THEY are known for their enhanced durability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. Now, the team behind ProSilva’s range of machines has told of the significant role its customers play in their design.
“The guiding principle of our product development has always been that what isn’t in the machine can’t break,” said ProSilva designer, Jukka-Pekka Syvälahti. “Therefore, we strive to keep the overall design of the machine as simple as possible, without compromising on its efficiency and technical functionality.
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“The main advantage is the overall cost-effectiveness of the machine. With minimal breakdowns, operational productivity remains undisturbed. Machine serviceability is also crucial.
"The operator can handle light maintenance tasks on the machine independently if they wish, which naturally reduces downtime and contributes to the machine’s overall cost-effectiveness.
"The reliability and serviceability of our machines have been the cornerstones of our product development throughout our history.”
Today, ProSilva’s customers typically consist of small to medium-sized logging contractors operating one–three machines. Often, the operators themselves are also the owners.
“Our customers value the versatility of our machines. They are suitable for thinning operations, but they also deliver ample power for final felling.”
ProSilva’s forest machines possess a unique feature that sets them apart from other brands on the market, its bosses say.
“Our machines have wheel-specific controlled hub drive systems, which allow for individually adjustable wheel speeds.”
Wheel-specific controlled hub drive systems enhance the machine’s usability in many ways.
“Firstly, they increase the machine’s off-road capabilities and agility. Our machines perform exceptionally well in soft terrains and varying elevations. Wheel-specific speed control also makes turning smoother and reduces impact on the terrain.”
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ProSilva’s drive system design also adds to the stability of the machine. “By implementing an open circuit drive system, we eliminate the need for a mechanical axle. This means that components like the engine, pumps, and other heavy elements can be placed close to the ground. The low centre of gravity not only enhances comfort and stability but also simplifies maintenance.”
As an example of ProSilva’s customer-centric product development process, Jukka-Pekka highlighted the S5 harvester.
“This machine was born out of a clear customer need. We already had a six-wheeled, thinning-specific S3 harvester and a large S6 designed for final felling. Our customers expressed the desire for a versatile machine that would fit between these two sizes.”
ProSilva’s entire machine lineup is modular in structure. To create the new S5 harvester, only a suitably-sized front frame and wheel solutions for medium-sized cranes and harvester heads were needed. The operator cabin was redesigned, while the power package remained consistent with ProSilva’s other models.
Just like in other ProSilva harvesters, the S5 also features standard characteristics such as wheel-specific drive systems, the stability brought by a low centre of gravity, and the torque enabled by a powerful engine.
“What sets the S5 apart from our other models is its versatility. At 2.86 metres wide and equipped with 700 mm wheels, the machine is compact enough for thinning operations, yet it delivers enough power to handle moving medium-sized cranes and harvester heads used in early final felling. The S5 is perfect for logging contractors who seek versatility above all.”
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