There can be a love-hate relationship with technology. On one hand, technology improvements can make our lives better, but on the other hand, they can be difficult to adjust to. When it comes to tree care technology in Vermeer brush chippers and stump cutters, the goal is for each piece of technology to be intuitive, convenient and efficient. Technology should work with you, not against you.
Here are a few technology features across the entire lineup of brush chippers and stump cutters that can work with you to help maximize productivity on the jobsite. These technology innovations were created through Vermeer’s constant pursuit to find a better way.
Brush chipper technology
SmartFeed system
SmartFeed is a patented feed-sensing control system that monitors engine rpm and automatically stops or reverses feed rollers when necessary. SmartFeed also senses feed roller jams and responds by automatically shifting material back and forth, reducing the need for manual control bar manipulation.
This exclusive system from Vermeer maximizes operator productivity and helps minimize strain on vital engine parts, as rpm settings are adjustable and automatically monitored. With a switch, operators can choose between three rpm droop settings to fit the job’s specific application: high-speed droop, medium-speed droop and low-speed droop. These three rpm settings offer versatility for varying applications.
- High-speed droop is recommended to use when you’re feeding large limbs and trunks through the machine.
- Medium-speed droop should be used when feeding small limbs or branches into the brush chipper.
- Low-speed droop is recommended when loading mostly brush into the chipper.
SmartCrush control system
On Vermeer brush chippers with horizontal feed rollers, there is a feature called SmartCrush. Here’s how it works:
- Down pressure is minimized until the feed roller has climbed up and onto the material.
- Then down pressure increases to push the material to the cutter drum.
- With the material securely gripped by the infeed system, the operator can concentrate on the next load of material.
The brush chipper monitors position and down pressure of the infeed roller. This entire process enables the feed roller to start the feeding process.
EcoIdle™ engine control system
The EcoIdle engine control system automatically lowers engine speed to a preset lower rpm if no material has been chipped for one to five minutes. The time frame is adjustable, depending on your preference, and can help consume less fuel if the feeding process has frequent interruptions, and also aid in jobsite noise reduction.
Stump cutter technology
SmartSweep™ control system
The exclusive SmartSweep control system monitors engine load and provides continuous feedback to the operator. This system results in a smooth and consistent cutter wheel sweep rate.
This feature maximizes efficiency and productivity at the stump, and helps minimize wear and tear on the machine by keeping the engine load in check.
Vermeer cutting system (VCS)
The latest technology to be added to Vermeer stump cutters is the Vermeer cutting system (VCS). This patented design specifically solves several challenges associated with traditional cutting systems. One of the main areas of enhancement is around the tooth and bolt areas.
“Torquing cutter teeth daily is pretty common for most stump cutter users,” explained Josh Vrieze, senior product manager for Tree Care, Rental and Landscape at Vermeer. “Bolts that aren’t torqued properly may rotate in the pocket, which can cause premature wear and impact the performance of the cutter wheel. The tooth design on the VCS has a mounting and retention structure that helps keep teeth from shifting while absorbing the shearing force, instead of the bolt securing the tooth to the cutter wheel while operating. This design makes it possible to secure each set of teeth with a single long bolt and reduces the need for retorquing.”
Plus, the V-profile of the carbide optimizes cutting productivity and the industrial carbide material gains productivity at the stump.
Even though the VCS retains the two-sided cutter design of the original Yellow Jacket™ cutter system, it’s unique because rather than rotate in the pocket, the tooth is flipped to the other side of the wheel to access the other cutting edge. At the machine center’s core, there are inserts between the teeth on each side to help keep them protected.
Another enhanced feature is the wear plates on the VCS. Made from AR500 high-abrasion steel, the wear plates are designed for longevity. Additionally, they can be replaced as needed at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire wheel.
Operator presence system
The operator presence system allows the cutter wheel to automatically stop when the operator releases the hydraulic cutter wheel controls. This is incorporated in the platform on the operator’s station and an operator presence control knob is incorporated in the side operator’s station. This user-friendly system was designed with safety in mind.
All of these technology features are designed to help you while operating Vermeer equipment. Brush chippers and stump cutters are complicated machines, but these innovations help operating them feel smooth and intuitive. If you have any questions about these features or other questions about Vermeer equipment, reach out to your local Vermeer dealer today.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications.
Vermeer, the Vermeer logo, EcoIdle, Tree Commander, SmartSweep and Yellow Jacket are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. © 2022 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved.