Hey there! I'm a supplier of the 18xp Drum Style Hand - fed Chipper, and I often get asked about how to adjust the output size of the chips from this amazing machine. So, I thought I'd share some insights and tips with you all.
First off, let's talk a bit about why you might want to adjust the chip size. Different projects call for different chip sizes. For example, if you're using the chips for mulching in a garden, you might prefer a finer chip size to help with moisture retention and weed suppression. On the other hand, if you're using the chips for a biomass energy project, a coarser chip size might be more suitable.
The 18xp Drum Style Hand - fed Chipper is a great piece of equipment that gives you some flexibility when it comes to adjusting the chip size. One of the key factors that affects the chip size is the blade configuration. The 18xp comes with a set of sharp blades that are designed to cut through wood efficiently. By changing the arrangement or the type of blades, you can alter the size of the chips.
If you want finer chips, you can consider using blades with a smaller cutting edge. These blades will make more cuts per revolution of the drum, resulting in smaller chips. On the other hand, if you're looking for coarser chips, blades with a larger cutting edge will do the trick. They'll make fewer cuts, and the chips will be bigger.
Another important aspect is the speed of the drum. The 18xp allows you to adjust the drum speed, and this can have a significant impact on the chip size. A slower drum speed will generally result in larger chips. This is because the wood has more time to be cut by the blades, and the cuts are more spaced out. Conversely, a faster drum speed will produce smaller chips as the wood is cut more quickly and more frequently.
To adjust the drum speed on the 18xp, you'll need to refer to the user manual. It's usually a matter of adjusting a control knob or a setting on the machine. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damage to the chipper.

The type of wood you're chipping also plays a role in the chip size. Hardwoods like oak and maple tend to produce larger chips compared to softwoods like pine and spruce. This is because hardwoods are denser and more difficult to cut through. So, if you're aiming for a specific chip size, you might need to adjust your settings depending on the type of wood you're using.
Now, let's talk about some real - world examples. Say you're a landscaper who uses the 18xp to create mulch for your clients' gardens. You'd probably want to set the chipper to produce fine chips. You'd start by choosing blades with a small cutting edge and set the drum speed to a relatively high setting. This way, you'll get a nice, fine mulch that will look great and do a good job of protecting the soil.
On the other hand, if you're a biomass energy producer, you might be more interested in coarser chips. You'd use blades with a larger cutting edge and set the drum speed to a lower setting. This will give you the chips you need for your energy production process.
If you're still not sure how to adjust the chip size, don't worry. Our support team is always ready to help. We've got a lot of experience with the 18xp Drum Style Hand - fed Chipper, and we can guide you through the process step by step.
By the way, if you're interested in other models of hand - fed chippers, we also offer the Bandit 12xpc Hand Fed Chippers, the 12xc Towable Drum Style Hand Fed Chipper, and the 250xp Towable Disc Style Hand - fed Chipper. Each of these models has its own unique features and capabilities, and they're all designed to meet different needs.
Whether you're a professional landscaper, a biomass energy producer, or just someone who needs to clear some wood around your property, our hand - fed chippers are a great choice. They're built to last, easy to operate, and offer a high level of performance.
If you're thinking about purchasing a chipper, or if you have any questions about adjusting the chip size or any other aspect of our products, we'd love to hear from you. Just reach out to us, and we'll be happy to have a chat with you about your requirements and help you find the right solution.
In conclusion, adjusting the output size of the chips from the 18xp Drum Style Hand - fed Chipper is a matter of understanding the key factors like blade configuration, drum speed, and the type of wood. With a little practice and the right settings, you can get the perfect chip size for your project. So, don't hesitate to give it a try, and if you need any assistance, we're here for you.
References
- Manufacturer's manual for the 18xp Drum Style Hand - fed Chipper
- Industry best practices for wood chipping
