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With all the different choices of firewood processor available in the market right now, it is all too easy to get confused with all the different sizes, styles, and features of processors during your search for the machine that suits your operation best.
It doesn’t matter if you have plans to upgrade from a firewood splitter to a processor or you need a new processor for private use or commercial operations, there are basically three main points you need to consider.
Average Log Diameter
See to it that you pick a processor with the appropriate size for your logs. You need to measure your logs’ average size and choose a model that is a size or two bigger to have enough room for most logs.
For example, if your logs have an average diameter of 15 inches but there are a few logs or stumps that go beyond the limit, you can cut off oversized stumps then use a manual log splitter to split them.
Large log must be split into 8 or more pieces. There are also processors that have bigger cutting capacity yet you need to re-split the firewood that will only lead to additional labor. Fast splitting cycles and well-designed wedges increase the capacity of production and reduce the need for extra handling of wood.
It is not efficient to use a large firewood processor to process small logs and will only result to low profits. Larger operations must invest in firewood processors of different sizes and have the logs sorted accordingly to boost profitability, productivity, and optimize overall production.
Productivity and Operating Costs
Once you have secured where your logs will be sourced from and you have lined up the customers matching the investment you have in mind, it is now time for you to think of your cost of operation.
Firewood processors need a particular level of maintenance based on the serviceability and design of the machine. Advanced hydraulic designs can make for low fuel costs and efficiency. Reliable systems that are electrically controlled are durable and need less spare parts and maintenance.
The productivity of a firewood processor relies heavily on user ergonomics, smooth material flow, and efficient log handling. If the live deck loading space is larger, your personnel will also have more time to do other tasks like handling the finished firewood.
Controlled log landing and smooth infeeding reduce the need for additional operating handling. A smart operating system can also prevent human errors and unexpected breaks that can lead to down time.
Size of Operation
If your operation is large, you will be better off with a firewood processor with professional features like large live decks with a maximum loading capacity of 20 ft, sufficient performance for splitting even the hardest words to topnotch firewood, an automatic chain tensioner. Different sizes of operators can also be considered for better efficiency.
Meanwhile, if your operation is mid-sized or small, you might want to go for a firewood process that has enough capacity of increasing your production with no need to break your budget.