3 point wood chipper

Types of 3 point wood chippers

A 3 point wood chipper is an attachment for tractors with three-point hitch systems, usually for larger scale farm, landscaping, or forestry applications. These are secured to the tractor's three-point hitch and are powered by the tractor's PTO (Power Take Off) system. PTO chippers can handle larger diameters and volumes of wood compared to motorized chippers. They also convert branches of any size into wood chips that can be used for various purposes.

3 point wood chippers come in various types, all of which are designed with the same basic features but with different applications in mind. They are usually categorized based on their size, design or mechanism, functionality, and capacity.

• Based on size and application

  Size and application usually categorize 3 point wood chippers into compact, mid-sized, and industrial chippers. Compact 3 point wood chippers are generally made for residential and light-duty tasks, so they are smaller. Mid-sized 3 point chokepoints are more prevalent and are generally used in demanding applications like small-scale farming and landscaping. Industrial 3 point wood chipper sinks (big ones) are incorporated into assembly lines and large-scale commercial industries that entail intensive, high-capacity wood chipping.

• Based on design or mechanism

  3 point wood chippers also come in drum and disk chippers. Drum chippers have a feed roller that feeds the wood into a cylindrical chipper knife drum. The knives chip the wood into smaller pieces. Drum chippers are usually more effective and are generally used in processor or all-in-one units. On the contrary, Disc chippers have a large circular disk with knives that chip the wood into chips. Disc chippers are popular in stationary setups.

• Based on functionalities

  3 point wood chippers can also be categorized based on whether they mulch, collect eject, or blow chips. Some 3 point wood chippers collect eject and blow chips, which makes them suitable for further processing. On the other hand, logging chippers are integrated into the logging industry to efficiently chip branches and leftovers after trees have been felled.

• Based on capacity

  3 point wood chippers can further be categorized into poppet chippers, which are small, temporary speed bumps, and run-of-the-mill chippers. Poppet chippers are usually found in gate valves where they help disconnect the flow from the valve. On the contrary, the 'run of the mill' chipper refers to a medium-sized machine commonly used in the backyard and for general wood chip processing purposes.

Specifications and maintenance of 3 point wood chippers

Specifications

• Engine power: Three-point hitch chippers have different required engine horsepower ratings. Smaller models may need engines with 15 to 25 HP, while larger ones may require 25 HP or more.
• Chipping capacity: This is the maximum diameter of wood the chipper can process. It ranges from 2 inches to over 6 inches. Chipters with bigger capacities are suited for larger jobs.
• Chipping mechanism: Most 3-point chippers use a rotating knife drum or disc to shred wood. Knife drums usually have 2 - 4 knives, while chipping discs have more. The number and type of knives affects efficiency.
• Chip disposal: Wood chips can either be blown into a bag/ pile or ejected onto the ground. Some chippers have chutes that can be directed into chipper carts or bins to reduce mess. Others simply let the chips fall on the ground.
• Weight: A 3-point wood chipper's weight determines whether it is light enough to mount on a tractor. Lighter models weigh around 200 pounds, while heavier ones can exceed 1,000 pounds.
• Overall dimensions: Length, width and height are crucial for knowing how much space a chipper will occupy in a garden or shed when not in use.

Maintenance

• Clean: After every chipping session, use a garden hose to thoroughly wash away all wood chip debris and dirt from the machine.
• Oil: Lubricate moving parts like bearings, axles and rollers to prevent squeaky noises. Pay extra attention to axle hubs which should receive regular hub grease changes.
• Knives: Chipper blades or knives must be regularly shamed, cleaned, and inspected. Clean off debris after use. Sharpen before they get dull. Also inspect for damages and replace if necessary.
• Drive belt: Check this part periodically to see if it is worn out or cracking. Replace it after 5 years at most - even if it seems okay. Make sure it's always properly adjusted and tightened.
• Debris: Ensure no chips or branches are stuck inside the chipper after cleaning. This helps avoid clogging next time it's used.
• Loosening parts: Periodically check various components of the chipper to see if any are loosening off. Tighten such parts accordingly to ensure safe operation upon next use.
• Grease: Some components like bearings require constant lubrication with grease. Find out which parts need greasing and do it accordingly to prolong component life.

Application scenarios of a 3 point wood chipper

3 point wood chippers are generally used for industrial and commercial purposes. Here are some common application scenarios.

• Forestry and Landscaping Operations

  Landscaping professionals, loggers, and arborists often use 3 point wood chippers to get rid of tree branches, roots, and entire trees. The wood chips produced by the machine can be used as mulch or landscape ground covers.

• Tree Maintenance Services

  Municipalities and parks frequently deal with tree maintenance issues. 3 point chippers can come in handy for trimming trees and clearing those dead or diseased limbs. This helps in improving the health and aesthetic appeal of urban and public spaces.

• Land Clearing and Site Preparation

  Land clearing contractors or construction companies dealing with vegetation on building sites can make use of 3 point chippers. The device will clear unwanted trees and shrubs and produce wood chips that can be used as biomass fuel or disposed of properly.

• Agricultural Operations

  Agriculture producers dealing with crop residue or pruned fruit trees can make use of 3 point chippers. The wood chips can be used as organic mulch to improve soil quality or feedstock for anaerobic digestion.

• Fencing and Flooring Companies

  For businesses that apply wood chips as protective material or insulation for fencing and flooring, a 3 point wood chipper tractor can be a good investment. It helps to produce wood chips economically and meet the business demand.

How to Choose

Buying a 3 point hitch wood chipper requires careful consideration of various features to ensure it suits the tractor and chipping needs. First, the match between tractor horsepower and the chipper's required horsepower is crucial. Choosing a chipper with a horsepower requirement that the tractor cannot meet will result in an underperforming chipper.

Next, physically examining the chipper reveals its size and weight. Ensure they are appropriate for the tractor and the intended work. It is also essential to pay attention to the chipper's input and output sizes. The input size should be big enough to accommodate the diameter of the tree branches, and the output size should be suitable for the mulch form that will be used for disposal or further use.

Besides, the chipper should have a compatible three-point hitch configuration with the tractor's category. The method of loading waste materials into the chipper, whether it requires manual feeding or a conveyor belt for more considerable quantities, is also essential. Some chippers have self-feeding mechanisms, which can be more convenient for large amounts of waste.

Consider if the chipper is powered by a tractor's PTO or a belt. Belt-powered chippers can be safer and quieter, while those powered by PTO might be more compact and easier to connect. A chipper with a PTO that easily disconnects after use makes it more convenient to work with.

Evaluating the safety features of the wood chipper is critical to ensure proper operation. Finally, the build quality and material of the chipper are also essential to consider. A well-built chipper will have a longer lifespan and require fewer repairs.

3 point wood chipper Q and A

Q1: What safety precautions should users take when operating a 3 point tractor chipper?

A1: Users should prioritize safety by wearing appropriate hearing protection and keeping bystanders and animals away from the wood chipper while in operation. They should also avoid feeding materials into the chipper with their hands and wait until the chipper is off to retrieve any blocked material.

Q2: Can a 3-point hitch wood chipper be used for municipal or commercial purposes?

A2: As long as it complies with the set standards, just like some 3 point wood chipper reviews conclude, users can consider a tractor wood chip that is suitable for commercial or municipal applications. Choose a robust, high-capacity chipper designed to handle large quantities of material efficiently. Also, look for durable construction that will stand up to frequent use. An engine with sufficient power to process high volumes of wood quickly Chip shredding blades that will produce fine mulch suitable for disposal or composting.

Q3: Can a 3 point hitch wood chipper be used with any tractor?

A3: No, not unless the tractor has a compatible 3-point hitch system and the chipper's horsepower requirements fall within the tractor's power rating.

Q4: What are some accessories for 3-point hitch wood chippers?

A4: Possible accessories may include a tow kit that allows the chipped to be towed behind a vehicle or a chipper guard that provides additional protection by covering the feed opening when the chipper is not in use. Some accessories for wood chippers include a chipper bag that collects and stores chipped material and a quick tach adapter.