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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: December 10, 2010, 06:46:25 PM »
I have been busy tending to other stuff, but I will be back in the shop tomorrow morning, making sparks again! I am closing in on the splitting cylinder, I have the mounts bored for the pins, all of the knife pieces are cut to size and ready for sharpening on the mill. Engine is in place, filled with oil and test fired! I have all of the trailer frame cross-members and upright supports cut to length so there's plenty of welding to be done. I was having some issues with my wire feeder, but have it straightened out and it is working as good as ever. I will be laying out the saw bar and drive system next while I catch up on machine work and welding. The remainder of my bearings and some other goodies will be here mid week. I have the hydraulic tank material sheared to size and will be working on that soon as well. I should be able to post some more pics very soon. BTW, the boiler is looking good, hope the layoff is just enough to let you catch up and get heat in the house 
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Equipment / Re: Wood Truck
« on: December 10, 2010, 06:27:53 PM »
97 Dodge Cummins dually, 16 ft trailer, and a motorized hand truck to load the trailer. I cut the wood to firewood length, and load it for later splitting at home, most of what I cut up lately is 24" to 42" dia. I know some of the rounds have to weigh 600 lbs. or more. I can load the trailer faster than I can cut the wood.
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Home Made / Re: Gasification wood boiler build
« on: December 10, 2010, 06:14:30 PM »
Looking good,
I really like the sight glass, I know you will post a vid of the burn when the time comes. This isn't your typical OWB, it is clear you have put much thought and planning into this project. It's nice to see a project as it progresses, and especially when it's in the home stretch. We are expecting single digit temp's here in sw mich. early next week, I know it's got to be getting cold there as well. I bought 5 cord of firewood last week, that should take me through till spring. I haven't been able to work on my project this week as other things have taken priority.
I have however ordered another round of parts, and will be able to get some time on it tomorrow.
I really like the sight glass, I know you will post a vid of the burn when the time comes. This isn't your typical OWB, it is clear you have put much thought and planning into this project. It's nice to see a project as it progresses, and especially when it's in the home stretch. We are expecting single digit temp's here in sw mich. early next week, I know it's got to be getting cold there as well. I bought 5 cord of firewood last week, that should take me through till spring. I haven't been able to work on my project this week as other things have taken priority.
I have however ordered another round of parts, and will be able to get some time on it tomorrow.
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 30, 2010, 05:23:57 AM »
Good point bikeralan! We always seem to think we can improve the design too..... it;s great to have a supportive spouse when chasing our ideas. jackel440, nice blower assembly on the boiler, I look forward to a vid of that baby in operation. The wedge is 1" thick, 14" tall, 8" deep at the top, and 6" deep at the base, and the edge is milled to a total of 30 degrees making the cutting edge 2" deep. I am currently working on an adjustable 4 way wedge that sits behind the vertical wedge, and soon an 8 way wedge. The log deck on top of the beam is 3/4" cold rolled steel. Thanks for the tip, I will seek out HGR, I ordered some parts from Surplus Center for an 80 percent savings over Grainger prices.
BTW, I have decided to run the saw and chain I have purchased, I can run a 1:1 ratio turning the saw shaft at 3600 RPM giving me a chain speed of 3,860 ft/min which is greater than the 3,000 ft/min minimum. So the saw won't cut at optimum speed, It will beat bending over a log on the ground holding a manual saw.
I will be mounting the engine and pump next which will allow for layout of the saw itself.
Thanks for the feedback guys, your interest is motivating knowing someone else is interested in my efforts. Quik
BTW, I have decided to run the saw and chain I have purchased, I can run a 1:1 ratio turning the saw shaft at 3600 RPM giving me a chain speed of 3,860 ft/min which is greater than the 3,000 ft/min minimum. So the saw won't cut at optimum speed, It will beat bending over a log on the ground holding a manual saw.
I will be mounting the engine and pump next which will allow for layout of the saw itself.Thanks for the feedback guys, your interest is motivating knowing someone else is interested in my efforts. Quik
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 29, 2010, 09:25:35 PM »
Hi bruey,
the plans are in my head, on notes and drawings all over the house, and sometimes I think there is no plan.
Seriously, I have spent hours upon hours watching videos of processors on you-tube, searching out information on the net, a few calculations, and much daydreaming of what I want in the final product. I have taken a mix from all of my research and incorporated it into my plan. A year ago, I had never seen a processor, and have yet to see one in person. My design will handle 24" dia. logs (in theory, yet to be proven). The infeed conveyor is 15' long so I am guessing a capacity of 20 plus feet long logs. The big twist in my machine, is the capability to lift larger "rounds" cut to firewood length for splitting. I have about 5 cord of wood cut to length waiting to be split some of the rounds have to be in excess of 42" in diameter.
I am anxious to get this project to the testing stage, I ordered drive sheaves and bearing blocks today for the saw drive. Thanks for your interest, and support. Need a machine to cut larger logs? A longer saw bar, and more H.P..........no problem...lol
Stay tuned, I am close to posting more pics soon.
the plans are in my head, on notes and drawings all over the house, and sometimes I think there is no plan.
Seriously, I have spent hours upon hours watching videos of processors on you-tube, searching out information on the net, a few calculations, and much daydreaming of what I want in the final product. I have taken a mix from all of my research and incorporated it into my plan. A year ago, I had never seen a processor, and have yet to see one in person. My design will handle 24" dia. logs (in theory, yet to be proven). The infeed conveyor is 15' long so I am guessing a capacity of 20 plus feet long logs. The big twist in my machine, is the capability to lift larger "rounds" cut to firewood length for splitting. I have about 5 cord of wood cut to length waiting to be split some of the rounds have to be in excess of 42" in diameter.I am anxious to get this project to the testing stage, I ordered drive sheaves and bearing blocks today for the saw drive. Thanks for your interest, and support. Need a machine to cut larger logs? A longer saw bar, and more H.P..........no problem...lol
Stay tuned, I am close to posting more pics soon.
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 26, 2010, 07:58:38 PM »
A couple of pics of recent work, splitter beam with main wedge and pusher block on log deck.
[attachment deleted by admin for space issues]
[attachment deleted by admin for space issues]
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 25, 2010, 10:20:31 AM »
jackel440, I have some cross-members to add, when they appear you will see the frame really isn't done. I was just kinda excited that the project actually got started...lol. I would really like to come and split those 8 acres, I am sure that would be the ultimate test ground to see if this thing will actually work or not. I have discovered it's best to complete the engineering and design prior to building, I think that's why they call it proto-type? I am committed to belt drive, the electric clutch was a good idea however, I don't think a single belt will transmit 13 H.P. with the size pulleys involved. Therefore I will use a multi-belt drive engaged by means of a mechanical clutching system. Problem #2, with the 16 tooth sprocket, .404 chain and bar I purchased, and a recommended 8000 ft/min. chain speed, I would have to turn the saw drive shaft at a speed around 7500 rpm which is more than double the rating of typical 1" mounted bearing blocks. So, I am now thinking that I need to move to a 3/4" chain and bar, with the added pitch length , it will allow me to turn the saw shaft at half that speed, and get the chain speed well within its operational requirements. I hate it when I discover I bought the wrong parts! Anyone out there been through this before? What challenges did you run into? Any and all advise appreciated......quik
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Home Made / Re: Gasification wood boiler build
« on: November 22, 2010, 06:03:18 AM »
Obama was here to address our high school graduating class, so I can imagine what your going thru, it was interesting watching the scout planes and helicopters checking rooftops. Also, those Secret Service guys aren't no joke! The told the homeowners near where his helicopter landed NOT TO BE SEEN IN ANY UPSTAIRS WINDOWS...........because the consequences would not be good...lol
Back to your project, your in the home stretch and I am sure 4 days will allow for much progress even with a nap from a large holiday meal. I too hope to get lots done this week. I am interested to see how your fire path will work, ie; size of opening to the secondary burn chamber etc. I am assuming the by-pass door is for an upward draft upon start up? Your so close, I am sure you will not get in a hurry and bring this baby home!
8 acres? think that would be enuff to work out the bugs in my processor? I am hoping to do that in 5 acres or less.
I have some cross members to add to the tongue section and the log trough will tie it all together, I tend to build on the "heavy" side. When it's done I think the question may be will the 3500 lb. axles be enough? Keep pressing on bro.
Back to your project, your in the home stretch and I am sure 4 days will allow for much progress even with a nap from a large holiday meal. I too hope to get lots done this week. I am interested to see how your fire path will work, ie; size of opening to the secondary burn chamber etc. I am assuming the by-pass door is for an upward draft upon start up? Your so close, I am sure you will not get in a hurry and bring this baby home!
8 acres? think that would be enuff to work out the bugs in my processor? I am hoping to do that in 5 acres or less.
I have some cross members to add to the tongue section and the log trough will tie it all together, I tend to build on the "heavy" side. When it's done I think the question may be will the 3500 lb. axles be enough? Keep pressing on bro.
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Home Made / Re: Gasification wood boiler build
« on: November 21, 2010, 06:41:58 PM »
I know your getting anxious to fire this baby up! It's been a pleasure to follow your progress and I find myself on the edge of my seat waiting for feedback on the operation and performance of this jewel. I appreciate you taking the time to share the build with all of us here. Keep up the good work and I am sure your efforts will be greatly rewarded............
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 21, 2010, 06:26:49 PM »
I took a couple of pics as I know they show a lot more than words. I will try to document the project as it progresses.
The third pic is of a couple of tanks I scored which will be used in an OWB someday...
I started working on the splitter beam and the log trough, I will post pics soon.
Ok, so the first pic is the tanks.......I will get the hang of adding photos with practice
[attachment deleted by admin for space issues]
The third pic is of a couple of tanks I scored which will be used in an OWB someday...
I started working on the splitter beam and the log trough, I will post pics soon.
Ok, so the first pic is the tanks.......I will get the hang of adding photos with practice
[attachment deleted by admin for space issues]
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 12, 2010, 04:08:14 PM »
Hello ryan4030,
I think a small diesel engine would be awesome for this type of project. I am working on a shoe string budget so for now I will be powering with a 13 HP from harbor freight ($299) I know...this unit will not be a huge powerhouse , I am hopeful that I can process a cord plus per hour with a good supply of wood. I am looking to take the work out of firewood as my back is getting tired. Given due care I think this machine will do what I expect of it. I will be using a 23 GPM Barnes 2 stage pump, I need to look at the operation sequence in order to keep things moving. By driving the saw with belts, the hydraulics will be available for other operations while sawing. The cylinder is 5" by 24" which should give plenty of splitting force, I think I calculated a cycle time of 10 seconds. I am wondering if I should have stayed with a 4" cylinder for faster cycle times. This machine will also have a log lifter on it for splitting large rounds, kinda dual purpose processor/splitter. I will get some pics posted soon, I scored a couple of tanks (future OWB) from a demolition job, some kindling from another, and some large skids for which I can place split wood to keep it off the ground. I got a call this morning with a tip on some logs cut to 8 foot in length and the guy will load them on my trailer for the taking.....so another task has presented itself I am close to having my outdoor tasks completed so I can devote much of my time on the processor.
I think a small diesel engine would be awesome for this type of project. I am working on a shoe string budget so for now I will be powering with a 13 HP from harbor freight ($299) I know...this unit will not be a huge powerhouse , I am hopeful that I can process a cord plus per hour with a good supply of wood. I am looking to take the work out of firewood as my back is getting tired. Given due care I think this machine will do what I expect of it. I will be using a 23 GPM Barnes 2 stage pump, I need to look at the operation sequence in order to keep things moving. By driving the saw with belts, the hydraulics will be available for other operations while sawing. The cylinder is 5" by 24" which should give plenty of splitting force, I think I calculated a cycle time of 10 seconds. I am wondering if I should have stayed with a 4" cylinder for faster cycle times. This machine will also have a log lifter on it for splitting large rounds, kinda dual purpose processor/splitter. I will get some pics posted soon, I scored a couple of tanks (future OWB) from a demolition job, some kindling from another, and some large skids for which I can place split wood to keep it off the ground. I got a call this morning with a tip on some logs cut to 8 foot in length and the guy will load them on my trailer for the taking.....so another task has presented itself I am close to having my outdoor tasks completed so I can devote much of my time on the processor.
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Equipment / Re: firewood processor build
« on: November 03, 2010, 07:46:19 PM »
Thanks for the welcome jackel.
I picked up an electric lawnmower clutch on ebay, it will be activated when the saw bar is moved from the "parked" position via a limit switch and relay. The bar oiler pump will also be triggered the same way. I have not yet found a suitable pump, I am not sure if a good automotive fuel pump will pump bar oil??? If I can't find an elec pump maybe a mechanical pump of some sort. You are right on with the jackshaft, I believe I will need two shafts, Oregon recommends 8000 feet per min on the chain speed, so getting that from a 3600 rpm drive engine will dictate a ratio of approx 2:1 . The problem is the clutch is about 5 inches in diameter and I don't think I can transfer 13 HP through a sheave half that size. To further complicate this drive, the engine shaft isn't long enough to mount the clutch to it, and the lovejoy type coupling for the pump drive. See how messy this gets in a hurry? Sounds like we have a lot in common regarding fab work. I have followed your boiler build with great interest, you do nice work! I am new to this OWB stuff, but I like the idea of an efficient, clean burn stove. Keep the pics coming and I will do so as well.
thanks again..........Quik
I picked up an electric lawnmower clutch on ebay, it will be activated when the saw bar is moved from the "parked" position via a limit switch and relay. The bar oiler pump will also be triggered the same way. I have not yet found a suitable pump, I am not sure if a good automotive fuel pump will pump bar oil??? If I can't find an elec pump maybe a mechanical pump of some sort. You are right on with the jackshaft, I believe I will need two shafts, Oregon recommends 8000 feet per min on the chain speed, so getting that from a 3600 rpm drive engine will dictate a ratio of approx 2:1 . The problem is the clutch is about 5 inches in diameter and I don't think I can transfer 13 HP through a sheave half that size. To further complicate this drive, the engine shaft isn't long enough to mount the clutch to it, and the lovejoy type coupling for the pump drive. See how messy this gets in a hurry?
Sounds like we have a lot in common regarding fab work. I have followed your boiler build with great interest, you do nice work! I am new to this OWB stuff, but I like the idea of an efficient, clean burn stove. Keep the pics coming and I will do so as well. thanks again..........Quik
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Equipment / firewood processor build
« on: November 03, 2010, 06:00:47 PM »
Hello everyone, I am new here and have enjoyed reading the posts. It seems like the outdoor heaters are the way to go. I am sure a build is in my future. I currently heat my home with firewood only, burning in a fireplace insert, and a free standing stove in basement, both units have secondary burn. I sold my old log splitter as I was contemplating building a new one. After studying many of the commercial and homemade units on the net, I have made a note of features I like, to incorporate into my project. After much consideration, I had decided that a firewood processor would be too complicated and expensive.... well, after watching videos of processors from Blacks Creek, and Bell's Machining, I have committed to building a processor. This past week-end I welded up the frame with tongue and installed the axle and wheels, so it is now easy to move around. Split right splitters inspired the splitter end of my design. I have opted to go with a belt drive for the harvester bar, I like the simplicity of this design, but believe it will prove to be the most troublesome part of my design. I am not an engineer, but do like to tinker. Has anyone experimented with belt drive on a saw? I am thinking 2 belts powered by a 13 HP engine which will also run the hydraulics. I will post pics as I progress if anyone would like to see them.
Quik
Quik
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