A log splitter is a hydraulic machine that is used for the purpose of splitting logs into a smaller size which are able to be used for firewood.
There is an engine which is used to provide power to the machine that is typically a four stoke engine which can be powered either by electric or gas depending on the model of log splitter that you have.
This engine is attached to a hydraulic oil pump which is used to create a stream of oil that is run to a valve. Other primary components of a log splitter are the holding tank which is used to hold the hydraulic oil that is fed throughout the machine via the pump, as well as an oil filter which filters the oil and helps to keep it clean.
These handy machines were created in order to make the chore of splitting wood for a fire much easier and less physically intensive. Before log splitters were available people had to split logs by hand using an ax; this was hard and physically grueling labor. Nowadays a log splitter can get the job done for you in no time at all with much less physical work then you would think. While a log splitter can save you lots of time and labor; it is important that you know how to use a log splitter correctly before using one; this will ensure your safety while using this type of equipment.
Follow These Steps When Using a Log Splitter:
The first thing that you will need to do is determine if the model that you are using is a gas powered or electric powered log splitter. If you are using a gas powered log splitter you want to be sure that you have ample gas in the machine. The next thing that you have to do is to add hydraulic oil into the log splitter; the amount of oil that is needed will depend on the model of log splitter that you own, so be sure to check your owner’s manual. Once you have added the necessary components you will then need to power on the log splitter in order to activate the hydraulic pump.
Once the machine is primed and powered on you should now place the log that you are splitting onto the wedge; be sure that the log is securely positioned against this wedge. Now you will need to locate the activation mechanism which will trigger the piston to apply pressure to the log. This is typically a button which you will need to push, or an arm which you will need to pull. Activating this mechanism is going to apply high pressure to the log which will use the wedge to split the log into the desired size.
If you happen to be using a manual log splitter, the process may be different. A manual log splitter uses a hydraulic jack on one end of the log splitter with a welded wedge on the other end of the log splitter. You will need to tighten down the screw on the jack in order to secure the log so that you can move the cylinder into position. You will then manually pump the hydraulic jack until the log has been split. Once you have split the log in place you will need to release the screw and push the cylinder back into place before repeating the process for the next log.
While log splitters can be a convenience for many; you want to be sure that you take your safety into consideration when using one. One of the most important tips that you should follow is to be sure to read the manual for the log splitter so that you can be sure to follow the operating instructions. Another important safety tip is to secure the log into position by holding the log firmly from the middle; this will help to prevent accidental injury from occurring. You should also be sure that you operate these machines in an open space while wearing protective eyewear and boots in order to protect yourself. As long as you follow the proper safety protocols a log splitter is a modern convenience which makes the process of splitting logs a simple and far less painstaking process!