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log splitter
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| Log splitter set up for vertical operation (above) and horizontal operation (below). Model shown is Swisher LS11534 11½-horsepower 34-ton splitter |
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A gasoline- or diesel-powered wood splitter that uses hydraulic, ram-powered wedges to do the work of an ax. They are usually rated by the tons of pressure it can generate. Most log splitter models for home use have a rating around 10 tons or so, but professional models may exert 25 tons of pressure or more.
Hydraulic log splitters can be set up for vertical and horizontal operation: vertical, to split larger logs; horizontal, to split smaller ones.
Log splitters are the simplest hydraulic device in common use. Their basic components are:
- An engine, normally a small four-stroke gasoline engine, to provide power.
- A hydraulic oil pump, attached to the engine, which creates a stream of high-pressure oil that runs to a valve.
- The valve to which the pressurized stream of oil runs. It allows the operator to actuate the hydraulic cylinder to split a log.
- A tank holds that holds the hydraulic oil for feeding the pump.
- A filter to keep the oil clean.
Although a good log splitter can save hours of labor with a traditionalmaul, it isn't possible to make it 100% safe. Only trained adults should operate a log splitter, since anything caught between the log and the splitting blade will be subject to immense pressure.
Glossary
Beam size: the width of the beam by the weight in pounds per foot.
Splitter wedge: the anvil that is forced into the log when split.
Working height: the distance from the ground to the horizontal splitting surface. On a vertical splitter, the working height is approximately one inch, eliminating the need to lift heavy logs.
Related categories
• TOOLS
• WOOD HEATING
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