Drum Wood Chipper Benefits Explained (5 Pro Arborist Insights)

It seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it? To destroy wood in order to create something useful. But that’s precisely the paradox at the heart of wood chipping, and why understanding drum wood chipper benefits is so crucial for arborists, landscapers, and anyone dealing with tree waste. For years, I’ve wrestled with the problem of what to do with the mountains of branches and limbs left after tree trimming and removal. Burning was inefficient and environmentally unfriendly. Hauling it away was costly and time-consuming. Then I discovered the power and efficiency of the drum wood chipper.

Drum Wood Chipper Benefits Explained: 5 Pro Arborist Insights

Wood chipping is more than just shredding branches. It’s about resource management, waste reduction, and creating valuable byproducts. A drum wood chipper, with its robust design and powerful engine, is a workhorse in this process. Let’s dive into the benefits, drawing on my experience and the insights of other seasoned professionals.

1. Waste Reduction and Efficient Cleanup

The most immediate benefit of a drum wood chipper is the dramatic reduction in waste volume. Think about a large tree removal. Without a chipper, you’re faced with hauling away massive piles of branches, filling dump trucks, and paying tipping fees at landfills.

The Problem: Branches are bulky and difficult to compact. They take up significant space in landfills, contributing to environmental problems. Hauling them is expensive, requiring specialized equipment and manpower.
The Solution: Drum Wood Chippers. These machines efficiently convert large volumes of branches into manageable wood chips.
My Experience: I remember one job where we removed a massive oak tree from a residential property. Without a chipper, we estimated it would have taken three full dump truck loads to haul away the debris. With the chipper, we reduced it to less than one load of wood chips.
Quantifiable Benefits:
- Volume Reduction: Typically, a drum chipper reduces branch volume by 70-90%.
- Cost Savings: Reduced hauling and tipping fees can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars per job, depending on the volume of waste.
- Time Savings: Chipping is faster than manually loading and hauling branches.

Beyond the pure waste reduction, a drum chipper also significantly speeds up the cleanup process. Instead of spending hours manually loading branches, you can feed them into the chipper and quickly clear the work site. This efficiency translates to more jobs completed per day and increased profitability.

2. Creation of Valuable Mulch and Compost

Wood chips aren’t just waste; they’re a valuable resource. A drum chipper transforms tree waste into a readily usable product: mulch.

The Value of Mulch: Mulch offers numerous benefits for landscaping and gardening:
- Moisture Retention: Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Weed Suppression: A layer of mulch inhibits weed growth, minimizing the need for herbicides or manual weeding.
- Soil Temperature Regulation: Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, protecting plant roots from extreme heat or cold.
- Soil Enrichment: As mulch decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil, improving its structure and fertility.
Types of Mulch: The type of wood used in the chipper will affect the characteristics of the mulch produced.
- Hardwood Mulch: Longer lasting, breaks down slower, good for pathways and areas where frequent replenishment isn’t desired.
- Softwood Mulch: Decomposes faster, adding nutrients to the soil more quickly, often slightly acidic, good for acid-loving plants.
My Experience: I once worked on a project where we removed several pine trees from a homeowner’s property. Instead of hauling the debris away, we chipped it and used the resulting pine mulch to create a beautiful, natural landscape around the house. The homeowner was thrilled with the results, and we saved money on disposal fees.
Composting: Wood chips can also be used as a valuable component in compost piles. Their high carbon content helps balance the nitrogen-rich materials in the compost, creating a nutrient-rich soil amendment.
Strategic Advantage: By producing your own mulch and compost, you can reduce your reliance on external suppliers and potentially generate additional revenue by selling or using the mulch in your own landscaping projects.
Case Study: Urban Forestry Project: A city forestry department used drum wood chippers to process tree trimmings from city parks and streets. The resulting wood chips were then used as mulch in the city’s parks and gardens, reducing waste disposal costs and improving the health of the city’s green spaces.

3. Reduced Transportation Costs and Environmental Impact

Hauling branches and tree debris is a fuel-intensive process. The larger the volume, the more trips you need to make, and the higher your transportation costs. Drum wood chippers significantly reduce these costs.

The Problem: Traditional waste disposal methods involve transporting bulky branches over long distances, consuming fuel and emitting greenhouse gases.
The Solution: On-Site Chipping. By chipping branches on-site, you can significantly reduce the volume of material that needs to be transported.
My Experience: I remember one job where we had to remove several large trees from a remote location. The nearest landfill was over 50 miles away. Without a chipper, the transportation costs would have been prohibitive. By chipping the branches on-site, we reduced the volume of material by over 80%, making it feasible to transport the remaining wood chips to a composting facility.
Environmental Benefits: Reduced transportation translates to lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. This contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and a more sustainable approach to tree care.
Data: Studies have shown that on-site chipping can reduce transportation-related emissions by as much as 75%.
Strategic Advantage: By minimizing transportation costs and environmental impact, you can differentiate your business and appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
Example: A tree care company promotes its “green” services, highlighting its use of drum wood chippers to reduce waste and minimize its environmental impact. This attracts clients who are willing to pay a premium for sustainable tree care practices.

4. Improved Job Site Safety and Efficiency

A cluttered job site is a dangerous job site. Piles of branches create tripping hazards, obstruct visibility, and make it difficult to move equipment safely. Drum wood chippers help to maintain a cleaner, more organized work environment.

The Problem: Piles of branches create hazards, including tripping and falling, obstructing pathways, and increasing the risk of accidents.
The Solution: Immediate Chipping. By chipping branches as they are cut, you can eliminate the accumulation of debris and maintain a clear work area.
My Experience: I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a job site can become cluttered with branches. On one occasion, a worker tripped over a pile of branches and suffered a minor injury. Since then, I’ve made it a priority to keep job sites clear of debris by chipping branches as quickly as possible.
Safety Benefits: A clean job site reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. It also improves visibility, making it easier to identify potential hazards.
Efficiency Benefits: A well-organized job site allows workers to move more freely and efficiently. This translates to faster completion times and increased productivity.
Best Practices:
- Designated Chipping Area: Establish a designated area for chipping that is clear of obstacles and away from pedestrian traffic.
- Proper PPE: Ensure that all workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
- Chipper Safety Training: Provide thorough training on the safe operation of the chipper, including proper feeding techniques and emergency shutdown procedures.
Strategic Advantage: A reputation for safety and efficiency can help you attract and retain skilled workers and win contracts with safety-conscious clients.

5. Revenue Generation and Diversification

While the primary benefit of a drum wood chipper is waste reduction, it also presents opportunities for revenue generation and diversification.

Selling Wood Chips: As mentioned earlier, wood chips can be sold as mulch to homeowners, landscapers, and nurseries.
Contract Chipping Services: You can offer chipping services to other tree care companies, landscapers, or municipalities.
Biomass Fuel: In some areas, wood chips are used as a biomass fuel for heating or power generation. You can sell your wood chips to biomass plants or use them to heat your own facilities.
My Experience: I know an arborist who built a successful business by offering contract chipping services to other tree care companies in his area. He invested in a high-capacity drum chipper and marketed his services to companies that didn’t have their own chipping equipment.
Diversification: By offering a range of services, you can reduce your reliance on any single revenue stream and make your business more resilient to economic fluctuations.
Strategic Advantage: By leveraging the value of wood chips, you can transform a waste product into a valuable asset and create new revenue streams for your business.

Key Concepts and Terminology

Before we delve deeper into the practical aspects of using a drum wood chipper, let’s define some key terms and concepts.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content (typically above 30%). Seasoned wood has been dried to a lower moisture content (typically below 20%). Green wood is easier to chip, but seasoned wood chips are more stable and less likely to decompose quickly.
Drum Chipper vs. Disc Chipper: A drum chipper uses a rotating drum with knives to chip wood, while a disc chipper uses a rotating disc with knives. Drum chippers are generally more powerful and can handle larger diameter branches. They are also often equipped with a feed system that pulls the branches into the machine.
Chipping Capacity: The chipping capacity of a drum chipper refers to the maximum diameter of branches that it can process. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a chipper.
Horsepower (HP): The horsepower of the chipper’s engine determines its power and ability to handle large volumes of wood. Higher horsepower is generally better for commercial applications.
Feed System: The feed system is the mechanism that pulls branches into the chipper. Some chippers have manual feed systems, while others have hydraulic feed systems that are more efficient and require less manual effort.
Discharge Chute: The discharge chute directs the wood chips away from the chipper. Some chippers have adjustable discharge chutes that allow you to control the direction and distance of the chips.
Safety Features: Important safety features to look for in a drum chipper include emergency stop buttons, feed system shut-off mechanisms, and guards to prevent contact with moving parts.

Choosing the Right Drum Wood Chipper

Selecting the right drum wood chipper is a crucial decision that will impact your efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Here are some factors to consider:

Chipping Capacity: Determine the maximum diameter of branches you typically need to chip. Choose a chipper with a chipping capacity that is slightly larger than your typical branch size to avoid overloading the machine.
Horsepower: Consider the volume of wood you need to process. For occasional use, a smaller chipper with lower horsepower may suffice. For commercial applications, choose a chipper with higher horsepower to handle large volumes of wood.
Feed System: A hydraulic feed system is generally more efficient and requires less manual effort than a manual feed system. However, hydraulic feed systems are also more expensive.
Portability: If you need to move the chipper frequently, choose a towable model with a sturdy trailer and easy-to-use hitch.
Budget: Drum wood chippers range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Set a budget and choose a chipper that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Brand Reputation: Research different brands and read reviews to get an idea of their reliability and performance.
Maintenance: Consider the ease of maintenance and the availability of spare parts. Choose a chipper that is easy to maintain and has a readily available supply of spare parts.
Safety Features: As mentioned earlier, safety should be a top priority. Choose a chipper with all the necessary safety features to protect yourself and your workers.
My Experience: When I first started my tree care business, I purchased a used drum wood chipper to save money. However, it turned out to be a costly mistake. The chipper was unreliable and required frequent repairs. Eventually, I had to replace it with a new chipper, which cost me even more money in the long run. I learned that it’s better to invest in a quality chipper from the start, even if it means spending a little more money upfront.
Tool Specifications Example: A common model suitable for small to medium-sized arborist operations is the Vermeer BC1000XL. It has a 12-inch chipping capacity, a 89-horsepower engine, and a hydraulic feed system. The weight is approximately 6,500 lbs, and it requires a 2-5/16 inch ball for towing.

Operating a Drum Wood Chipper Safely

Safety is paramount when operating a drum wood chipper. These machines are powerful and can cause serious injury if not used properly.

Training: Before operating a drum wood chipper, receive thorough training on its safe operation. Understand the machine’s controls, safety features, and emergency shutdown procedures.
PPE: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including:
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chipper.
- Gloves: Heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
- Long Sleeves and Pants: To protect your skin from scratches and splinters.
- Steel-Toed Boots: To protect your feet from falling objects.
Pre-Operation Inspection: Before each use, inspect the chipper for any signs of damage or wear. Check the knives, belts, hoses, and safety devices. Repair or replace any damaged parts before operating the chipper.
Clear the Area: Before starting the chipper, clear the area around it of any obstacles or bystanders. Establish a safety zone around the chipper and ensure that no one enters the zone while the chipper is in operation.
Feeding Techniques: Use proper feeding techniques to avoid kickback or entanglement.
- Feed Branches Butt-End First: This allows the chipper to grab the branch and pull it in smoothly.
- Avoid Feeding Large Branches: If a branch is too large for the chipper, cut it into smaller pieces before feeding it in.
- Never Force Branches: If a branch gets stuck, stop the chipper and remove the obstruction. Never try to force a branch into the chipper.
- Keep Hands Away from the Feed Rollers: Never reach into the feed hopper while the chipper is in operation. Use a push stick to feed small branches or debris into the chipper.
Emergency Shutdown: Know the location of the emergency stop buttons and how to use them. In case of an emergency, immediately shut down the chipper.
Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on the chipper to keep it in good working condition. Sharpen or replace the knives as needed. Lubricate the moving parts. Inspect the belts and hoses for wear and tear.
Never Work Alone: It is always safer to work with a partner when operating a drum wood chipper. Your partner can help you feed the chipper, monitor the work area, and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
Case Study: Near Miss Incident: A tree care worker was operating a drum wood chipper when a branch kicked back and struck him in the chest. Fortunately, he was wearing a safety harness, which prevented him from falling into the chipper. The incident highlighted the importance of wearing proper PPE and using proper feeding techniques.

Practical Applications and Techniques

Now that we’ve covered the basics of drum wood chippers, let’s look at some practical applications and techniques.

Felling Trees: When felling trees, plan your cuts carefully to ensure that the tree falls in a safe direction. Use proper felling techniques, such as the notch cut and the back cut.
- Felling Techniques: The Humboldt and Open Face cuts are very common and effective.
- Chainsaw Specs: For felling larger trees, a chainsaw with a bar length of 20-24 inches and an engine displacement of 60-70 cc is generally recommended.
Limbing Trees: After felling a tree, limb it by removing the branches. Use a chainsaw or a hand saw to cut the branches close to the trunk.
Bucking Logs: Bucking is the process of cutting logs into shorter lengths. Use a chainsaw to buck the logs into desired lengths.
- Log Splitting Considerations: If you plan to split the logs for firewood, consider the size and weight of the logs.
Chipping Branches: Feed the branches into the drum wood chipper, following the safety guidelines outlined earlier.
Debarking Logs: While not directly related to the chipper, debarking logs before processing them can improve the quality of the wood chips. Debarked wood chips are cleaner and less likely to contain contaminants.
- Debarking Tools: A drawknife or a debarking spud can be used to remove the bark from logs.
Splitting Firewood: If you’re processing wood for firewood, split the logs into manageable sizes using a log splitter.
- Log Splitter Specs: A hydraulic log splitter with a splitting force of 20-30 tons is generally sufficient for splitting most firewood.
Stacking Firewood: Stack the firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to dry properly.
- Stacking Methods: The Holzhaufen method creates a circular stack that promotes airflow and prevents the stack from collapsing.
- Drying Times: Firewood typically needs to dry for 6-12 months before it is ready to burn. Aim for a moisture content of below 20%.
Case Study: Firewood Production Project: A small-scale firewood producer used a drum wood chipper to process the branches and tops of trees that were harvested for timber. The wood chips were then used to create a compost mixture for growing mushrooms, which were sold at local farmers’ markets. This integrated approach allowed the producer to maximize the value of the harvested trees and generate multiple revenue streams.

Strategic Insights and Considerations

Beyond the technical aspects of using a drum wood chipper, there are several strategic insights and considerations that can help you maximize its value.

Market Research: Before investing in a drum wood chipper, conduct market research to determine the demand for wood chips in your area. Identify potential customers, such as homeowners, landscapers, nurseries, and biomass plants.
Pricing Strategy: Develop a pricing strategy for your wood chips that is competitive but also profitable. Consider factors such as the type of wood, the size of the chips, and the delivery distance.
Marketing and Sales: Market your wood chips to potential customers through online advertising, social media, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base. Respond promptly to inquiries, deliver wood chips on time, and address any customer concerns.
Sustainability: Emphasize the sustainability of your wood chipping operations. Promote the environmental benefits of using wood chips as mulch or compost.
Collaboration: Collaborate with other tree care companies, landscapers, and municipalities to share resources and expand your reach.
Innovation: Explore new and innovative uses for wood chips, such as erosion control, animal bedding, or biofiltration.
Continuous Improvement: Continuously evaluate your wood chipping operations and look for ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
My Experience: I once attended a workshop on wood chip marketing. The speaker emphasized the importance of branding and storytelling. He suggested that we create a compelling narrative around our wood chips, highlighting their sustainability, their benefits for soil health, and their contribution to a greener environment. I implemented his suggestions and saw a significant increase in sales.
Data: Studies have shown that consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for sustainable products. By emphasizing the sustainability of your wood chips, you can attract environmentally conscious customers and increase your profitability.

Next Steps and Implementation Guidance

Ready to put this knowledge into practice? Here are some practical next steps and implementation guidance:

Assess Your Needs: Determine the volume of tree waste you generate and the type of wood you typically process.
Research Drum Wood Chippers: Research different models of drum wood chippers and compare their features, specifications, and prices.
Obtain Training: Enroll in a training course on the safe operation of drum wood chippers.
Purchase PPE: Purchase the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, long sleeves, pants, and steel-toed boots.
Establish a Safe Work Area: Clear the area around the chipper of any obstacles or bystanders. Establish a safety zone and ensure that no one enters the zone while the chipper is in operation.
Start Small: Begin by chipping small branches and gradually increase the size of the branches as you gain experience.
Monitor Performance: Monitor the performance of the chipper and make adjustments as needed.
Maintain the Chipper: Perform regular maintenance on the chipper to keep it in good working condition.
Market Your Wood Chips: Develop a marketing plan to sell your wood chips to potential customers.
Continuously Improve: Continuously evaluate your wood chipping operations and look for ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
Tool List Example:
- Drum Wood Chipper (Vermeer BC1000XL or similar)
- Chainsaw (Stihl MS 261 or similar)
- Safety Glasses
- Hearing Protection
- Gloves
- Long Sleeves and Pants
- Steel-Toed Boots
- Log Splitter (optional)
- Drawknife or Debarking Spud (optional)
Financial Planning:
- Drum Chipper Cost: $20,000 – $50,000 (new)
- Fuel Costs: $10 – $30 per day (depending on usage)
- Maintenance Costs: $500 – $2,000 per year (depending on usage and maintenance schedule)
- Potential Revenue: $20 – $50 per cubic yard of wood chips (depending on market demand)

By following these steps, you can successfully integrate a drum wood chipper into your operations and reap the many benefits it offers.

In conclusion, the drum wood chipper is more than just a machine; it’s a key to unlocking efficiency, sustainability, and profitability in the world of tree care and wood processing. From reducing waste and creating valuable mulch to improving job site safety and generating revenue, the benefits are undeniable. By understanding the concepts, choosing the right equipment, and following safe operating procedures, you can harness the power of the drum wood chipper and transform your business. So, go forth, chip with confidence, and create a greener, more sustainable future.

Drum Wood Chipper Benefits Explained (5 Pro Arborist Insights)