Kesla Oyj is expanding its small harvester crane product line by introducing new, more versatile HF versions. The updated 6H series meets the growing demand for lightweight thinning machines and offers manufacturers an even more durable crane solution with improved operating characteristics.
The KESLA 671H has long been a well known parallel-acting harvester crane used in thinning harvesters, like Sampo-Rosenlew HR46 among others. The crane is known for its excellent handling and durability. In addition to the non-telescopic 671H, which reaches 6.7 meters, the product line has for years included the telescopic 685H, offering a reach of 8.5 meters.
The 6H series has undergone numerous updates that further enhance durability. At the same time, new HF versions have been introduced, featuring a slewing device equipped with a horizontal mounting flange. In terms of boom structure, reach, and performance, the H and HF versions are identical.
Thanks to the horizontal mounting flange with the commonly used 8 × 175 mm bolt pattern - well known from forwarder cranes - and the configurable orientation of the slewing cylinders, the 6HF cranes are compatible with most lightweight harvesters currently on the market. The robust crane base, inherited from the 8 tonne meter forwarder crane, ensures exceptional durability. The slewing device provides a 275 degree slewing range and delivers 17 kNm of slewing torque, enabling productive and efficient thinning operations.
“The market for lightweight thinning machines is looking lively, and the new crane version has already attracted considerable interest among several forest machine manufacturers,” says Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director at Kesla Oyj. “Together with the KESLA 16RH and 18RH II harvester heads, the crane forms a perfect solution for lightweight thinning harvesters,” Tahvanainen continues.
More information
Kesla Oyj
Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director
tel. +358 40 535 6567
mika.tahvanainen[at]kesla.com
Picture 1. Novotny 8WD & KESLA 16RH harvester head and KESLA 671HF harvester crane. Customer - Jacub Strojan, CZ.
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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