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Selecting the right hand-fed woodchipper can make a significant difference in the efficiency, safety and overall success of your tree care operation. With the wide range of chipper models, configurations and features available today, understanding how different components impact performance can help professionals make informed decisions.

Matching the chipper to the job

Tree care professionals regularly encounter a variety of job types – from small residential pruning to large-scale lot clearing. Choosing the appropriate size and style of chipper is critical. Compact chippers, with the capacity to handle logs from 6 to 9 inches in diameter, are often ideal for routine residential work, while larger models, for logs up to 21 inches in diameter, can handle more demanding applications.

Professionals also should consider whether a disc or drum chipper better fits their needs. Drum-style chippers tend to offer larger throat openings, which is an advantage for brushy material and palm fronds, whereas disc-style chippers often provide higher discharge velocity, which can be useful for certain applications like broadcasting chips over a site.

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Key features that boost productivity

One area of innovation in modern chippers is the feed system. Dual hydraulic feed wheels – powered by high-displacement motors – provide strong pulling power and smooth feeding, especially for irregular or brushy material. A key maintenance feature to look for is a bottom clean-out door on dual feed-wheel systems, which helps reduce knife wear by allowing dirt and debris to fall away. Clearing this door periodically throughout the day can extend blade life and reduce downtime.

Additionally, wider infeed hoppers and fold-down trays can make a big difference in how quickly material can be processed. These design choices are particularly beneficial when handling bulky limbs or working with limited crew sizes.

Maintenance and ease of use

Downtime costs money, so chipper designs that prioritize simplicity and serviceability can be a real advantage. Units that minimize complex electronics in favor of hydraulic systems are generally easier to troubleshoot in the field. Easy access to service points, filters and engine compartments also can help crews stay productive.

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Power options and efficiency

Engine selection is another important factor. Whether powered by gasoline or diesel, engine performance should match the type of work being performed. Professionals also should understand how drum and disc systems interact with engine power. For example, larger drums with more knives may allow smoother processing with lower horsepower, while disc chippers may be favored when chip discharge speed is a priority.

Adapting to specialized work

Bandit prides itself by offering customization options that allow contractors to tailor their machines to their specific workflows. These may include hydraulic winches, specialized lighting, tool holders, loaders and track undercarriages for off-road or remote-access work. Choosing the right add-ons can significantly enhance a chipper’s utility in applications like land clearing or fire prevention.

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Safety and support

Of course, safety should always be a top consideration. When evaluating chipper models, make sure they comply with relevant OSHA and ANSI standards.

Final thoughts

Investing in a chipper is a long-term decision that should be guided by the type of work you do, the conditions you work in and your team’s operational needs. Taking time to understand chipper designs, features and maintenance considerations can lead to better outcomes for your crew and your clients.

Bethany Lenahan is trade-show, social-media and promotional coordinator for Bandit Industries, a 38-year TCIA corporate member company based in Remus, Michigan. Bandit Industries is a manufacturer of hand-fed woodchippers since 1983. For more information on equipment options and specifications, visit www.banditchippers.com or contact your local authorized dealer.

TCI Magazine’s sponsored content is a paid feature. References to products and services do not represent an endorsement by TCIA. This article is sponsored by Bandit Industries. Contact advertising@tcia.org for more information.