730 E Agile machine for tight spaces

05.08.2025 Hereford, UK Author: Sebastian Mißler, SENNEBOGEN Product Manager Port

Log processing at the sawmill: unloading lorries in two rather than three batches

SENNEBOGEN offers a range of machine solutions for continuous round timber handling: the 730 E and the 735 E operate as manoeuvrable ‘pick & carry’ handling machines which, with an optional trailer, can also transport large quantities of timber in trailer operation. Depending on the task, ‘pick & carry’ capability, manoeuvrability, high load capacities and suitability for two-shift operation support efficient material flows. At Pontrilas, three 730 E machines handle this task. Pontrilas Sawmills in Hereford, in the west of England, demonstrates how this machine solution proves its worth in the demanding environment of a sawmill. The family-run business processes around 400,000 tonnes of round timber per year and operates on a two-shift basis between 6 am and 10 pm, seven days a week.

Pontrilas uses three SENNEBOGEN 730 E machines for its tightly scheduled timber handling operations: Two machines operate on a regular basis, while a third is on standby as a backup. The key benefit is evident during truck unloading. Equipped with a 2-m² timber grapple, the 730 E requires two passes instead of the previous three. At the same time, its 5.8 meter turning radius allows it to operate on the densely built-up factory grounds.

Additional information for automated applications:
For fully automated, continuous handling with high throughput and no continuous operator supervision, the SENNEBOGEN 840 E is ideal for gantry operation, implemented in partnership with HOLTEC.
Case Study: Dold Holzwerke, replacement of an existing wire-rope gantry crane with a fully electric gantry solution.
Source: sennebogen.com/en/news/news-press/automation-in-the-sawmill-partnership-of-sennebogen-and-holtec
A recent example is the automated log yard in Virton, Belgium.
Source: Automated log yard with 840 E and HOLTEC | SENNEBOGEN

SENNEBOGEN 730 E at Pontrilas: Key Figures

Key figure	Value
Volume of roundwood processed	approximately 400,000 tons per year
Machinery fleet	Three SENNEBOGEN 730 E
Normal operation	Two machines, one backup machine
Turning radius at the job site	5.8 m
Size of the log grapple	2 m²
Maximum model range	up to 11 m
Engine power	168 kW
Operating model	two shifts, seven days a week
Truck unloading	two trains instead of the previous three

What are the challenges of handling roundwood in confined spaces?

Pontrilas processes logs of varying lengths as well as different types of hardwoods and softwoods. Large volumes of roundwood, a high throughput rate for truck loading, and limited storage space place correspondingly high demands on the machinery.

The previous machines were too small for the increased handling volume. Their large counterweights also made it difficult to maneuver between the stacks of lumber and were repeatedly damaged despite the operators experience. The company was therefore looking for machines with high load capacity, compact dimensions, and reliable performance in two-shift operation.

SENNEBOGEN 730 E-sawmill-Pick & Carry timber handling machines

Three SENNEBOGEN 730 E cranes ensure the flow of materials

With two machines in daily operation and one backup machine, Pontrilas ensures continuous roundwood handling. The “pick-and-carry” design allows the same machine to pick up roundwood and transport it within the plant grounds. Two of the machines operate daily on the softwood line.

The larger log grapple immediately improves truck loading efficiency:

“With the 730 E, we can use a 2-m² grapple instead of the 1.9-m² one we used before. That might not sound like much, but we can now unload a truck in two trips instead of three.” Brian Pugh, Operations Manager at Pontrilas Sawmills

Why is the 730 E well-suited for tight-spaced log yards?

The SENNEBOGEN 730 E combines a turning radius of 5.8 m with all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, and a center-mounted boom design. This keeps the machine stable and maneuverable even when carrying heavy loads. Large counterweights are not required, which reduces the risk of damage when maneuvering in tight spaces.

A dozer blade assists in moving logs. Additional LED headlights improve visibility in changing weather and lighting conditions. The 168-kW diesel engine provides the power needed for roundwood handling.

Ease of Use in Two-Shift Operations

During long work shifts, visibility, ergonomics, and intuitive operation have a direct impact on day-to-day work. The Maxcab-operator’s cab offers plenty of space, excellent all-around visibility, air conditioning, and intuitive joystick controls.

“Our team has responded very positively to the new SENNEBOGEN machines. The cabs are spacious, offer excellent all-around visibility, air conditioning, and intuitive controls. They are a real asset to our operation and very reliable, even after five years of use.” Remus Kairys, Yard Manager at Pontrilas Sawmills

Scheduled Maintenance with SENtrack and Molson

Pontrilas uses SENtrack, SENNEBOGEN’s telematics system, to monitor machine condition, schedule maintenance, and detect faults early. According to the operator, this allows maintenance tasks to be carried out specifically outside of production hours and helps prevent downtime whenever possible.

Sales and service are handled by SENNEBOGEN’s British partner, the Molson Group.

“Since we started using the machines, we’ve been extremely satisfied with Molson’s service. If my foremen can’t find a solution, it comes to me. But I’ve never had to contact Molson—that speaks for itself.” Brian Pugh, Operations Manager at Pontrilas Sawmills

Results for roundwood handling

With three SENNEBOGEN 730 E machines, Pontrilas has adapted its fleet to handle the high volumes of roundwood and the limited space available. Two machines handle routine operations, while a third serves as a backup. The larger log grapple reduces the number of truck unloading trips from three to two. The 5.8 meter turning radius makes maneuvering easier on the tight factory grounds.

The project report to date does not provide reliable data on unloading time, fuel consumption, operating costs, machine availability, or payback period.

“We needed a machine with high load capacity, excellent maneuverability, and ease of operation. The SENNEBOGEN 730 E meets all these requirements.” Brian Pugh, Operations Manager at Pontrilas Sawmills

Frequently Asked Questions About Roundwood Handling

Which SENNEBOGEN machines are suitable for continuous log handling at a sawmill?

The SENNEBOGEN 730 E and the SENNEBOGEN 735 E are suitable for continuous log handling in sawmills as agile pick-and-carry handling machines. Pontrilas has three 730 E models in operation: Two machines are in regular use, and a third is on standby as a backup.

Which machine is suitable for log yards with trailer loading?

For large volumes of round timber in trailer operations, the SENNEBOGEN 835 E with a trailer is ideal. In a custom-designed mobile undercarriage configuration, it can tow up to 80 tons of round timber.

How maneuverable is the SENNEBOGEN 730 E in a tight sawmill?

At Pontrilas, the SENNEBOGEN 730 E operates with a turning radius of 5.8 m. All-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, and the center-mounted boom design facilitate safe maneuvering on the tight factory grounds.