The Use Of Oil In Electric Log Splitters

As the threat of winter draws ever closer many people are beginning to replenish their firewood supplies in preparation for the months ahead. To help cut down the time needed to complete these sorts of tasks, more and more people are investing in electric log splitters; these provide a safe and quick way to generate plenty of firewood for your home. But what sorts of oil will you need to use in your splitter and why?

More often then not, an electric splitter will employ a hydraulic system that will build pressure against the piece of timber and is responsibility for lubricating the moving parts. Generally, the oil that you use in your machine should possess a 10W (or a 10 winter) rating. This will allow the oil to flow seamlessly at very low temperatures when other fluids would thicken or even freeze. You may also use hydrostatic oil in the machine if you so choose.

Similarly to the oil that you use in your car’s engine, the oil in your log splitter much be drained and replaced periodically. The manufacturer will often provide you with guidelines on when to do this, although it is generally recommended that you change the oil after every 150 hours of use. This is because the oil will slowly become less gelatinous, which means that it can begin to choke up the moving parts of your machine.

The oil that you have put into your splitter will be stored in a sealed pump and storage system. When the machine is turned on, however, the system will require air movement so that the oil can contract and expand to create the pressure needed to cut through the wood. Most models will feature a bleed valve or screw that much be opened during use to ensure that there is adequate airflow throughout the system.

When it comes to purchasing an oil to use in your electric log splitter, however, it is important that you read the manual provided by the manufacturer to make sure that you are using the right type for your model. If you are unable to find the type of oil in your paperwork, make sure that you speak with the dealer who sold you the chipper or contact the manufacturer directly. Using the wrong oil could cause all sorts of issues.