How to Size a Log Splitter

A log splitter is sized by the pressure it exerts to split logs, the horsepower of the motor it has and the length of the logs it can split. The force of its pressure is measured in tons. Firewood production operations use large professional log splitters with high pressure and engines with plenty of horsepower to quickly split hundreds of logs per day. A small log splitter uses much less force with an engine that has horsepower similar to a walk behind lawn mower. Smaller log splitters are for home use to split enough logs for a fireplace each season.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Measure the pressure a log splitter exerts in terms of tonnage. A small log splitter generates 8 to 12 tons for consumers. A professional log splitter uses 25 to 35 tons of pressure for rapid production.

   • 2

     Measure the engine horsepower on a log splitter. A firewood production model typically has more than 10 horsepower while a consumer unit uses less than five horsepower.

   • 3

     Measure the throat size of a mechanical splitter to determine the length of logs it will split. A small log splitter takes 24 to 27 inch logs, while a professional log splitter can take logs up to 4 feet in length.