Effects of boom-corridor thinning on harvester productivity and residual stand structure

Biomass derived from small-diameter, dense, thinning stands is largely underutilized within the European Union, mainly because of in-effective harvesting methods and cutting technology, leading to high supply costs. Therefore, efficacy boom-corridor (BCT) selective (ST) on harvester felling bunching productivity was compared for first whole tree biomass in dense stands. BCT working method when trees are cut with linear movements harvester’s boom reach, along narrow corridors, instead each selectively (ST). Trials were performed six forest stands, one Sweden, two Finland, three Slovenia, using same operator. A time-and-motion study carried out 64 pre-marked units (32 replications per method), across a variety stand conditions. The removal both treatments averaged 40.2 dry t ha -1 5.4 PMh -1. For BCT, work time consumption (sec -1) (dry average 27% lower 16% higher, respectively, ST. effectiveness accumulating head technology used could potentially be increased by implementing feed-roller system handling excessive lengths. Developing dedicated further boost productivity, facilitating cost-effective sustainable utilization low-value small-diameter replacing fossil resources.