Atlas/Pika Harvester combination - 1993
The image is from a photograph collection that was originally stored at Kincardine Forest District.
No details known but this combination of Excavator base and harvester head was introduced to Buchan Forest District in 1990 and two were purchased. It is not certain if this is a separate machine used at Kincardine Forest District.
It was a complex combination with Atlas 1104 LC excavator base, Foresteri crane and Pika 455 harvester head. Operators were recruited, two per machine initially and trained up with the result they were able to make substantial inroads into the large backlog of thinning operations that had built up over the years. The operators’ skill level and knowledge built up over time and eventually they moved onto more expensive and productive purpose built machines. Unfortunately the Atlas excavator was underpowered to cope with the harvester head hydraulic oil demands in all the conditions, particularly in summertime heat and when the slightest bit of debris built up in the cooling radiators.
The PDF below shows other views of the machine which appears to have a fleet number beginning FC 702??.
Can the operator be named? Any comments and views on the suitability of the machine combination very welcome.
Download Large Version (698kB)
Groups: Forestry Areas, Forestry in Action, Northeast Scotland , Timber harvesters, processors, forwarders and cable cranes