The correct working methods combined with the right felling head are essential when felling trees. This not only creates a safe and secure working environment as it also makes the task more effective.
Table of Contents:
Plan in Advance
Preparation is the secret when using a chainsaw for tree removal. If you have planned the felling well and the right forestry equipment you should bring, your working session will not only be safer as it also makes your post-felling job so much easier.
Felling head RK 260
Check if there are major obstacles like buildings, roads, or overhead lines in the area. Use warning signs if there is a road crossing the forestry area or there are lots of passersby every day.
Check the Direction of the Felling
Study the tree carefully to determine the felling direction. What is the appearance and growth of the branches? You also need to consider the direction of the wind.
Video: Uniforest Felling head RK250
If you are not sure of the natural felling direction of the tree, take a step back from the tree and check using a plumbline. Clear the area surrounding the tree in the intended direction for felling. You also need to clear around 45 degrees at the back of the tree in both directions to create your retreat path.
Prune the Tree Trunk
After the area is cleared, put up the warning signs and decide on the direction of fall of the tree and your retreat path. You have to check to ensure that your tank has enough fuel for the job. It is then time for you to prune the tree trunk to remove all the twigs and branches that could get in the way as when you saw the felling cut. Working with a pulling chain from the top down is the safest way of pruning.
Choose Your Cutting Technique
When the trunk is already free from twigs up to shoulder height, the felling cut should now be made. As you do this, there are two things to keep in mind. The hinge must have uniform thickness with the correct dimensions. You also need to insert the breaking bar or felling wedge before the tree pinches the guide bar. The technique you will use to make the cut will depend on the slop and tree size and on the chainsaw’s size.
Inspect for Diseases
If the timber is soft and discolored or if the trunk’s lower portion looks diseased or swollen, it is important to be extra careful. This indicates rot infestation in the tree, which also means weakened wood fibers.
Once this happens, the tree must fell in the natural direction of fall. A winch can also be used if you are not sure. Rot infestation is often found much higher in the tree so an extra high stump is a good option for felling the tree.
Pick Your Tool
You can choose from several felling tools when taking down the tree. The tree’s size will determine the specific type of forestry equipment that you will need. A felling head can come in handy for bigger and more intensive jobs.
