Steve Bullman

Please report any glitches you find in the glitches thread, in taking the rest of the year off, cheers!!!

Had to share this

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Never before has the forestry industry had such a variety of equipment available to it. As battery performance has evolved, there are now cordless versions of virtually all main tool types and they are becoming more and more sought after. And it’s simple to see why. Not only does cordless technology match, or in some cases better, the performance of many petrol or diesel powered tools for example, but a battery-powered system has fewer moving parts, helping tools to become cheaper and simpler to run, as well as reducing servicing and machinery downtime, which all helps to increase profits. In addition, cordless technology is now so quiet in operation that ear defenders are not always required, keeping any disruption to an absolute minimum. Putting noise reduction and simple maintenance aside, cordless technology can go a long way in helping reduce carbon footprint. The UK maintains strict engine emission guidelines on Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) to limit air pollution from the likes of chainsaws, with plans in place to bring in more stringent legislation in 2018. With this in mind, the use of battery-powered products can have a significant impact on the long-term environmental protection of your surrounding work environment and ensure even the toughest emissions regulations are met. Offering exceptional performance, ease of maintenance and use, quiet operation and carbon footprint reduction, cordless technology offers the forestry industry more options than ever before. For more information on STIHL visit www.stihl.co.uk or download the STIHL app. All comments attributed to Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing at STIHL GB View full record

In a few years’ time, sugar beet, grain or forest waste could be used as key raw components in the production of alkylate petrol for lawnmowers, boats, chainsaws and other light horticultural machinery. This is thanks to a new technology and a collaboration between Sweden’s Lantmännen Aspen and French-German company Global Bioenergies. Lantmännen Aspen was the company that introduced alkylate petrol to the international market nearly 30 years ago. It is still one of the world's cleanest fuels, which makes it especially suitable for lawnmowers, chainsaws and light machines where the local environment and the user can be exposed to fuel emissions. Now Aspen is taking yet another step and investing in the use of sustainable raw materials when producing the fuel, thereby achieving lower emissions of climate-affecting greenhouse gases. “It’s important for us to drive the development of more sustainable products in our market area. This is why we're investing in an entirely new technology which can give us even more sustainable fuels hopefully within the near future. What makes it extra interesting is to see how this technology can use use waste from the agriculture and forestry sectors", says Claes Alin, CEO at Lantmännen Aspen. "With this new technology pure fuel components can be produced from renewable raw materials such as sugar beet, grain and, looking forward, agricultural and forestry waste. The technology involves ‘feeding’ specially adapted microbes with sugar from, for example, sugar beet, which forms the gas isobutylene. This can then be refined into fuel components. The idea is that we raise one of the world's best fuels another notch, and in time intend to use renewable raw materials for our alkylate petrol. Here we can see Global Bioenergies new technology as very promising. As a market leader, we believe it’s our responsibility to lead and drive development towards greater sustainability in the alkylate petrol sector. This collaboration is an exciting step in that direction", says Claes Alin. Aspen Alkylate petrol has contributed to the improvement of working environments for thousands of users since it was launched in 1988. The new collaboration with Global Bioenergies involves Lantmännen Aspen investing in the development of the new technology, and consequently creates new opportunities within the field of alkylate petrol. View full record

The First International Conference on Arboricultural Biosecurity The Arboricultural Association is proud to present a fantastic line-up of speakers for our 51st Conference, which will take place within new state-of-the-art facilities at ‘The Forum’, The University of Exeter’s stunning centrepiece. ‘Protect and Survive’ will focus on Biosecurity, a subject of much concern to the industry and to the population at large. To cover the variety of topics that affect Biosecurity, we have gathered together a diverse array of 38 speaker sessions, including 10 prominent international speakers, to provide delegates with a comprehensive understanding of new research, developments and solutions. For more information visit https://www.trees.org.uk/Amenity-Conference View full record

The Arb industry's own disaster relief organisation - DART International UK - continues to make a positive impact around the world. Building on previous deployments to Vanuatu and Northern Samar, the Charity carried out a successful deployment to Sierra Leone in February this year, delivering training and equipment as part of an ongoing food security and forestry conservation programme. DART continues to attract interest and support from response team volunteers, with 12 new members completing pre-deployment training in Cornwall only last month. Much of what's been achieved is thanks to the ongoing financial and equipment backing of industry corporate sponsors, none more so than Fletcher Stewart/Stein of Stockport who have given unwavering support to the project. If you're interested in finding out more, why not contact us via our website or social media pages. Alternatively, come along and speak to one of our volunteers at the Arb Association's APPGHG event in Westminster on the 18th July or at the Woodfest Country Show in North Wales 29-30 July. View full record

UK manufacturer, Dakin-Flathers Ltd, celebrates success with a new generation of sawmill blade – Ripper37. From purpose built 24-hour facilities in Yorkshire, England, Dakin-Flathers have combined their 125 years of saw manufacturing experience and developed a premium sawmill blade which lasts 37% longer than the competition. Ripper37 is crafted from high quality, carbon-rich Western European steel, developed with unique metallurgical properties to deliver the optimum balance between strength and flexibility. An extensive digitally controlled quality assurance program, which involves photographic tooth profile checks, set analysis, straightness testing, hardness testing and microstructural analysis results in a blade that cuts straighter, has harder, longer lasting teeth producing one of the most superior blades on the market. In short, Ripper37 delivers... 37% greater durability than its leading rivals Up to 100% more re-grinds Unparalleled “out-of-the-box” performance Minimal waste and maximum cutting power Reduced production costs and more profit for you and your company Improved quality of finish on the sawn timber Sawyer, Jim Birley, of Scottish Wood in Fife confirms; ‘They have given us a consistent and good all round cutting performance, and will last many re-sharpening’s before reaching their life-end. We use Ripper37 blades on our two static sawmills on which we cut Scottish grown hardwood logs…’ Thanks to their focus on quality and performance, Dakin–Flathers has grown from being the leading supplier in the UK to one of the leading suppliers in the world, exporting Ripper37 sawmill blades to over 100 countries worldwide with an unrivalled reputation for quality and performance. Find out more by visiting www.dakin-flathers.com or call 01977 705 600. View full record

. This milestone has been reached with invaluable support from our staff, suppliers and of course our customers. Directors & co-owners Phil & Nicky Wade both worked for the multinational Japanese subsiduary Fujikura Europe Ltd; based in Westbury, Wiltshire; which is where they were first introduced to the world of arboriculture & forestry. In the mid 1990’s (it is difficult to recall exactly when), Phil received a call out of the blue from the Alice Holt Forest Research Station, regarding an ultrasound device – the Ultrasonic Decay Detector (UDD) – which was used for detecting & measuring decay in wood telegraph poles. Asked if the device had ever been used to try & detect decay in trees - the answer was ‘no’ and here the story begins. After several months of trials it was evident that the UDD could detect advanced and incipient decay in trees. A more powerful version – the Arborsonic Decay Detector (ADD) was produced specifically for tree inspection and over 300 of these devices were sold in the UK alone, mainly to Local Authorities, Consultants & Contractors – and some of these are still in use to this day! Sales continued to grow steadily, but it was never part of Fujikura’s core business and in 2007 they decided to pull out of arboriculture and forestry altogether, giving Phil & Nicky the opportunity to take over this business. In retrospect it was the best thing that could have happened because within a week Sorbus International Ltd was formed – right in the middle of a recession! The support we got from our suppliers, customers and the Arboricultural Association was and continues to be incredible as we could never have achieved what we have without this support. The product range was expanded to include other hitech products such as the IML range of microdrills, the PICUS range and Haglof survey devices together with specialist equipment, PPE & clothing for professional arborists. Sorbus continued to operate from the Westbury premises for 6 months or so until the move to a new business unit in Frome, Somerset was completed. In 2015, with the Sorbus annual growth rings getting larger and the existing premises bursting at the seams; Sorbus moved to a much larger facility in Frome complete with trade shop, showroom & even a climbing wall for visiting customers to ‘try before they buy’. The first ten years has flown by and who knows what the next ten years will bring? One thing that is certain is that everyone at Sorbus will do their very best to continue to provide the very best high quality products and service to the arboriculture & forestry sectors. Please contact Sorbus [email protected] or visit our website www.sorbus-intl.co.uk should you require any further information or assistance regarding our range of products. Happy shoppers - Arb Approved contractors Acer Tree Surgeons View full record

Demonstrating HAIX’s global reputation for quality footwear, the Protector Light offers the comfort, protection, and durability you need during a strenuous day at work. The boot leather provides cut protection against chainsaws, with a special toe cap shielding you from sharp falling objects. Even during the height of summer, the boot is highly breathable, with a fast drying insole in the footbed absorbing sweat instantly. The sole cushioning and arch support system keeps your foot in the best position, ensuring you are comfortable even after a long day of physical activity. The Protector Light will not let you down. For additional information please visithttps://www.haix.co.uk/haix-protector-light View full record

With an increase in demand for timber from housebuilders, the forestry trade continues to expand and in 2016, six thousand hectors of new woodland were created. Arborists are busier than ever before, often working in challenging conditions from pouring rain one minute and, if the British weather allows it, scorching sunshine the next. Having supportive, quality footwear will ensure that you are fully prepared to contend with working in the unpredictable climate. The UK College of Podiatry reports that footwear is the biggest cause of foot problems in the UK. Our feet are fragile things and neglecting them could have major implications and increase the likelihood of developing painful musculoskeletal (MSD) disorders. In fact, more than 20% of injuries in tree work are MSK related. Wearing unsupportive footwear lacking the protection you need could be a contributing factor. The power of 5 Work safety boots should first and foremost provide you with essential protection and comfort. Invest in boots that are appropriately certified - speak to your employer if you are unsure to the features you need. Here are HAIX’s top 5 tips to consider when buying your boots. Follow these simple rules to ensure comfortable, health feet: 1. Sturdy soles: Did you know 1/4 of all the bones in the human body are in your feet? Wear boots that have a firm base as this will help you to maintain a good posture, supporting the rest of your body, reducing the likelihood of foot, ankle and back problems developing. 2. Comfort first: There’s nothing worse than wet or damp feet. The ideal foot temperature is advised as 28-32 degrees, even during physical activity. Waterproof and breathable qualities in footwear will improve comfort levels, especially in boots with GORE-TEX®, protecting your feet against all weathers. 3. Like lacing: To ensure the best foot and ankle support, lacing is key. A two-zone lacing system is a great option as it allows for the boot to be tightened and adjusted according to your exact requirements. This type of lacing can be found in HAIX’s Protector Ultra. 4. Shop savvy: Always shop for shoes in the afternoon as the shape of feet fluctuate throughout the day- this way, you are guaranteed a true fit! 5. Safe socks: Wearing oversized socks could result in blisters, whilst wearing socks that are too tight may restrict your blood flow. Changing your socks daily will improve comfort levels, maintain hygiene and should be regarded as a fundamental part of taking care of your feet. Arborists look set to get busier than ever, so get prepared now and invest in quality footwear to ensure you can complete your duties in comfort. View full record

Jeez, I was expecting an 'empty your pms thread, not this! Hope hes ok, keep us posted please!

That Stihl would be a beast. I had the same set up but on a 341. The .325 chain is awesome Sent from my iPhone using Arbtalk

Never experienced one but they always feel like they are about to Sent from my iPhone using Arbtalk

Sent from my iPhone using Arbtalk

i'm a 'hoyer' like Matty also. All the above is good advice, but the brand of line also plays a part. Not sure I have used the Stein line though so can't really comment. I have had some truly horrific lines in the past though that tangled as soon as you looked at them...others have been awesome

Particularly tough bit of wood or just stress over time? Guessing the latter....if so how much wood has it done?