DIY wood splitter from a washing machine. Wood splitter from an old flywheel and washing machine engine Wood splitter with hands washing machine engine

DIY wood splitter from a washing machine.  Wood splitter from an old flywheel and washing machine engine Wood splitter with hands washing machine engine
DIY wood splitter from a washing machine. Wood splitter from an old flywheel and washing machine engine Wood splitter with hands washing machine engine

Tired of chopping wood with an axe? We suggest you make a homemade wood splitter with a washing machine engine. This simple mechanism will allow you to easily cope with the splitting of large logs and quickly prepare firewood for the winter.

To make a wood chopping machine, you will need a minimum of parts. Therefore, the result is a productive and inexpensive design.

Classification of wood splitters

Stabbing machines in the household can make life much easier. You will no longer need to split heavy logs yourself - just expose the log to a wood splitter, and it will quickly split it into pieces. All you have to do is assemble and fold.

Before manufacturing, you need to decide on the design of the mechanism. To do this, check out the classification of wood splitters:

  • According to the scope of operation, they can be divided into private or used for large enterprises.
  • According to the method of laying the tree, devices are divided into horizontal, vertical and mixed.
  • Depending on the type of engine: gasoline, electric, mixed.
  • By installation method: stationary and mobile.
  • Type of work depending on the mechanism: hydraulic, screw (cone), rack and pinion.

The mechanism of the device for sawing firewood is made with an electric motor or a gasoline engine.

In this article we will look at how to make a screw wood splitter with your own hands. Its design is the easiest to assemble, so the device will be cheap.

Using such a machine, you will prepare several cubic meters of firewood in 2-3 hours, whereas working manually will take 3-4 days.

What you need to create a wood splitter from a washing machine

A screw log splitter has a metal cone that, when rotated, splits logs. In addition, there is a frame (bed) - the entire structure is attached to it. Also the engine and drive mechanism that sets the cleaver in motion.

How does the firewood harvester work?

The electric motor starts, driving a small pulley. Thanks to the drive belt, the revolutions are transmitted to a large pulley, and from it to the shaft, where the cone for sawing and chopping wood is attached. When you bring the log, the cone cuts into it and splits it into pieces.

What tools are needed for a wood splitter?

To make a chipper you will need:

  • welding machine with 3 mm electrodes;
  • Bulgarian;
  • drill;
  • pliers;
  • Screwdriver Set;
  • grinding wheel;
  • file;
  • anvil and vice;
  • ruler;
  • pencil.

When preparing materials, purchase a cone. Making a part yourself is very difficult. On its surface there is a special carving for splitting firewood. It should not be deep and have a short step. The cone is then heated in a furnace and cooled.

Buy a hardened cone in an online store. There you can also purchase a kit for a homemade machine: shaft, bearings, pulleys and belt.

If you have the opportunity, then all the parts except the cone can be made yourself.

Before manufacturing a device for sawing slabs, you need to prepare a detailed drawing with calculations of all structural elements. The components of the wood splitter are listed in the diagram.

How to make a wood chopping machine: drawings, instructions

The entire mechanism must rest on a frame or bed that needs to be made. You will need:

  • Metal corner measuring 4.5 m by 4 cm.
  • Metal sheet measuring 90 by 45 cm.
  • Cardan suspension VAZ 2102, 03 – 07. Or you can find another suitable part.
  1. Using a grinder, you need to cut the corner into the following pieces: two 140 cm each, four 20 cm each, one 45 cm.
  2. Weld a structure in the shape of the letter “P” from two corners of 140 cm and one of 45 cm.
  3. Step back 90 cm from the top and weld the cardan. Place a metal sheet between the cardan element and the connection (45 cm piece) and weld it.
  4. Make legs from the remaining four 20 cm pieces. For ease of movement, install wheels.

The bed platform is divided into two parts - working and power. The motor and other electronics are installed on the power side. The working part is a table made of sheet metal.

Assembly of the structure

Mount the shaft on the hanger and put a large pulley on one side. It is recommended to heat the shaft with a soldering iron during pressing to ensure reliable installation of the pulleys.

  • Place a small pulley on the motor shaft. Position and secure the motor under the gimbal. Since the structure will vibrate strongly, it must be firmly fixed.
  • The small and large pulleys are connected by a belt.
  • Place bearings on the other end of the shaft and secure them with screws to the metal table top.

Before installing the cone part, you need to connect and check the motor. It is advisable to choose an asynchronous motor, but a commutator motor is also possible. The diagram below shows how to correctly connect an old-style asynchronous electric motor:

More modern engines are connected according to the following diagram:

To rotate the motor directly, follow the diagram below:

If you need the motor to rotate in the opposite direction, then swap the wires as shown in the picture:

After connecting the motor to the network, you can see how well the homemade wood splitter works. If everything is fine, you can install the cone and get to work.

Note! When feeding a log onto the cone, place it vertically, otherwise, when moving horizontally, parts of the wood may get stuck in the mechanism, which will lead to jamming.

In this simple way, you can adapt old washing machine parts and build useful equipment. Now, preparing firewood for the winter will not be a burden to you. The main thing is to follow safety precautions.

Of course, we all live in the 21st century, when almost everywhere has gas central heating or an electric boiler. However, civilization has not reached all corners of our vast country, especially in remote regions and rural areas. Not all villages and settlements have central heating, but winter happens there too.

People have no choice but to chop wood and light the stove themselves. This is definitely a solution to the situation, but chopping wood is not the most pleasant and exciting activity, especially in the cold season. Technology and progress took care of this too; such a useful thing as a wood splitter was invented. In general, you can buy it, and for those who do not want to waste money, we will tell you how to make a wood splitter with an engine from a washing machine.

Thanks to this contraption, you can chop several cubic meters of firewood in just an hour or two. For comparison: if you categorically reject “devilish things” and wield an ax by hand, then it will take you 3-4 days. In this article you will find drawings of a wood splitter with a washing machine engine, everything is extremely simple and clear.

In total, 3 types of electric wood splitters are used and available, these are:

The most economical of all is the conical one, but be prepared to do a lot of work not only with your hands, but also with tools. You can’t use a lathe here; if we talk about traditional manufacturing methods, people don’t bother too much and do without a gearbox, attaching the cone to the motor shaft itself. This, of course, can be done, but only on the condition that the step is small and the thread is shallow.

If you plan to spend a little more money and time on manufacturing, that is, to buy a gearbox, then the threads should be deep and the pitch large. All this is necessary in order to adjust the performance level of the wood splitter taking into account the shaft rotation speed.

Directly about what you need. From the name it is obvious that you will need a cone, but you need to buy it only in a trusted place so that it is of high quality. The blank for the cone must be heated and kept in the oven for half an hour to harden it. After this, it must be placed in salt water and left there for several minutes.

Everything is described in more detail in the video on how to make a wood splitter with your own hands.

Let's say a few words about the most important part of the wood splitter - its motor. Most often, the motor used is from an old washing machine, which was left behind after repair or worked for so long that it has lost all its presentable appearance. In extreme cases, there is a lot of such goodness from neighbors, acquaintances, or even at the market. Carefully and thoroughly study all the diagrams and drawings that are attached to the article; they describe the process of creating and assembling a wood splitter as clearly and in detail as possible.

bed

Naturally, you won’t hold a wood splitter in your hands while working, and no one will, it’s too reckless, short-sighted and simply scary and dangerous. It is logical to assume that, in addition to the apparatus, it will be necessary to make a base, that is, a frame, and weld the base yourself.

Keep in mind that the finished bed will have to be divided into 2 zones: one will be the power zone, and the second will be the working zone. The power side will be needed in order to turn it into a motor holder for the unit. Everything must be done extremely carefully so as not to injure your hands or injure yourself. If you are not sure that you can do this, then it is better to contact someone who understands this kind of work, or buy a ready-made product. Actually, the working area itself is a small piece of steel sheet, only a few millimeters thick; along the line dividing the zones, you need to install a pedestal on which the cone will be supported. Please note that if you attach the cone itself to the motor, this will not end well; in any case, you will need bearings that will act as a support.

So we come to the most important and crucial part - the moment of connecting the motor from an old or not so old washing machine. Firstly, the connection process entirely depends on what brand the car was during its life. After the motor is placed in its rightful place, a test test of the unit should be carried out.

Remember about safety precautions, it is important to once again check the reliability of fastening of all parts of the wood splitter and only then start. Make sure that there are no children nearby while the wood splitter is operating; one careless movement can cause serious injury or real tragedy. Use the device carefully, the slightest mistake can be fatal for you!

If there is no one in the affected area, and all the parts are securely attached, then you can take out the workpieces and turn on the miracle machine! Just a few seconds and the workpiece turned into firewood, and all this without unnecessary effort and complexity. Everything is simple, convenient and automatic. A wood splitter will be useful not only in a remote taiga village, but also in a country house if you have not yet installed central heating or have not made your own heating system. A useful thing for the household that will significantly make life easier, and most importantly, will save a lot of precious time, because, as you know, there is always something to do at the dacha or in a private house.

A wood splitter, or a special machine that is designed for preparing firewood, can be represented by several designs. Such installations are divided into professional and household equipment, and also differ in operating principles.

Making a convenient homemade wood splitter or cleaver using ready-made drawings and diagrams with your own hands is not too difficult, but you need to take into account the features of the structure being manufactured.

Purpose and principle of operation of the wood splitter

Wood splitters are used not only in private households, but also in industrial enterprises:

  • hydraulic unit;
  • cone or screw unit.

The operating principle of such equipment is influenced by both the type of knife and its method of action.

Hydraulic

The design of hydraulic equipment is characterized by ease of use and high performance. The main advantage of such mechanisms is smooth operation combined with high efficiency and minimization of the risk of failure. The design is presented:

  • bed;
  • working cylinder;
  • emphasis;
  • knife or blade;
  • oil tank;
  • pumping equipment;
  • pressure level distributor;
  • gasoline or electric engine.

The principle of operation of hydraulic equipment is to transfer energy through a hydraulic cylinder to a hydraulic rod, after which the stop begins to move. Smooth operation allows the blade to enter the wooden workpiece without impact, splitting it. If there is insufficient power, the cylinder stops and the pump rotates idle, which prevents equipment breakdowns.

Cone or screw

It has a nut-screw connection, which allows for greater power and reliability. The standard design is characterized by fastening the sliding stop to a horizontal frame. The movement is carried out using an articulated pin with an electric motor. For splitting, not knives are used, but a cone.

The advantages include the simplicity of the mechanism, low maintenance and long service life, but increased demands are placed on engine power. Depending on the type of drive, there is a difference between electric and gasoline cleavers.Currently produced models can be of industrial and household type.

Making your own screw cleaver

The main problem in creating a homemade product such as a screw wood splitter is finding a working cone, which can be purchased in specialized stores or made with your own hands using a metal blank.

Taper turning:

  • place a metal blank on the electric motor pulley;
  • during free rotation, remove excess metal from the blank;
  • cut a left-hand thrust thread on the surface of the blank.

The final assembly consists of inserting a screw onto a pre-prepared shaft and fixing it with a pin, after which a flange equipped with a motorcycle sprocket is put on the other side of the shaft.

How to make an electric wood splitter with your own hands (video)

Homemade wood splitter with a washing machine engine

In the process of designing such a mechanism, it is necessary to take into account the design feature that involves the vertical installation of the split log. For a single-phase screw cleaver, a washing machine motor with a power of 600 W is used. and a speed stabilizer.

Manufacturing technology:

  • creating a bed from a metal profile 2 x 4 cm or 3 x 5 cm and subsequent division of the area into working and power parts;
  • installation and reliable fixation on the surface of the power side of the podium under the electric motor;
  • placement of the control unit in a plastic case on a dielectric plate;
  • make the working part from sheet steel 2.5 mm thick, followed by installation and fastening of the cone-splitting shaft;
  • welding reliable power supports to the frame and equipping the shaft with a flywheel of a suitable diameter.

There are no fundamental differences in the power supply and design of the electric motor from the washing machine. The difference may lie in the connection diagram, which is due to the characteristics of collector and asynchronous mechanisms, as well as units with an electronic control type, which operate exclusively with an individual control module. When using modern motors, there is no need to use a tachogenerator and thermal protection. In this case, switching on and off can be organized by a regular household automatic machine.

How to make a cone splitter: drawings and stages of work

The simplest version of a splitting ax with conical equipment, represented by the following construction:

  • lower jacking part;
  • upper conical part;
  • U-shaped frame.

The splitting log must be installed in the space between the rod and the cone. The splitting is carried out in the process of translational movement of the working part. A slightly more complex version of such equipment with an increased level of performance is a cleaver with an electric motor or gasoline engine.

The equipment should be installed on the shaft of an electric motor or gearbox, which rotates slowly at a speed of 80-100 rpm. As a result, the wood becomes screwed in and splits. The main advantage of such a device is the lack of support and worker safety.

This equipment is not suitable for splitting birch and oak wood, as well as wood species with high fiber content. Disadvantages include the difficulty of making conical equipment. In this case, you can use a ready-made kit based on:

  • shaft 350 x 30 mm;
  • pulley with belt drive;
  • a pair of rotation supports in the form of bearings;
  • "screw" 220 x 55 mm

It is also possible to independently manufacture equipment on a lathe.

How to make a screw splitter (video)

Manufacturing of hydraulic device

In this design, the most complex unit is represented by a hydraulic part, consisting of a hydraulic cylinder with a pusher, a pump part, and control elements. To make the frame, a metal angle, channels, I-beam or profile pipe are used. The design process involves placing a metal frame on wheels. The design of such equipment does not involve the use of electricity, and wood splitting is carried out using a hydraulic jack.

Self-production technology:

  • frame manufacturing;
  • manufacturing a stable platform;
  • welding of a vertical guide;
  • welding the gusset on the back side of the guide;
  • making sliders from metal corners;
  • strengthening the stop point of the hydraulic jack rod;
  • welding the sole of a metal strip 0.6-0.8 cm under the heel of the jack;
  • modification of the jack handle for ease of operation;
  • welding the roller to the base of the frame and fixing the rubber band to return the pedal to its original position.

The cutting part of the equipment should be represented by a metal strip 3 cm thick, which must be sharpened with a wedge. To attach the cutter to the guide, you need to use three M-12 bolts.

Do-it-yourself mechanical spring wood splitter

A mechanical ax is known to many as a cleaver on a spring. This spring unit is quite simple to manufacture and easy to use. The technology for assembling a spring log splitter is as follows:

  • concrete the vertical post;
  • hang a horizontal beam, represented by a hinged upper unit and a lower shock absorber;
  • attach a short stand and equipment to the free beam end;
  • install the working deck.

The main advantage is that there is no need to use an engine, but a mechanical spring wood splitter has very low productivity and also requires physical effort from the worker.

Other design options

In order to save money and obtain a fully functional unit, a rack-and-pinion version of the wood splitter can be manufactured. A homemade device takes into account the specific individual requirements of the consumer.

Features of manufacturing a structure based on a rack and pinion transmission:

  • a gear is mounted on the output shaft of the reduction gearbox or pulley;
  • the movement of the gear causes the rack to move;
  • the pressed strip is fixedly fixed on the frame with the laid log;
  • the gear receives engagement with the rack through a control handle;
  • the working part of the structure is mounted on a durable stationary frame;
  • a cleaver is attached to the frame base;
  • the gear rack moves along guides that are fixed to the frame;
  • The rack is returned to its original position using a return spring.

The functionality of the design can be ensured by any electric, gasoline or diesel engine. The advantage of a homemade rack and pinion wood splitter is the minimal cost of consumables and flexibility of parameters. The structure should not swing, and when building a mobile device, the wheel system should stably support the entire mass of the device. The speed at which the log is fed for splitting must be calculated experimentally.

How to make split carrots (video)

When making a wood splitter yourself, you need to use only well-drawn drawings and diagrams. Particular attention must be paid to the selection of high-quality and durable consumables. Equally important is the stability of the structure, which will make the work process not only comfortable, but also as safe as possible. It should be noted that homemade models of wood splitters are much cheaper than factory designs, so they are perfect for home use. However, if you need to chop wood in large volumes and quite often, then it is best to purchase a factory-made wood splitter.

A self-made wood splitter is a mechanism designed to facilitate the process of splitting large logs for heating a stove or fireplace. The attractiveness of the tool is expressed in the fact that anyone can make it themselves from inexpensive materials.

Device classifications

The design has many classifying factors. Wood splitters are distinguished by:

  • field of operation (private use, large enterprises);
  • tree laying method (vertical, horizontal, mixed);
  • engine type (electric, gasoline, tractor traction, combined);
  • method of transportation (mobile and stationary);
  • principle of operation (hydraulic and screw (cone)).

Homemade wood splitters are most often equipped with an electric or gasoline engine. The remaining parameters are individual and selected for personal needs. For everyone who is scratching their heads with the question: “How to make a wood splitter with your own hands?” We will provide assembly instructions for the hydraulic and screw unit.

DIY hydraulic wood splitter

Most often, the hydraulic system for operating the device is borrowed from the tractor. An electric motor driven by a tractor or a gasoline one can also be used. The hydraulic wood splitter includes the following components:

  • bed;
  • pump;
  • oil container;
  • motor;
  • hydraulic cylinder with stop;
  • blade;
  • distributor.

Making a wood splitter with your own hands with drawings, photos and instructions will not be difficult for people who have at least a little understanding of the mechanics of a hydraulic installation.

For convenience, we will show a drawing of the mechanism and compile a short assembly guide.

Instructions for assembling a hydraulic log splitter:

  1. We fix the hydraulic jack on the frame.
  2. A wedge-shaped blade is mounted on the other end, which will allow you to work with logs of different volumes and lengths.
  3. In the middle of the structure we place a platform for laying logs. When interacting with the jack handle, the stop will press the wood towards the wedge knife, which will successfully split it.
  4. After splitting, the springs will return the stop to the starting position.

Such a device is not distinguished by its high speed of operation, however, whatever one may say, it is much easier than chopping wood with an ax.

DIY screw (cone) wood splitter

The operating principle of this type of wood splitter lies in the ability of a rotating metal cone to split logs due to the existing threads on the surface.

Don't try to make a cone yourself. This is a very labor-intensive and painstaking task. It will be more profitable to buy a ready-made version, correctly made and suitable for your future design.

To make a screw type, you should use this article and watch a video about homemade wood splitters.

This is one of the most common tools for splitting wood. It is easy not only to use, but also to assemble with your own hands.

Instructions for assembling a screw log splitter with a cone-shaped splitter:

  1. Decide on the power source for our unit. The example drawing shows an electric motor.
  2. It is necessary to select the correct cone. Depending on the size of the device and the logs being split.
  3. Make a plan for the location of all elements of the device on the desktop.
  4. Make bases for the entire structure. The working platform looks like a steel table with a fixed splitting shaft.
  5. Weld a kind of keel to the table to prevent log particles from getting under the rotating device.
  6. Attach the power supports for installation and place the splitter in its working position.
  7. Connect the motor. The device is ready to use!

It is preferable to mount the engine under the table. It will be protected from accidental damage and wood chips.

Operating principle of a cone log splitter

The power unit (in our case: electric motor) imparts rotational motion to the cone. You should carefully bring the log and gently press towards the cleaver. The cone smoothly cuts into the structure of the tree and splits it in half.

A screw wood splitter with a washing machine engine is the most convenient and functional option for home use.

In addition, it is possible to avoid the cost of purchasing a new engine. It can be used by removing it from an old washing machine.

A wood splitter is an indispensable device in a private home or country house. A large amount of information on the Internet allows you to make a wood splitter with your own hands using video or text instructions. The flexibility of the design allows the use of a wide variety of components. There is always the opportunity to select and build a unit to suit your individual conditions and needs.

Design and operation of a homemade wood splitter - video

Chopping wood is a useful activity for any physically strong, healthy man. But sometimes there are large volumes of firewood that need to be prepared in a short time; in this case, a special tool is used. A wood splitter is a device that is difficult to do without when you have to chop massive pieces of wood.

Features of homemade models

A wood splitter is especially necessary in private households, where it is necessary to heat the house using firewood. You can make such a tool with your own hands; it is not difficult and will save a significant amount of money. Working with solid wood is quite risky and can cause injury, so you should use a good tool and follow the necessary safety regulations.

Mechanical units that help split solid wood and heavy logs tend to accumulate energy, they are economical, and they are easy to operate. There is no need for muscular strength to operate such devices. The units can cope with any logs and wooden ingots. They operate in push mode and can handle logs up to 35 cm long, no physical effort is required.

Pressure-action devices are driven by an internal combustion engine and can also be connected to an electric motor. They are not cheap, but their use almost completely eliminates the muscular effort that must be expended. Using this device, you can heat a house up to 350 square meters, while frosts can be Siberian, down to -35 degrees Celsius.

This unit is safe; the disadvantages include a rather complicated design and high energy consumption.

The return stroke of the pusher is usually no more than 7 centimeters per second. In a few hours, one person can prepare more than half a ton of firewood. You cannot work with wet wood; it is recommended to place wooden blanks in a woodpile under a canopy during the warm season. In about three months, the tree will “come up” to the required condition. Raw wood does not provide enough heat, the thermal conductivity is much lower (by 25%), the cleaver often gets stuck in it, and getting it out of there can sometimes be extremely difficult. A homemade wood splitter can be made no worse than a factory one, that is, it will have horizontal and vertical feeding of the workpiece.

For guidance, it’s worth saying what the approximate monetary savings could be:

  • a high-quality unit that runs on diesel fuel and is designed for splitting ingots 25 cm in diameter costs from 20 thousand rubles;
  • a machine that can “deal” with workpieces up to 35 cm, splitting them into 4-5 fragments, costs about 30 thousand rubles.

Specifications

The simplest design of a wood splitter is the splitting ax. To work with it, you need some practical experience. For experienced woodcutters, a splitting ax can be the main tool when processing massive wooden workpieces; the ax size of this tool is up to one meter. In recent years, the cleaver has been made from innovative materials, which allows it to be used more efficiently in the labor process.

An ax handle made of lightweight, durable fiberglass material allows you to work with this tool more efficiently. Over the two thousand years that the cleaving ax has existed, it has been continuously improved. The ax handle made of modern fiberglass completely eliminates vibration and painful feedback to the palm.

To harvest firewood in large quantities, push-type wood splitters are usually used. They have a rack or pinion pusher. Such a device pushes a massive wooden blank onto a cleaver, which, in turn, splits it into several small parts. The feed speed of the workpiece is about 5 centimeters per second. Vertical wood splitters have a greater safety margin and are more compact. The disadvantage of this device is that there is a risk of ejection of the workpiece, which contains the following “difficulties”:

  • many layers;
  • a lot of knots;
  • There are various irregular cuts.

A horizontal wood splitter is safer. The worker does not risk getting hit by flying chips, because their speed can sometimes be very high. The vertical unit has a circular scattering of fragments, therefore, from a safety point of view, there are questions about this unit. Hydraulic wood splitter:

  • productive;
  • spends minimal energy;
  • safe to operate

Among the disadvantages, it should be noted that working with such a device requires some experience. And also under heavy loads, liquid may leak out of the device. The unit is easy to maintain; spare parts for it can always be found on the market.

The hydraulic log splitter does not have a return spring, and also has a rather long switching time - about 0.55 seconds. The period of time is quite significant, because the workpiece can split and fall into many fragments. Such wood splitters have a common drawback: their engine runs through a fluid coupling and sometimes cannot cope with the load. The engine usually operates in standard mode, consuming little fuel. A gear is attached to the flywheel (it is usually hydraulic, there is also a fractional one). This lever is a coupling with a pusher, which ensures that the lump is fed to the splitting knife.

There is enough energy to split almost any piece of wood.

Tools and materials

To create a screw cleaver you will need:

  • power plant from 1.5 kW;
  • shaft with mounted bearing;
  • drive belt;
  • threaded cone;
  • metal 6 mm thick;
  • corners 6, pipes 45 mm.

Tools you will need:

  • jigsaw;
  • welding machine;
  • turbine;
  • screwdriver;
  • screwdriver;
  • scotch;
  • hammer;
  • wire cutters;
  • pliers;
  • tape measure and triangle ruler.

How to do it?

Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare drawings and assembly instructions. A simple wood splitter with an electric motor can be assembled at home. Indicative in this regard is a hydraulic wood splitter, which can be made in the garage. The hydraulic system can be supplied from a mini-excavator or some other equipment. Productivity will be determined by the splitting force:

  • 20 cm half – 2 tf;
  • straight layer – 2.7 tf;
  • 25 cm – 2.4 tf;
  • 30 cm into 4 parts – 4 tf;
  • 30 cm into 8 parts – 5 tf;
  • 40 cm into 8 parts – 6 tf.

The power of the hydraulic pump is determined by the flow rate, which is on average 4.5 cm. Next, the efficiency is calculated and the engine is selected; its reserve should be 15% greater.

And the fittings are also selected with reserve;

  • hose;
  • valve;
  • flaps.

An important working element is the cleaver itself. It is made of durable metal (car spring or rail, for example). The workpiece is usually met by a vertical knife, which is sharpened on a straight line (symmetrical wedge). The horizontal knife stands a little further (18 cm), it is spent on the upper oblique wedge.

For better safe work, the vertical knife is applied from below, the height is about 35 mm, while the tool protrudes by 25 mm. This design will allow you to work with complex wooden elements, provided that they are placed evenly sideways at the bottom. The sharpening angles are as follows:

  • vertical knife is designed for soft wood – 19 degrees (three knife thicknesses);
  • for hard wood (including birch) - 15 degrees (3.8 knife thickness);
  • horizontal knives – 16 degrees;
  • the prick has an inclination angle of no more than 26 degrees (minimum 20 degrees), the thickness of the knife is 2.6;

A rack-and-pinion wood splitter is simpler and cheaper than a hydraulic unit (costs no more than 20 thousand rubles). Making it yourself is not very difficult. The pusher is fed using a gear rack, the transmission to the shaft works in such a way that the movement occurs no more than 4.5 cm per second. To make it, you need elements - just disassemble the old jack. The rack-and-pinion wood splitter does not have hydraulic components, and its maintenance takes a minimum of time.

Such a unit, from a safety point of view, is more preferable. The operating scheme is as follows: it operates when the lever is lowered, then the return spring element will lift the rack and tilt it back. The disadvantage of such a unit is that as the feed speed decreases, the thrust increases rapidly, and then also suddenly drops to zero. If there is a cavity or some other flaw in the workpiece, the unit will be subjected to too much stress, this can happen spontaneously, which can cause deformation of the machine or even its breakdown.

The hydraulic drive always works softer; the largest thrust coefficient occurs when there is a feed rate that approaches zero. If a workpiece that is too strong gets into the feed of the hydraulic unit, it will be pushed onto the splitter non-stop, which can lead to damage. For a rack-and-pinion log splitter (based on all the above comments) you need a more powerful engine. To calculate its power, you can simply shift the forces of the splitting, which exists for the hydraulic drive: a pig with a diameter of 20 cm is 2.6 tf, the efficiency in this case will be about 0.87.

Often, too thick dried bark interferes with the movement of the workpiece. As a conclusion, you can note: rack and pinion units are appropriate when the amount of work is relatively small, the work is done using muscle power.

For small preparations of firewood, a vertical screw splitter may be quite suitable. This device has low productivity; it is not afraid of various flaws in wood blanks. An electric motor for its operation can be low-power, only 2.8 kW - from a washing machine, driven by a pulley. With a low-power engine, such a unit will be able to “cope” with elements up to 42 cm in diameter and up to 65 cm in height. To create it, you will need an engine from a washing machine; the rotation speed of such a power plant may well be suitable. The disadvantage may be that by mounting the cleaver directly on the engine shaft, the engine housing may move and it will break.

In the work, the main role is played by a cone-shaped nozzle, which has a thread and rotates at a speed of 160-1550 rpm (the operating frequency is usually 300 rpm). Carving is done with the left hand due to the fact that most people are right-handed; their right hand is physically better developed.

The workpiece on a screw cleaver is fed onto it along a vertical plane. During movement, the workpiece (its movement) is adjusted by hand. This formulation of the question does not have the best effect on the level of safety, so you should take into account the fact that a screw wood splitter - this device is dangerous. The worker is required to constantly ensure that there is not too little material left under the right hand. If the cleaver gets stuck, the process of winding the workpiece will occur. To prevent such incidents from occurring, a spacer should be installed under the cleaver.

The assembly and operation of the screw unit can be affected by the rationality of the design, as well as the location of such components:

  • wedge stop;
  • drive pulley;
  • main shaft operation.

And it is also important what shape the cleaver itself is, how it is sharpened; such parameters will certainly affect the operation of the unit itself. The wedge stop is also important; it determines the safety of the unit and affects performance and reliability. If the stop is chosen incorrectly, then problems will arise with the engine, and operation will occur with a high voltage of the power unit. Performance will be noticeably lower. You cannot leave the cleaver hanging without a lower stop. The wedge stop is attached to the base on the right. In this case, its length can be such that the spout is 1/4-1/2 longer than the thread distance.

The stop parameter corresponds to the diameter of the cleaver in a similar section (in this case, 4 heights of the threaded part are subtracted). The distance between the shank and the stop is about 1.8 mm, however, if the gap is 0.8 mm, it will be even better. At first the cleaver will “disturb” a little, but after a short time the grinding will occur and the product will last for quite a long time.

The vertical stop is 2/3 of the shank. For 76 mm the limits are limited to 52-62 mm. The workpiece must be pulled up manually after the cleaver has entered the tree quite deeply. If the cleaver has already entered too deeply into the material, it will be impossible to hold it with bare hands. The pulled-up lower part will hit the side of the stop. In this case, damage and defects may occur.

The unit must be made in such a way that the holder and the main shaft drive are made according to the instructions, in this case nothing will happen and there will be no damage. In a screw wood splitter, the inertial impulse for rotation is transmitted through a pulley. In this case, the pulley must slip if a “plug” occurs, otherwise an accident is inevitable.

In this regard, transmission using a chain is more rational and practical; there are noticeably fewer “plugs”. The chain itself has considerable weight, so the transmission is more rigid and allows it to overcome “obstacles.” If the workpieces have too many knots, then you will need to install a drive, which is presented in the form of a powerful driven pulley.

There is a carrot screw; this unit really resembles a root vegetable. The unit is simple to design and assemble; you can work with it when preparing a small amount of firewood. This device can also cut wood, so splitting with a screw provides a sufficient amount of sawdust. On the farm, this is sometimes in demand if there is a poultry house on the territory that needs to be heated.

A sliding splitter is another option. The shoulder is taken into account as 1.6 meters. Overload can be up to 40 kg. If the wood splitter is stationary, then in this case it can work as an inertial lever, that is, it can be lifted by the handle and then lowered with force onto the workpiece. If the cleaver is dynamic, then it can be easily moved along the lever, in which case it can be pressed. At the same time, the shoulder lengthens significantly. The lever wood splitter has a number of features:

  • It is best to use the “Arrow” cleaver; it is easy to buy;
  • the lever is supported by a spring in a horizontal position;
  • the spring must be well secured so that it does not fly off;
  • often the spring is passed into a moving pendulum guide.

If the mechanical unit is not attached to the base, then it is made with a diameter that is not inferior in size to the lever arm (a size taken that is 2 times larger than the size of the wooden workpiece). It makes no sense to create “mechanics” with a fixed cleaver that slides along a guide. Even if you hit the cleaver with all your might with a sledgehammer, it will often jam.

A cone-shaped wood splitter is also often used, which in private households (when relatively little firewood is needed) can cope with fairly heavy ingots (up to 55 cm in diameter). The cone is made 82-148 mm in size, the angle of inclination is about 16 degrees if the wood has small layers, and 19 degrees if the layers are straight. At a third of the height of the cone, the opening angle changes to 26-32 degrees. It is best to use a rack jack. A rack and pinion jack is preferable because it is very simple and reliable and is not afraid of heavy loads. A hydraulic device has more work to do and is more vulnerable to overload.

One more detail is important. The control rod of the conical splitter is usually made functional, using reinforcement or a rod of steel grade St47, with a diameter of at least 22 mm. The thread is made in the shape of a trapezoid (often sewer valves are suitable, where the steering wheel is removed and replaced with a lever).

You can also make a wood splitter in the form of a saber with your own hands; such a device is also called a saber. The lever arm here is at least 0.9 meters, made of soft wood (pine, birch). This type of wood splitter can only be used with soft trees. Also, at dachas, they install wood splitters for the winter using a lever operating principle, which can split workpieces up to 35 cm in diameter. The productivity of such a unit is low, but such a device is quite enough to chop firewood for dinner. Using the pedal, the sliding stop is raised, then it is released and the pedal is pressed, so the workpiece is delaminated.

You can even make a wood splitter from a wheel; we will look at the technology below.

From the jack

A wood splitter can be made from a jack, which is manually driven using physical force.

The following materials will be required:

  • hydraulic jack;
  • steel sheet 5 mm;
  • channel or angle No. 8;
  • primer;
  • springs;
  • bolts and nuts.

List of tools:

  • Bulgarian;
  • welding machine;
  • drill;
  • triangle ruler;
  • marker.

It is important to secure the vertical fastenings correctly; the lion's share of the load will fall on them. For these purposes, you will need a corner No. 8 or an I-beam. Then a wedge is made that cuts the wooden blanks. This element is made of steel or angle. It is also recommended to sharpen the wedge well, then the work will be more productive. The jack will be positioned against the lower stand, which must be slightly raised above the base. To do this, you need to weld several flat pieces of sheet steel. The jack must be well secured so that it does not jump out during operation. The element is additionally secured with clamps and nuts.

Springs will also be needed to return the element to its original state. You should also make a reliable frame, which is best welded from steel. In order for the support base to be firmly attached to the jack, an additional round pipe is welded to it. And you will also need to weld the mountings for the springs. The device is placed mainly in a corner; it can be additionally “grabbed” with bolts to two walls.

From a wheel rim

A wood splitter can be made from the wheel disk of a tractor or truck. Concrete can be poured into the cavity of such an element to increase the mass. A vertical mount, similar to a guillotine, is welded to the central block. The disk rotates, and the “guillotine” falls and hits the die, which is attached in the center. Working on such a unit is not easy; practical experience is required.

Security measures

Safety precautions should be observed during operation. The energy that is spent on splitting wood elements is quite significant. The rate of scattering of chips can be high. Before starting the drive, all fixing elements should be checked:

  • bolted connections;
  • joints;
  • pulley fastening;
  • cable;
  • engine mount;
  • knives must be in good condition, without chips or signs of corrosion.

Clothing with long sleeves should be loose and made of thick fabric, and should also include:

  • good work boots;
  • gloves;
  • glasses;
  • headphones.

The equipment must be located on a flat, stable surface that is not afraid of powerful vibration. A reinforced concrete slab is an ideal basis for basing such a unit. The machine can only process parts that correspond to the format of the equipment. And a few more tips:

  • when the machine is operating closer than three meters, it is not recommended to approach it;
  • the work area should always be fenced off with warning tape made of paper or PVC material;
  • equipment should only be operated under the supervision of an employee;
  • During operation, you should carefully monitor so that no foreign objects get into the unit;
  • Preventative inspections and test runs should be carried out regularly;
  • All equipment repair work is carried out with the engine disconnected from the network.

I welcome everyone to our dacha blog Dacha-svoimi-rukami.com and today we will continue the series of articles devoted to wood splitters, we will consider their manufacturing, design features and the possibility of modifying the models.

So, today we will look at a hydraulic wood splitter with detailed diagrams and drawings, which was kindly provided to us by the Ukrainian inventor and Svyatoslav, who has been developing such devices for many years both for personal use and for sale. First, watch the video of this device in action:

Also read: DIY hydraulic wood splitter with video

Hydraulic log splitter review

Firewood splitters of the GT-5 series are intended, first of all, for the preparation of firewood in small volumes, namely: for households, small businesses, institutions, gardens, schools and the like. The productivity of these machines allows chopping up to 20-30 m3/day.

Hydraulic wood splitters of this series are available in two versions:

  • GT-5E - with electric drive,
  • GT-5D - driven by a diesel engine.

Model of cleavers with a hydraulic splitting mechanism GT-5E It is advisable to use it in cases where there is no need to move the splitting ax over long distances, that is, when it is used within one territory (yard) and it is possible to connect to the power grid at several points in this territory or have an extension cord.

Hydraulic wood splitter GT-5E in electric version requires connection to a three-phase network. It is three-phase motors that make it possible, with low power, to obtain a high speed of movement of the pushing piston with a significant tingling force, which in turn ensures high performance indicators.

Hydrosplitting model GT-5D specially designed to work in places where it is not possible to connect to the electrical network. It is for this purpose that the wood splitter is designed as a trailer for a car. A torsion wheel axle and a hitch with a support wheel make it easy to deliver and place your wood splitter anywhere you plan to harvest firewood. Reliable diesel engine with 12 hp power. provides high performance with low diesel fuel consumption. Also, with such a machine you can easily provide firewood collection services.

When designing the GT-5 series log splitter, special attention was paid to the aspects of maximum reliability and minimization of maintenance.

We understand that our hydraulic splitters are mainly used in the private sector, where the possibility of qualified maintenance or repair is practically absent. The very simple design of hydraulic cleavers and at the same time the use of high-quality materials and advanced welding technology minimizes the possibility of breakdowns.

Appearance of a ready-made hydraulic splitter

A complete description of the process of making a cleaver with your own hands:

  • The frame of the cleaver is made of a round pipe Ø102x6.

It has sufficient strength to withstand the loads from the hydraulic cylinder and sufficient rigidity to avoid deformation during operation. The frame consists of two parts.

The horizontal, long, pipe is the main part. The guides of the pushing piston, the knife, the engine and the support stand are attached to it. The pump intake flange is also welded into the rear part of the pipe.

The vertical, short tube serves as a bracket for the hydraulic cylinder, a filler neck and a mounting window through which the hydraulic pump is attached.

Both parts are welded together with a hermetically sealed seam, because our frame simultaneously serves as a hydraulic tank with a capacity of approximately 10 liters. This gives us the opportunity to save on making a special separate container for the oil and ensure good cooling, since the running engine directs the air flow from its own cooling along our tank pipe. It is very important to keep the tank internally clean since the system does not use a hydraulic filter. To drain the oil, a welded adapter for the drain hose is welded into the frame from below. The height of the support column is designed in such a way that the operator does not bend over during work and, accordingly, gets less tired.

  • The pushing piston is made of 10 mm thick sheet steel.

On the back side of the working plate, two plates with holes for attaching the hydraulic cylinder rod are welded. In its lower part there are two pockets, the inner surfaces of which are covered with anti-friction plastic.

By using plastic for the push piston guides, we significantly increase the service life of the guides and reduce the negative friction force.

  • The knife for a hydraulic wood splitter is the main working part of the wood splitter, which plays a major role in the piercing process and takes the greatest load.

The forces that act on it try to bend it, erase it, blunt it, in a word, break it. Therefore, this is the part of the hydraulic splitter that requires the most attention during design.

Both the quality of the split firewood and the load on all working parts of the machine depend on the shape of the knife. After all hydraulic log splitter knives, according to their purpose, should split the log along the fibers, and not cut these fibers at an angle or even across them.

A knife of the correct shape, cutting literally a few millimeters between the fibers, leads to splitting of the wood. Further movement of the log by the pushing piston through the knife blades should occur with virtually no resistance. If the shape of the knife is not perfect, then this leads to the fact that when passing through the blades of the knife the log changes direction of movement, as a result we get a lot of shavings (waste in the form of numerous chips and debris), as well as significant loads on the hydraulic log splitter knife and other elements of the mechanism. Even if the knives have an ideal shape, not every log that we are going to split has the ideal grain direction for splitting. Basically, these are logs with knots or defects, which will one way or another lead to the above-mentioned loss of effort for cutting fibers at an angle, a large amount of chips, unwanted loads on the parts of the hydraulic splitter, and so on.

But not everything is as bad as it looks! The crackling sounds produced by the tingling of logs with knots are an excellent material for ignition. All elements of the hydraulic splitter, as mentioned above, are adapted to heavy loads. It is able to perfectly split a log without knots, and also flawlessly withstand the extreme loads that arise when splitting logs with heavy knots, while ensuring the high-quality shape of the resulting firewood.

All this becomes possible thanks to the use of steel with extraordinary capabilities for making a knife.

The wear-resistant Hardox 450 steel allows us to produce a hydrosplitting knife that can be guaranteed for life. Wood splitter blades made from Hardox 450 steel will NOT bend, break, wear off or become dull. Requiring no special preparation or heat treatment, this steel is excellent in welding and machining.

A few words about the main purchased components:

  • electric motor 3-phase, 4 kW / 1500 rpm. (Belarus)
  • six-part hydraulic pump GP-2K10L (Ukraine)
  • hydraulic cylinder: piston Ø63, rod Ø40, stroke 400 mm (Ukraine)
  • hydraulic distributor P40 (Italy)
  • high pressure hoses: pressure DN8, drain DN12 (Poland)
  • oil 10W40
  • motor protection circuit breaker 25 A (Germany)
  • wheels 200x50, load capacity 200 kg

If you wish, you can find analogues of these components to make a hydraulic splitter.

Specifications:

  • productivity up to 30 m3/day
  • electricity consumption 1.2 ÷ 1.5 kW ∙ h
  • optimal log diameter 250 mm *
  • optimal log length 330 mm (max. 390 mm)
  • cycle time (stroke + return) 8 sec
  • effort tingling 9 tons
  • weight 135 kg

Drawings for making a hydro cleaver with your own hands:

How to make a wood splitter with your own hands - accessible instructions with drawings and photos

With stove heating, the need to swing an ax every day quickly becomes a chore and takes a lot of time. This is where the question of mechanizing the process arises - you need to make a wood splitter with your own hands! There are many options for making homemade automated cleavers - from the simplest to semi-professional. Use step-by-step instructions and helpful tips from those who have forgotten when they held a regular ax in their hands to assemble your tool.

Simple mechanisms for splitting firewood from scrap materials

Types of wood splitters:

  • mechanical (usually consists of a knife, frame and spring);
  • screw (splits wood by screwing inward);
  • hydraulic (has chisel knives that allow you to chop the log).

Wood splitter for home

Manual mechanical wood splitter of simple assembly

A mechanical (or manual) unit for chopping wood does not involve connecting a motor. It only allows you to apply less effort when splitting logs.

Here is the safest way to make a wood splitter with your own hands:

  1. Weld a round frame slightly larger than the diameter of the logs (optimally 23 cm).
  2. To do this, you need to take a circle of thick metal as a base and weld two pipes 35 cm high to it.
  3. Weld a ring on top of the structure to form a cylinder.
  4. Attach the metal knife at the bottom with the tip facing up.
  5. Drill holes in the base for mounting.

The log in such a log splitter must be placed on top of the knife. By hitting it with a sledgehammer, you make your work safer. After all, there is no possibility of getting hurt with an axe!

Attention! This mechanism is only suitable for soft woods that are easy to split. The resulting firewood is suitable for lighting a fireplace. For oak or elm this device will be useless.

Safety manual wood splitter

Scheme for making a spring cleaver

The next idea on how to make a wood splitter at home is to make a mechanism on a spring. Components:

  • channel section;
  • metal corners;
  • spring (from the car);
  • plate-knife (can be from an old cleaver);
  • a piece of pipe slightly smaller in diameter than the spring;
  • hinge joint
  • weighting agent (rail).

Tool basis

Manufacturing process:

First of all, it is necessary to make a support for the wood splitter using welding.

Prepare a platform for the spring.

Sawing a hole

Weld the platform, spacers, and pipe to the support.

Welding parts

Make a cutout to attach the beam to the support.

The beam is welded into the hole

Hang a beam with a hinge unit onto the support.

The support must be mounted on hinges

Weld the beam, maintaining its mobility.

Hinges provide mobility

Attach the beam and cleaver horizontally.

Cleaver position

Weld the handle and weighting material to the tool.

The weighting agent is the rail

It is better to paint the resulting mechanism to prevent rust.

Forcefully falling onto the log, the cleaver splits it into two parts.

And immediately returns to its original position. This significantly saves human energy.

Carrot wood splitter in step-by-step instructions

This mechanism received the affectionate name “carrot” due to the cone-shaped shape of the knife. Screwing into the log according to the principle of a self-tapping screw, it splits the wood from the inside. The wood splitter is powered by an electric motor.

Manufacturing process of a screw log splitter

Make a screw log splitter with your own hands using drawings and step-by-step instructions:

  1. Make a cone from grade 45 steel, 13 cm long and 5.5 cm in diameter (thick part) at an angle of 30°.
  2. On a lathe, cut a persistent left-hand thread 2 mm deep in increments of 6–7 mm. The nose of the cone should be very sharp.
  3. Install the shaft in the bearings and weld the flange (asterisk) on the back side.
  4. Place the cone tightly onto the shaft and secure it with a pin (an M8 bolt will do).
  5. Weld the supports of the car universal joint to the bearings (the mechanism will be attached to the table on them).
  6. Make a spacer between the shaft and the engine, with which the chain will be tensioned. For this purpose, bending the pipe and nuts is suitable.
  7. Make a table from thick boards (an old door will do) with iron legs 40 cm high.
  8. Fix the cardan supports and the electric motor with a power of 2 kW or more. Pull the chain.

Cone knife drawing

Attention! The direction of the thread is not of fundamental importance. But when cutting right-hand threads, there is a high probability of damaging the tool or cone.

Drawing of the shaft and support for the cone

Important operating tips:

  1. When making a cone log splitter with your own hands, it is worth remembering that the distance from the cone to the table should be minimal. Then the log will not be pulled out of your hands.
  2. The splitting log can only be installed vertically. Otherwise, wood may get stuck between the cone and the table and bend the shaft.
  3. The chain and motor should be protected with a casing. This will reduce the risk of injury during work.
  4. Logs should not be longer than 0.5 m and wider than 0.6 m in diameter.
  5. The rotation speed can be from 150 to 800 rpm (optimally 400–500). To do this, you should use a gearbox (for example, from an old motorcycle).

How to make a hydraulic wood splitter - aerobatics

If you have accumulated a lot of firewood and need to chop it constantly, you should build a hydraulic wood splitter with your own hands.

Video: DIY hydraulic wood splitter

Components - budget calculation

The operating principle of the hydraulic mechanism is as follows. The log is fed to the knives on a sliding platform. Under the pressure of the cylinder, the log splits into 2, 4, 6 or 8 parts, depending on the design of the knife.

For the hydraulic mechanism you will need:

  • petrol engine (from 6 hp);
  • hydraulic cylinder;
  • gear pump;
  • hydraulic distributor;
  • pump bracket;
  • metal for knives (MAZ spring will do);
  • channel 80 mm;
  • profile 60x60 and 30x30 mm;
  • pipe 50 mm;
  • I-beam (for support beam);
  • metal plates;
  • wheels (car);
  • pulley;
  • belts;
  • oil tank;
  • fittings, adapters, couplings, bolts, screws, nuts, etc.

Wood splitter drawing

The budget that will have to be allocated for the purchase of components is approximately 60,000 rubles. Buying suitable scrap metal can reduce the cost of the finished product.

The basis of a wood splitter - how to assemble the frame

The first step is to assemble the front and rear axles to which the wheels will be attached. Since all the emphasis is on the rear axle, car tires must be placed here.

Front and rear axles

Step-by-step instructions for assembling a hydraulic wood splitter with your own hands with drawings and photos:

  1. Weld hubs from a 30x30 mm profile to a 50 mm pipe so that you get two triangles.

    Weld the base of the future frame to the hubs.

  2. Weld spacers from a 30x30 mm profile to the front axle made from a 60x60 profile. Attach small wheels to the axle.
  3. Weld a base for mounting the engine to the rear axle.

Now it's time for the frame:

  1. Weld a frame for a movable structure from two channels.
  2. Assemble a moving platform from an 80 mm channel onto a cylinder rod.
  3. Weld a triangular platform from the same channel. She will push the log towards the knives.
  4. Install stops on the sides of the platform to prevent logs from falling.

Instead of a sliding platform, it is better to use a cart on wheels. To do this, bearings must be installed inside the channels from which the platform is made. In this option, the wood splitter will last longer, since the friction force will be reduced.

Motor and pump mounting base

The heart of a wood splitter - how to make a splitting knife

For the knife, scraps of an I-beam or a spring from MAZ are suitable. Operating procedure:

  • cut a piece of wood with an angle of 60°;
  • sharpen the metal like a chisel;
  • fold the hexagonal knife using the workpiece (installing it between the segments);
  • weld the knife to the frame.

Hex knife

The central (vertical) knife should enter the log first, then the upper side ones, and only then the lower ones. Otherwise, the load distribution will be incorrect. As a result, the wood splitter will not be able to cope with viscous wood species.

Oil tank assembly

Driving Force - Motor and Oil Tank Assembly

An empty propane tank will fit under the oil tank. Operating procedure:

  1. Fill the bottle with water.
  2. Use a grinder to cut off the valve without draining the liquid.
  3. Make a sump: separate ¼ of the cylinder using a 10 cm high steel partition cut inside.
  4. Install a filter mesh with a magnet at a height of 5 cm from the bottom. It will catch metal shavings, which will extend the life of the motor.
  5. Weld a pipe through which the pump will suck in oil. The pipe needs to be deepened so that the intake does not occur from the very bottom. After all, all the garbage that gets into the tank settles on it.
  6. Install the tank at a level higher than the pump.

Pipe insertion

When all the elements are ready, it's time to assemble the structure. A self-made wood splitter should be painted.

Life hack from a Finnish farmer - how to split a log with a minimum of effort

Movement with an ax is one of the most balanced loads for the human body, so chopping wood by hand is undoubtedly useful. But this work can be improved! How? Reduce the number of unnecessary movements.

What makes chopping wood uncomfortable? Constantly flying chips and a cleaver stuck in the ground. Solving this problem is very easy.

You just need to install the log into a car tire! Select a rubber wheel with a diameter slightly larger than the log. Or take a large tire and put some logs in it. And there will immediately be less housework!

Advice! You can increase the tire diameter by cutting off the side parts so that only the tread ring remains.

Using an old tire

Video: Wood splitter with a washing machine engine

Assembling a wood splitter is a troublesome and costly task. But, if you have the skills to work with metal, this is a justified way to save money and your own effort.

Homemade tools: wood splitter, concrete mixer, hole drill

It will take you half a day to make a simple mechanism. Whereas a complex unit will take 1–2 months. However, you can always turn to professionals! This is a sure way to save time. What is more expensive is up to you to decide!

The wood splitter is, of course, a very useful unit on the farm. It is of particular interest to residents of villages and towns that heat their premises using wood stoves. However, not everyone is ready to pay a tidy sum for it, especially since, if desired, this simple mechanism can be made with your own hands.

Simple DIY wood splitter

Cone wood splitters have the simplest design, the basis of which is a steel cone with threads, rotated by an electric motor. The most complex element of this design is the cone, which must be turned on a lathe (see drawing).

After manufacturing the cone itself according to the presented drawing, a left-hand thrust thread is cut on it.

If it is not possible to turn a cone on a machine or order one, you can make this part yourself using a grinder. Moreover, there is no need to maintain the specified dimensions particularly accurately. In this case, you just need to initially place a metal grinder on the electric motor pulley, and having achieved its free rotation, remove the metal evenly.

The finished cone is mounted on a shaft with bearings of the appropriate size, at the end of which a flange with an asterisk from a motorcycle wheel is installed. The threaded cone is fixed on the shaft with a pin or bolt, which makes it easy to remove it from the shaft and turn it out of the block in case of jamming.

A cone removed from the shaft and stuck in a log can be easily unscrewed from the wood using a gas wrench.

If the cone is firmly fixed to the shaft, in case of jamming it becomes necessary to remove the drive chain, since it is not always possible to turn the electric motor shaft in the opposite direction.

Between the engine and the shaft, you can install a spacer made of pipes and two nuts, with the help of which the chain is tensioned. Cardan supports from Zhiguli can be used as shaft supports.

If desired, the electric motor can be replaced with a gasoline unit from a walk-behind tractor with a power of at least 6 hp, although for cone wood splitters it is preferable to use electric motors with a power of at least 2-3 kW, with a rotation speed of at least 250 rpm.

The operating principle of a homemade cone wood splitter is extremely simple. When rotated, the cone, like a screw, is screwed into the wood, splitting it. When working with a wood splitter, you should be extremely careful and follow basic safety rules.

Nowadays, it is difficult to find an area that would not be affected by mechanization and automation. It is not surprising, but even such a classically conservative process as chopping wood has begun to undergo mechanization, and the familiar ax is being replaced by wood splitters.

Currently, this market segment already offers a fairly wide range of mechanical cleavers, and in order to correctly select the unit you need, you should find out what this still unfamiliar machine is in general terms.

Types of wood splitters

All currently produced wood splitting units are divided into household and professional units.

Household wood splitters perform only the function of splitting wood. Professional wood splitters are a rather complex structure that feeds logs, trims them to the required length, splits and ejects finished logs. Of course, the cost, power, and productivity of such machines cannot be compared with simple household units.

According to the direction of supply of the split log, wood splitters are horizontal, vertical And mixed.

In horizontal type wood splitters, the log is installed on a horizontal chute. In this case, depending on the design, either the pusher directs the log to the stabbing knife, or the knife moves along a special guide towards the log.

In vertical type installations, the log is fed vertically, and a moving knife from above splits it. Mechanisms of this design are more productive, they occupy less space, but they also have disadvantages. Thus, when operating vertical wood splitters, it is necessary to support the splitting logs with your hands, which requires strict adherence to safety regulations.

Mixed type wood splitters combine the capabilities of the units described above and are used exclusively in wood processing enterprises.

Depending on the power source, wood splitters are divided into the following types:

  1. Units with electric motors. These are the simplest designs of wood splitters. The electric motor drives the hydraulic pump. Such wood splitters are easy to maintain and operate; they can be installed in almost any room. Wood splitters with electric motors do not require specialized maintenance and are most suitable for use in domestic conditions. The only mandatory requirement for their operation is the presence of a power source.
  2. Wood splitters with gasoline or diesel internal combustion engines. These are quite powerful units, used mainly in logging. However, they are also suitable for working in summer cottages and gardens.
  3. Tractor-driven wood splitters. These units are connected to the tractor hydraulic system or to the power take-off shaft. These are powerful professional units designed for use in large forestry complexes, farms, and industrial enterprises.
  4. Wood splitters with a combined drive source.

    Homemade wood splitter with an electric motor from a washing machine

    Some models of wood splitters, equipped with electric motors or internal combustion engines, are also adapted to operate from a tractor drive.

Depending on the design of the firewood splitting mechanism, wood splitters are divided into the following types:

  • Wood splitters with hydraulic drive. The basis of such units is a hydraulic pump that drives a splitting knife, which, pressing with enormous force on the log, splits it. The cost of such units, depending on the power and the manufacturer, ranges from 9,500 to 32,000 rubles.
  • Cone wood splitters (we talked about just such a homemade wood splitter above). In these units, the role of a knife is played by a threaded cone, which splits the block of wood by screwing into it. Using this operating principle, it is quite possible to build a homemade wood splitter, since it is extremely simple and does not require the manufacture of auxiliary mechanisms. However, for this unit to operate effectively, it will require a more powerful electric motor. The cost of cone log splitters, depending on the type and power of the electric motor, ranges from 17 to 30 thousand rubles.

Also, the wood splitters produced differ from each other in the method of movement. As a rule, large, heavy units are produced in a stationary version. But the design of less heavy units includes wheels that allow them to be easily transported.

Technical parameters of modern wood splitters

  • Splitting power. This parameter indicates the required force produced by the unit for splitting logs. Household wood splitters have a capacity of 3 to 7 tons. For cone log splitters, an important characteristic is the rotation speed of the threaded attachment. The optimal rotation speed is 400-600 rpm.
  • Working distance. This characteristic determines what length of logs the unit can work with. For household woodcutters, as a rule, the size of the logs does not exceed the size of the stove.
  • Maximum diameter of split log. Household units are capable of splitting logs with a diameter of 30 centimeters. At the same time, cone mechanisms can split stumps of almost any diameter.
  • Piston stroke. This parameter indicates the distance traveled by the piston when performing an operation.
  • Piston speed. The average speed of the piston when moving forward is 4 cm per second, when moving backward - 7.5 cm/sec.
  • Motor power. As a rule, household wood splitters are equipped with electric motors with a power of 1500 to 2300 watts. The performance and efficiency of the unit largely depends on the power of the electric motor. Screw mechanisms are equipped with three-phase electric motors with a power of 3000 to 4000 watts.
  • Dimensions. The sizes of household wood splitters vary depending on their models, power and manufacturing company. Basically, these are quite compact units.
  • Additional functions. The design of some models of hydraulic wood splitters allows the use of a 4-cut nozzle, which significantly increases the productivity of the mechanism. Some models include a special table that allows you to raise the working height of the wood splitter.

How to make a wood splitter with a washing machine engine

Of course, we all live in the 21st century, when almost everywhere has gas central heating or an electric boiler. However, civilization has not reached all corners of our vast country, especially in remote regions and rural areas. Not all villages and settlements have central heating, but winter happens there too.

People have no choice but to chop wood and light the stove themselves. This is definitely a solution to the situation, but chopping wood is not the most pleasant and exciting activity, especially in the cold season. Technology and progress took care of this too; such a useful thing as a wood splitter was invented. In general, you can buy it, and for those who do not want to waste money, we will tell you how to make a wood splitter with an engine from a washing machine.

Do-it-yourself wood splitter from a washing machine engine

Thanks to this contraption, you can chop several cubic meters of firewood in just an hour or two. For comparison: if you categorically reject “devilish things” and wield an ax by hand, then it will take you 3-4 days. In this article you will find drawings of a wood splitter with a washing machine engine, everything is extremely simple and clear.

In total, 3 types of electric wood splitters are used and available, these are:

  • conical;
  • hydraulic;
  • rack and pinion

The most economical of all is the conical one, but be prepared to do a lot of work not only with your hands, but also with tools. You can’t use a lathe here; if we talk about traditional manufacturing methods, people don’t bother too much and do without a gearbox, attaching the cone to the motor shaft itself. This, of course, can be done, but only on the condition that the step is small and the thread is shallow.

If you plan to spend a little more money and time on manufacturing, that is, to buy a gearbox, then the threads should be deep and the pitch large. All this is necessary in order to adjust the performance level of the wood splitter taking into account the shaft rotation speed.

Directly about what you need. From the name it is obvious that you will need a cone, but you need to buy it only in a trusted place so that it is of high quality. The blank for the cone must be heated and kept in the oven for half an hour to harden it. After this, it must be placed in salt water and left there for several minutes.

Everything is described in more detail in the video on how to make a wood splitter with your own hands.

Let's say a few words about the most important part of the wood splitter - its motor. Most often, the motor used is from an old washing machine, which was left behind after repair or worked for so long that it has lost all its presentable appearance. In extreme cases, there is a lot of such goodness from neighbors, acquaintances, or even at the market. Carefully and thoroughly study all the diagrams and drawings that are attached to the article; they describe the process of creating and assembling a wood splitter as clearly and in detail as possible.

bed

Naturally, you won’t hold a wood splitter in your hands while working, and no one will, it’s too reckless, short-sighted and simply scary and dangerous. It is logical to assume that, in addition to the apparatus, it will be necessary to make a base, that is, a frame, and weld the base yourself.

Keep in mind that the finished bed will have to be divided into 2 zones: one will be the power zone, and the second will be the working zone. The power side will be needed in order to turn it into a motor holder for the unit. Everything must be done extremely carefully so as not to injure your hands or injure yourself. If you are not sure that you can do this, then it is better to contact someone who understands this kind of work, or buy a ready-made product. Actually, the working area itself is a small piece of steel sheet, only a few millimeters thick; along the line dividing the zones, you need to install a pedestal on which the cone will be supported. Please note that if you attach the cone itself to the motor, this will not end well; in any case, you will need bearings that will act as a support.

So we come to the most important and crucial part - the moment of connecting the motor from an old or not so old washing machine.

Wood splitter with a washing machine engine (Time 8:07)

Firstly, the connection process entirely depends on what brand the car was during its life. After the motor is placed in its rightful place, a test test of the unit should be carried out.

Remember about safety precautions, it is important to once again check the reliability of fastening of all parts of the wood splitter and only then start. Make sure that there are no children nearby while the wood splitter is operating; one careless movement can cause serious injury or real tragedy. Use the device carefully, the slightest mistake can be fatal for you!

If there is no one in the affected area, and all the parts are securely attached, then you can take out the workpieces and turn on the miracle machine! Just a few seconds and the workpiece turned into firewood, and all this without unnecessary effort and complexity. Everything is simple, convenient and automatic. A wood splitter will be useful not only in a remote taiga village, but also in a country house if you have not yet installed central heating or have not made your own heating system. A useful thing for the household that will significantly make life easier, and most importantly, will save a lot of precious time, because, as you know, there is always something to do at the dacha or in a private house.

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How to make a wood splitter with a washing machine engine

Of course, we all live in the 21st century, when almost everywhere has gas central heating or an electric boiler. However, civilization has not reached all corners of our vast country, especially in remote regions and rural areas. Not all villages and settlements have central heating, but winter happens there too.

People have no choice but to chop wood and light the stove themselves. This is definitely a solution to the situation, but chopping wood is not the most pleasant and exciting activity, especially in the cold season. Technology and progress took care of this too; such a useful thing as a wood splitter was invented. In general, you can buy it, and for those who do not want to waste money, we will tell you how to make a wood splitter with an engine from a washing machine.

Thanks to this contraption, you can chop several cubic meters of firewood in just an hour or two. For comparison: if you categorically reject “devilish things” and wield an ax by hand, then it will take you 3-4 days. In this article you will find drawings of a wood splitter with a washing machine engine, everything is extremely simple and clear.

In total, 3 types of electric wood splitters are used and available, these are:

The most economical of all is the conical one, but be prepared to do a lot of work not only with your hands, but also with tools. You can’t use a lathe here; if we talk about traditional manufacturing methods, people don’t bother too much and do without a gearbox, attaching the cone to the motor shaft itself. This, of course, can be done, but only on the condition that the step is small and the thread is shallow.

If you plan to spend a little more money and time on manufacturing, that is, to buy a gearbox, then the threads should be deep and the pitch large. All this is necessary in order to adjust the performance level of the wood splitter taking into account the shaft rotation speed.

Directly about what you need. From the name it is obvious that you will need a cone, but you need to buy it only in a trusted place so that it is of high quality. The blank for the cone must be heated and kept in the oven for half an hour to harden it. After this, it must be placed in salt water and left there for several minutes.

Everything is described in more detail in the video on how to make a wood splitter with your own hands.

Let's say a few words about the most important part of the wood splitter - its motor. Most often, the motor used is from an old washing machine, which was left behind after repair or worked for so long that it has lost all its presentable appearance. In extreme cases, there is a lot of such goodness from neighbors, acquaintances, or even at the market. Carefully and thoroughly study all the diagrams and drawings that are attached to the article; they describe the process of creating and assembling a wood splitter as clearly and in detail as possible.

Naturally, you won’t hold a wood splitter in your hands while working, and no one will, it’s too reckless, short-sighted and simply scary and dangerous. It is logical to assume that, in addition to the apparatus, it will be necessary to make a base, that is, a frame, and weld the base yourself.

Keep in mind that the finished bed will have to be divided into 2 zones: one will be the power zone, and the second will be the working zone. The power side will be needed in order to turn it into a motor holder for the unit. Everything must be done extremely carefully so as not to injure your hands or injure yourself. If you are not sure that you can do this, then it is better to contact someone who understands this kind of work, or buy a ready-made product. Actually, the working area itself is a small piece of steel sheet, only a few millimeters thick; along the line dividing the zones, you need to install a pedestal on which the cone will be supported. Please note that if you attach the cone itself to the motor, this will not end well; in any case, you will need bearings that will act as a support.

So we come to the most important and crucial part - the moment of connecting the motor from an old or not so old washing machine. Firstly, the connection process entirely depends on what brand the car was during its life. After the motor is placed in its rightful place, a test test of the unit should be carried out.

Remember about safety precautions, it is important to once again check the reliability of fastening of all parts of the wood splitter and only then start. Make sure that there are no children nearby while the wood splitter is operating; one careless movement can cause serious injury or real tragedy. Use the device carefully, the slightest mistake can be fatal for you!

If there is no one in the affected area, and all the parts are securely attached, then you can take out the workpieces and turn on the miracle machine! Just a few seconds and the workpiece turned into firewood, and all this without unnecessary effort and complexity. Everything is simple, convenient and automatic. A wood splitter will be useful not only in a remote taiga village, but also in a country house if you have not yet installed central heating or have not made your own heating system. A useful thing for the household that will significantly make life easier, and most importantly, will save a lot of precious time, because, as you know, there is always something to do at the dacha or in a private house.

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And in the 21st century, complete gasification of Russia remains a distant future. Not only remote villages, but many small towns are forced to rely on wood-burning stoves, for which a lot of fuel needs to be prepared every year, because the winter is long and cold.

If you have the strength and health, then you can swing an ax, but if you don’t have the strength or don’t want to waste it on the dull, monotonous work of splitting knotty logs? You can turn on your head, watch a video or read our article and make a wood splitter with a washing machine engine.

Design selection

Compared to chopping wood manually, working with a wood splitter is a pleasure. There is no need to waste energy splitting logs, lifting a heavy cleaver, sweating and cursing the stove heating. When working with a wood splitter, you only feed it logs, and all the hard work of splitting them is transferred to the mechanism. Before assembling a homemade wood splitter with your own hands, you need to decide what design you will implement. There are at least three designs of wood splitters, fundamentally different from each other:

  • wood splitter with hydraulic mechanism;
  • wood splitter with rack and pinion mechanism;
  • step-screw wood splitter.

Having considered all the options, our experts came to the conclusion that it is better to start making a drawing of a screw wood splitter. Its design is simpler, more compact, has fewer elements, and therefore is cheaper. Thanks to the screw wood splitter, the process of splitting firewood is significantly accelerated. What is a screw log splitter?

This unit consists of several main elements:

  1. frames;
  2. washing machine motor;
  3. drive mechanism;
  4. special cone.

The essence of his work boils down to the following. The washing machine motor rotates a small pulley. By means of a belt drive, the work is transferred to a large pulley, which is mounted on a shaft. At the other end of the shaft there is a special sharp cone with thread. The shaft together with the cone are parallel to the ground and rotate. The chock is pushed onto the rotating cone strictly sideways, the cone is screwed into the chock from the side, quickly splitting it in half. This is the design we have to implement with our own hands, but first let’s select the necessary tools and materials.

Important! If you feed the wood end-on to the cone, the wood will get between the frame and the cone, jam and break it, rendering the wood splitter unusable.

We select everything you need

To assemble a homemade screw wood splitter you will need a relatively small set of tools, minimal skills in working with electric welding and a multimeter, as well as materials. What tools do you need?

With materials everything is more complicated. Currently, there are quite a lot of videos on the Internet that demonstrate the operation of a screw wood splitter. These videos demonstrate at least several options for assembling the unit, but the essence of all options is the same. First you need to find the main part - the cone. You can’t buy such a thing in a store, and it’s very difficult to make it yourself, because the cone is first turned out, and a thread is cut on it with a short pitch. Next, the cone is heated red-hot and maintained in this state in the oven for half an hour, then sharply cooled in warm salted water.

There may be problems with making a cone, but do not despair, there are online stores where you can relatively inexpensively purchase ready-made hardened cones, specially designed for homemade wood splitters. There you can also buy all the necessary parts for the gearbox, such as: shaft, small and large pulleys, belt and bearings. If you yourself have experience in manufacturing gearboxes and you have spare parts for them, then you can limit yourself to buying a cone; in all other cases, our experts recommend buying a “kit for a homemade screw wood splitter.”

In addition to the gearbox and cone, we will need a strong and reliable frame; we will weld it from steel corners, sheets, and also some parts of an old Soviet car. Prepare in advance approximately 4.5 m of steel angle 40 mm, a rectangular sheet of metal 900x450 mm and a VAZ 2101,02,03,04,05,06 or 07 cardan suspension. If you don’t have parts from such cars in the garage, then everything you need can be pick it up for a pittance. Also, to make it easier to move the wood splitter, you can weld two wheels from a medical gurney, a children’s bicycle, etc. to the frame. they also need to be cooked.

For your information! For our purposes, you can take a part of the cardan from any rear-wheel drive Soviet or Russian car.

There remains one more part, without which our screw wood splitter will not work - the engine. We are making a wood splitter with a washing machine motor, so we need to disassemble any old washing machine with a brushed motor, remove the last one, use a multimeter to make sure it works and cook it. Well, that's all in general terms. In addition to all of the above, we will need various fasteners, but we don’t need to talk about them separately, and so it’s clear, let’s move on to the most interesting thing - making a cone log splitter.

Assembling the product

Let's assemble a cone wood splitter with our own hands, which will turn the preparation of firewood from torture into pleasure. We'll start by making the frame. We cut a corner with a grinder, 2 pieces of 1400 mm each, 4 pieces of 200 mm each and one piece of 450 mm. We lay two 1400 mm corners in parallel at a distance of 450 mm each, connect the ends of the long corners with the letter “P” with a short 450 mm corner and weld the joint. Next, we retreat 900 mm from the welded joint and weld the cardan suspension element between the corners. Between the hanger and the first welded joint we place our rectangular steel sheet (it will fit exactly in size) and weld it.

Now all we have to do is weld 4 legs (4 pieces of 200 mm each) along the edges of the structure, attach wheels to two legs and the frame is ready. Next, let's take a look at the gearbox. We insert a shaft into the suspension element and put a large pulley on it on one side.

Important! In order to press the cone and pulley onto the shaft, the latter will have to be heated strongly using a blowtorch.

The next stage is very important. You need to put a small pulley on the motor shaft, and secure the engine under a welded suspension so that the small pulley is exactly under the large one. Mount the engine as securely as possible, since the structure will vibrate strongly during operation. We connect the pulleys with a belt. The free end of the shaft (intended for the cone) is equipped with “eared” bearings, the latter must be securely bolted to a metal sheet.

Next, we connect the two motor wires to the machine with our own hands, and then we connect the power cable to it and check how the motor will work in tandem with the gearbox, whether there will be any slippage or jamming. If everything is in order, we install the cone and check how our new wood splitter will work. The work is finished. If for some reason the motor does not work or there are problems connecting it, read the article How to connect the motor from a washing machine. Everything is explained there, and if it’s still not clear, watch the explanatory video.

Note! Before you start using a new screw wood splitter, watch the video on how to do it correctly; I wouldn’t want you to spoil something you’ve laboriously made with your own hands.

In conclusion, we note that we have just given you another option for an excellent economic use of a washing machine motor. We hope you will be able to bring this idea to life and assemble a wonderful screw wood splitter. After reading the text of this publication, be sure to watch the video below. Good luck!

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Do-it-yourself wood splitter from a washing machine engine

Many owners of private apartments and houses in modern Russia are forced to use wood or coal for heating. Wooden stoves are used quite widely today for heating various rooms. To prevent the winter from being cold, it is necessary to prepare firewood.

If you have health and time, you can use an axe, however, if you don’t have the opportunity, you can use your imagination and make a wood splitter from an old washing machine.

Design selection

Compared to manual chopping of firewood, working with a wood splitter is much easier and more convenient. For such work, it will not require much effort to lift the chocks and swing a heavy tool. When working with a wood splitter, you only need to feed the hemp. All the hard work is done by the mechanism. Before assembling the wood splitter with your own hands, you should familiarize yourself with the instructions and features of the work. First you need to decide on the design of the device. There are several common options:

  • wood splitter equipped with a hydraulic system;
  • a device having a rack-and-pinion mechanism;
  • wood splitter with a stepped-screw design.

After all the options have been considered, we can come to the conclusion that a screw log splitter can be made more simply and quickly. It is compact and easy to assemble. There are not many elements in it, the splitting process is characterized by high speed. Thanks to the presence of a screw splitter, work can be significantly speeded up. First you need to understand the design of the wood splitter.

Such a device has several main parts:

  • frame;
  • cone;
  • motor borrowed from a washing machine;
  • drive mechanism.

The operating principle of a homemade wood splitter is very simple. The motor from the washing machine will transmit force to the small pulley. The stump is pushed onto the cone sideways. As a result, it splits in half. The design is easy to assemble with your own hands. However, before starting work, you should select certain materials.

Comment! When feeding the lump onto the cone with the end part, the piece of wood will fall between the cone and the frame. It may jam, which will lead to damage to the wood splitter.

Selection of materials

To complete the work you will need to prepare a small list of tools. In addition, you must have basic skills in working with electric welding equipment. The tools you need to prepare are:

  • welding machine and electrodes;
  • pliers;
  • drill;
  • anvil and vice;
  • ruler;
  • grinding wheel;
  • files and screwdrivers.

Finding all the suitable materials will be more difficult. One of the main design details is the cone. This item is usually not sold in stores. However, creating it at home is quite problematic. First, this part must be turned, threaded on a cone, kept in an oven and cooled in water.

This technology creates certain difficulties for making a cone with your own hands. However, there is another option. In any city you can find stores that sell cones designed specifically for homemade wood splitters. In addition, there you can find all the necessary spare parts for such a device. You should purchase a large and small pulley, bearings, gearbox and shaft.

In addition to such elements, you will need to create a strong frame. It can be welded from metal corners. In addition, for the frame you will need a steel sheet and a gimbal hanger from an old car. It can be purchased on sale for a symbolic price. To make the wood splitter easy to move, you will need to attach wheels to the frame. It is better for them to be from a gurney or a bicycle.

It remains to find one more part - the motor. It can be taken from an old washing machine. Without a motor, the device cannot operate. For this reason, you should find an old washing machine and remove its electric motor. To make sure it is working, you should use a multimeter. In addition, to fasten the parts together, you will need to stock up on bolts and nuts.

Assembling a wood splitter

You can make a wood splitter with your own hands quite quickly. Thanks to this device, you can forget about the grueling work of chopping wood. You should start work by making a strong bed. To do this, use a grinder to cut a corner:

  • 2 parts - 1.4 m each;
  • 4 parts - 20 cm each;
  • one piece - 45 cm.

After this, you need to lay 2 parts of 1.4 each on the floor in parallel. They must be placed at a distance of 45 cm. The ends of the long corners are welded with the letter “П9raquo;”. Then you should step back 90 cm from the welded joint and weld a gimbal part between the corners. Then the steel sheet is laid and welded.

All that remains is to make the legs. They are located at the edges of the bed. Subsequently, wheels are attached to them. After this you can work on the gearbox. A shaft should be inserted into the suspension element. Pulleys are put on it.

The most responsible is the next stage. The small pulley is then placed on the motor shaft. The motor must be secured in such a way that it is installed as securely as possible. This is due to the fact that vibration of the wood splitter is inevitable during operation. The pulleys are connected using a belt. “Eared” should be put on the free end of the shaft; bearings. And securely screwed to a metal sheet.

After this, the engine is connected to the machine. You can subsequently connect a network cable to it. Once this work is completed, you should check how the motor works in tandem with the gearbox. If no jamming or slipping is noticed, you can install a cone.

Attention! Before you start using your new wood splitter, you should watch a video on how to work with it correctly.

A screw wood splitter is an excellent helper in the household. It saves time and effort. When using it, you can forget about the hard work of collecting firewood. To avoid confusion during assembly, you can draw an approximate design diagram.

Wood splitter: options and features of self-production

The log splitter is designed for the preparation of firewood. The log splitter, or a special machine that is designed for the preparation of firewood, can be represented by several designs. Such installations are divided into professional and household equipment, and also differ in operating principles.

Making a convenient homemade wood splitter or cleaver using ready-made drawings and diagrams with your own hands is not too difficult, but you need to take into account the features of the structure being manufactured.

Purpose and principle of operation of the wood splitter

Wood splitters are used not only in private households, but also in industrial enterprises:

  • hydraulic unit;
  • cone or screw unit.

The operating principle of such equipment is influenced by both the type of knife and its method of action.

Also read materials:

Hydraulic

The design of hydraulic equipment is characterized by ease of use and high performance. The main advantage of such mechanisms is smooth operation combined with high efficiency and minimization of the risk of failure. The design is presented:

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  • bed;
  • working cylinder;
  • emphasis;
  • knife or blade;
  • oil tank;
  • pumping equipment;
  • pressure level distributor;
  • gasoline or electric engine.

The design of hydraulic equipment is characterized by ease of use and high performance

The principle of operation of hydraulic equipment is to transfer energy through a hydraulic cylinder to a hydraulic rod, after which the stop begins to move. Smooth operation allows the blade to enter the wooden workpiece without impact, splitting it. If there is insufficient power, the cylinder stops and the pump rotates idle, which prevents equipment breakdowns.

Cone or screw

It has a nut-screw connection, which allows for greater power and reliability. The standard design is characterized by fastening the sliding stop to a horizontal frame. The movement is carried out using an articulated pin with an electric motor. For splitting, not knives are used, but a cone.

The advantages include the simplicity of the mechanism, low maintenance and long service life, but increased demands are placed on engine power. Depending on the type of drive, there is a difference between electric and gasoline cleavers.Currently produced models can be of industrial and household type.

The cone splitter has a nut-screw connection, which provides greater power and reliability

Making your own screw cleaver

The main problem in creating a homemade product such as a screw wood splitter is finding a working cone, which can be purchased in specialized stores or made with your own hands using a metal blank.

  • place a metal blank on the electric motor pulley;
  • during free rotation, remove excess metal from the blank;
  • cut a left-hand thrust thread on the surface of the blank.

The final assembly consists of inserting a screw onto a pre-prepared shaft and fixing it with a pin, after which a flange equipped with a motorcycle sprocket is put on the other side of the shaft.

How to make an electric wood splitter with your own hands (video)

Homemade wood splitter with a washing machine engine

In the process of designing such a mechanism, it is necessary to take into account the design feature that involves the vertical installation of the split log. For a single-phase screw cleaver, a washing machine motor with a power of 600 W is used. and a speed stabilizer.

  • creating a bed from a metal profile 2 x 4 cm or 3 x 5 cm and subsequent division of the area into working and power parts;
  • installation and reliable fixation on the surface of the power side of the podium under the electric motor;
  • placement of the control unit in a plastic case on a dielectric plate;
  • make the working part from sheet steel 2.5 mm thick, followed by installation and fastening of the cone-splitting shaft;
  • welding reliable power supports to the frame and equipping the shaft with a flywheel of a suitable diameter.

If you need to chop wood in large volumes and quite often, then it is best to purchase a factory-made wood splitter

There are no fundamental differences in the power supply and design of the electric motor from the washing machine. The difference may lie in the connection diagram, which is due to the characteristics of collector and asynchronous mechanisms, as well as units with an electronic control type, which operate exclusively with an individual control module. When using modern motors, there is no need to use a tachogenerator and thermal protection. In this case, switching on and off can be organized by a regular household automatic machine.

The log for splitting must be installed in the space between the rod and the cone

How to make a cone splitter: drawings and stages of work

The simplest version of a splitting ax with conical equipment, represented by the following construction:

  • lower jacking part;
  • upper conical part;
  • U-shaped frame.

The splitting log must be installed in the space between the rod and the cone. The splitting is carried out in the process of translational movement of the working part. A slightly more complex version of such equipment with an increased level of performance is a cleaver with an electric motor or gasoline engine.

When making a wood splitter yourself, you need to use only well-drawn drawings and diagrams

The equipment should be installed on the shaft of an electric motor or gearbox, which rotates slowly at a speed of 80-100 rpm. As a result, the wood becomes screwed in and splits. The main advantage of such a device is the lack of support and worker safety.

This equipment is not suitable for splitting birch and oak wood, as well as wood species with high fiber content. Disadvantages include the difficulty of making conical equipment. In this case, you can use a ready-made kit based on:

  • shaft 350 x 30 mm;
  • pulley with belt drive;
  • a pair of rotation supports in the form of bearings;
  • "screw" 220 x 55 mm

It is also possible to independently manufacture equipment on a lathe.

How to make a screw splitter (video)

Manufacturing of hydraulic device

In this design, the most complex unit is represented by a hydraulic part, consisting of a hydraulic cylinder with a pusher, a pump part, and control elements. To make the frame, a metal angle, channels, I-beam or profile pipe are used. The design process involves placing a metal frame on wheels. The design of such equipment does not involve the use of electricity, and wood splitting is carried out using a hydraulic jack.

The design of the hydraulic device does not involve the use of electricity

Self-production technology:

  • frame manufacturing;
  • manufacturing a stable platform;
  • welding of a vertical guide;
  • welding the gusset on the back side of the guide;
  • making sliders from metal corners;
  • strengthening the stop point of the hydraulic jack rod;
  • welding the sole of a metal strip 0.6-0.8 cm under the heel of the jack;
  • modification of the jack handle for ease of operation;
  • welding the roller to the base of the frame and fixing the rubber band to return the pedal to its original position.

The cutting part of the equipment should be represented by a metal strip 3 cm thick, which must be sharpened with a wedge. To attach the cutter to the guide, you need to use three M-12 bolts.

During the design process of a hydraulic wood splitter, a metal frame is placed on wheels

Do-it-yourself mechanical spring wood splitter

A mechanical ax is known to many as a cleaver on a spring. This spring unit is quite simple to manufacture and easy to use. The technology for assembling a spring log splitter is as follows:

  • concrete the vertical post;
  • hang a horizontal beam, represented by a hinged upper unit and a lower shock absorber;
  • attach a short stand and equipment to the free beam end;
  • install the working deck.

The main advantage is that there is no need to use an engine, but a mechanical spring wood splitter has very low productivity and also requires physical effort from the worker.

In order to save money and obtain a fully functional unit, a rack-and-pinion version of the wood splitter can be manufactured

Other design options

In order to save money and obtain a fully functional unit, a rack-and-pinion version of the wood splitter can be manufactured. A homemade device takes into account the specific individual requirements of the consumer.

Features of manufacturing a structure based on a rack and pinion transmission:

  • a gear is mounted on the output shaft of the reduction gearbox or pulley;
  • the movement of the gear causes the rack to move;
  • the pressed strip is fixedly fixed on the frame with the laid log;
  • the gear receives engagement with the rack through a control handle;
  • the working part of the structure is mounted on a durable stationary frame;
  • a cleaver is attached to the frame base;
  • the gear rack moves along guides that are fixed to the frame;
  • The rack is returned to its original position using a return spring.

The functionality of the design can be ensured by any electric, gasoline or diesel engine. The advantage of a homemade rack and pinion wood splitter is the minimal cost of consumables and flexibility of parameters. The structure should not swing, and when building a mobile device, the wheel system should stably support the entire mass of the device. The speed at which the log is fed for splitting must be calculated experimentally.

How to make split carrots (video)

When making a wood splitter yourself, you need to use only well-drawn drawings and diagrams. Particular attention must be paid to the selection of high-quality and durable consumables. Equally important is the stability of the structure, which will make the work process not only comfortable, but also as safe as possible. It should be noted that homemade models of wood splitters are much cheaper than factory designs, so they are perfect for home use. However, if you need to chop wood in large volumes and quite often, then it is best to purchase a factory-made wood splitter.

And finally - about secrets!

We would also like to talk about an important aspect - watering on the site. Garden hoses are often too heavy, get twisted, and get dirty. In this case, water consumption is often not controlled in any way, and it can take a whole day to water the entire area.

Fortunately, autonomous irrigation is no longer a novelty and is available to any gardener. But the main thing is that when watering with a regular hose, sunburn appears on the leaves of plants, which means.

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Wood splitter with a washing machine engine (Time 8:07)

The smallest single-phase, screw cleaver with a 600 W washing machine motor with speed stabilizer; operating speed - 1000-8000 rpm, weight - about 30 kg, watch funny video online “Wood splitter with a washing machine engine”.

Watched the funny video online, vote for the video and express your impressions about it. Fedot added a joke to the Interesting category, lasting 8 minutes. 07 sec. You can download the online video “Wood splitter with a washing machine engine” for free without registration in mp4 - 33.8 MB or 3gp - 9.4 MB format to your mobile phone.