Whole Tree Chippers: An In-Depth Guide

[MikePhua]

Whole tree chippers are an essential piece of equipment in the forestry and tree care industries. These machines are designed to efficiently process large branches and whole trees, reducing them to wood chips for various applications, such as mulching, biomass energy, or landscaping. In this guide, we will explore the essential features, common issues, and considerations when using whole tree chippers.
What is a Whole Tree Chipper?
A whole tree chipper, sometimes referred to as a wood chipper or brush chipper, is a machine that cuts down entire trees, branches, and foliage into smaller, uniform wood chips. These chips are used in a variety of industries, from landscaping to bioenergy production.
Whole tree chippers typically have a large intake opening that can accommodate thick trunks and branches, unlike smaller chippers that are designed for more minimal material. They are usually equipped with powerful hydraulic systems and high-speed knives to process large amounts of wood quickly and efficiently.
Key Components of Whole Tree Chippers

1. Intake and Feed System:
   • The intake is the opening where the tree or branch is fed into the chipper. It is usually wide and designed to accept material of varying sizes.
     
   • The feed system uses rollers, conveyors, or winches to pull the wood into the chipper’s processing area. This is powered by hydraulic systems.
     
2. Cutting Mechanism:
   • The cutting mechanism consists of high-speed rotating blades or knives that slice the wood into chips. These blades are housed within a drum or disk.
     
   • The chips are then discharged through a chute, typically adjustable for directing the chips to a designated area.
     
3. Hydraulic System:
   • The hydraulic system powers the feed rollers and other components of the chipper. It is essential for the machine’s operation, especially when dealing with dense or tough material.
     
4. Discharge Chute:
   • The discharge chute is where the wood chips exit the chipper. The chute is adjustable to control the distance and direction of the chip output.
     
5. Engine:
   • Whole tree chippers are typically powered by diesel engines, which provide the high torque needed to drive the large knives and feed systems.
     
6. Frame and Chassis:
   • The frame supports the machine’s components and is often mounted on a trailer or tracked base for mobility across rough terrain.
     

Common Uses of Whole Tree Chippers
Whole tree chippers have a wide variety of applications across multiple industries:

1. Landscaping:
   • Whole tree chippers are used in landscaping for clearing brush and branches, turning them into mulch for use in gardens or public spaces.
     
2. Forestry and Logging:
   • In the forestry industry, these chippers are used to process downed trees into chips, which can be used for biomass energy or sold to paper mills.
     
3. Biomass Energy:
   • Chipped wood can be used as fuel for biomass power plants, which burn wood chips to generate electricity and heat.
     
4. Wood Chip Production:
   • These machines are also used in wood chip production for industries that use chips for animal bedding or other applications.
     

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Whole Tree Chipper
When selecting a whole tree chipper, several key factors need to be considered to ensure optimal performance:

1. Capacity:
   • The chipper’s capacity refers to the maximum size of the material it can process. This is typically determined by the width of the intake opening and the power of the engine. Ensure the chipper can handle the type of material you will be working with.
     
2. Engine Power:
   • The engine power determines the chipper's ability to process tough and dense wood. Chippers with higher horsepower are better suited for larger trees and thicker branches.
     
3. Portability:
   • Consider the portability of the chipper, especially if it will need to be moved across large job sites. Some chippers are mounted on trailers, while others are mounted on tracks for easier movement in rough terrain.
     
4. Hydraulic System:
   • The power of the hydraulic system is crucial for the chipper’s efficiency. A stronger hydraulic system allows for better feeding capabilities and higher processing speeds.
     
5. Maintenance Needs:
   • Routine maintenance is required to ensure that the chipper performs well over time. Regular checks of the engine, cutting blades, and hydraulic systems will help extend the life of the machine.
     
6. Discharge Options:
   • Some chippers offer adjustable discharge chutes, allowing operators to control where the chips are directed. This can be particularly useful for directing the chips into a truck or specific area for later use.
     

Common Problems with Whole Tree Chippers
Like any machinery, whole tree chippers can experience issues during operation. Here are some of the most common problems and their potential causes:
1. Slow or Inefficient Feeding:

• Symptoms: Material feeds slowly into the chipper, causing delays and reduced processing efficiency.
  
• Possible Causes:
  • Clogged or dirty feed rollers.
    
  • Low hydraulic fluid levels or worn hydraulic components.
    
  • Incorrectly adjusted feed speed settings.
    
• Solution: Regularly inspect and clean the feed rollers, check hydraulic fluid levels, and adjust the feed system settings for optimal performance.
  

2. Overheating Engine:

• Symptoms: The engine may shut down due to overheating, or you might notice a significant drop in power.
  
• Possible Causes:
  • Dirty air filters.
    
  • Low coolant levels.
    
  • Clogged radiator.
    
• Solution: Ensure the air filters are clean, check coolant levels, and clean the radiator regularly to prevent overheating.
  

3. Blades Becoming Dull or Damaged:

• Symptoms: Chips are irregular in size, or the chipper struggles to process tough material.
  
• Possible Causes:
  • Extended use of the machine without proper maintenance.
    
  • Contact with foreign objects (rocks, metal, etc.) during operation.
    
• Solution: Regularly inspect and sharpen or replace the blades. Be sure to clear any foreign material before operation.
  

4. Hydraulic System Issues:

• Symptoms: Slow feed system, weak cutting action, or unresponsive controls.
  
• Possible Causes:
  • Low hydraulic fluid levels.
    
  • Leaks in the hydraulic lines.
    
  • Worn or faulty hydraulic components.
    
• Solution: Check hydraulic fluid levels and lines for leaks. Replace worn hydraulic components to restore full functionality.
  

Best Practices for Operating Whole Tree Chippers

1. Safety First:
   • Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and hearing protection.
     
   • Be mindful of the discharge area, as flying debris can cause injuries.
     
2. Pre-Operation Inspections:
   • Before using the chipper, always perform a pre-operation inspection. Check the engine, hydraulic fluid levels, and cutting blades to ensure everything is in working order.
     
3. Feed Material Properly:
   • Never force large branches or whole trees into the intake. Use the feed system to gently guide the material into the chipper. Avoid putting materials that are too large or dense, as this can damage the blades and feed system.
     
4. Maintain a Safe Distance:
   • Always keep a safe distance from the discharge chute, and ensure no one is standing nearby when the chipper is in operation.
     
5. Routine Maintenance:
   • Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the chipper functioning efficiently. This includes lubricating parts, changing filters, inspecting the hydraulic system, and sharpening the blades.
     

Conclusion
Whole tree chippers are powerful and versatile machines that play a crucial role in many industries, from forestry and landscaping to biomass production. Understanding the components, operating procedures, and maintenance requirements of these machines can help maximize their efficiency and lifespan. Regular maintenance, proper handling, and the right choice of equipment can ensure that a whole tree chipper performs optimally throughout its service life.