A log splitter is a piece of equipment that allows you to cut logs into smaller pieces. Log splitters are fairly heavy tools, so it’s important to read this entire guide before using one. This article will give you the information necessary for operating and maintaining your log splitter in order to get the best use out of it.
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Types Of Log Splitters
There are three main types of splitters that people use to cut the wood into smaller pieces.
Manual Log Splitters
Manual log splitters are small and easy to use. They’re great for people who need a quick way to cut up logs, but don’t want the heavy equipment that’s required for other types of splitters. Most manual log splitters also have handles on them so you can just push down on them in order to power through your wood splitting project. Some models with this feature allow you to adjust where they come out so that you can do different thicknesses depending on how hard or soft you press down. These smaller pieces will be good for starting fires or using as firewood if necessary.
Electric Log Splitter
Electric log splitters are a popular choice for people who want to cut up logs quickly. In many cases, you can even do it without having to use any of your own energy at all! They’re also great if you have a lot of wood that needs splitting or really big pieces that would be too hard for manual splitters. If the electric option sounds like something you’d prefer to try first, then a one-piece log splitter is definitely going to be more convenient than two. These types of machines require less moving around and they don’t take as long either since there’s no need to wait between each push or pull.
Gas Log Splitters
Gas log splitters use the power of a small engine to do all the work for you and they can actually be quite powerful.
They’re also more mobile than electric ones, so if you need something that’s easy to transport from place to place or move around your yard then this is going to be better than using an electric one. If there are no outlets nearby where you’ll be splitting logs, then it might even save some energy too since less power will go into powering up electrical tools. There aren’t many disadvantages at all with gas-powered machines but just keep in mind that these types of models typically cost more money upfront and require regular maintenance as well.
Basic Steps in Using a Log Splitter
The Right Work Clothes
To protect yourself from the dangers of using a log splitter, you need to wear your work clothes. Wear long sleeves and pants so that if there is any danger it will be protected by these more than your skin. Also, make sure they are sturdy enough where if one of those logs falls on top of them or even hits you with its force, then they won’t tear apart easily. Work boots are also important because not only do you want to keep yourself safe but what about the surface that you stand on? If something drops onto the ground then it needs to be able to withstand that impact as well! Make sure all clothing has some sort of protection like gloves too which can save fingers in case anything does dropdown.
Only One Person Should Operate Log Splitter
Only one person should operate the log splitter. If two people try to run it, then they’ll likely get in each other’s way and eventually hurt themselves. Also, if only one person is operating the machine, they can ensure that everything happens smoothly without any problems along the way!
Position The Splitter Near The Wood
If you’re going to cut a large amount of wood, it’s important that your working area is near the pile. The first thing you need to do is find a good, sturdy place on the ground where the log splitter will not move as it’s being used. Having a long cord attached to a splitter can be dangerous since one misstep could send you flying across the room or cause damage to any surrounding objects.
The Working Area Must Be Free
In order to use a wood splitter safely, it’s important to have a large enough working area so you don’t injure yourself from tripping over something or having an object fall onto your feet. Also, make sure this space is clear of any rocks or sticks because if they get kicked up by the machine then they’ll fly right at you!
Switch and Load The Splitter
When using a log splitter, it is important to make sure you are aware of the safety precautions that come with this tool. The first step in operating a log splitter should always be switching on and loading the machine. You can do this by making sure your hand or any other part of your body does not get caught between the ram and wedge which will cause injury. When getting ready to use different attachments for splitting wood, ensure they are securely attached before turning it on.
Activate Machine
After ensuring the safety precautions are followed, it is time to activate your machine. There are two main types of log splitters available on the market which require different activation methods – manual or hydraulic. Manual machines have a handle that must be pulled back and then released for operation while some models come with a foot pedal instead of being manually activated by hand using levers or valves.
Manual machines are preferable for splitting smaller logs while larger, more difficult-to-manage pieces of wood can be split with a hydraulic machine. The two types of manual models available include fixed-lever and floating-lever, both of which require the user to pull back on levers or valves in order to activate the log splitter function.
Remove The Split Logs
Once you have completed the splitting process, it is time to remove the split logs. Remove all of them from your log splitter’s table by pulling towards yourself with both hands on each piece so that they are released.
Also, be sure not to leave any pieces out as this may prevent continued use of the machine or cause damage to its blades and components if left for a long period of time in one place after being used. Keep all tools required for maintaining your equipment near at hand before beginning work around an electric-powered machine because power cords can easily become tangled during operation causing serious injury if touched while still plugged into an outlet.
