Status Update:
We stopped out to look at a Multitek processor a couple weeks ago and talked to the owners. After that we decided to change the wedge design to simplify the build. The box wedge just made everything so much bigger... After looking at Multitek, Timberwolf, and Built-Rite models that all use very similar wedge designs we decided to go that route.
We have a 1" thick x 5" deep main wedge with 1" angle welded on the sides for a spreader.
We have 2" x 6" rectangle tubing mounted behind it that the multi-wedge will ride up and down on.
The multi wedge will now be able to cut up to a 14" log 2 ways with the wedge all the way up and it can cut an 8" log 4 ways if all the way down.
It is still a progressive 8-way design but less complex since it does not have as many angled wedges and no longer has the box.
Note: the new color coding of the renderings is as follows, green is welded in place, dark blue is cut, light blue is on order or uncut, red is not ordered. The renderings were saved as images at different times so you will see a progression of colors as you go down the post.
The multi-wedge alone. The wedges will be made of 3/4" thick steel. The inner box will be made of 1/2" steel.
A rendering of a progressive split. You will see the 22" long log split half-way into the stroke and then with only 1" remaining in the stroke.
Last weekend we got the pillow blocks mounted and got all the sprockets on and the chains made up. That was pretty much Saturday.
Sunday we removed all those cross-bars to get keyways milled. We got the gantry welded in place and a lot of other things welded up so that they are ready to weld onto the frame.
Today I got many of the saw parts back from the machine shop. We ran into an issue with the sprocket. I ordered a standard 15 tooth .404 sprocket from Bailey's and planned on modifying it to fit the JA bushing. Well they got the center machined out and the holes drilled but the tap won't touch the hardened sprocket. We are at a point where we either need to buy a carbide tap or... I did end up finding that Oregon makes 11 to 16 tooth sprockets for a JA bushing. Need to decide this week which way we go.
I still need to get a plate for over top of the bar studs.
That is where we stand. No work this weekend. Next weekend we will likely build some of the splitter outfeed framing. May be a little bit longer before we get the wedge built. We'll need to see when we can get the pieces procured and cut.
