This series will provide detailed and enthusiastic commentary on Japan's ski resorts from various perspectives. In the first part, we will focus on snowmobiles, which are essential for running ski resorts and creating slopes
A common sight on ski slopes
There are mainly two types of vehicles that work on ski slopes. One is the so-called "snow groomer," which maintains the slopes and makes a loud thud as it drives by, a vehicle that makes us ski lovers happy when we hear it.
The other is the "snow transporter," a vehicle that makes us yearn to ski on powder snow using cat skis. Its main purpose is to transport people and supplies. Caterpillar-tracked delivery trucks that run through inn districts in snowy regions are one example.
▶Snow groomer
Although the name varies depending on the manufacturer, the main purpose is to maintain the slopes by compacting snow, etc. In the 2000s, high-tech control systems and other equipment became increasingly popular
▶Snow transport vehicle
A vehicle whose primary purpose is to transport people and goods. It can also be used off the slopes. If it is designed to be able to be driven on public roads, a driver's license is required
The term "pisten" is often used to describe snow grooming, and "pisten" is German for "slope." The name of the German snow groomer brand "Pistenbuuri" is quite interesting, as it means "to abuse" the slope. In other words, it works so hard that it "abuses" the slope.
Let's take a look at its work in this video.
Snow groomer at work - Pisten Bully 400
In Japan, snowmobiles made by German, Italian, and domestic manufacturers are the mainstream
Currently, Pistenbuly holds the top share of the global snow groomer market, followed by the Italian brand Prinote. Prinote acquired a Canadian brand, so there are now two brands: one European and one North American. There used to be many more manufacturers, but after industry restructuring, there are now only two dominant brands
Pistenbully (Germany)
A brand of the German company Case-Boler, it is the market leader with over 65% of the global market share. Its iconic fiery red body made its Japanese debut at the 1972 Sapporo Olympics
▶ Purinote (Italy)
It boasts a high market share in Europe and the US. It was also used at the Sochi Olympics. It has also been highly praised for its high level of design, with Ferrari designers working on it
▶Ohara Iron Works (Japan)
A major domestic brand with a history spanning over 100 years, it is highly regarded for its product development and maintenance system suited to Japan's unique natural environment
▶ Japan Snowblower Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
A snow removal machine manufacturer based in Sapporo. Currently, they are selling a model called the "TT300" that fully meets the various needs of snow compaction sites
The structure of a snow groomer is as follows:
What is the structure of a snow groomer, and what is the principle behind its snow grooming work? We will explain the overview. However, there are some differences in structure and principles depending on the manufacturer, and the names of parts also differ. However, the general structure is the same
Here, using Ohara Iron Works' "DF430" as an example, we will simply explain the structure and operating principles of a snow groomer. Once you understand its structure and principles, a snow groomer is an interesting and fun vehicle. You might even want to try driving one.
Regarding driving, if you drive it on public roads, you will need to obtain a license plate and a heavy vehicle special license, but no license is required if you drive it on private property.
▶Blade
It pushes and breaks up snow like a bulldozer. It is a movable plate that digs out snow from the ground and pushes it forward with great force. It is attached to the front of the vehicle. Currently, the most common type is a three-part design that allows for more three-dimensional movement. In recent years, there are also models with a larger range of motion and greater flexibility that are used for park construction
▶Tracks
The suspension has two main roles
It's also known as a crawler, track belt, or endless track. In Ohara, it's called a "caterpillar." It requires versatility and toughness to handle various snow conditions, as well as ingenuity to keep it light. It
not only moves back and forth, but also simultaneously breaks up the snow on the ground.
▶Mill & Finisher
This is where the finishing work is done. The mill is also called a "tiller," and in Ohara it is called a "snow-compacting rotor." This mixes the snow as it rotates. Then, pressure is applied to create a beautiful corduroy pattern. Generally, a mill with two sections is used, but for park specifications, a mill with three sections is suitable
The inner mill (left) mixes the snow, and the finisher (right) creates grooves. The structure of the mill varies depending on the manufacturer
▶Engine
Today's snowmobiles use diesel engines. For example, Ohara uses Caterpillar engines, and Prinote uses Mercedes engines, so they use powerful engines from Western manufacturers. The source of power is often Western
The DF430 is equipped with the high-performance "CAT C13"
▶Operating room
This refers to the cockpit. It is also called the "cabin." It mainly consists of comfortable seats that are designed for long periods of work and reduce fatigue, and a cockpit that aims for simple operation. Cockpits have become increasingly digitalized in recent years. Also, sufficient consideration has been given to ensuring safe operation. In other words, it combines comfort and safety
How a snow groomer works
Now that you know the names and structure of the parts, let's take a look at how a snow groomer works
① First, the front blades break up bumps and clumps of snow, pushing them forward as it moves.
② Then, the tracks drive, further breaking up the snow on the ground. The tracks are not just there to move forward.
③ Finally, the rear mill finely agitates the snow.
④ And then, the finisher applies pressure, drawing a corduroy pattern on the snow surface.
This process is easier to understand when you compare it with a visual.
A variety of "That's it" techniques made possible by attachments
Today's snow vehicles are becoming increasingly high-tech and multifunctional. There are models with excellent functionality for creating snow parks and models equipped with winches. By adding attachments, they can perform their work more professionally and efficiently. Let's start by looking at attachments for the Pistenbullie
Pipe Magician
This implement (working machine) is specifically designed for half-pipe maintenance. It neatly trims the curved section of the pipe. By flipping it over, you can work both uphill and downhill
Track Setter
It is attached to the rear and creates two grooves, creating a cross-country ski course that meets FIS (International Ski Federation) regulations
passenger cabin
It can be used for a wide range of purposes, including transporting people and equipment. If you use it for cat skiing, it's more comfortable to have a cabin. It's even better if it comes with a chair. It's attached with bolts, so it's actually easy to attach and detach
Bush cutter
By attaching rubber summer tracks (caterpillar parts) and bush cutters, it can also be used for summer slope maintenance. Leave the speedy weeding work to us
How much does such an amazing snowmobile cost?
Now we understand that snowmobiles are effective at their job, but how much do they cost? The price can vary greatly depending on the attachments you add, but it's roughly this much
A single unit costs between 36 million and 40 million yen! (Medium-sized snow vehicle)
Let's compare it to some other vehicles...
Ferrari (supercar) around 40 million yen
Crane truck (40t) around 40 million yen
Dump truck (medium-sized) around 12 million yen
Adding attachments will significantly increase the price. In particular, attachments essential for constructing and maintaining halfpipes cost approximately 15 to 20 million yen. It's quite a price, but its performance seems to justify it.
Be sure to check out this video. (The pipe work scene starts around 1:10)
PistenBully ｜ESPN Winter X-Games Aspen,CO,2020
A truly spectacular performance! This is how hard snow groomers work at the ESPN Winter X-Games. They're indispensable for both superpipe and slopestyle.
The more you learn about snow groomers, the more fascinating they become.Part 2Stay tuned for
<取材・写真協力>
Ohara Iron Works Co., Ltd.,Snow Systems Co., Ltd.,Northwest Co., Ltd.(in alphabetical order)