INCREASED CONTROL AND POWER

Maximizing the efficiency of the machines requires optimization of control and power. At an early stage, Malwa contacted HydraSpecma for expertise in hydraulics and, since 2011, HydraSpecma has been delivering solutions: valve packages, hydraulic hoses and components selected to optimize the system and simplify installation.

   – I have great confidence in HydraSpecma. The solutions they have developed have helped us achieve our goals. We always have a good 

dialogue that helps us find new solutions that work,"says Pär Aneman, Purchasing and Production Manager at Malwa.

Malwa manufactures high-quality machines. The company selects well-proven premium components so that operators can trust that everything is working and they don’t have to spend time repairing. In addition to quality, security and time savings are two more important factors that go into the selection of components.

Most hydraulic components are standard, except for the valve packages which are customized to Malwa's specific needs. The valve packages and the hydraulic hose kits are labeled and packaged to facilitate production.

   – Having our own valve and hose kits is a big time savings for us. When parts have to be replaced, ordering is quick and we know that we’ll get everything needed. In addition, assembly becomes faster when some of the assembly work and "kitting" has already been done by the supplier, and all the components are included and well tested, says Pär.

Malwa is constantly exploring opportunities to further optimize existing machines and to develop new ones. Central lubrication has recently been tested in collaboration with HydraSpecma. The tests look promising, and the plan is to implement the solution on all machines in the near future.

   – The benefits of central lubrication are obvious. It increases the service life of the components while minimizing the time the operator needs to spend on manual lubrication, and that, in turn, increases safety, Pär says.

A GOOD RELATIONSHIP PROVIDES THE BEST CONDITIONS

The relationship with suppliers is important in providing the right conditions for development cooperation. A good relationship builds trust and creates a climate where the supplier is given space to contribute with their cutting-edge expertise.

   – The relationship is the most important thing for us when it comes to choosing a supplier. Being able to trust each other and to work together so that both parties can achieve their goals is critical. HydraSpecma is a stable supplier with whom we have a good relationship.

Christian Corso, Area Sales Manager at HydraSpecma, has worked with Malwa for seven years and agrees that the relationship is the key to successful collaboration.

   – Malwa enables us to find the best solution by being clear about their goals. We have an open dialogue and can discuss different solutions and their impacts. To be constantly challenged to optimize is inspiring and a way of working that I and our engineers appreciate, says Christian.

PROMISING FUTURE

The future looks promising and exciting for Malwa. Production of a larger harvester will begin soon. The machine is carefully designed to meet Malwa's requirements for minimal impact on the forest while adding additional power. It’s a machine that fills a void in the market.

Malwa is also continuing to work with electrification. They currently have a concept machine that has proven to be well suited for work near urban areas where it is easier to handle battery changes, etc. The new opportunities and requirements make electrification an interesting area to follow.