The Veisto Group started its operations in 1964 when the Rautio brothers developed the first balk hewing machine for their own use. With further product development it was turned into a canter ideal for sawing of small logs. Although the machine was originally developed for their own use, word of this revolutionary invention spread amongst the sawmillers. The groundwork was laid to manufacture the saw machine on a large scale.
1960’s


The very first balk hewing machine was built from rusty scrap metal and had moose skin as a chip safeguard. Somehow, the square timber buyers were not that convinced to start with. However, on the test sawing, the machine proved to hew fine square timber balks and the first contract sawing deal was made with unprejudiced Uuraan Puu in Sonkajärvi.

The brothers thought that they could actually make a living out of this business so the suitable premises were required and a company had to be set up. Koneveisto Velj. Rautio was established in 1964.

 

The brothers built their own workshop in Mäntyharju and the manufacture of the balk hewing machines was set to start, but unfortunately the square timber markets slowed down. The brothers had to think something new, something which they could make living of. They made wooden underground drainage pipes and timber, naturally with tailor made machines for this use.  

 

”Now the world’s eighth invention is made –  a balk hewing machine!”.

- Kauko Rautio

 


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