Comact Introduces New Carriage Optimizer
VANCOUVER, BC, October 21, 2026 — Comact, a global leader in high-performance OEM wood-processing technologies, announces the launch of its new Carriage Optimizer and the successful completion of its first installation at Scierie Carrière, a hardwood mill located in Quebec.
Designed for integration with all types of carriage systems, Comact’s Carriage Optimizer combines high-density geometric scanning, advanced optimization, and automated carriage positioning to determine and execute the optimal opening cuts. The system can also recommend the optimal sawing speed to support more efficient cutting operations.
“Many mills have carriage systems that continue to perform well mechanically, but the optimization technology supporting them is aging or no longer supported,” said Simon Potvin, CEO of Comact. “We developed the Carriage Optimizer to address that gap, giving mills a way to bring current optimization and controls technology to existing equipment without having to replace a carriage that still has years of productive life ahead.”
At Scierie Carrière, the first installation has demonstrated the benefits of upgrading carriage optimization technology in an existing operation.
“The project was extremely well prepared and executed, allowing us to quickly return to our normal production pace following installation. We immediately saw faster optimization and positioning, along with improved accuracy in both opening faces and sawing execution. We have also observed a productivity increase of up to 5% since installation. The system integrates seamlessly into our operation, and we are very satisfied with both its performance and the support provided by the Comact team,” said Michel Ferron, President of Scierie Carrière.
With this new solution, Comact continues to expand its modernization offering, helping sawmills extend the life of their existing equipment through advanced optimization and control technologies, backed by long-term service and support.
Want to hear more about Scierie Carrière’s experience with the new Carriage Optimizer?
Read the full testimonial here.
“We were very satisfied with the entire project, from the installation of the new carriage optimizer and control system through to commissioning.
The project was very well prepared from the start. The work completed ahead of the installation ensured that the new system integrated smoothly with our existing equipment and operations. That preparation made a real difference: after only two production shifts, we were already back to our normal operating pace, with no loss in production speed compared with before the shutdown.
We immediately noticed improvements with the new optimizer. Optimization and carriage positioning are faster, allowing the system to make decisions and position the log earlier in the sawing sequence. We have also seen improved accuracy in both the opening faces and sawing execution, with the actual cuts closely matching the optimized solution.
Since the installation, we have observed a productivity increase of up to 5%. We will continue to monitor performance over a longer period, but the initial results have been very positive.
Beyond the performance of the system itself, we appreciated the way Comact managed the project. The team understood our needs, carefully planned each step, met the agreed schedule, and remained accessible throughout the installation and startup. The project was delivered as expected, with no surprises in terms of timing or costs.
Overall, the system has integrated seamlessly into our operation, and we are very satisfied with its performance and with the support provided by the Comact team.”
Michel Ferron, President, Scierie Carrière