This device is engineered for the purpose of dividing sections of felled trees into manageable pieces of firewood. The equipment employs hydraulic force to drive a log against a splitting wedge, thereby reducing its size. Example units often feature gasoline-powered engines to operate the hydraulic pump, providing the necessary pressure for splitting various wood types.
The utility of such machinery lies in its ability to significantly reduce the physical exertion required to prepare firewood, especially when dealing with larger or denser logs. This reduces the time and labor involved in preparing fuel for heating or other purposes. Over time, the design and power of these machines have increased, allowing for the processing of larger volumes and more difficult wood species.