MANUFACTURER Westtech has unveiled a new flagship tree shear – which becomes the largest in its range.  

The Woodcracker C650 has a cutting diameter of 70 cm and features “significantly increased” gripping force on its predecessors.

Due to be shown off at Agritechnica 2023, the shear can be used on a vehicle of between 28 and 40 tonnes and is made from Hardox steel. 

A press release from Westtech added: “At Westtech, the robustness of the machines is always one of the highest priorities in development – as is the case with the new Woodcracker C650.

“Given the ability to cut trees with a diameter of up to 70 cm, the rest of the machine must be designed to handle the corresponding weight of the cut material.

“Therefore, only very high-quality and strong bolt bearings have been used to further increase robustness.

“This felling grapple is also made of durable and wear-resistant Hardox steel, and the body is cathodic dip-painted (KTL primed), as is customary in the automotive industry. The advantage of this type of primer is good corrosion protection and an even coating in all cavities.

“A powder coating is baked onto this primer, making it ideal for outdoor use.

“Naturally, this felling head also possesses all the excellent features found in the entire product series.

Forestry Journal:

“The cutting unit consists of a high-strength blade that is easy to sharpen. If the blade needs to be replaced due to significant wear, it can be quickly disassembled and exchanged thanks to the patented blade attachment.”

An optional Power Tiltator is available. This makes the felling head more powerful when removing large trees, with double rotation and holding torque at a consistent speed.