Equipment Report

Long-time wood grinder manufacturer Morbark Inc., Winn, Mich., has entered the slow-speed, high-torque primary waste reduction market with the introduction of the Predator.

According to the company, the Predator is designed to process mixed materials such as C&D debris that could contain objects such as railroad ties that are unsuitable for high-speed grinding.

The Predator features a 64-inch by 76-inch opening that feeds material to 15-inch in diameter counter-meshing rotors with hooked star shredders. The 44,000-pound machine is equipped with a 4-feet wide continuous belt discharge conveyor that includes a crossbelt magnet to capture ferrous metals.

The machine, which can be powered by either a 335 hp or 455 hp engine, can be operated by remote control.

Vecoplan LLC, Archdale, N.C., a maker of single-shaft rotary grinders, has introduced at www.VecoplanLLC.com what it is calling a comprehensive and interactive Web site.

The Web site can be navigated in either HTML or "flash-enhanced" versions. Both formats contain the same information, however the enhanced version includes a streaming video introduction and features animated illustrations, including a cutaway animation of the grinder concept in operation.

Specification sheets for all models, with technical drawings of each machine, can be downloaded in PDF format. Video clips of a wide range of applications are available for viewing, as are directions to Vecoplan’s testing facility.

Visitors can complete an online information request form for specific information to meet their needs.

Peterson Pacific Corp., Eugene, Ore., has hired Larry Cumming as its new general manager. Cumming will oversee the mobile wood waste recycling equipment manufacturer's day-to-day operations and report to Peterson Pacific president Neil Peterson.

Cumming has extensive experience in several aspects of manufacturing heavy equipment. Most recently, he worked for the Construction and Forestry Division of John Deere Co., Moline, Ill. Prior to that, Cumming worked for what is now the Timberjack division of John Deere, where he held many positions including chief operating officer and executive VP of product supply.