This new fiber optimization facility that processes and handles both hardwood logs and previously unmarketable hardwood pulp materials enhances Tradewinds competitiveness and efficiency as the company heads into the new millennium. Log processing at the hardwood fiber optimization facility is accomplished by a 20 ton radial crane that feeds a double ring wood storage area. The crane operator places stems on a deck at the debarker infeed. Bark from the fiber optimization facility is conveyed to a concrete storage pad and sold to other bark processors or Tradewinds processes it into double shredded mulch. Pulpwood stems in the debarker flow to a Tamarack chipper.
Chips flow to three storage bins at the loading facility to be loaded into trucks.
This weighing system assures that our trucks can run consistent payloads and not exceed highway transportation limits. Hardwood logs are debarked and cut to lengths at the optimizing line. Once enough logs are accumulated, a truck transports them to Tradewinds existing hardwood sawmill. Other recent additions to Tradewinds facilities include a one megawatt generator. The cogeneration unit makes electricity to serve our plant and allows us to sell electricity back to the power company at nights, weekends or when the kiln is not in operation.