As a busy tree care contractor, your bottom line is dependent upon getting the job done quickly and moving on to the next one in a timely fashion. Taking a rushed approach, however, can often negatively impact the fuel efficiency of your brush chipper, and therefore, your bottom line. By taking time to follow a few simple operational and maintenance tips, you can help ensure your machines are running efficiently and cost-effectively.
Effective maintenance
A smooth-running machine is a fuel-efficient machine, and following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance regimen can help increase both productivity and fuel efficiency.
“The harder the machine has to work to chip the wood, the more fuel it’s going to use. So, one of the best ways to make chipping easier on the machine is to make sure the knives are kept sharp,” says Matt Hutchinson, product manager at Vermeer. “Regularly inspect the knives, and if any dings or dullness are present, it’s probably time to sharpen or replace. It’s also important to adjust the anvil so that it is at the manufacturer-recommended distance from the knife and is positioned so that the blade has a nice square edge to cut against.”
Other key areas of maintenance that are linked to fuel efficiency include filters, grease fittings and fans.
“Make sure that fuel and oil filters are cleaned and replaced according to your owner’s manual, that all cooling fans are free of debris, and that you follow the fluid and lubricator chart on your machinery” says Hutchinson. “Keeping everything clean and lubed will make sure the machine is running smoothly and efficiently.”
Efficient operation
The way you operate your chipper can have a great impact on its fuel efficiency.
“The key is to make sure you’re running the machine when you need to be,” says Hutchinson. “I would recommend creating a staging site with all the wood that needs chipped, and then chip it all at once, as opposed to the chipper constantly running or starting up and shutting down multiple times. When the machine is running, but not chipping, it’s also important to make sure it idles, rather than running at full rpm.”
The right equipment for the job
Lastly, having the proper machine for the job can also play into the fuel-efficiency equation.
“Right-sizing your equipment is very important. Having a machine that is too small will slow you down, but having a machine that is too large will waste fuel,” explains Hutchinson. “It’s also important to look at the fuel-saving features of the equipment you’re purchasing or renting. They differ by manufacturer, but for instance, Vermeer chippers offer EcoIdle™ engine control system, which automatically reduces the rpm of the machine after one minute or five minutes of inactivity. Coupled with the SmartFeed feature — which automatically monitors engine speed and stops the feed rollers if needed — these machines can greatly improve fuel efficiency.
Regardless of brand, by properly maintaining your chipper, operating it efficiently and making sure it’s the right size for the type of work you’re doing, you can save fuel and positively impact your bottom line.