As the harvesting of small-diameter timber continues to increase worldwide - driven by growing demand for energy wood, plantation forestry, and higher productivity requirements - equipment efficiency is becoming increasingly critical. In response to these evolving operational needs, Kesla is extending the availability of its KESLA twinAX shear-cutting solution, first introduced at FinnMetko 2024, to the 24RH III and 26RH III harvester heads. KESLA twinAX is the most cost-effective wood-cutting solution on the market, particularly for operations processing large volumes of small-diameter trees.
KESLA twinAX is a shear‑cutting module compatible with KESLA 19RH‑III, 21RH‑III, 24RH‑III, and 26RH‑III harvester heads. Thanks to the modular frame design, contractors can replace the standard chainsaw module with the twinAX shear‑cutting module.
Unbeatable performance and reliability in demanding applications
The twinAX system delivers significant advantages in conditions that require frequent cutting of small‑diameter material, such as energy wood harvesting and eucalyptus plantation operations. Key benefits include:
- No downtime or costs caused by chain dulling or breakage
- No unproductive work related to chain changing, transport, or sharpening
- No guide bar or sprocket failures
- No lubrication costs, no oil handling, and no mess
- No oil released into the environment and no harmful skin contact with oil
- No chain tensioning or adjustment issues
- No disturbances caused by snow, ice, sawdust, or branches
- No risk of chain shot
- No concerns about contact with soil or stones, or the chain coming off the bar
The cutting capacity of the KESLA twinAX is up to 28 cm, depending on tree species and operating conditions.
Modular design for flexibility and long‑term value
Kesla’s unique interchangeable module concept makes it possible to switch between shear-cutting and traditional chainsaw use, allowing the harvester head to be configured for both energy wood and roundwood harvesting. The twinAX module can also be retrofitted to existing compatible KESLA harvester heads.
“As the leading independent manufacturer of harvester heads, we continuously strive to develop cost‑efficient and functional solutions,” says Mika Tahvanainen, Director of Product Management at Kesla. “From the perspective of both machine manufacturers and contractors, it makes sense to rely on proven modular base solutions that can be configured for various applications, rather than developing a separate special head for every use case. The KESLA 19RH‑III twinAX was introduced at FinnMetko 2024, and the results from both plantation harvesting and energy wood operations have been extremely positive. Based on this feedback, we are now expanding the twinAX product family to include the larger 24/26RH‑III models.”
More information
Kesla Oyj
Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director
tel. +358 40 535 6567 / mika.tahvanainen[at]kesla.com
In the pictures: Picture 1. KESLA 19RH-III harvester head & Hitachi excavator. Picture 2. KESLA twinAX shear-cutting module.
Kesla – Your Responsible Partner
Kesla is a responsible partner that develops machinery, technology and services for the sustainable success of its customers, both in and outside the forest. Kesla’s four product groups are: tractor equipment, logging equipment, stationary and industrial cranes, and KESLA Defence. In 2024, the Group’s turnover was €44,3 million, of which 53% was attributable to export operations. Established in 1960, Kesla has production facilities in Joensuu, Kesälahti and Ilomantsi as well as a sales office in Appenweier, Germany. Kesla currently employs around 232 people. Kesla’s A series shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. www.kesla.com