Harvester chain is designed to resist stretching/breaking caused by the drive power of harvester machines. But it doesn’t necessarily last any longer than normal chain, especially if operators try to force dull chains to cut by using too much hydraulic power.
When harvester measurement is used, acquisition costs decrease significantly in contracting (1) and planning (2), transportation (3), measuring at industry (4) and final invoicing (5).
Dull Chain
When a chainsaw is dull, it won’t cut wood as effectively as it should. This impedes production and can be dangerous for the operator. A dull chain can also increase kickback, which is the main source of chainsaw injury.
A dull chain will feel like it is grinding into the wood, creating fine sawdust instead of coarse strands. This is a sign that it’s time to sharpen the chain.
A chain should be sharpened as soon as it becomes dull. Using a sharp chain reduces friction, fuel consumption and damage to the guide bar. You can easily sharpen your harvester chain with a file or electric grinder. STIHL offers chain sharpening services at all of our approved dealers, and we carry replacement chains for your convenience. Keeping your chainsaw chain sharp reduces wear on the guide bar and cutter teeth and increases cutting efficiency. If your chain is excessively wearing down, it’s likely due to a bad guide bar or sprocket and requires repair or replacement.
Binding
Harvester chain operators have to work quickly, efficiently and safely. The quality of the chain they use is important to achieve these goals.
A problem that can seriously limit the productivity of a harvester is a phenomenon known as binding. This occurs when a chain breaks and, depending on the circumstances, chain parts can whip away at high speed and carry tremendous dynamic energy. When this energy is not absorbed by a saw box or another energy-absorbing mechanism, the chain can be thrown at dangerously high speeds and damage the harvester head.
A system for reducing this risk comprises a pair of central rake supports, each having a series of dependent hook shaped teeth carried by it and eccentric rings also pivotally connected to said teeth, a rocker plate having rollers adapted to run on the eccentric rings and means for releasing the binding mechanism when the eccentric rings are closed.
Excessive Hydraulic Power
Excessive hydraulic power is a common issue that affects harvester chain operations. It can cause the chain to bind, and it can also cause severe damage to the bar nose and sprocket. Hydraulic components are vital in equipment that harvests crops and manages livestock. They allow farm production to be faster and more efficient, reducing downtime and strengthening productivity.
Many harvester chains are equipped with powerful hydraulic drive motors that can pull the chain even when it binds. This may seem to be a good thing, but forcibly pulling a pinched chain puts extreme stress on the bar tip, separating the nose laminates, crushing the sprocket nose and losing bearings.
It’s important to keep the harvester chain sharp, and always check the chip size to determine if it’s time for a new bar nose. Doing these simple things can significantly reduce the amount of force required to cut with a harvester chain. It’s also a good idea to avoid taking stimulants and depressants before operating machinery, and wear safety gear if necessary.
The Boom
A knuckle-under boom can smash into trees, cars, mail boxes, fire hydrants and telephone poles. A skilled operator minimizes impact, but even the best equipment can be inefficient if the layout of truck roads and landings aren’t optimal.