Abstract
In Turkey, mechanized
harvesting methods have started to be used depending on the recent developments
in forest industry, but advanced harvesting machines could not be used in
national wide due to high operating cost and terrain conditions. The most
common harvesting method is skidding with farm tractors since they are easily
accessible and cost efficient. In this study, skidding method by a farm tractor
in Bigadic Forest Enterprise Directorate was examined in terms of productivity
and cycle time. The factors that affect the machine performance were also
evaluated. It was found that the average time measurement of a cycle was 30.75
minute and the average productivity of tractor was found to be 4.75 m³/hour.
The average volume and amount of skidded timber per cycle was about 1.80 m³ and
2 pieces, respectively. Among the factors evaluated in the study area, it was
found that skidding distance had a maximum effect on the total cycle time and
productivity. Unlike previous time studies, it was found that volume was
relatively less effective on the total cycle time. This study revealed that the
examination of the total time and productivity in