by Aislinn Esterle

The Swiss family-owned sawmill secures future-ready window scantling production with seamless optimization and high performance by upgrading to a full cross-cut and finger-jointing solution.

Founded on strong family values and deep regional roots, Brühwiler Sägewerk AG processes around 17,000 cubic meters of local softwood annually. Guided by the motto “From tree to building,” the company transforms logs into finished products, focusing on sustainability and local sourcing—a philosophy closely aligned with System TM’s approach to resource efficiency.

TM News story – click here to read the full issue 2/2025.

One solution from one provider

Brühwiler’s journey toward a brand-new Opti-Solution began at LIGNA 2019, where initial discussions focused on replacing an outdated finger-jointing line. However, as the project evolved, shaped by changing needs and unforeseen circumstances, it grew into something much more ambitious. What started as a plan to modernize a single line became a full-scale production upgrade.

Today, Brühwiler operates a fully integrated system designed, built, and installed by System TM, featuring advanced scanning technology supplied by our trusted partner, MiCROTEC. The Opti-Solution includes an optimizing cross-cut line equipped with an Opti-Kap 3103 cross-cut saw and an Opti-Joint V-8 vertical finger-jointing line, seamlessly connected to scanning, sorting, and stacking systems.

This “one solution from one provider” approach ensured seamless integration, simplified coordination, and optimal performance across every stage of production.

Smart use of space

A key factor in System TM securing the order was our ability to design a compact, space-efficient solution tailored to Brühwiler’s newly renovated production hall. The layout fits seamlessly within the available footprint while maximizing workflow and material utilization. This reflects not only technical ingenuity but also System TM’s commitment to understanding and accommodating each customer’s unique needs.

At System TM, we place high value on close cooperation and thorough evaluation of every project’s specific context—whether it’s production goals, available space, labor conditions, or long-term growth plans. This collaborative approach ensures that every solution is not only technically advanced but also perfectly aligned with the customer’s operational reality.

“We couldn’t expand our production hall, but we wanted to produce significantly more with the new machine. System TM made this possible by precisely adapting the machine layout to our hall. It has proven itself very successful ever since,” explains Yvonne Kappeler, Project Manager at Brühwiler.

Smart scanning for quality and yield

The production starts with the cross-cut line, where timber packs are placed on a conveyor chain and moved to the Opti-Stack 6000 Vack vacuum infeed-system, which was intelligently adjusted and adapted to fit the specific space requirements. It lifts each layer of boards, which are then separated and individually scanned by a MiCROTEC Goldeneye multi-sensor quality scanner to determine the optimal cutting pattern. This ensures that exacting standards are met and that only the highest quality wood is used for window scantlings. Defects, such as knots or resin pockets, are removed and shorter pieces are sorted for finger-jointing. This scanning and sorting process is essential for consistently producing uniform workpieces and minimizing waste.

Precision cutting and efficient sorting

The boards are then transferred to the Opti-Kap 3103 cross-cut saw, where they are precisely trimmed. After cutting, the timber is automatically sorted into long waste pieces or finger-jointing pieces. Long workpieces are directed to a manual stacking area, while finger-jointing pieces are separated by two scrapers. They can be stacked temporarily, which allows pieces of varying quality to be reintroduced into the line later by an Opti-Feed 3000 Vack back-feeding system. Alternatively, they can be sent directly to the batch builder of the finger-jointing machine. This flexible stacking routine ensures efficient handling, maximizes material utilization, and supports Brühwiler’s commitment to producing premium scantlings for window manufacturing.

The power of finger-jointed scantlings

Scantlings—precision-engineered, timber sections—form the backbone of high-quality window frames. At Brühwiler, the integration of System TM’s finger-jointing line sets a new benchmark for customer-oriented production and resource efficiency.

Once sorted, short, defect-free timber segments are collected into batches and processed through two finger-joint shaper stations, where precise finger profiles are milled. Adhesive is applied before the segments enter the press, which produces finished scantlings of up to 6,100 mm in length. This pressing process ensures outstanding structural integrity and dimensional stability—essential qualities for durable window frames.

Finished pieces are automatically lifted and transferred to a drying tower, then delivered to the Opti-Stack 9000 with an automated package outfeed system. By turning short timber pieces into long, stable scantlings, Brühwiler makes efficient use of every board while consistently meeting the high standards of Swiss window manufacturing. From scanning to stacking, every step is designed to optimize resource use and ensure consistent, high-quality output.

A family-oriented partnership

Throughout the collaboration, Brühwiler’s identity as a family-owned and family-oriented company was evident. Their values of trust, quality, and long-term thinking align perfectly with System TM’s approach to customer relationships and project execution.

“Working with Brühwiler has been a pleasure from start to finish,” says Per Juul Jensen, Area Sales Manager at System TM. “Their commitment to quality and openness throughout the process enabled us to deliver a solution that truly fits their needs. It’s a great example of what can be achieved through close cooperation and shared values.”

Strengthening Swiss window production

By combining tradition with cutting-edge technology, Brühwiler is reinforcing its role in the Swiss timber industry. The new Opti-Solution efficiently uses every piece of regional wood, transforming it into robust, high-performance components and laying the foundation for sustainable, premium window production in Switzerland.

“Our entire project team travelled to Denmark for the factory acceptance test. We met all the relevant people and were able to discuss and clarify numerous details on-site. On the way back, we knew: ‘This will be a success.’ This feeling was confirmed,” recalls Benno Müller, Head of Plant Engineering at Brühwiler.

“When it became clear that we needed to replace the entire system—which significantly increased the size of the project—we immediately felt comfortable with System TM. We sensed their extensive experience in this field. They always had a solution for our requirements.“

– Maria Brühwiler, Owner

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