I've been collecting parts for some time and I'm about ready to build my splitter. Would you guys, please, double check my calculations. I've got a Casappa PLP20.16 pump [1.03 in3/rev, 3600 (max)psi, 3000 (max)rpm]. I calculate 13.38 GPM. Does 28 HP sound right? The pump is brand new and was free. I acquired a 4.5 in X 32 in cylinder (also free). I have a 2 in X 12 in cylinder that I plan to use for a log lifter/kicker. I have not decided on control valves, yet. I'm leaning toward 12vdc solenoid valves and a foot pedal control. This would allow for the placement of an adjustable limit switch to control retract stroke. Any comments or ideas are welcome.
Another log splitter project
- Thread starter kjung17
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J_J
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A solenoid setup with a log splitter is a rarity.
Your HP figures are correct. Where will the 28 HP be coming from? Is that from a separate engine, or you thinking of using the PTO? The PTO will run between 540 and 1000 rpm.
You will have to add a relief valve, and there is no feathering. You will have full flow when the valve is activated.
You could probably set up the splitter with two variable timers, and give the log splitter an automatic cycle. You would definitely need override. The way it could work would be like this. The first timer extends the cyl, and when that timer has timed out, the retract timer activates, and when fully retracted, stops the cyl or if auto mode, go into the auto cycle.
Your HP figures are correct. Where will the 28 HP be coming from? Is that from a separate engine, or you thinking of using the PTO? The PTO will run between 540 and 1000 rpm.
You will have to add a relief valve, and there is no feathering. You will have full flow when the valve is activated.
You could probably set up the splitter with two variable timers, and give the log splitter an automatic cycle. You would definitely need override. The way it could work would be like this. The first timer extends the cyl, and when that timer has timed out, the retract timer activates, and when fully retracted, stops the cyl or if auto mode, go into the auto cycle.
I'm not feeling too warm and fuzzy about an automatic cycle. (although I thought about it :laughing
I'd probably cut my finger off:thumbdown:. I was figuring on a foot pedal with 1-N.O. and 1-N.C.(I've got one around here, somewhere). Run the retract cycle through the N.C. on the pedal and a N.C. limit switch on the rail, to be opened by the retracting cylinder. That way, I'll have automatic/adjustable retract function. The extend function will only work with the pedal. I wish I had a proximity/safety switch that senses wood, so the extend pedal would be "dead" until a log was placed on the beam. I've only got magnetic. I was, mostly, wondering if my HP calculations were correct. 28 HP is a lot of engine for a splitter. I've got a 22 HP horizontal shaft Onan gas engine that I was thinking about using. I believe that will give me about 3000 psi. I have a cushion valve from a snow blade that I was going to use as a relief. I will probably go with a suction strainer in the tank and skip the filter (undecided).
I'd probably cut my finger off:thumbdown:. I was figuring on a foot pedal with 1-N.O. and 1-N.C.(I've got one around here, somewhere). Run the retract cycle through the N.C. on the pedal and a N.C. limit switch on the rail, to be opened by the retracting cylinder. That way, I'll have automatic/adjustable retract function. The extend function will only work with the pedal. I wish I had a proximity/safety switch that senses wood, so the extend pedal would be "dead" until a log was placed on the beam. I've only got magnetic. I was, mostly, wondering if my HP calculations were correct. 28 HP is a lot of engine for a splitter. I've got a 22 HP horizontal shaft Onan gas engine that I was thinking about using. I believe that will give me about 3000 psi. I have a cushion valve from a snow blade that I was going to use as a relief. I will probably go with a suction strainer in the tank and skip the filter (undecided).
J_J
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The design of the pump itself will dictate the available pressure, which of course, is dictated by the resistance to the flow . The GPM's will determine the speed. You do not need that big of an engine with a two stage pump.
The 22 HP Onan, will support a 10.5 GPM pump, at 3000 psi, or a 28 GPM two stage pump. Your cycle times should be real good.
The 22 HP Onan, will support a 10.5 GPM pump, at 3000 psi, or a 28 GPM two stage pump. Your cycle times should be real good.
Thanks for the input. I was hoping to get by without having to buy very much, initially. I'll use what I have for the first design. Then I'll replace whatever doesn't work right. I'll have to gear up the engine to get my 3000 rpm at the pump. A 2 stage pump would be great, but this other pump was free. The cycle time should, indeed, be pretty sweet. I can scavenge solenoid valves off of some old street sweepers. I can get the hose and fittings from work, at cost. I'm leaning toward a pull type rather than 3-point. I'll try to post some pics when I get started.
J_J
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SSdoxie
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My first thought in reading this was get rid on the foot switch. Too easy to accidentally step on it while hands are in splitter try to position the log. Go with the valve JJ posted there mounted back behind the cylinder so you can't one hand in the splitter while other is holding down the lever. This valve also gives you detent return and incorporates the relief valve you will need.
The 4.5" cylinder @ 3600 psi will give you 28.6 Ton force, dropping relief pressure to 3000 psi gives you 23.85 Ton. How much force do you need? @ 3000 psi with your pump brings HP to 24. You could set the pump beside engine and drive it off a sprocket reduction, slow pump down to about 2000 RPM (10 gpm) & @ 3000 psi you would need 17.5 hp. Lot easier to find engine in this size. All depends on cycle time you are after.
The 4.5" cylinder @ 3600 psi will give you 28.6 Ton force, dropping relief pressure to 3000 psi gives you 23.85 Ton. How much force do you need? @ 3000 psi with your pump brings HP to 24. You could set the pump beside engine and drive it off a sprocket reduction, slow pump down to about 2000 RPM (10 gpm) & @ 3000 psi you would need 17.5 hp. Lot easier to find engine in this size. All depends on cycle time you are after.