Chipper

Home		Chipper / Shredder
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	Engine horsepower for chippers can go up higher than 50 hp pn gas powered machines.
	The size of the feed throat determines the largest diameter branch that can be chipped in the chipper. For example a throat of 17 inch x 6 inch means the largest diameter branch that can fit is a 6 inch diameter branch.
	The number of blades on the chipper indicates the capabilities of the machine. In general, the more chipper and shredder blades, the more efficient the machine.
	Reduction ratio. A 10:1 ratio means that ten bags of yard waste are reduced to one bag of processed material.

Direct Drive or Clutch chipper:

The direct drive version keeps the chipper blades moving whenever the motor is on. These models are generally less expensive.

Larger chipper models use a clutch to disengage the blades from rotating when not being used. Clutch type models are generally easier to start and allow the motor to "gear down" when heavy material slows the chipper.

Stand alone or Power-Take-Off (PTO)

A power take-off (PTO) Chipper or Chipper shredder does not have its own power source but requires a splined driveshaft, usually on a tractor or truck that can be used to provide power to the chipper or Chipper/Shredder. It is designed to be easily connected and disconnected. If you have a PTO capability then this is a more economical way to go.

However, if no outside source of power is available then a stand alone chipper or chipper/shredder with its own gas powered engine is required.

How Chipper/Shredders Work