Timber operation “Fuel prices are high and the 735 E allows us to massively reduce our consumption.”

13.09.2024SwitzerlandAuthor: Sandra Hartl

Timber company relies on electric drive

In the picturesque Swiss canton of Lucerne, the Tschopp family has been operating a sawmill since 1959, which today is one of the most important and modern wood processing companies in the country. The family business, now in its third generation led by Ronald and Daniel Tschopp, employs 130 people and processes 130,000 solid meters of roundwood annually on an 80,000 m² site.

Since November 2023, Tschopp AG has been relying on an innovative solution from SENNEBOGEN: the 735 E with electric drive and trailer. The new acquisition was officially confirmed at bauma 2022 together with SENNEBOGEN’s sales and service partner Kuhn Schweiz AG. Erich Helfenstein, Head of Roundwood Procurement, emphasizes: “We chose the electric drive for a very simple reason: fuel prices are high, and by using the 735 E Electric Drive, we can massively reduce our consumption.” The new material handler impresses with its outstanding performance and operates much more quietly and smoothly than conventional diesel machines – a great advantage in the noise-sensitive environment of a sawmill.

Tschopp Focuses on Regionality and Sustainability

Tschopp AG sources its wood regionally within a 100 km radius. The transport is organized by the company itself and is mostly carried out with in-house trucks to ensure seamless further processing at the plant. Sustainability is also a priority in production: an in-house wood plant supplies the site with green energy through 100 percent utilization of the wood raw material. For internal roundwood transport, they were also looking for a sustainable solution and chose the 735 E with an electric drive. “We identify with SENNEBOGEN's values and also rely on forward-looking technologies that make a positive contribution to our environment,” says Erich Helfenstein.

Efficient use with Trailer

The main tasks of the SENNEBOGEN 735 E include unloading trucks, removing wood from sorting boxes, and feeding the saw line. In addition to the special trailer attachment, the material handler stands out for its unique features that enable smooth and efficient operation. The rear-pivoted boom ensures optimal weight distribution, while the robust undercarriage is capable of towing trailers weighing up to 30 tons. With a stacking height of around 10 meters and a reach of 11.3 meters, even challenging loading and unloading tasks can be handled effortlessly. Additionally, the machine has been equipped with an extra grid and cameras to ensure work safety for employees.

By choosing the SENNEBOGEN 735 E Electric Drive, Tschopp AG underscores its innovative strength and commitment to sustainability and efficiency. The SENNEBOGEN 735 E contributes significantly to ensuring that Tschopp AG continues to be a pioneer in the Swiss wood industry.