Woodsplitters use hydraulic pressure and wedges to make splitting logs into firewood easier
Wood splitters, often referred to as log splitters, leverage hydraulic pressure and sharp wedges to simplify the task of splitting logs. These devices function by applying a force through a hydraulic pump, which drives a wedge into the log, breaking it into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Distinguished by their power source, wood splitters can be either electric, gas powered, or manual. Electric and gas powered versions exert the log into the splitting wedge, significantly reducing the time required to split the log.
The hydraulic system, the heart of the splitter, uses a pump that presses hydraulic fluid into a cylinder, exerting pressure that drives the wedge into the log. This process is controlled by a valve that manages the fluid flow, ensuring efficient operation.
- Electric Log Splitters operate on electricity and are generally suitable for lighter tasks at home.
- Gas Powered Log Splitters run on gasoline, providing more power and making them ideal for larger, more demanding tasks.
- Manual Log Splitters require physical effort to operate the hydraulic pump but offer a cost-effective solution for occasional use.
Regardless of the type, the primary function remains the same: to make the task of splitting logs easier and more efficient. This helps save you time and energy and helps save your back at the same time.
Log Splitters come in a variety of sizes from small and portable to heavy duty, commercial and industrial
The range of log splitters is extensive, catering to different needs and preferences. On the smaller end of the scale, portable log splitters are lightweight, easy to move around, and ideal for home use. They are usually powered by electricity and can accommodate logs of up to 12 inches in diameter, making them suitable for smaller firewood tasks.
Moving up in size and power, heavy duty log splitters can handle larger logs and are built for more frequent use. Often gas powered, these deliver a stronger force, suitable for splitting harder woods and larger logs.
At the top of the range, industrial log splitters are the biggest log splitters and are designed for commercial use. These high capacity machines can split logs of virtually any size, and come equipped with advanced features like a faster cycle time, higher tonnage, and often, a vertical splitting option.
The different size units will have different cycle times. Cycle Time is the log splitter speed as in the cycle time to split a log and return to the start position. The different sizes are sometimes rated in tons. You could have a 4 ton log splitter or a 7 ton log splitter for example.
One of the best log splitters on the market is the Wood Eze brand electric log splitter machines
Northline Express offers the Wood Eze 4 Ton Electric Log Splitter this model is durable, easy to use and are highly reviewed.
The Wood Eze electric log splitters stand out for their impressive performances. The Wood Eze 4-ton model simplifies the wood splitting process with its dependable 15 Amp, 2.68 horsepower electric engine. This unit can split logs up to 15 inches long and 12 inches in diameter, making it an excellent choice for moderate wood splitting needs.
Key features of these Wood Eze splitters include:
- Powerful electric motor: Provides reliable and efficient log splitting power
- Safety features: Ground fault breaker for overload protection
- Capability: Able to split hard and large logs
These features contribute to making the Wood Eze machines some of the best electric log splitters available.
Check out the Northline Express YouTube Page and the video we created showing a WoodEze Electric Log Splitter Demo
FAQ - Log Splitter - Wood Splitter - Electric Log Splitters
What is the best or even a good log splitter to buy?
When choosing a log splitter it is important to first take a look at the size and quantity of logs that you need to cut down. Also another factor to consider is how often do you need to cut wood and what options do you have for a power source.
If you have a power source an electric log splitter like the Wood Eze 4 Ton Electric Log Splitter as well as the WoodEze 7 ton Electric Log Splitter could be good options. If you do not have a power source, then you could also look at gas powered or manual log splitters or manual wood splitter.
How does a log splitter work?
A log splitter operates through a systematic process involving several key components. First, an engine powers the hydraulic pump, which pressurizes the hydraulic fluid. The pressurized fluid is then directed to a hydraulic cylinder via a valve.
As the pressure increases, the hydraulic cylinder actuates a ram or piston. This piston is then propelled towards a wedge or blade, driving it into the log to be split. The interaction between the piston and wedge results in the forceful splitting of the log.
Depending on the type of splitter, there might be a slight variation in this process. Some models push the log into a stationary wedge, while others move the wedge into the log.
The process can be controlled either manually or automatically, and the power source can be gas, electricity, or manual force. Regardless of the specific type or power source, the fundamental principle remains the same.
How much is a wood log splitter?
Prices of wood log splitters vary widely depending on their type, size, and brand.
- Manual log splitters are the most affordable, ranging from $70 to $200. They are best for smaller jobs and require physical effort to operate.
- Electric log splitters are mid-range in terms of cost, usually falling between $350 and $850. They are ideal for moderate wood splitting needs.
- Gas powered log splitters are the most expensive, with prices typically between $1,000 and $7,500. These models are powerful and suited for heavy-duty tasks.
How fast can you drive pulling a log splitter?
When towing a log splitter, speed is a crucial factor to consider for both safety and equipment maintenance. The speed limit varies depending on the size of the log splitter tires. For instance, if the tires are between eight and ten inches, it is advisable not to exceed 45 mph. Log splitters with a tire size of 13 inches and above can be towed at reasonable speeds.
Commercially built log splitters are mostly not designed to be towed at speeds above 5 to 35 mph. However, some higher-end or home-built log splitters can be towed at higher speeds up to 70 mph.
The weight of the log splitter also plays a significant role in determining the towing speed. For example, a log splitter weighing between 500 pounds up to 1000 pounds should be towed at a top speed of 40 mph.
However, it is always recommended to check with the local DMV for licensing requirements and state patrol for specific laws when towing a log splitter.
How do I know what size of a log splitter that I need?
There are several factors that you need to consider when choosing the right log splitter for your project. Northline Express has put together a helpful article to aid you in your decision. You can check out the article here: Choosing a Log Splitter
Are there any other helpful articles related to log splitters or wood burning projects?
The Northline Express Resource Center has helpful articles on a wide variety of projects, including several articles about log splitters, firewood, and home heating areas.
