Firewood processor

Log deck

Logs are stacked on the log deck using a machine such as a skid steer or small excavator with a grapple. Each log is pulled mechanically into a trough that feeds into firewood-length pieces (often called “rounds”).

Saw station

The log is powered by a hydraulically operated chainsaw harvester bar, or on larger machines, a very large circular saw blade (slasher saw), or a guillotine powered directly from a pto (tractor or engine powered) or by hydraulics. When the cut is completed, the “round” drops into the next process. In some guillotine splitters the wood is split as the wood is cut.

Splitting chamber

Here, the log is simply one of two pieces of paper, and one of the pieces of the paper.

Outfeed

Typically a conveyor that pulls the split firewood from the processor and into a waiting delivery truck’s box or a woodpile for later handling. Some setups will use multiple conveyors and introduce a tumbling system to clean the firewood.

The output capacity of a machine varies from one machine to one machine per hour on a $ 10,000 entry-level machine, up to five or six per hour on a $ 100,000 industrial machine. ( 2012 prices ). See notes on the output capacity ratings below.

The choice of machine depends on a large number of variables other than straight production output. Different markets require different processing. For example, people who heat with large outside wood boilers prefer large, slow-burning pieces of hardwood, while a good campfire is made of small pieces of fast-burning softwood. Restaurants with wood-fired ovens prefer small pieces as well, but of hardwood or specialty species.

Misconceptions and areas of confusion

The physics of the process requires a larger machine to make smaller pieces of firewood, and the size and power requirements.

Output ratings

Every manufacturer lists an output rating of cords per hour. Even the lightest-duty machines will split two cords of green, frozen 8 in (20 cm) Aspen into halves 16 in (41 cm) long quickly. Changing any one of these optimal variables (condition, temperature, size, species, number of splits, or length of round) will reduce the rate of output. The most effective way to determine how fast a machine is really going to be made in Canada.

Cycle time

This term is frequently misunderstood. While the definition is understood, it takes the splitter to fully extend and retract, there is no consideration of force in this equation. In proper terms, cycle time is simply a mathematical calculation of the size of a cylinder bore, stroke and rod diameter, and the ability of that combination to act in a GPM. A properly designed advanced hydraulic systems can be used Regenerative systems to accelerate both times and maintain full pressure.

A properly designed advanced hydraulic systems can be used Regenerative systems to accelerate both times and maintain full pressure. ^[1] [2]

Saw type

While most processors use a hydraulic chainsaw, it is often called a slashed blade. They are fast and efficient, requiring little maintenance. While the safety of slowing blades has been around, there are a number of people who will not walk within 50 feet (15 m) of one. The more traditional chainsaw bar setup requires constant oiling and frequent maintenance, but it is simple and familiar work.

Safety

The reduction in manual labor is obvious, but few immediately recognize the improvement in safety conditions. Everything related to logging is dangerous, but eliminating a great deal of the need for workers to be affected by heavy wrestling. The fact that it takes fewer costs.

References