Kesla Introduces New Harvester Heads for Efficient Small-Diameter Timber Harvesting

The growing importance of short-rotation eucalyptus and acacia plantations is increasing the demand for cost-effective, durable harvesting solutions capable of sustaining high utilisation rates. The market has lacked solutions specifically suited for smaller base machines that can withstand demanding 24/7 plantation operations while maintaining low operating costs. Kesla's new KESLA 15RH and 15RH twinAX harvester heads have been developed to meet precisely this market need.

Designed for the Needs of a Rapidly Growing Market

The all-new KESLA 15RH and 15RH twinAX harvester heads have been specifically designed for harvesting small-diameter timber, particularly in eucalyptus and acacia plantations, where high utilisation rates, reliability and low operating costs are key productivity factors.

The design focus has not been on achieving the lightest possible structure, but rather on durability and reliability in demanding operating conditions.

The heads are engineered to withstand the stresses of excavator-based operation and continuous around-the-clock work.

Versatile Configurations for Different Applications

The hydraulics of the 15RH and 15RH twinAX heads, including valves and feed motors, can be configured in several different ways depending on the hydraulic capacity of the base machine and whether the primary objective is maximum delimbing force for challenging trees or high feeding speed for applications such as debarking.

The feeding and cutting geometry has been specifically designed for so-called one-pass debarking. The head's structures, shafts and bearings are exceptionally robust for their size class. As a result, it is the only head in its size and weight category designed to withstand continuous eucalyptus and acacia debarking operations in demanding working conditions.

Thanks to its size and timber-handling capacity, the head is also well suited to light thinning harvesters. However, due to the weight resulting from its robust construction, the ideal base machine is a 6-8 tonne excavator.

Choice of Saw Unit or Low-Maintenance twinAX Cutting System

The KESLA 15RH is equipped with the well-proven KESLA saw unit, while the 15RH twinAX features the virtually maintenance-free twinAX cutting system.

Operating costs for this shear-type cutting system are extremely low, as there are no conventional chainsaw-related expenses such as saw chains, guide bars or lubricants. Shear cutting also offers safety benefits, as there is no risk of chain shot.

Meeting the Needs of a Growing Market Segment

"As the market-leading manufacturer of independent harvesting heads, our strategy guides us towards developing products for growing market segments. We see strong growth in the cultivation and harvesting of short-rotation eucalyptus and acacia plantations, yet there has been a lack of sufficiently cost-effective mechanised harvesting solutions for this application. The superior cost-efficiency of our solution is based on the use of a small and affordable excavator as the base machine, combined with the KESLA twinAX cutting system, which delivers exceptionally low operating costs. Our strong presence in plantation markets and extensive expertise in excavator-based harvesting solutions enable both us and our partners to succeed in this new market segment," explains Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director at Kesla Oyj.

First Public Presentation at FinnMETKO 2026

The KESLA 15RH and 15RH twinAX harvester heads will be presented to the public for the first time at FinnMETKO 2026, held on 3-5 September 2026. Deliveries of the first production units to customers will commence during autumn 2026.

More Information
Kesla Plc
Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director
tel. +358 40 535 6567
[email protected]

Image inquiries: Aleksandra Ihno, Marketing Manager / [email protected]

Picture 1. KESLA 15RH twinAX in India

Picture 2. Sampo Rosenlew 1046 Pro & KESLA 15RH in Kesälahti, Finland

Picture 3. KESLA 15RH in Kesälahti, Finland

Kesla – Your Responsible Partner

Kesla is a responsible partner that develops machinery, technology and services for the sustainable success of its customers, both in and outside the forest. Kesla’s four product groups are: stationary and industrial cranes, tractor equipment, logging equipment, and KESLA Defence. In 2025, the Group’s turnover was €34,4 million, of which 53% was attributable to export operations. Established in 1960, Kesla has production facilities in Joensuu, Kesälahti and Ilomantsi as well as a sales office in Appenweier, Germany. Kesla currently employs around 200 people. Kesla’s A series shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. www.kesla.com