Log Splitters
During the winter months, residents of hilly areas are dependent on wood as a source of energy for heating and cooking. Apart from that, large amounts of logs are required to construct log homes. Also, efforts to conserve energy and cut utility bills have brought the woodpile into sharp focus. The above facts have necessitated the development of devices that cut wood efficiently without any wastage. The conventional instrument for such tasks was the traditional axe. But with a view towards optimum convenience and efficiency, log splitters have overtaken axes.
Cutting fireplace and stove wood is much easier with log splitters, as it is possible to split even some of the most difficult logs such as oak, elm, walnut and cherry. The log is being split at the same time as it is being cut. A splitter that is bolted to the shear blade does this nicely.
Manually operated log splitters drive a splitting wedge into logs after the wedge is hit with a sledge. Powered log splitters are much quicker. Generally, hydraulic action provides the force to drive a splitting ram into a log secured in the frame. There are also "screw" models that are cone shaped and turn or "bore" their way into the wood to split the log.
Gasoline engines may power log splitters. There are several models in the market that operate on electric motors, as these allow the system to operate more efficiently with less horsepower (HP). Engines may range from 5 HP to 25 HP, and most units will split logs up to 24" long. Some splitters can also be towed behind a car to the woods to split logs. A "deadman" neutral return control handle is a desirable safety feature. Cycling times vary with different models, but the faster the cycle, the more wood one can split.
Though a log splitter is a useful device, it can be harmful too if not handled with care. Log splitters have numerous moving parts. New machines are generally safer than the older ones, which may lack protective equipment. Older machines had primitive control systems and lever and joint systems. Problems can arise if the log gets caught and causes an unexpected movement or prevents the machine from stopping. Most often accidents occur when the user adjusts the position of the log while the machine is in operation. New machines are designed so that users have to use both hands (two-hand control devices). These are fairly safe if there is only one user at a time. If two people operate them, the helper's hands are in danger. The risk of accidents is increased by possible misunderstandings, collisions or disturbances in the rhythm of work. Also, one should never split two logs on top of each other.
