The Perfect Horizontal Grinder for Growing Producers: CBI 5900T

Written By: Frontline Machinery
Date: December 1, 2025

Choosing a million-dollar heavy-duty wood grinding machine is never easy, no matter the years of experience. There are various tangible and intangible factors, and with each project being so unique, selecting the correct unit requires a deep understanding of application needs and how the machine stacks up against them. Owners, Directors, Managers and Operators have to consider:

  • Project Needs
    • End Specification
    • Space Limitations
    • Regulatory & Environmental Compliance
  • Machine Specifications
    • Capacity
    • Fuel Consumption
    • Transportaion & Mobility
    • Resale Value
    • Opening Feed Dimensions
  • Routine Service Requirements
    • Wear Part Replacement
    • Screen Changes
    • Oil, Air Filter, And other Engine Maintenance Tasks
  • Dealer Support
    • Parts Availability & Support
    • Technician Availability & Costs
    • Operator Training & Safety

…and that’s the short list. With so many moving pieces to factor in, compromises are unavoidable. A clear example of this can be seen in Continental Biomass Industries’ (CBI) heavy-duty horizontal grinders. For wood producers unfamiliar with the brand, two main choices are most commonly evaluated: the 5800BT and the 6800CT.

The 5800BT is the go-to standard model for small or entry-level producers, while the larger, more powerful 6800CT is designed for large-scale, mature operations. Both machines excel at their roles, but medium-sized producers often face the dilemma of how to compromise their needs. The smaller unit may be better for cash flow but risks creating a bottleneck if the business grows quickly, whereas investing in the larger machine carries the risk of external economic factors slowing production and reducing profitability.

CBI recognized this gap and tasked their top team with developing a new solution for producers who are well established in their industry but don’t (yet) require the monster machine that is the 6800CT. That’s when the concept of the new 5900T was born: a machine specifically designed for medium-scale soil, mulch, compost, wood recycling, and forestry processing. This new machine takes inspiration from both flagship models and expertly walks the line between mobility and high-production.

“By Integrating the most effective elements of our flagship models and introducing new features, we have created a machine that delivers power, efficiency, and reliability.

– George Wilcox
Sales & Marketing Director at CBI

One of the most important features of the new 5900T is its 60-inch infeed rotor. Taken from its larger sibling the 6800CT, the added width allows producers to feed larger and more irregular material without heavy pre-processing, saving time and reducing handling costs.

Its 755-horsepower CAT C-18 engine with hydraulic clutch provides smooth and controlled power. The result is reliable performance without the fuel draw and overhead of a 1,000-plus horsepower machine.

At 8 feet 6 inches wide in transport, the 5900T matches road-legal requirements that are more restrictive for the 6800CT. This makes moving between sites easier and less dependent on special permitting.

The machine’s overall dimensions in operation closely align with the 5800BT, yet it offers a stronger rotor and higher throughput. Producers gain greater capacity without sacrificing maneuverability or requiring more space on the yard.

Lastly, all of CBI’s core brand offerings remain in the 5900T:

  • Heavy-Duty Build Quality
  • Clamshell Hog Box Design for Easy Screen Replacement
  • Offset Helix Rotor Pattern
  • Metal Detection System for Protection Against Tramp Metal
  • Convenient Engine & Air Filter Access

The 5900T gives producers a purpose-built option that bridges the gap between entry-level and large-scale soil, mulch, wood processing. With its balanced design, transport-ready dimensions, powerful engine, and CBI’s proven core features, it offers the right mix of capability and efficiency for operations ready to grow without overextending. For many, it represents the dependable middle ground that keeps production moving forward with confidence.