Keeping Your Firewood Dry

It is important things to know on how to stack firewood so it air dries quickly. The first thing to do is to split all the firewood to the size you intend to use when you burn it. Be sure when it's cut that it's the correct length to fit in your fireplace, wood stove or fireplace insert.

It's best to store the firewood off the ground. If you can afford some treated lumber 4-by-4s to use as runners, these work great and can last decades. If you have access to some younger straight trees such as birch, you can cut those to make runners that are about 14 inches apart center to center. If you use trees, it's very important they be the same diameter. You want the stacked wood to be plumb so your pile doesn't tip over.

If you can't afford the treated lumber or don't have access to the trees, then at least store the wood on well-drained gravel. You just don't want the wood in contact with damp soil. That will cause the lower row of firewood to rot over time.

Think about the prevailing wind direction at your house. It's ideal to stack the wood so the long rows are parallel with the prevailing wind direction. Once the wood is covered, the piles act like a miniature wind tunnel as the wind blows through and across the wood.

At the end of each row of firewood -- there is usually have three stacks next to one another -- you want to stack each successive layer at 90 degree angles to one another. This tower of firewood offers pretty good stability at each end so that the weight of the pile doesn't cause the wood at the end to tumble off the row.

Also keep about 6 inches of space between each row to promote air circulation. If you stack all the wood tightly, it takes longer to dry. If you do three rows of wood, try to make sure the center row is higher than the other two by about 4 inches.

 

Once the woods all stacked, then cover the wood with two long pieces of overlapping tar paper. The higher center row of wood help ensure any water drains to the sides of the pile. Then cover the wood with a fiberglass tarp so the top is covered and it extends partially down the sides. Also try to keep the ends of the rows uncovered as much as possible to promote great ventilation.

Don't cover the stack of firewood completely with a tarp. This traps water vapor and makes it nearly impossible for the wood to dry.

It's vitally important that you do everything possible to promote the movement of air through the wood if you want it to dry rapidly.

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Proper Firewood Storage Improves Efficiency

It is good for us to keep enough firewood before the winter season. Using the freshly cut of firewood are not recommended for burning due to their high moisture content. The seasoned firewood contains the ideal moisture which is about15% to 20% of moisture and will provide us with an efficient fire that produces low emissions. Normally, firewood can be ready for burning in six months, but it never hurts to save the wood you cut and split this year for next year's winter fires.



Firewood Storage Shed



There are a few ways for storing your seasoned firewood. But the most important is how to keep your firewood in the right way to make them quick ready for use especially before the upcoming winter. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when deciding how and where to keep your seasoned firewood.

Easy to Access and Insect Deterrence

It is must be easy to access and pick up the firewood but storing logs against an outside wall of our home is not recommended because firewood can attract insects. By storage the logs inside your home building also is not a good idea because pests can enter your home or cause damage to your home's exterior. The best option is build an outside storage shed or building. Firewood can be damage by critters but be careful in spraying with pesticides due to burning these logs will create harmful toxic vapors.

Moisture Protection

Protection from moisture is also very important in storing of firewood to make our firewood burns efficiently. The best way is keep them in a large outdoor shed or storage building. But if you have no enough space, using a simple tarp to cover your firewood is recommended to prevent it from taking in moisture from rain or snow. Make sure the tarps are properly tied down to prevent them from blowing away.

Proper Air Circulation

Avoid storing the logs directly on the ground because firewood can soak up moisture and attract insects. It is recommended to store firewood in a rack because it will keep your logs elevated, promote air circulation, and deter pests and wood rot. The firewood rack can be hand made either from wood or steel tubular.

Seasoned firewood should be properly stored to ensure the effectiveness with long-burning and low emission fires throughout the winter season.

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Basic Knowledge To Repair Firewood Processor

Sometimes your firewood processor need to be repaired. If the firewood processor still under warranty, you still can ask store's technician for service but if the machine is no longer under warranty, you may want to repair your firewood processor by yourself.

There are just a few basic components to a firewood processor. These are, in addition to the steel frame and wheels for ease of moving, a hydraulic cylinder, an oil pump, a control valve and a gas powered engine. It's may little bit vary between the models of the firewood processor but in general, it’s good to have a few basic items on hand.

Tools and Materials required:

1. Screwdrivers, flathead and Phillips head
2. Ratchet and socket set
3. Crescent wrench
4. Insulated pliers
5. Length of plastic hosing
6. Oil filter

Step 1: Troubleshoot – Oil Pump

Knowing precisely what is wrong with your firewood processor is the first step to repair. If you keep enough hydraulic fluid in the reserve tank, the oil pump should be in good working order. You may need to replace the oil filter if it is old and worn out. Additionally, the hosing that channels the high-pressure and low-pressure fluid to and from the cylinder might need replacing.

Step 2: Engine

Check the engine. Make sure there is both fuel and fire getting to the motor. If it’s not starting, check the spark plug. If you can look into the carburetor and see gas, fuel is getting there. If it is, it’s probably not getting fire. The plug and points wear out after time and will need replacing. Pull the plug wire off and with insulated pliers, hold it about ¼-inch from the tip of the plug and pull the rope starter. If no spark is seen, the points need replacing.

Step 3: Hydraulic Cylinder

Assuming the cylinder is not severely damaged, that is, has not swelled, cracked, and the piston rod is not damaged, a faulty seal or piston ring inside the cylinder is usually to blame. To replace the seal, you may have to dismantle the whole cylinder. Never use a sharp object to remove the seal, and be careful not to scratch the shaft or you could have problems later. Obtain a diagram of the cylinder if you do not already have one for specific instructions on dismantling it.

Step 4: Valve

The valve is the switch you use to control the pressure into and out of the cylinder. It is the control that applies force to the cylinder which in turn pushes the log onto the splitting wedge. Check to see that the valve is operating properly. Making sure the hosing is not damaged and that the seals are all tight will go a long way in letting you know what’s wrong.

Both a horizontal and a vertical firewood processor can be gas powered hydraulic machines. There are only a few parts to a hydraulic firewood processor, making it one of the simplest hydraulic tools in use. Troubleshooting possible malfunctions involves checking each of the component parts: valve, oil pump, engine, and hydraulic cylinder and all of the connecting seals and hosing. Once isolated, you can focus on the specific component and get your log splitter working properly again.

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Tips For Hiring a Firewood Processor

Instead of buy a Firewood Processor, hiring that equipment can be a great way to use the excellent machine especially for a short period of time. This is good news considering that new firewood processors can easily run up to $50,000. With prices like these, it is easy to see why hiring can be more popular than purchase a new one. With this thought in mind, we have put together a few tips we should consider before making any decision to hire:

Research by brand and model and determine the effectiveness

This will help make it easy for us to review advertisements by being able to funnel out bad products or narrowing your search to only reputable brands. One of the best ways to get this information is to read message boards and opinion websites on consumer products and equipment. The Internet is a great source of free consumer review information on different products. This is no different when talking about firewood processors. Customers are really good at telling us what is good and bad about a product.

Determine beforehand exactly what our firewood cutting needs will likely be

This is very important in ensuring we have a product that will perform the work we need it to do. Some models are designed for different sizes of wood. Recommended opt for versions that are slightly bigger and stronger than we think we need. This will help compensate for any error in our calculations.

Inspect the equipment before hiring

Although this may not be practical because of various reasons including location or our schedule, a good thorough inspection of the equipment is always a good idea. Suggested we pay particular attention to the cutting mechanism and make sure it is in good working order. Naturally, this is the key focus of our inspection; however, we should check for other factors like the quality of the wheels.

By keeping these different tips in mind, we should be able to find some quality used firewood processors. Just be sure we have enough time to find enough viable models to review. This will go a long way towards in ensuring we find the best ones available.

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Home-made Firewood Processor (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

Firewood processors are a necessity for cutting and splitting large amount of firewood with efficiency and safely. However, these machines are costly, ranging from $10,000 for a introductory model to as much as $50,000 for the bigger and more professional units used by firewood companies. For around $2500, nonetheless, a homeowner can create his own homemade firewood processor, and enjoy the benefits of splitting firewood.

Step 1

Draw or purchase plans for how to build the firewood processor. Purchase commercially available plans or design your own firewood processor based on common models sold through countrywide dealers such as Blockbuster or Hud-Son, Inc.

Step 2

Select the key equipment that will power your firewood processor. Firewod processors comprise of a log cutter (usually a long-blade chain saw welded in place to the frame) and a log splitter. In a common setup, the log is elevated onto the upper frame and pushed against a steel stop that sets the length at 22″, the most common firewood dimension. The log is sawed to length, and a hydraulic pump pushes the sawn portion against a steel plate with a sharp edge, which cuts the log into two. An operator revolves the split half and resets it for another pass against the splitter, which yields log quarters suitable for firewood. The more common log splitters are electrical or hydraulic, and should be adequate to splitting logs into 4, 6, or 8 segments. A hydraulic lift is important in lifting logs onto a steel deck for processing, while a large tractor or backhoe can also execute this purpose. Commercialised plans include a do-it-yourself splitters that can be created using hydraulic parts.

Step 3

Create the trailer, using channel iron to build the central chassis and axles. Bind the wheels and check alignment (axle and wheels square to frame). On top of the axle frame, use channel iron to fabricate a box frame with cross pieces on top of the chassis.

Step 4

Make use of the steel mesh to construct vertical guards around the splitting and cutting areas. Bolt the chain saw onto a welded frame with a pivot attachment that allows to be raised and lowered. Weld steel stops in place to set the 22″ firewood depth. Construct (or purchase) a hydraulic mechanics to push the cut log section against the splitter plate. Weld angle iron or flat steel sections to the frame as bracing to stiffen the construction.

Step 5

Test the firewood processor by running assorted size logs through the device. Depending upon the size of the frame constructed, home-built firewood processors can generally handle up to 20″ diameter logs, and, with a competent operator, can produce 2 to 3 cords per hour of 22″ long firewood.

Firewood Processor

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Firewood Processor Home (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

A firewood processor is a great way of getting readymade firewood fast. They are very effective at splitting firewood safely and quickly. Firewood processors are generally made for those looking to go into the firewood business. However, many people have found them to be a useful addition to their personal use, especially if they tend to burn more wood than the average person. These firewood processors are usually equipped for easy hauling allowing them to be hauled by most trucks. This makes for easy maneuverability which is ideal if they are used as part of a firewood business.

For a number of years now, it has been used to help firewood businesses easily cut wood with more speed and efficiency. However, the good news for everyone else is that the personal use models are gaining in popularity and performance.

Different models will vary regarding their capacity to cut wood and length. Most standard models will cut 1 cord; however, it pays to check each model for specificity. Depending on your needs, you can find varying sizes of firewood processors with the larger models tending to yield better production quantities and times. Regardless of which model you choose, it would be a good idea to keep it covered when not in use. Although most models are very durable, it is a bad idea to allow the elements unnecessary access to the cutting mechanism.

These firewood processors are so popular because they can cut logs very quickly with limited effort. Whether you get a pump action splitter or an electric log version, log splitting time is significantly reduced and is much safer than swinging and using a heavy axe.

Prices for these models will vary depending on size and performance; however, reasonable estimates begin around $10,000 and climb much higher for more elaborate models. Cheaper prices can be found with some used models and you can even buy kits and plans to build them yourself for much cheaper. Depending on your needs and budget, you may opt for some of the cheaper options when looking at a firewood processor.

Firewood Processor

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How to Cut Firewood (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

You may have thought that cutting firewood was as easy as swinging an ax and striking a piece of wood. However you can save yourself a lot of frustration and energy by refining your technique. Size and strength are not necessarily important factors in the successful cutting of firewood.

Step 1
Cut the firewood logs into reasonable lengths or rounds. The longer the round, the harder the firewood will be to split. If you are a beginner, or have a difficult time splitting, cut the logs into shorter lengths. As your ability improves, increase the length. Set any knotty wood aside for cutting later.

Step 2
Use a wood splitter's maul instead of an ax. The head of the metal wedge maul won't easily stick in the round. The steep sloped maul increases the outward pressure placed on the wood, which is helpful for difficult, tough wood.

Step 3
Choose a 6-pound maul, which can be swung faster than the heavier models. Velocity is critical in cutting firewood. The lighter the ax or maul, the faster your swing and the easier the split of the wood.

Step 4
Position your body slightly uphill from the round to create leverage and maximize the force of the blow. Rounds should be placed on relatively firm ground. Soft ground will absorb the force of your strike.

Step 5
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and measure your distance to the round by placing the maul, with arms fully extended, where you would like to strike. Step back a half-step and lean forward, adding power to your swing. Remember to protect your back by bending slightly at the knees and waist before swinging.

Step 6
Study the round, looking for cracks or signs of weakness. Set those as your targets. Look at the outer edge of the round so you avoid cutting through large knots. It is most effective to strike the outer edge of the wood round and not directly in the center.

Step 7
Raise the maul above your head, extending your arms high and lifting up on your toes. During the upward swing, let your upper hand slide towards the handle. Begin the forceful, downward swing. Repeat this technique until you cut all the wood.

Source: www.ehow.com

Firewood Processor

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Used Firewood Processor

Firewood Processor

Wood fuel is wood used as fuel. The burning of wood is currently the largest use of energy derived from a solid fuel biomass. Wood fuel can be used for cooking and heating, and occasionally for fueling steam engines and steam turbines that generate electricity. Wood fuel may be available as firewood (eg. logs, bolts, blocks), charcoal, chips, sheets, pellets and sawdust. The particular form used depends upon factors such as source, quantity, quality and application. Sawmill waste and construction industry by-products also include various forms of lumber tailings.

Wood may be burned in a furnace, stove, fireplace, or in a campfire, or used for a bonfire. Wood is the most easily available form of fuel, requiring no tools in the case of picking up dead wood, or little tools, although as in any industry, specialized tools, such as skidders and hydraulic wood splitters, have evolved to mechanize production.

The discovery of how to make fire for the purpose of burning wood is regarded as one of humanity's most important advances.

Firewood Processor

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How to Split Wood (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

Set the first log up on it's end on the surface you are cutting on, either a tree stump or something similar. Be sure to wear safety glasses!

Use a six pound wood splitter's maul. The maul is type of a wedge with a handle. It works better than the ax because the wedge does not stick in the wood as easily and the slope of the wedge, itself, increases the pressure on the wood. You are using a lightweight maul because it is the velocity that the maul hits the wood that splits the logs, not the mass involved.. Most people can swing a six pound maul quicker and easier than a bigger one.

Look the wood over for knot holes and twisted areas that might indicate that it would be difficult to split. Set this wood aside for later. Swing the maul and bring it down toward the edge of the log, not in the center. You may hear the wood begin to split the first time. Keep going until the wood splits completely. You should always try to strike in the same spot, or as close to it as possible.

Always watch and pay close attention to what you are doing. Allowing your mid to wander for even one second can be painful! Stop and rest as you need to, but swing the maul with energy and purpose.

Firewood Processor

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Firewood Processor: Firewood Process

1. Tree is felled…

2. Tree ringed / blocked…

3. Split to fit your burner

4. Piled /Stacked

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Finding a Firewood Processor (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

Finding a firewood processor is easy and won’t take you any time at all once you’ve decided to make the purchase. You can sometimes purchase them any hardware store near you, whether they are chain hardware stores or locally owned. The internet is another choice that you won’t want to overlook when it comes to making any type of tool purchase. Many online stores are able to give you a better price, even with shipping included, than brick and mortar stores in the area where you live.

If you are looking to rent a Firewood Processor you can check the yellow pages for equipment rental facilities in your area. You can also check with contractors in your area to see if you can rent their equipment that is not currently being used. Using a Firewood Processor can greatly reduce the time and effort spent on log splitting and making firewood. Be sure to look around and comparison shop before you purchase or rent a Firewood Processor.

Firewood Processor

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How to Build a Firewood Processor (Firewood Processor)

Firewood Processor

Firewood processors are essential tools for cutting and splitting large volumes of firewood efficiently and safely. Unfortunately, these machines are expensive, ranging from $10,000 for a basic model to as much as $50,000 for the larger units used by professional firewood companies.
For around $2500, however, a homeowner can construct his own trailer firewood processor, and enjoy the benefits (and perhaps the profits as well) of producing firewood.

Things You’ll Need:
Arc welder

Cutting torch

Steel mesh or steel plate Steel angle iron

Channel iron

Black iron pipe

Chain saw

Hydraulic or electric splitter

Drill press Steel cutting (cutoff) saw

Trailer tires

Step 1

Draw or purchase plans for how to build the firewood processor. Purchase commercially available plans (see Resources) or design your own wood processor based on basic models sold through nationwide dealers such as Blockbuster, Inc. or Hud-Son, Inc. (see Resources).

Step 2

Choose the key equipment that will power your firewoood processor. Wood processors consist of a log cutter (typically a long-blade chainsaw welded in place to the frame) and a log splitter. In a standard setup, the log is lifted onto the upper frame and pushed against a steel stop that sets the length at 22", the common firewood dimension.
The log is sawed to length, and a hydraulic ram pushes the sawn portion against a steel plate with a sharpened edge, which splits the log in half. An operator rotates the split half and resets it for another pass against the splitter, which yields log quarters suitable for firewood. The most common log splitters are electric or hydraulic, and should be capable of splitting logs into 4, 6, or 8 segments.
A hydraulic lift is useful in lifting logs onto a steel deck for processing, although a large tractor or backhoe can also perform this function. Commercial plans include a homemade splitters that can be constructed using hydraulic components.

Step 3

Construct the trailer, using channel iron to form the central chassis and axles. Attach the wheels and check alignment (axle and wheels square to frame). On top of the axle frame, use channel iron to construct a box frame with cross pieces on top of the chassis.

Step 4

Use the steel mesh to construct vertical guards around the splitting and cutting areas. Bolt the chain saw onto a welded frame with a pivot attachment that allows it to be raised and lowered. Weld steel stops in place to set the 22" firewood depth. Construct (or purchase) a hydraulic mechanism to push the cut log section against the splitter plate. Weld angle iron or flat steel sections to the frame as bracing to stiffen the construction.

Step 5

Test the firewood processor by running various size logs through the device. Depending on the size of the frame constructed, home-built firewood processors can typically handle up to 20" diameter logs, and, with a skilled operator, can produce 2 to 3 cords per hour of 22" long firewood.

Source

Firewood Processor

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