The Owren mini 400: a unique 1:3 scale electrically powered tower yarder for research, training and demonstration

This paper introduces a 1:3 scale tower yarder modeled on the Owren T400. The yarder was developed in Norway to promote steep terrain logging activity by increasing awareness through demonstrations at exhibitions and field days, to contribute to the theoretical and practical training of new logging crews, both with regard to rigging and operation, and finally, to be used as a research and development tool for testing new working methods and auxiliary equipment. Results from a comparative study of three people with differing levels of experience showed that both a beginner, and a part-time machine operator, rapidly approached the time consumption and line tension profiles of an expert. The risk of total system failure is high for early stage operators of cable yarders. Eliminating tension 'spikes' through training on the mini-yarder is likely to prove valuable in preventing downtime, reducing the risk of accidents, and increasing yarder productivity.