How to choose the best log splitter: buying guide

These machines are particularly useful for professionals working in the wood cutting and processing sector and for private individuals for splitting firewood for fireplaces, stoves or wood ovens.

These devices use hydraulic, electric or mechanical power to split logs into smaller, more manageable logs, making the work safer, faster and more efficient.

In this article, we will explore the various types of log splitters, their main features and guide you in choosing the most suitable model for your needs.

Main features to consider

When choosing a log splitter, there are several key characteristics to consider to ensure you make the right choice:

- Splitting force: expressed in tonnes, this indicates the force with which the log splitter can push the wedge against the wood.

- Type of splitting: some models allow splitting into two logs (simple splitting), while others can split the log into several pieces (multiple splitting).

- Cylinder stroke: indicates the distance the wedge or screw can travel during the pushing phase. A longer stroke allows longer logs to be split.

- Type of blade: can be wedge or X-shaped. Wedge-shaped blades are more suitable for straight logs, while cross-shaped blades (also called X-blades) are more effective with knotty logs.

- Type of power supply: can be electric, hydraulic or petrol. The choice depends on your specific needs and the conditions in which you will be working.

- Type of orientation: they can be vertical or horizontal. Vertical log splitters take up less space, while horizontal ones may be easier to load.

- Portability: petrol log splitters can be fixed or on wheels for easy transport.

What are the various types of log splitters

There are different types of log splitters, each suited to specific needs and conditions of use. Let us examine the various types of log splitters in relation to the models designed by Zanon.

Electric log splitter

Electric log splitters operate by means of a hydraulic system powered by an electric motor. The hydraulic pump pressurises oil in a cylinder, which pushes a wedge against the log to be split. The pushing force, measured in tonnes, determines the log splitter's ability to cope with logs of different sizes and hardness.

Zanon designs electric log splitters with different thrust forces, from 8 to 25 tonnes, to meet the needs of both private and professional users. Compared to petrol log splitters, they are much quieter, produce no exhaust emissions and are suitable for use in residential areas.

In particular, we examine the SVE-10/12 electric log splitter. This is a robust electric vertical log splitter designed to tackle even the most stubborn logs. Equipped with a thrust force of 10 or 12 tonnes, this log splitter can split logs up to 60 cm in diameter and a maximum height of 67 cm.

The double pump and the large blade guarantee a powerful thrust and fast work performance. Another highlight is the height-adjustable work table, which allows the log splitter to be adapted to different types of cutting. The integrated wheels make it easy to move, while the compact design makes it ideal for tight spaces.

Hydraulic log splitter

The operation of hydraulic log splitters is based on the principle of hydraulic power. A hydraulic pump driven by an electric or combustion engine generates pressurised oil that is fed to a cylinder. The force of the cylinder pushes a wedge against the log, exerting pressure that splits it into two or more pieces. The hydraulic system guarantees high power and constant thrust, allowing even hard and gnarled wood to be tackled with minimal effort.

Let's analyze the characteristics of the SVI-20 hydraulic log splitter designed by Zanon. This is a professional model designed for splitting large logs, up to 100 cm in diameter and 110 cm in height. Its 20-tonne thrust guarantees high power and flawless performance even with hard and gnarled wood.

It includes a 1050 mm cylinder for more power and stability, and an adjustable automatic limit switch control system for greater precision and safety. A removable table top and side support allow for greater versatility and ease of use. Finally, it is equipped with an oil-bath gearbox for greater smoothness and silence.

Petrol engine log splitter

Petrol engine log splitters operate with a petrol engine that drives a hydraulic or screw system, generating a considerable thrust force capable of splitting even the strongest logs.

The engine drives a hydraulic pump that pressurises the oil in a cylinder. In the cylinder runs a piston that pushes a wedge or screw against the wood.

The petrol log splitter has a strong steel structure that supports the engine, the pushing system and the log. The structure can be vertical or horizontal, depending on the model.

Let's take a closer look at the SLS-10 petrol log splitter designed by Zanon. Powered by a reliable 6.5 hp Honda engine, the SLS-10 is perfect for use outdoors or where a mains connection is not available, or for all those who do not have a farm tractor. The dual working speed allows you to optimise the time according to the size and hardness of the wood.

Equipped with a thrust of 10 tonnes, this log splitter is capable of cutting logs up to 50 cm in diameter and 90 cm high.

The log splitter is equipped with transport wheels that make it easy to move around, while the large reinforced work surface provides a stable surface for positioning logs. The automatic limit switch control system guarantees maximum cutting precision, while the integrated safety devices protect the operator during work.

Tractor-mounted log splitter

Tractor-mounted log splitters harness the power of the agricultural tractor to which they are attached, generating considerable force and allowing even the hardest and most gnarled logs to be split with ease. The thrust force can vary greatly from model to model, even exceeding 20 tonnes.

In addition to tractor-driven log splitters, there are also PTO-driven models. These are connected to the tractor's PTO via a cardan shaft, using the power of the tractor engine to drive the splitting mechanism.

It should be noted that shaft-driven log splitters are generally more powerful than tractor-driven ones, thanks to the greater power input from the shaft system.

Zanon designs log splitters that can work both with a tractor and with a cardan shaft, to meet the needs of every user. In this case we analyse the SVT-25 tractor log splitter that can also be used with a cardan shaft.

Designed for industrial and open-country use, the SVT-25 log splitter is the ideal tool for those who want a reliable and high-performance product for processing firewood.

Equipped with a thrust of 25 tonnes, this vertical log splitter can handle logs of varying sizes, up to 110 cm in height and 110 cm in diameter.

It can handle logs of different sizes, thanks to its double support table and standard log lifter.

As mentioned, it is also possible to request the T-50 cardan shaft for connection to the tractor and the cross wedge for greater splitting efficiency.

Advices on using a log splitter

To get the best use out of your log splitter, follow these simple tips:

- Regular maintenance: clean and lubricate your log splitter regularly to keep it in perfect working condition.


- Safety first: always wear personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety glasses.


- Correctly prepared wood: make sure that the logs are cut to the right length for your log splitter and that they are free of knots or imperfections that could damage the machine.


- Proper use: do not overload your log splitter and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.

Conclusion

Choosing the best log splitter requires care and a good understanding of your specific needs. Consider the type of log splitter, its main features and available models to find the best solution for you. The models offered by Zanon represent some of the best options on the market, combining power, efficiency and reliability.

As seen, Zanon offers a wide range of log splitters with different pushing force and size characteristics. In addition, other accessories can be added on request, such as wedges of different shapes and sizes, work tables and cylinder stroke extension kits.

Contact us and we will show you the model best suited to your needs!