PRESS » SAM Magazine
SAM Magazine March CoverThe Global Cutter, produced by Development Snowparks debuted in New Zealand in 2008. Cutters are available in 13', 15', 18' and 22' heights.
Pipe builder and Cutter inventor John Melville says that it forms a large, smooth, elliptically-shaped transition, a smooth take-off and a wider landing.
A laser guidance system helps a vehicle operator cut a straight pipe. Melville claims this can save a resort 15% in build time, offering savings in snow cat operation and snow. The laser system also calculates an accurate vertical angle reading for a precise take off. Bi-directional motors in the paddle-style cutting system prevent stalling and enable the cutter to recycle snow up to repair a wall, or cut down volume if it has been snowing. By recirculating snow, the cutter can reduce the amount of snow needed to maintain the pipe, he adds. The cutter works well in both icy, hard conditions as well as slushy, spring snow, Melville adds, and fills tracks and holes quickly. A heated pressure bar and finishing mats allow the machine to rest its weight on the wall and imprint a corduroy finish. In all, Melville claims the Cutter can reduce snowmaking for the pipe by up to 30%.
Global Cutter is demoing its 22' behemoth to prospective customers at the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival, 16 - 25 April at Whistler, BC and at Cutters' Camp West, 9 - 13 May at Timberline, Mt. Hood, Ore.
