Comparison of Cable Skidding Productivity and Cost: Pre-Choking Mainline Versus Tagline Systems

Abstract

This study quantifies the operational efficiency and cost of pre-choking main and tagline systems for tree-length extraction using a cable skidder. The study was done by comparing productivity and costs of the two systems in a semi-mechanised tree-length harvesting operation. Study data was collected using time studies and work sampling for choking and dechoking operations, and GNSS tracking for recording and analysing machine in-field travel time and skidding distance. Operating costs were estimated using South African Harvesting and Transport Costing Model. Average productivity of the tagline system (46 m3 PMH-1) exceeded that of the mainline system (34 m3 PMH-1) by 35%. The extraction cost of the tagline system (US$1.10 m-3) was 26% lower than the cost of using the mainline system (US$1.50 m-3).