Cortex has been chipping radiata pine since our beginnings in Chile in 2014. In 2018, we crossed the South Pacific with our first installation in New Zealand. The mill was looking for an alternative to their traditional reversible knife system as extreme wear and high operating costs were limiting their operation.

After a consultation with one of the largest sawmill OEM’s in the world, the OEM recommended the Cortex knife system and we began an evaluation of their needs. It was clear that savings would exceed over 30% in direct cost, and the mill could simplify their operation with the Cortex honer and a full mill conversion.

Performance results are showing a big improvement in board finish and knife cost savings of over 35%. The installation has landed Cortex in this beautiful country and we are now working to add sales and service support in the Australia and New Zealand region.