Rolls-Royce and specialist vehicle manufacturer Hellgeth are to collaborate for the first time on the supply of MTU engines for Hellgeth’s new timber harvester. The innovative TC 624 tracked vehicle is to be powered by 4-cylinder Series 1000/ OM 934 engines. It is to be used mainly as a forwarder, taking harvested timber through wooded areas to forest roadways for loading onto trucks. The MTU engines are certified to EU Stage V requirements.
Modern, environmentally-friendly technology
The articulated timber harvester from the German manufacturer is fitted with rubber wetland-compatible tracked drives which go particularly easy on the forest floor. The Hellgeth TC 624 has a full-suspension, adaptable drive system able to spread loads evenly on uneven terrain and avoid damaging the ground surface, e.g. when driving over roots. The combination of the MTU Series 1000/OM 934 engine, a powersplit transmission and a full-suspension chassis, enable much higher driving speeds than conventional machines both on and off-road. The vehicle can reach speeds of up to 40 kph. 
The engines also deliver on Hellgeth’s sustainable technology goals. The 4-cylinder Series 1000/OM 934 achieves 170 kW of power output and meets the new EU Stage V emissions limits. The engines are known for their low fuel consumption while delivering high levels of torque, making them highly suitable for use in forested areas. Thanks to its characteristics, the TC 624 is also able to open up poorly accessible areas which remain out of bounds to wheeled vehicles.
The prototype is to be tested in continuous operation from August. The vehicle will also be showcased at this year’s INTERFORST event, the leading international trade fair for forestry and forestry technology. Hellgeth’s booth will be located in Hall FM.810/2. Visitors to the trade show, which runs from July 18-22, 2018, will be brought up-to-date on the very latest innovations in the world of forestry.
