More intelligent logistics: the Ziegler Group relies on the DOLL LOGO 14XL in timber transport

The Bavaria-based Ziegler Group is commissioning ten new semi-trailers from the DOLL® LOGO 14XL series. The trailers are used in alternation with loading machines and road tractors. Since the beginning of March, the first five of a total of ten new bolster semi-trailers from the DOLL® LOGO 14XL series have been strengthening the Ziegler Group’s fleet. The second quintet was then to follow in the summer. “From the beginning of August, we will be making plans on the basis of two regionally stationed fleets,” explains Florian Schreier, head of round timber logistics at Ziegler. “Just one loading machine will be used for each of the sets of five new trailers.”

Schreier sums up the corresponding logistics concept as follows: “Move lots with minimal effort.” For this purpose, the loading machines, Arocs 6x6 3-axle vehicles with DOLL® fifth-wheel coupling superstructure and powerful Epsilon cranes are used in the forest almost exclusively. The extendible LOGO 14XLs are loaded with short or long timber up to 14 m in length in succession and parked at the edge of the forest. The timber is then transported to the sawmill using standard 4x2 trucks. As well as being much cheaper to buy and run than 6x4 or 6x6 trucks with crane, they are also two to three tons lighter – which is beneficial for the payload in turn. According to Florian Schreier, there’s also something else that cannot be underestimated: “For journeys and crane work in the forest, we need proper specialists who we can deploy primarily on the loading machines. The drivers of the 4x2 trucks, on the other hand, only have to deal with regular regional or long-distance traffic.”

Convenient remote control

With a retracted length of just under 9.50 m and friction-steered axle, the 3-axle LOGO 14XLs are easy to manoeuvre in the forest. To reduce wear and consumption when driving without a load, the first axle can also be lifted. The radio remote control for the telescopic extension frame lock makes work much easier when loading. This means that, as well as operating it from the cab, the lock can also be controlled from any location within approx. ten metres of the trailer (no further installations required on the truck for the system and the mechanical operating mechanism on the frame remains as well). On the LOGO 14XL, the mechanical telescopic extension is generally combined with a long, rear frame overhang, which is mainly beneficial when used on the road. The loading surface, which has been extended by approx. 80 cm, relieves the burden on the rear axle of a standard 4x2 semi-trailer truck when combined with this. In any case, the driver can obtain information about the loaded weight at any time. In conjunction with the electronic air suspension, the axle loads are displayed on the Wabco Smartboard on the trailer.

DOLL® introduced the LOGO 14 series in August 2020. It boasts numerous features that really set it apart. Firstly, the frame structure has been optimised in terms of payload but is also suitable for off-road use. It also offers a low loading height and a high degree of flexibility. It can transport timber lengths from 2 to 14 metres and, unlike rigid trailers, the telescopic extension also makes it possible to load via the rear. When driving without a load, the trailers are very short and manoeuvrable. In addition, the robust, durable vehicles boast low maintenance and repair costs. The new designs manage with considerably fewer individual parts, offer weight savings of up to 300 kg and are equipped with a new, wear-resistant aluminium profile base.

About the Ziegler Group

The Ziegler Group is a group of companies operating internationally with its headquarters in Plößberg in the Upper Palatinate area of Bavaria, Germany. Starting with one sawmill in 1948, Ziegler has developed into one of Europe’s largest timber-processing companies. The owner-managed company with a workforce of approx. 1400 people now also boasts transport & logistics, decoration (with all types of decorating materials), mechanical engineering & technology (production of timber-processing machines), prefabricated house and catering divisions.

Specifications for the DOLL® LOGO 14XL

  • Overall length (not extended): 9450 mm
  • Hydraulic displacement: 3500 mm
  • Overhang, front: 1450 mm
  • Overhang, rear: 1844 mm
  • Perm. overall weight: 44,000 kg
  • Chassis: 9 t axles SAF, 3 self-steering axles with electronic reverse shift lock, 1st axle can be lifted, disc brakes, electronically controlled air suspension

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