INDONESIAN PULP AND PAPER MILL GROWS MACHINE FLEET

In the industrial city of Pangkalan Kerinci, Indonesia, Riau Andalan Pulp & Paper (RAPP), part of the APRIL Group, runs one of Southeast Asia’s largest pulp and paper mills. To support production, the site depends on fast and continuous handling of timber to meet its daily processing targets.

RAPP turned to SENNEBOGEN material handlers to meet its stringent requirements. In April 2024, the site welcomed nine new SENNEBOGEN 830 E material handlers, purpose-built for high-volume timber operations and equipped to thrive under pressure.

Timber handling is the backbone of RAPP’s operations. The material arrives from plantations, is unloaded, sorted, and conveyed into processing lines at high speed. Any delay in timber movement can directly impact production.

Built to last in harsh con­di­tions
The environment at the site is harsh – Indonesia’s hot and humid climate all-year round presents a tough challenge. Weather conditions range from 23° to 40° Celsius, and up to 98% humidity levels throughout the year. RAPP also needed a machine that could withstand the dusty outdoor environment while still running the machines 24/7 around-the-clock across three shifts. Many machines would struggle in these conditions, but the 830 E is designed for it: its efficient cooling system, reversible fan, and easy-access maintenance points ensures that it runs day-in and day-out without overheating or clogging.

Designed for productivity and precision
Each machine handles up to 270 tons of timber per day, easily lifting and placing large log bundles using the robust Rotobec grapple. Thanks to smooth hydraulic controls and a balanced counterweight system, the 830 E ensures precise stacking and placement — even at full boom extension. The 13-meter reach gives operators access to tall stockpiles and deep truck beds without repositioning, streamlining every task from unloading to stacking.

Fuel efficiency is another standout benefit: just 19 liters of diesel per hour. Across nine machines, this adds up to significant cost savings and reduced emissions over time.

Unlike fixed machines or crawler units, the SENNEBOGEN 830 E models deployed at RAPP are all equipped with mobile undercarriages, allowing them to cover large yard areas and reposition the machines easily without needing lowbed trailers or tugs. This on-demand mobility supports RAPP’s flexible loading schedules and improves response time when demands shift across the yard.




Trusted by the pros
Among the most experienced operators on site is Mr. Arnaldo, who brings over 20 years of heavy equipment experience to the team. For him, the SENNEBOGEN 830 E stands out not only for its power, but also its attention to operator comfort and control.

He especially likes the elevating Maxcab, which gives him a commanding panoramic view at heights of approx. 5.8 meters, and the intuitive control system that makes the 830 E feel both powerful and precise.

“The cab is quiet and comfortable even after hours of work,” says Mr. Arnaldo. “The visibility is excellent — I can see clearly from the top of the timber stacks down to ground level, which helps me work faster and more safely.”

Another standout feature? The air-conditioner.

“Especially in our humid Indonesian weather, I really appreciate the cool air that keeps me comfortable and focused,” he adds.

A reliable partner for the long haul
From the outset, RAPP needed a machine partner who could provide not just equipment, but a long-term material handling solution. SENNEBOGEN has delivered on that promise — combining high-volume throughput, low fuel use, and ease of operation with strong after-sales support.

With the entire fleet working reliably since April, RAPP’s operations team reports a notable improvement in timber yard efficiency — and operators like Mr. Arnaldo are fully on board.

“These machines are fast, easy to control, and built for this kind of work,” says Mr. Arnaldo. “They’ve made a real difference.”