Log chipper for lowering peak power requirements and raising chip quality

Abstract

A log chipper is provided for allowing a lower horsepower rated motor to drive the chipper. Peak power demand is reduced by cutting shorter chips from large diameter logs, while the length of chips cut from logs of small and medium diameter continues to be of standard specified length, the length of chips cut from large diameter logs only being shortened. The feed rate for large diameter logs is reduced and will therefore result in a reduction of peak power demand achieved by the use of large diameter log positioning means. A first version of the large diameter log positioning means involves the placement of a raised platform on the wear plate where the outer perimeter of the large diameter log would otherwise contact the wear plate. A second version of the positioning means involves raising the heel of the knife clamp at a point where a portion of the outer perimeter of a large diameter log contacts the heel of the clamp. A third version of the positioning means involves grinding an outer face of the knife assembly where a portion of the outer perimeter of a large diameter log contacts the knife assembly. The special grind provides a unique relief angle to cause a shorter chip to be cut from the large diameter log. A final version of the large diameter log positioning means involves the inward adjustment of one of a series of sectional knife assemblies at the point where a portion of the outer perimeter of a large diameter log contacts the knife assembly.