaced by an Eco Synergy container kiln. Mopp explains that this is because a nearby mountain blocks the sun for a large portion of the day. There are however plans in place to provide sufficient drying capacity at the factory in George.

The drymill houses a number of sophisticated machines, including a top and bottom planer, three panelsaws, two widebelt sanders, an edge sander, overhead router, multiborer, bandsaw, crosscut machine and two spindle moulders.

Planks are sawn to size and laminated. Offcuts are finger-jointed manually and components are put through a moulder, glued and put in clamps before being drilled with hand held power tools. Sanding is done with hand held sanders as well as on the wide belt sanders before spraying which is mainly done outside.

Components go through strict quality checks before being wrapped and dispatched. All of the steelwork is outsourced and this, along with the wooden components produced at the eco-furniture factory, is sent to a central location in Mthatha where the desks are assembled and dispatched to schools.

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from page 45Farleigh Eco-Furniture Factory creates desks, jobs and skills

Training Training for employees is provided on an on-going basis. A former Furntech employee who is a qualified trainer and machinist does the training on all of the machines as well as on other manufacturing-related tasks.

“We are very health and safety conscious,” says Mopp. “Nobody will touch a machine if they have not been adequately trained on it.”

The idea behind the Eco-Furniture Project is to place unemployed South Africans in a temporary working environment, to obtain skills and work experience which will benefit them in the future.

According to Mopp, several employees trained at the Farleigh operation have gone on to find other employment in the industry, particularly those involved in harvesting-related activities who are provided with chainsaw and harvester training as well as those who have heavy vehicle licences. Some have even started their own businesses.

Farleigh is one of five Eco-Furniture factories that are successfully up and running.

The factory houses several sophisticated machines

Spraying is mainly done outside

By Danielle Petterson


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millingSustainable harvesting in Ecuador

A portable sawmill brand is keeping community-owned sawmilling operation going in Ecuador.

No clear-felling, no ugly scars on the landscape, no erosion, no dirty rivers, no messy roads or noisy trucks, and minimal disturbance to native plants and animals. Imagine a small portable mill winched

into the forest by cable, trees selected by sustainability, and just the sawn timber carefully removed by hand. Yes it can be done, and EcoMadera have now proved it.

Located in the Esmeraldas Province of Ecuador, Blair Rynearson is an employee of a partially community-owned, wood products business called EcoMadera.

Once fully established, the intention is to sell engineered flooring, tropical lumber and balsa composites.

The sawmilling industry in Ecuador is very crude. The vast majority of lumber is milled free-hand, by chainsaw, in the forest. While there exist a few mills that produce boards, the

majority manufacture plywood. One of the requirements of the job was finding a way to improve on chainsaw milling in the forest. After investigation and perusal of various literature, the Peterson seemed the obvious option.

So in 2008 the company purchased a Peterson 27hp Kohler All Terrain Sawmill with an eight inch cut blade.

When Blair was hired, the mill was still in its box. It took a while for the project to get off the ground, so early milling was sporadic.

During the last six months, the Peterson ATS machine has been run much more seriously. Blair has personally spent a lot of time at the milling sites getting involved. He says, “I really enjoy watching a log open up and seeing the individual character between and within species.”

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from page 47Sustainable harvesting in Ecuador

The main timbers in Ecuador are Pine and Eucalyptus in the Sierra, and of course the classic neotropical timbers in the jungle. Timber in high demand includes Mahogany, Spanish Cedar, Ipe, and Plywood Peelers.

High silica content in some species such as Tillo (brosium alicastrum), Varra Negra (Zygia spp), and Copal (Protium spp), makes for tough milling. Blair’s organisation also has 30 hectares of balsa plantation.

This means utilising many species that are less than spectacular. Engineered flooring and similar products are a practical way to integrate these timbers. They will need to carry out extensive wood testing and provide samples to judge the market in the US. Two such species are the Sapan Palo and the Guayabillo, both attractive hardwoods suitable for flooring or craft furniture.

A much darker timber is the Clavellin, which is locally known and used for instruments. Little documented information can be found on its properties, but it appears to be very heavy and very hard. So again, sample boards will be sent to the organisation’s US purchaser to investigate potential uses.

The business uses the Peterson ATS mill in the Choco Wet Forest of NW Ecuador. It is a very wet forest with no real dry season, and total rainfall is between four and five metres per year.

The sawmill is first moved in by boat, by hand, and by cable winch into a sawmilling site. Blair’s current harvest site is located on a 400-hectare block owned by the business.

When asked about the challenges of sawing in Ecuador, Blair explained, “Our operations are in a mountainous region of tropical forest. We have to cable in the sawmill for over 5km, and some of the steeper sites of over 45 degrees require substantial chalking on the supports.

“We have two Habeggar chainsaw winches that assist in hauling logs to the mill. We generally install a 60 metre section of half inch steel cable, drag logs into the corridor and haul them partially suspended to be decked near the saw. We then cable all sawn timber out on 5km of cable broken into eight trams.”

Blair reports, “We're currently sawing to fill a container for a market test to be carried out in the US. Many of our species are unknown to the international market. The request was for four and five 1quarter lumber at varying widths, with quarter sawing of unstable species. We are considering field-sawing cants to be split on a re-saw in the plant.

“The crew currently saw 2,5m sections and the DBH can range from 40 cm to 200 cm. The specific gravity can range from 0,2 to greater than 1. The sawmill stays in a site until we’ve harvested a radius around the site with a total area of roughly two hectares. With our selective cutting system this equates to approximately 40 - 50 cubic metres of logs. The amount of logs

dragged to the saw per day is highly dependent on terrain and distance from the saw. Moving the short skyline takes a few hours. Initial studies show that we can saw 2 to 4,5 m3 of lumber per day in this manner, dependent on species.

“Once the timber is sawn, we cover it and try to keep it dry as much as possible. It is sprayed by knapsack with a chemical insecticide Deltamethrin. It's a contact insecticide and works well as long as the wood is kept dry. It prevents ambrosia beetles and termites that attack green wood. If dry it claims to last up to six months.

“Even so, we try to move the timber out of the forest in under three weeks. Back at the plant, we have a treatment and pre-drying facility. We are currently a crew of five.

“Two are dedicated to felling, bucking, skidding and sawing, two are in charge of cabling the sawn timber out of the forest, and one supervises and floats between the two. We occasionally contract out another two employees to expedite taking the wood down.

“In the next year we plan on buying a second saw and scaling up our operations with a harvest of three to four times our current output.

“The farm is a four-hour hike from our plant. We work 10-hour days, and have two hitches of nine days per month. The current saw site is only 15 minutes (one-way) from a small house we constructed on the farm. Commute time for the workers taking wood down the cables, varies from 15 minutes to an hour and a half (one-way).”

Blair reports that the mill has done extremely well, “For our application it’s perfect. Liquid soap in the cooling water helps with sticky resin and the blades perform well in hardwoods. The only modification we made later was cutting down the 5,7m rails in half for even easier transport.

“Plus I’d recommend the largest horsepower motor if you are intending to saw hardwoods frequently. Our favourite feature of the Peterson has to be its portability. The motor and carriage can be easily disassembled into three lighter parts for transport. We greatly appreciate the ease of breaking it down, hauling it in piece by piece, and establishing a new site. I really love the simplicity of sharpening and all-round durability.”

Don Gerardo Salinas said after milling his first log on the Peterson, This is way better than free-hand chainsaw milling. And in spite of the distance, the service by Petersons has been excellent.”

So far, Blair’s organisation has the only Peterson sawmill in Ecuador. But he adds, “The portable sawmill market in this country has potential. I could see Government Projects and Indigenous Reserves taking an interest in our less conventional, lower impact operation.”


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The age of edgebandingEdgebanding has changed over the ages from simple orientation to a complex high-end process. Latest developments have shown the upcoming trend and an affinity towards the seamless outputs. Here we are featuring some of the latest in the segment that are ready to bring in a new wave in the industry.

The new innovative LUMINA series from HOLZ-HER offers a unique combination for processing panels: two systems for perfectly invisible joints. The GluJet application system for standard use of PUR glue and the LTRONIC,

the new unit from HOLZ-HER, which provides a fully integrated solution for processing laser edging.

All current co-extruded and subsequently coated edging can be processed using this solution. The newly developed NIR module (NIR = Near Infrared Radiation) in the LTRONIC unit is electronically controlled for activating the laser edging functional layer. The result is perfect, invisible joints. With HOLZ-HER's LTRONIC, users obtain a cost-effective alternative to laser and hot-air processes, ensuring perfect quality laser edging.

On the LUMINA it is possible to change over from the LTRONIC to the GluJet unit as needed within minutes using the high precision HSK interface from our CNC technology. The LUMINA has an automatic recognition feature and is ready for use immediately after changing over to the LTRONIC.

The maximum change-over time from one type of edging to another is five minutes. This change-over operation is supported by two change-over carts designed by HOLZ-HER specifically for the LTRONIC and the GluJet. These change-over carts can be conveniently rolled up to the machine and docked on the guide ways. Then the HSK lock is engaged and the power supply connected using the quick-release connectors.


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The advantage of the HOLZ-HER NIR module in the LTRONIC unit is its immediate start-up. LTRONIC does not require any unproductive heat-up times and is ready for operation at the touch of a button. LTRONIC operates without any air blast noise whatsoever and without compressed air. The wave length of the NIR module is very close to the intensity of the diode laser allowing it to optimise its energy with the utmost precision over the entire length of the work piece. No energy is lost between work pieces.

A complete edging database for laser edging is completely integrated into the control on the LUMINA edgebanders. All the very latest co-extruded and coated types of edging are already stored at the factory for simple selection by the user. Each laser edging requires a specific quantity of energy, depending on factors such as edge thickness and colour. After selection, the control on the LTRONIC laser edging unit automatically sets the energy as required.

On the LUMINA the GluJet as well as the LTRONIC both have separate edge feed magazines with optimised feed angles, allowing uncompromising edging variety, from modern high gloss edging to thick solid wood edging.

HOLZ-HER LUMINA series offers:LTRONIC and GLU JET in double pack•Simple Handling – high productivity•Units for 100% repetition accuracy•Workpiece thickness up to 60 mm•Edge thickness up to 20 mm •

HOLZ-HER LUMINA 1588 offers:Invisible joint with laser edging •Waterproof invisible joint •Adaptive package for intelligent automation •Integrated multifunction cutting technology •Intuitive operation with touch screen •Workpiece transport with belt bridge •Simple handling – high productivity •Your PLUS for efficient jointing•


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Kitchens evolve A manufacturer of premium kitchens has introduced the latest in European design trends to South Africa.

When you are already a leader in your industry, research and development is vital to retain your grip on the market. This is especially the case in an industry that is dominated by a number of

smaller participants that intend eroding your market share.

And, this is exactly why Easylife Kitchens is always innovating, says John Dammermann, marketing director of Easylife Kitchens, referring to the recent launch of the company’s Evolution range of kitchen cabinets.

The Easylife Kitchens brand is synonymous with upmarket kitchens, built-in cupboards, studies, vanities and baths, with the company having designed and manufactured units according to their customers’ budgets.

Easylife Kitchens markets predominantly to home-owners who are involved in new builds and renovations. It recently introduced a new offering to this market, known as Evolution.

“With this launch, we have revolutionised kitchen cabinets in South Africa, introducing the country to the latest state-of-the-art European design trends,” says Dammermann.

The Evolution range provides 10% deeper wall and 10% bigger floor units with standard drawers, pot drawers and internal drawers. As Dammermann points out, drawers provide easier access than cupboards.

24 years and countingAnd, with this new offering, Easylife Kitchens has stayed with its preferred hardware supplier Blum, using its range of runners, hinges and fittings, for the Evolution range. Dammerman says that “the company started its business relationship with the Austrian firm right from its inception 24 years ago. We will not use anything else. Part of our success is being able to provide our customers with a lifetime guarantee on all runners and hinges used in our cabinets, and Blum allows us to do just that,” he says.

This partnership has helped Easylife Kitchens meet its objectives of always “giving customers more”. Blum is distributed in South Africa by the Eclipse Group.

In addition to the space savings that the new range brings to the kitchen market, Evolution features “niceties” such as Blum’s

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All of the equipment on the factory floor has been supplied by Austro



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from page 52Kitchens evolve

range of soft closing drawers and doors, as well as “touch open” features. While the kitchen manufacturer predominantly caters to the living standards measure (LSM) 8 to 10, the Evolution range is offered at different levels of entry.

The basic offering, for example, does not feature any “soft close” or “touch open” features, allowing its customers to upgrade their kitchens incrementally and over long periods. This also mirrors the quality of the workmanship provided by Easylife Kitchens.

Dammermann says that Easylife Kitchens keeps abreast of international developments by attending international kitchen exhibitions, and the company’s management has mainly been inspired by “Eurocentric” design.

EasyLife Kitchens has two full-time training academies in Johannesburg, Gauteng, and Cape Town, Western Cape. This knowledge is transferred to the about 160 designers throughout the group, including its 31 franchises countrywide. “This is where we share ideas, and make sure that we implement them,” he says.

These ideas are then turned into reality at the company’s two factories in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Innovation mattersBlum is known for innovation. Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times takes a look at some of its recent developments:

Handle-less furniture in the kitchen, and throughout the home, remains a stand-out trend embodying the ease and grace of modern, fine living.

However, to ensure your clients get maximum enjoyment out of the elegant handle-less style, it is crucial to install optimum opening and closing technology. Blum’s multi award-winning Tip-On-Blumotion is a mechanical solution that delivers one-touch opening seamlessly combined with soft, effortless closing. Designed to outlast the life of the furnishings, Tip-On-

Blumotion is reliable technology that will provide enhanced user convenience over the long term, without the need for electricity. A feature of the Tip-On-Blumotion design is that it can be used with a minimum front gap of just 2,5 mm, and gap alignment is easy thanks to four-dimensional adjustment. The solution is assembled quickly and simply without tools. Handle-less pull-outs and drawers always have a gracious, feather-light glide as they open at the easiest touch, and then close again ever so softly. The LEGRABOX concept enables you to offer clients the opportunity to uniquely customise the look and feel of furniture and cupboard systems throughout their homes.

They can choose the materials used for the side and/or front panels, which provide large design elements that create effective accents from the kitchen to living areas, and bedrooms to studies.

Different woods can be used to create beautifully warm, natural and textured appearances. Perspex and glass lighten and refine the form of cupboards and furniture pieces. Even stone and leather can be used to create distinctive, trendy and novel looks.

It is suited to the Space Tower larder unit. Using glass design elements provides a convenient clear view and easy access into the pull-outs for the quick location of the items that are required. The front can allow for a shorter design element improving visibility and access even further.

Ambia-Line inner dividing systems for Legrabox will provide perfect interior organisation. It is also compatible with Legrabox Pure. Both systems feature the smart combination of Blumotion, Servo-Drive and Tip-On technologies which makes functionality so light and easy that the handle-less drawers seem open, move and close by themselves.

Like other Legrabox systems, it is extraordinarily easy to assemble and fit. The Legrabox front fixing bracket enables fast, safe assembly and removal. Special assembly devices and templates make for light work and ensure that Legrabox can be assembled precisely and efficiently.

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Aventos HK-S is a scaled down lift system specially designed for those smaller, upper cabinets above pantry units or appliances. With one light touch it lifts the cabinet door up and out of your way so that you have easy access to the interior without doors getting in your way.

The lift system enables the user to keep the cabinet door in any full or partially open position, which makes it so easy to get what is needed out of the unit. The integrated Blumotion technology ensures silent and effortless soft-closing. Doors feel so light and comfortable to open and close. The lift system is very compact so that it fits harmoniously into smaller cabinets with a maximum of 400 mm in height, preserving as much storage space as possible. It can also be used with Tip-On.

If the height of the kitchen allows for it, Aventos HK-S can be used with design elements such as cornice or crown moulding. Clip technology allows for tool-free front assembly, and the lift mechanisms can be adjusted to the respective door weight using a cordless screwdriver. The symmetrical lift mechanism can be used on the left or right of the cabinet and the fronts can be adjusted in three-dimensions to ensure perfect gap alignment. Aventos HK-S is a past winner of a Red Dot Design Award. It’s one of those small, clever ideas that make a big impact on moving about and working efficiently in the kitchen.

The Space Tower can be used with either the Ambia-Line or Orga-line inner dividing systems so that provisions are stored securely and neatly. The option of clear glass front and sides affords the visibility to see what is needed at a glance and reach it quickly from three vantage points. It offers plenty of space, and the choice of higher side walls creates up to 55% more room for storage.

The pull-outs are integrated with Blum’s motion technology, Blumotion, so that drawers open, halt and then close softly at the lightest of touches. Full extensions provide a bird’s eye view of the interior of your pull-outs and conveniently afford access to the pull-outs from three sides.

The assembly of both Legrabox and Tandembox is quick. No special cutting dimensions are needed for the base and back panels. The fronts can also be simply clipped on. Blum’s Dynalog planning software helps you determine the right

position of the fittings with great ease. The software also helps you order the right fittings components for the unit quickly and efficiently.

Dream factoryThe bulk of the company’s manufacturing is undertaken at its 6 600m2 factory in Strjdom Park, which is strategically located close to the lion’s share of the company’s retail outlets. As Dammerman points out, “this is where each dream is manufactured individually. We do not refer to kitchens at this factory; we refer to dreams. Each kitchen is designed and manufactured specifically for the user. We note their individual requirements and take a very scientific approach to manufacture,” he says.

Board is sourced from both PG Bison and Sonae Novabord, providing the customer with up to 60 different shades. Lionel Hauser, production director of Easylife Kitchens, says that it is one of a handful of companies that sources its board directly from the manufacturer. This ensures quality and helps contain costs. At any point in time, Easylife Kitchens has a full range of colours in stock, allowing it to respond swiftly to orders. These are replenished to a certain stock level on a weekly basis.

The same approach is taken with the various hardware that the company uses in its factory. When Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times visited Easylife Kitchens’ plant in February, it had R5-million worth of hardware in stock, and Dammerman said the company would be increasing its inventory significantly to meet an insatiable demand for its product.

The boards are moved to the factory floor and orders are loaded, before they undergo optimisation on two Selco beam saws. The EB 75 and EB 95 cut multiple boards at a time.

A noticeable feature of the company’s production line is that all machinery has been supplied by Austro Woodworking Machinery Suppliers. Even the two back-up saws that are used to cut the brackets and braces are from the company. By using its offcuts, Easylife Kitchens has managed to reduce its wastage significantly. Hauser estimates wastage to be about 5%.

Durable and looks goodThe board is then sent to one of three Biesse Fravol edgebanders. All edging is supplied by National Edging, and it is standard practice for the company to use a one millimetre-thick edging for its carcasses and two millimetre-thick edging for its impact doors. “It is more durable and just looks better,” says the production director.

Easy Life Kitchens relies entirely on National Edging for all its edging requirements. This includes various widths, thicknesses, or the latest designs and textures and match for board colours. The kitchen manufacturer also uses Jowat glue.

The cut-to-size board is then sent to a Biesse Skipper Super 100 for drilling, while the exposed sides are drilled by a Rover

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from page 55Kitchens evolve


A3 and Rover 22 computer-numerical controlled machine from the same original equipment manufacturer.

In order to ensure quality, the carcasses are pre-assembled at the factory before being flat-packed and wrapped for delivery to the various stores.

What sets this factory aside, is its attention to detail. All components can be traced back to the various production lines, while exposed sides are wrapped separately for protection during transport. All components are marked to help the very important do-it-yourself market assemble them at home, while all inserts are assembled at the factory, with the product arriving on site with runners attached.

Such is the demand at the factory that plans are now under way to add an a second shift to bolster production. About 85 people are employed at the plant, which operates from Monday to Friday, and sometimes on Saturdays, depending on the status of the order book and available capacity.

Green manufacturerIn line with its sophisticated “Eurocentric” approach to design and manufacture, this factory is being powered by “green” energy.

Easylife Kitchens installed 720 solar panels on the roof of its factory and intends boosting its embedded generation capacity shortly by installing more on the lower section of the roof.

At the same time, plans are being drafted for the proposed “greening” of its operations in Cape Town, Western Cape.At present, Easylife has succeeded in using solar energy to power the majority of its factory needs, as opposed to relying extensively on supply from the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality’s City Power.

Easylife Kitchens’ managing director, Philip Kirby, says that at maximum output, the inverter-based grid tied PV installation produces 165 kilowatts (kW) of energy, which is about a third of the energy that the factory uses at this point in time. The installation generates about 950 kW of energy a day, and was specifically designed to ensure that the supply could accommodate any factory expansions in the future. At the time of writing, plans were already in full swing to establish a training centre on site that will be used to coach the company’s sales consultants and installers. Work on the facility is expected to start in the middle of this year.

The solar system also feeds a back-up generator, reducing Easylife’s reliance on diesel fuel during daylight hours.

This has helped the company reduce its emissions even further, with the solar installation alone eliminating the factory’s CO2

emissions by more than 40 tons, bringing a strong “green” angle to its business.

And, Easylife Kitchens is set to enjoy more potential savings when the proposed carbon tax is implemented, complementing its expected return on the R3-million

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Colour redefined “A base of neutral and soft colour palettes are a very popular choice this year as they allow the homeowner to experiment with his or her own individual expression of complementary colour.” This according to Clinton Soutter, National Sales Manager for Franke South Africa, the world-leading kitchen-systems supplier sponsoring the much anticipated Franke ‘Heart of the Home’ Kitchen Design Project at Decorex 2016.

“There is still a focus on natural looks, colours and materials, but with a move away from the high-gloss finishes of the recent past to a more eggshell look with masculine undertones,” adds

Stephanie Forbes, National Manager for the Kitchen Specialists Association (KSA), which, for the first time in 2016, will partner exclusively with Decorex SA in a nationwide collaboration that will benefit both exhibitors and visitors to the show.

Finding flow “I cannot remember when I last saw a kitchen that was not part of the greater open-plan living space. The table is life,” says Trevor King, Marketing Director at Caesarstone, the expert in kitchens and surfaces, which is co-headline sponsor of Decorex SA for the second year running. According to King, “a greater level of collaboration between designer and home owner” is driving the desire for better integration between kitchen and living areas. And, says Forbes, “The kitchen is no longer a pokey little room where the hostess hides from her guests. The kitchen of today is an integral part of the home’s living space, adapted to be both a food preparation area, a family room, a dining space and an entertainment area.” Soutter concurs: “Open-

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from page 57 Kitchens evolve

investment on solar power within six years. The system was commissioned at the end of October 2015.

Like so many other manufacturers who have adopted solar PV technology, Easylife had to wait for developments in the field to become viable financially and at an operational level. According to Kirby, it has taken up to five years for the company to adopt the technology.

Easylife Kitchens’ management has plans to reduce the factory’s consumption by harvesting rain water from the roof and converting plumbing and sanitary ware to more efficient types.

This drive is being taken to its environmentally-sensitive consumers by showing them how to make their kitchen environments as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible by suggesting the installation of fixtures and appliances such as recycling bins, aerated water mixers that save water, and induction hobs that save energy.

At the same time, the company keeps a close watch over developments made in the field of storing “green” energy efficiently and effectively - the “holy grail” of renewable energy and its future.

And, just like its approach to kitchen design, Kirby confirms that Easylife Kitchens will be the first to adopt the technology when the time comes!

Kitchen predictions from the experts at Decorex 2016Liberated from old-fashioned customs like colour-coordinated appliances and the sacred single work triangle, designers are thinking about kitchens in new and exciting ways. 2016’s biggest kitchen trends, not to mention the very latest state-of-the-art kitchen products and appliances, will be on show at this year’s edition of Decorex SA, the country’s three-part exhibition showcase of South Africa’s foremost décor and design talent. Here, the kitchen design experts participating in the show share their predictions for creating an on-trend kitchen in 2016.

There is still a focus on natural looks, colours and materials


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plan kitchens that allow for seamless interaction between living and prep areas will remain key, as will the need to maximise cupboard usage to increase storage through functional design, without compromising organisation and access.”

Materials matter “Combining materials is still popular, especially when it comes to countertop materials, as are sleek lines, with integrated profile door handles and work surfaces becoming slimmer to enhance this clean linearity,” says Soutter. “Look out for authentic materials, with a greater emphasis on texture, as well as thinner countertops and lots of natural lighting. And steampunk, a style that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery, will be huge,” adds King. According to Forbes, “Diversity is key to current kitchen design, with elements being created in such a way as to make them resemble crafted furniture and not just functional storage.”

Mindful tech “And, of course, technology in hardware and appliances continues to be a huge focus,” says Forbes. “An increased awareness of technology in the kitchen will see kitchen designers incorporate a tech perspective in the kitchen cabinet,” adds Soutter, who says we can expect to see Jetson-like add-ons such as built-in charging stations, hands-free functionality and tablet holders. According to King, “the multifunctional kitchen island will be standard in the kitchens of the near future”. And we’re not just talking islands that incorporate sinks and seating. Instead, think designs that feature touchscreen control panels, heating membranes, sound activators, aromatic scent dispensors and LED lights

along with multimedia entertainment systems. If the Starship Enterprise had a kitchen, surely this would take centre-stage.

Kitchens big and small, traditional and coolly modern, stylish and inviting, all the ultimate designs for the most loved room in the house will be on display at this year’s trio of Decorex exhibitions, which kick off on 18 March in Durban. For more information, visit www.decorex.co.za. Decorex SA details:

Decorex Durban: 18 – 21 March 2016 Time: 18 – 20 March, 10am to 8pm; 21 March, 10am to 6pm Trade days: 18 and 19 March Ticket prices: R75 for adults; R65 for trade, pensioners and students; R20 for kids under 12 Venue: Durban Exhibition Centre

Decorex Cape Town: 29 April – 2 May 2016Time: 10am to 7pm daily (6pm Monday) Trade Day: 29 April Ticket prices: R85 for adults; R75 for trade, pensioners and students; R20 for kids under 12 Venue: CTICC

Decorex Joburg: 5 – 9 August 2016 Time: 10am to 6pm daily Trade day: 5 August Ticket prices: R110 for adults; R90 for pensioners and students; R80 for trade; R20 for kids under 12 Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre


Kitchen Specialists Association

Att: National Manager

Dear Stephanie

Part of our planned home renovation in 2013 was a new kitchen. What should have been one of the more pleasant experiences of a renovation soon turned into a bit of a nightmare that dragged on for more than a year.

I won’t bore you with the details of the poor workmanship and work ethic of the company, but we ended having to seek out protection under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).

We thought we had done our homework by having three suppliers draw up designs, in the same price range. When we had decided on a preferred supplier we didn’t just accept their nice showroom and business record, we also did a Google search for negative comments before we committed.

The kitchen company in question charged us with breach of contract when we refused to pay the final 10% payment. This, because of a very long snag list still existing after eight months of them working on the kitchen.

It was at this point that we approached the office of the Consumer Protector. Apart from the obvious problems

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KSA – protector of client and contractorKitchen Specialists Association (KSA) national manager Stephanie Forbes received this letter from a member of the public who had utilised the services of a non-KSA member and had come to the KSA for help when things went wrong. This is one of many such letters and phone calls the KSA receives on a regular basis from consumers who have opted to deal with a company that offers no consumer recourse should something go wrong. We asked Stephanie what would have been different had the client opted to appoint a KSA member instead and why responsible companies should look to the KSA as a means of affording their clients protection.


there were a few other nasty surprises in store for us, most of which were only brought to our attention after we decided to get a second opinion from the KSA with their new ‘non-member site inspection’ service. Many of the mistakes and corner-cutting that the kitchen company had made were ones we, as consumers, would never have seen or known to look for and not only affected the aesthetic of the kitchen but the structural integrity and longevity of it too.

Despite the KSA’s report which stated that the cost to bring the kitchen up to an acceptable standard would be over R40 000 the Consumer Protectors office were only able to get the kitchen company to drop the final payment of around R9000.

It was a shock to us that the Office of the Consumer Protector could only act as a mediator and did not have any power to demand financial compensation from the kitchen company. We now realise that had we selected a KSA member we would have had more backup (from the KSA) than we received from the Office of the Consumer Protector as their members volunteer to be registered and agree to abide by any ruling handed down by the KSA or risk suspension or even expulsion which is listed on their web site.

Had we appointed a KSA member to do the work their mediation service and assistance would have been free of charge and I would have had access to their holding account facilities for my payments.

I don’t want to make the mistake of saying that there are not many good suppliers out there, but unless they come highly recommended by people you trust, I would recommend you rather choose the more intelligent option.

It will be cheaper in the end and you are likely to end up with a good quality product and less risk of it turning out like ours and being R30 000.00 out of pocket.

Yours sincerely

“We like to think that things would have come to a better conclusion had the client used a KSA member,” says Forbes. “KSA members are not perfect but they do choose to put third party intervention in place to protect their client should things go wrong. With the advent of the Consumer Protection Act, consumers are demanding more accountability from their suppliers. By becoming a KSA member, a company shows its willingness to be held accountable by a third party to protect the consumer’s rights.”

Had the kitchen company been a KSA member the client’s first port of call would have been his regional KSA office, explains Forbes. He would have been asked to complete a KSA dispute registration form giving the KSA full details of the problems he had experienced.

This form would then have been sent to the member for a response. If a resolution could not be reached the KSA would coordinate a site inspection bringing industry experts from

within the organisation to ascertain the nature of the problem and possible solutions.

“It is important to note,” says Forbes, “that the KSA aims to offer mediation as a way for both parties to avoid legal action while

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KSA national manager Stephanie Forbes


from page 61KSA - protector of client and contractor

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complying with the Consumer Protection Act and, as such, does not get involved if legal action has already commenced between the parties.”

KSA members are required to comply with any ruling handed down by the KSA. Should they refuse to do so they risk suspension and even expulsion from the association. The KSA has the right to advertise this suspension or expulsion on their web site, social media and, if need be, the newspapers.

It is thus in every member’s interest to readily comply with a mediation ruling. The mediation ruling will dictate what needs to be done to bring the workmanship up to the standards displayed in the member’s showroom and expected in the industry for the price charged.

It will also specify a time-line for the work to be completed. The aim of the mediation is to bring the issue to a resolution that is fair for both parties, leaving the client with a completed kitchen of acceptable quality and the member with fair payment for the work. Before the work commenced the KSA would request that any outstanding funds still owed to the member by the client be placed in the KSA’s Holding Account. This ensures that the funds are not used to derail the mediation process.

The client retains control of the funds as they can not be released without his signature, while the member is assured that there are sufficient funds to complete the work. The KSA would

then work with the member monitoring the progress of the work to see it to conclusion.

“We try our utmost to ensure all disputes that come across our table end well. We are not always successful but nine times out of ten we are,” says Forbes.

“Over the past 26 years the KSA has worked to offer consumers some form of recourse and support in the process of getting a new kitchen. We have got better at it over the years and believe we offer real value to the consumer.

“A new kitchen is costly and appointing a KSA member is the only way I know of that a consumer can afford themselves some protection. Had this particular client used a KSA member the poor workmanship would have had to be repaired the member would have risked a very public suspension or expulsion which would have drastic repercussions on his business.

The client would not have been left out of pocket and with a kitchen with compromised longevity and structural integrity to the tune of R40 000.”

For more information about the KSA and its members visit www.ksa.co.za or contact your regional KSA offices:[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]



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A truly invisible glue lineWhen it comes to bonding, polyurethane (PUR) hotmelt adhesives are hard to beat. With ‘zero’ or ‘invisible glue line’ becoming a buzz phrase in the woodworking industries, this seamless look is now more achievable than ever.

The advantage of PUR-hotmelt adhesive systems is that they react with moisture from the material or working environment to be bonded, meaning that in addition to the physical effect through the hardening of the liquid

adhesive, there is also an additional chemical reaction which positively influences the bond properties. With regard to the bonding properties or water and temperature resistance, PUR hotmelt adhesives are hard to beat.

Thermoplastic hotmelts for the edgebanding of panels are typically based on ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyolefin (APAO) or polyamide (PO) and build up bonding strength by the physical hardening of the liquid adhesive. These hotmelts seem unable to fulfil the requirements for an invisible glue line on a permanent basis. Over time, environmental influences such as dust, household cleaners, humidity in the room and temperature changes penetrate the formerly closed joint, causing even a minimal joint opening to stand out depending on lighting conditions.

However, this need not be the case. Modern adhesives from the previously mentioned thermoplastic categories are formulated for these requirements and cope with them, however, only when processed under ideal conditions. There is no getting around this. In this area, processors who have changed to PUR-hotmelts definitely have the advantage.

Here KLEIBERIT 707.9 offers a solution for the demanding requirements regarding glue line and bonding quality. Kleiberit considers its KLEIBERIT 707.9 PUR-hotmelt a classic in the world of invisible glue lines. It has been widely used and trusted for years and makes everything from profile wrapping to edgebanding and a wide variety of assembly bonds possible.

The PUR-hotmelt KLEIBERIT 707.9 is a reactive hotmelt which develops an extremely hard glue line. When correctly processed, it is also highly water resistant. For this reason it is not subject to the so-called ‘rubber effect’. The rubber effect can be noticed when one repeatedly goes over the edge joint with their hand or a dusty, moist towel. The joint

will appear somewhat darker owing to dirt or grease. This is especially impossible to avoid with lighter adhesives and panel materials.

KLEIBERIT 707.9 PUR-hotmelt in addition to all previously mentioned benefits, develops a “real” chemical bond with the wood in the panel which can only be separated with excessive force. Usually it is one of the solid materials which fails and the strong, invisible bond remains.

Edited by Danielle Petterson

KLEIBERIT 707.9 develops a “real” chemical bond with the wood in the panel



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The three CsIt has been said that there are three Cs in each kitchen design scheme – Convenience, Customisation and Colour.

DuPont says this year, colour will be more central than ever, as designers and homeowners recognise that customisation through colour produces high-impact looks that can be summed up in another

C word – Covetable.

White in all its shades has been king of the kitchen for years now – and for good reason. Nothing looks cleaner and fresher than a brilliant white, and warm whites add depth and comfort. But in 2016 we believe there will be a shift towards colours with texture and colours with translucent qualities that work with lighting to change the mood in the heart of the home.

With these requirements in mind, DuPont, manufacturer of Corian, has developed and launched a new Colour Collection, “Earth Heritage”, that covers large scope, from the beauty of nature to the dynamism of contemporary living, bringing possibilities for surface design. The 16 colours in the new range are reminiscent of minerals, rocks, earth and plants, and bring a contemporary chic to plains and deep shades.

Metallics remain popular, with their stylish edge always in fashion. The latest design schemes show high-gloss surfaces contrasting with deep, muted hues on walls and floors, while conversely, steel appliances’ industrialism can be refined and softened with deep colour and matte surfaces. Alternatively, “contemporary country colours” that appear textured and natural can be paired with comforting soft pastels to create a distinctive modern vintage scheme.

Colour in the kitchen plays an important role in sensory stimulation. Research shows that burnt orange and apricot are appetite stimulators but designers are steering away from describing these colours in clichéd terms of Tuscan and Terracotta, opting instead for “ethnic chic”.

This style offers sophisticated combinations such as deep purple with misty yellows and stone greys or burnt orange with vibrant blue and dark brown, while a “savouries” palette includes blends of chocolate and moss, with bright accents to embellish.


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Engineered quartz on topThin engineered countertops are the latest trend in kitchen design and manufacture.

Thin countertops have begun edging into the local market. As such, Caesarstone is taking advantage of this shift by introducing The Ultimo Collection of 13 mm Caesarstone surfaces, which are suited to kitchen countertops,

backsplashes, wall cladding and bathroom vanities.

Caesarstone is widely considered to be the preferred kitchen surface material in the southern African market, says Lisa Aspeling, advertising manager of Caesarstone.

“While we don’t have 100% of the market, we have worked hard to win a large segment of it, encouraging consumers to ‘buy up’ to Caesarstone quartz surfaces,” she says .

The launch will take place at Decorex, which will be held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal from 18 to 21 March.

With an array of avant-garde designs, The Ultimo Collection offers both honed and polished finishes to suit any design scheme. The Ultimo Collection offers eight colour options, namely Vivid White (1111), Fresh Concrete (4001, honed), Snow

(2141), Mocha (2370), Sleek Concrete (4003, honed), Statutario Maximus (5031), Osprey (3141) and Linen (2230, honed).

Caesarstone will also introduce three new colours to its Classico Collection: Wild Rice (4360), Tuscan Dawn (5104 – Supernatural Collection) and Noble Grey (5211 – Supernatural Collection).

Aspeling says matt surfaces and an industrial influence across design spheres have also “taken off in a big way as well”. “We’ve managed to speak to both of those trends with our concrete-inspired series, as well as some new, off-polish surfaces we will be introducing to the market in 2016,” says Aspeling.

Meanwhile, she says “the world is still obsessed with marble”, so the company has been growing its marble-inspired surfaces year-on-year to speak to this market trend.

Aspeling says Caesarstone values design collaborations as it pushes the company to explore new design territory and keep leading the market with new innovations. Clearly, Caesarstone has a strategy to stay right on top!

By David Poggiolini


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Introducing Abranet: Dust-free perfection

With Abranet, Mirka has succeeded where many others have previously failed – to develop a completely even sanding net.

Abranet’s thousands of holes provide phenomenal dust extraction. The maximum distance from each sanding particle to the closest dust extraction hole is just 0.5 mm. This clever structure provides many

advantages.

Using Abranet, dust is removed from the space between the abrasive and the sanded surface, which means that the abrasive grains are cutting the surface more efficiently. Because the dust is being continuously sucked away, sanding is virtually dust-free. Keeping the abrasive and the sanding surface constantly dust-free extends the lifespan of the abrasive. Since the abrasive maintains its aggressive properties over the entire surface, sanding becomes more even and efficient, improving the quality of work. Since you can always see what is being sanded, you gain excellent control over the work to avoid over-sanding, for example.

Abranet solves many dust problems, such as the formation of so-called “dust pills” and clogging. Because dust no longer collects in lumps on the sanding discs to the same extent as before, there is no danger of sanded dust building up and creating grooves on the sanding surface, or filling up the disc and thus reducing its sanding capacity.

Innovative net technologyMirka’s long-term investment in innovation is paying off. Mirka was the first abrasive company in the world to develop a

dust-free sanding system. This has been well worth the effort. Abranet has won many product innovation awards and been a best-seller across the globe.

One of the many advantages of Abranet is that the product, based on “net” technology, usually has a longer lifespan than traditional abrasives. Users of Abranet sanding solutions know that this translates into clever savings, in other words, better profitability and competitiveness.

This is why the use of Abranet has spread across various industries. At the same time, Mirka is working hard to innovate more and expand its range with new products and solutions in order for you to take full advantage of the most advanced sanding system.

This innovative concept is unlike any other. Its patented construction consists of a dense network of polyamide fabric threads onto which the abrasive grit is bonded.

Open-weave net structure means that no dust particle is more than 0.5 mm away from a dust extraction hole. The result is phenomenal dust extraction across the entire abrasive surface and virtually dust-free sanding.

For more information on Mirka’s Abranet, please contact the sales team at Bulldog Abrasives on +27 (0) 11 786 5991 or on [email protected]



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The story behind your solid baseSituated inside the Bravo head office complex in Industria, Johannesburg is a factory, affectionately known as Wood Stuff, dedicated to manufacturing bed bases, headed up by factory manager Don Emery.

Wood Stuff forms part of Bravo Sleep Products, a division of the Bravo Furniture Group, one of the largest household furniture manufacturers in southern Africa. Bravo Sleep Products

manufactures matresses and bases for the southern African market. These leading brands are Sealy, Slumberland, King Koil and Edblo.

At Wood Stuff Emery runs a large factory that produces thousands of quality solid pine bed bases daily. According to Emery, Bravo places a huge emphasis on quality with an objective of zero returns and on time deliveries every time – something they achieved in the past years.

Emery manufactures only the frames, which comprise solid pine framework, with plastic corners and a waxed cardboard surface to support the mattress.

Innovative drying methodsEmery explains that all timber is bought wet off saw from sawmills. The timber is then air dried in a large 5 ha drying yard adjacent to the factory for four to five weeks. According to Emery he follows a German method for air drying which produces a perfect straight plank.

It is vitally important to stack the wood in line with predominant wind direction, explains Emery. Timber is stacked in parallel rows. The predominant wind direction should be directly in line with these stacks. This creates a vacuum in the middle of the stack forcing moisture out of the sides of the stacked timber.

This differs from the old method in which timber was stacked in rows at a 90° angle to the predominant wind direction. According to Emery this method is not as effective because the wind gets trapped between the rows of timber inhibiting the escape of moisture.

Efficient factory set upThe 7 500 m2 factory is laid out in a U-shape to facilitate efficient production. The factory is clearly divided into demarcated areas for different stages of the production process.

The drilling machine specially developed for the factory

Completed bases ready for dispatch


The first section contains the various lengths of timber needed for the day’s production clearly separated into groups.

This timber is planed through Weinig moulders for correct sizing. From here components are sent via conveyor belt to the crosscutting section of the factory for final sizing.

Alongside the crosscutting section there is a drilling machine specially manufactured to insert the grommets for the base legs. There are another two custom manufactured machines dubbed cut-out machines used to cut out upright rails used for joining two pieces securely together.

Emery stresses the importance of being able to design and manufacture your own machines locally as a means of saving both time and money.

All waste and offcuts are fed through a Wiema shredder and the shredded products are sold to various markets.

The cut components are colated in the sub-assembly section before progressing to the final assembly area for final assembly.

From here the completed bed frames are stacked into their various size groupings ready for delivery to Bravo Sleep Products mattress factories around southern Africa.

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The holes drilled by Bravo's drilling machine for the base legs.


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Weinig Unimat 500The Weinig Unimat 500 series offers strong design with a great deal of flexibility. The numerous enhancement packages give users a valuable edge, with a potential 33% increase in production.

Weinig uses only high-quality components, such as the heavy base of high-quality cast iron which has very high vibration reducing properties and is the material of first choice when mass and weight are needed.

The Weinig feed system features a high number of feed rollers and wide driven table rollers, ensuring nearly every part feeds easily through the machine.

Weinig considers the design and manufacture of its spindles a special trump card.

Each spindle is assembled and tested in a nearly dust proof room before this high-end product leaves the plant. The company has been performing field tests and research to maximise the longevity and smooth running accuracy of the spindles with these results being incorporated into spindle production.

Bravo Sleep products has five Weinig moulders

By Danielle Petterson





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When East meets West A leading woodworking equipment supplier has brought the keys newcomers need to enter the industry. David Poggiolini spoke to Iain Fuchs of Donald Fuchs Specialised Wood Working Machinery.

Q: You are well known for supplying premium brands from Germany. Tell me how Nanxing fits into your business model?

We have always associated ourselves with high-end machines, and this business model will continue well into the future. However, these may not always be affordable for new manufacturers entering the woodworking sector, especially under current economic conditions.

Donald Fuchs Specialised Wood Working Machinery, therefore, felt we needed a more affordable range of equipment that could ease entry- and mid-level players into the industry. As they grow, they will naturally be able to afford to upgrade to the higher performance machines, such as Homag and Weeke computer-numerical controlled machines. By taking this approach, we are growing with our clients, and again positioning ourselves as a solutions partner, as opposed to merely a vendor to the industry.

Q: What pieces of equipment do you import from Nanxing?

We import their panel saws and edgebanders, which are extremely popular. This mainly caters to start-up cut-and-edge businesses. I must stress that although it is mainly machinery for the middle-end of the market, the Nanxing range is well-known worldwide for being a manufacturer of high-quality equipment.

Q: Is there room to introduce more advanced offerings from the Nanxing range?

There is definitely scope to introduce more advanced equipment from the company at a later stage. We are still strategising around this. We prefer to take a wait-and-see approach before launching equipment into our territories. However, there is definitely scope to eventually introduce more offerings from the Nanxing stable. The success of the brand has shown that it has been well-received by the market.

Q: What is the most popular piece of equipment you supply from Nanxing at present and why?

Its edgebanders and 3,2, panelsaws are the most popular at present. Apart from the competitive cost of its offering, they are very easy to operate and maintain. They are durable and reasonably priced, and come with the back-up service we are known for.

Q: I’m sure that current economic conditions have seen many of the larger operators experiment with a more affordable brand?

Yes, many large participants in the industry are opting for the equipment. They have realised that it is of a very good quality, and know that we supply an excellent back-up support.


Q: How well received is the product range?

We have a lot of satisfied customers using Nanxing machines and we can provide the references to prove it.

Q: How would you describe Nanxing’s quality?

As one of our clients remarked, “I’m too poor to buy cheap”. We will never associate ourselves with an inferior product. Donald Fuchs Specialised Wood Working Machinery has always associated itself with quality.

This was the approach we took right from the outset when we decided to find a more affordable brand that would complement our existing offering.

Nanxing’s range met all of our parameters and, hence, the excellent business relationship we’ve nurtured with them to date. They have the same quality control parameters in place as their European counterparts.

Q: How would you describe working with Nanxing?

We have been their partners for the past four years and it has been an excellent experience. Their service to us is excellent and they always respond swiftly when we need spare parts or machines. As such, we’re looking forward to many more years of working closely with this principal.

Q: I understand that you are supplying many of these machines elsewhere into Africa. What are some of your main markets for the Nanxing range?

We have supplied these machines outside South Africa into Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, Angola, Namibia, Swaziland, Lesotho and Botswana. I expect to see more growth on the back of the rise of the middle class and growing urbanisation in the rest of sub-Saharan Africa.

Q: From where do you service these countries?

We service them from our main hub here in Spartan, Gauteng.

Our premium machines feature remote diagnostics that allow us to inspect the performance of machines off site.

Should a problem occur, we will dispatch our technicians immediately to help our clients.

Q: Do you supply the same level of technical service to customers using Nanxing machines that you would your premium range?

We do not differentiate between users of our machines at all. Users of Nanxing equipment receive the same quality back-up support that Donald Fuchs Specialised Wood Working Machinery is known for. This is our competitive edge against other suppliers.

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WoodEX for Africa is here to stayPreparations for the fourth edition of WoodEX for Africa 2016 are well under way. With local and international exhibitors continuing to confirm their attendance and increased interest from African countries, WoodEX for Africa 2016 is set to be the highlight on the timber trade agenda this year.

Organised by Acropolis Exhibitions, WoodEX for Africa will be held from 9 to 11 June 2016 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, South Africa.

Stephan Jooste, CEO of Acropolis Exhibitions, says many of South Africa's biggest and most respected timber industry businesses have confirmed their participation in the event and to date more than half of the exhibition space has been pre-booked.

“There has been talk in the industry that WoodEX will be incorporated with another South African trade show this year but this is not the case.

“WoodEX has secured its position as the only and biggest expo in Africa focussing exclusively on the timber industry and we are receiving huge support from our industry friends and associations, media partners, our repeat exhibitors and our growing following from all over the world.

“We are now reaping the rewards of relationships that have been built and nurtured over the past four years and we will continue to present a top quality event tailor-made for our trade.”

WoodEX features exhibitors showcasing innovative timber and woodworking products and services such as woodworking machinery, fits and finishes, decking, flooring, structured timber, timber treating, saw milling and logging, pulp and paper manufacturing and wood material and veneer production. This event is the perfect platform for woodworking professionals to connect with specialised dealers, to catch up with the latest timber trends, to secure new business contacts and to compare deals.

“Our WoodEX organising team is placing a lot of attention on social media marketing in an effort to reach our international target group, and these efforts together with the exchange rate have resulted in increased interest from European countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic and Turkey.

“Lots of enquiries are also being received from the eastern African timber industry, from countries such as Kenya and Uganda. We are looking forward to a outstanding international event,” says Jooste.

For more information about participating in WoodEX for Africa as an exhibitor, event partner or visitor, visit www.woodexforafrica.com or e-mail [email protected].

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from page 77When East meets West

Q: While you do provide a more cost-effective option, I am sure that there are many inferior pieces of equipment out there that are not up to spec. Is this a concern to you?

Current economic conditions will force some companies that are under pressure to try very cheap equipment. However, I have seen for myself that they are paying a heavy penalty for this decision. It is all about balancing costs and quality. And, I’m not convinced that they have succeeded in achieving this balance.

Q: What is your response time at the moment?

We have always responded to our calls within a day, and we are very well-known for being more than willing to work many hours of overtime to ensure factories enjoy minimal downtime.

Q: How much stock do you carry?

We have a lot of faith in the future of South Africa and as such Donald Fuchs Specialised Machinery Suppliers

bolstered its stockholding. We have a wide range of

machinery on the floor. This has always been standard

practice for the company.

Q: What are some of your short and medium-term plans of action?

Moving forward, we’re going to continue focusing on

improving our after-sales service. This has always been a

big focus for the company and one of the reasons we have

seized a sizeable share of the woodworking equipment

market. I believe that there is always room for improvement

in this area and, as such, will continue to better what we

have developed over the years.

For example, there are even plans in the pipeline to establish

a facility in Cape Town, Western Cape. Meanwhile, we also

want to grow our presence across South Africa’s borders.

We believe that there is immense opportunity for growth in

these markets.



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81March 2016 // Wood Southern Africa & Timber Times 22553 Wood 05/2013

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Documents

March 2016 Vol. 41. No. 5 · woodworking industry with big international conferences taking place in March including Holz-Handwerk and Fensterbau Frontale. These promise to provide