US 207-200-1920
Automated Swing-Blade Sawmills
Core Design Principles of the Automated Swing-Blade Sawmill
The automated swing-blade sawmill is built around three core principles: open access, simple automation, and long-term reliability. These principles shape every part of the design.
Open Access
First, open access is essential. A portable sawmill must allow logs to be loaded and timber removed without obstruction. With no outer rails, the working area stays clear. As a result, handling is reduced and workflow improves, whether operating in a yard or in the field.
Simple Automation
Second, the system delivers automation without complexity. Traditional twin-rail systems rely on chains and linkages pulling from both sides. However, even small movements can shift the rails out of alignment and push the blade out of square.
The Turbosawmill avoids this entirely. A single central beam maintains alignment at all times. Therefore, automation remains stable, accurate, and mechanically simple.
Proven Mechanical Control
In addition, automation is fully mechanical. There are no electronics, servo motors, hydraulics, or fragile wiring. The blade loads a gas strut in the horizontal position, the carriage travels to the far end, and a stop automatically swings the blade back. This process is direct and proven in real-world use.
Feed speed is controlled by a hydrostatic transmission, providing smooth, continuous control without gear changes. As a result, the mill performs consistently across varying cutting conditions.
Practical Automation by Design
Overall, the result is true automation without unnecessary complexity. The Turbosawmill automated mill is simple, robust, and highly effective in daily operation.
High-Capacity Cutting with Swing-Blade Versatility
The M12 uses a large 750 mm (29.5-inch) blade to deliver a 12¼″ × 12¼″ depth of cut. As a result, this automated swing-blade sawmill offers exceptional versatility. It can compete directly with bandsaw mills while still retaining the core advantages of a swing-blade system.
Wide Slab Capability
For wide slab work, the M12 clearly stands apart. By double-cutting horizontally—one pass out and one pass back—the mill produces slabs up to 24 inches wide.
In addition, operators can roll the log during the process. Because of this, the system allows for virtually unlimited slab widths. This makes the M12 well suited to live-edge and specialty timber applications.
Flexible Cutting Sequences
The onboard weatherboard attachment further expands cutting options. With the swing-blade design, operators can adjust the cutting sequence to suit each job.
For example, you can begin with vertical cuts and then finish horizontally. At the same time, you can start the next pass while stacking timber, as the machine continues cutting automatically.
Efficient Batch Cutting
Batch cutting provides another efficient workflow. First, complete all vertical cuts across the log. Then, release multiple boards at once.
As a result, a single operator can cut, pause briefly to stack boards, and continue without interrupting production. The same batching method also applies horizontally after removing the outer slabs.
Proven Versatility in Use
Over time, operators continue to find new ways to use the M12. Because of its swing-blade system, the machine remains highly adaptable. As a result, the M12 stands as one of the most versatile and capable automated sawmills available.
Built as a Fully Assembled Automated Swing-Blade Sawmill
The M12 automated swing-blade sawmill remains fully assembled by design. This approach prioritises rigidity, accuracy, and consistent cutting performance, rather than frequent breakdown and reassembly.
Because the structure is engineered for stability, operators move the mill as a complete unit instead of dismantling it. As standard, the sawmill includes heavy-duty ATV jockey wheels. These allow the machine to lower easily and reposition around the yard by hand or with an ATV.
Simple Transport Options
For greater portability, an optional dolly kit is available. With this kit fitted, the mill lowers directly onto the trailer frame and connects to a tow hitch at the opposite end.
As a result, setup and pack-down typically take just 10–20 minutes. Operators can tow the mill easily around the property or prepare it for transport.
Alternatively, operators can lift the complete sawmill as one unit using a loader and place it onto a 30-foot gooseneck trailer for relocation.
Designed for Cutting Performance
Unlike manual machines, the M12 is not designed to break down into smaller sections. Instead, this deliberate design choice delivers greater rigidity, smoother operation, and consistently higher cutting performance where it matters most.
Dolly Trailer Kit for Easy Transport
If you plan to move your sawmill between sites or around your property, the dolly trailer kit is strongly recommended. It provides a simple and efficient way to relocate the mill with minimal effort.
On-Property and Road Transport
The kit is supplied as a farm transport solution for on-property use. In New Zealand, operators regularly transport it on public roads. In these cases, obtaining registration and a warrant of fitness is straightforward.
However, transport regulations vary by country and region. For this reason, the operator or purchaser remains responsible for meeting local compliance requirements.
Stable and Proven in Use
In operation, the system tows smoothly and remains stable on the road. As a result, transport feels predictable and controlled. This design has proven reliable in real-world use, provided local legal requirements are met.
- Cuts a whopping 12" x 12" beam.
- Double cut capable by sawing on both sides of the blade up to 24" wide.
- 6m (20 ft) log cut length. Extendable to (26 ft) log cut length.
- Extended much longer with center leg (additional).
- 1.3m diameter (4 ft) log - although any diameter may be sawn.
- Single-end vertical and horizontal sizing.
- Log setup taper alignment included.
- Jockey transport wheels.
- 1 x 5-tooth INSERT blade, tool, extra tips, and sharpener (requires a drill).
- Power feed.
- Auto remote blade swing.
- Operable in both auto and manual mode.
- 2-year warranty on the mill framework.
- 3-year warranty on the motor.
