Overview
ISO 17591:2002 - Machinery for forestry - Knuckleboom log loaders defines a uniform method for identifying, classifying and naming components of knuckleboom log loaders. Published in 2002 (First edition), this ISO standard establishes terminology, a classification system for mounting and boom configurations, and a component nomenclature to ensure consistent descriptions of this class of forestry machinery across documents, designs, procurement and maintenance records.
Key topics and requirements
- Terminology and definitions: Provides agreed definitions for knuckleboom-specific terms (for example knuckleboom log loader, boom set, upper structure, heel). Figures are included to illustrate basic concepts.
- Classification - mounting configuration: Standardizes loader mounting types to describe machine carriers and operator arrangements:
- Trailer mount
- Truck mount
- Articulated carrier mount
- Crawler mount
- Rubber-tyred carrier mount
- Classification - boom configuration: Defines common boom layouts used on knuckleboom log loaders:
- Live heel boom
- Offset (fixed heel) boom
- Straight boom
- Three-piece boom
- Telescoping boom
- Component nomenclature: Lists primary components and assigns names for consistent technical reference (examples include slewing bearing, main boom, stick/secondary boom, heel boom, grapple, rotator, stabilizers, cab/operator station, power plant, counterweight).
- Normative linkage: References ISO 6814 (terms, definitions and classification for mobile and self-propelled forestry machinery) as a normative document.
Practical applications
ISO 17591 is practical for anyone needing standardized, unambiguous descriptions of knuckleboom log loaders:
- Manufacturers and designers - consistent part naming and configuration descriptions for drawings, manuals and BOMs.
- Procurement and fleet managers - accurate specification and comparison of loader types by mounting and boom configuration.
- Service, maintenance and spare-parts teams - clear component nomenclature for troubleshooting, ordering parts and training.
- Regulators and standards bodies - common language for certification, safety documentation and reporting.
- Technical writers and educators - standardized terms for manuals, training curricula and technical communications.
Related standards
- ISO 6814 - Machinery for forestry - Mobile and self-propelled machinery - Terms, definitions and classification (normative reference).
- Other ISO/TC 23 publications on forestry machinery may complement product safety, performance and testing standards.
Keywords: ISO 17591, knuckleboom log loader, knuckleboom, log loader, forestry machinery, component nomenclature, boom configuration, mounting configuration, terminology, classification.