Log splitter -- is this going to work?

[Arc weld]

You could use a flow divider, maybe a priority flow divider for which function is most important and then run each valve off one side of the flow divider. For a big splitter like that 11 GPM isn't much.

 

[mikefromnh]

Would you restate what you have and what you want to do?

Do you want to use a regular log splitter valve.

Do you want to use an auto log splitter valve.

Do you want to use a log lift?

Do you want to use a wedge lift.

Do you want to use a divider valve to split the flow?

You can use the Energy log valve as the log lift, as the OUT port will go to tank.

The log lift can be auto in retract mode if you use the Energy log s litter valve.

All valve should have PB except the last valve.

Excerpt from Energy:

NOTE! Maximum flow rate for the inlet relief valve is 10 gpm (38 lpm)
IMPORTANT!!! Pressure at "T" (return) port in excess of 200 psig (14 bar) may interfere with proper operation of valve. Consult factory if back pressure of over 200 psig (14 bar) is present.

Right now I have a basic log splitter with a single valve (energy)

I have built a log lift and need to buy a cylinder and valve.

I would like to use the existing valve for the log lift and buy an auto cycle for the splitting cylinder.

In the future I would like the option of adding a wedge cylinder without a major redo of the hydraulics.

 

[mikefromnh]

You could use a flow divider, maybe a priority flow divider for which function is most important and then run each valve off one side of the flow divider. For a big splitter like that 11 GPM isn't much.

It is the northern tool "30 ton" which has a 17 second cycle time -- it could use a bigger pump/engine but I don't want to put that much more into it right now... I'm hoping the auto cycle will help increase production. (I realize it won't do anything for the cycle time)

I never used it vertically so I reversed the beam and moved the axle back so I wasn't tripping over the tires. Now it's horizontal only with a lift. Eventually I will reverse it so it has the push plate on the ram instead of the current wedge on ram setup. When I do that I will add an adjustable four way like the timberwolf tw6.

 

[Arc weld]

Another thing to think about, does it have a 2 stage pump? Sounds like you're trying to re-engineer the whole thing.

 

[mikefromnh]

Another thing to think about, does it have a 2 stage pump? Sounds like you're trying to re-engineer the whole thing.

It is a 2 stage 11 gpm pump
Honda gx160
4.5x24x2 cylinder

I am re-engineering to work better for my needs while re-using as much as possible.

 

[J_J]

Your 4.5 in cyl @3000 can develop only 23 ton. 15.03 cycle time

A lot of the manufacturers fudge their figures.

 

[LD1]

I am by no means a hydraulic expert when it comes to multiple circuits and more than 1 valve.

BUT.....

Could you.....

Use a tee before the auto cycle valve. to feed the lift valve? And if so, if the lift valve is closed center, it wont rob any fluid from the splitter if not being used. And you can use a flow regulator dial in the speed.

It may require you to but another valve and not be able to use the valve you have. But a small closed center spool valve with 1/4" ports shouldnt cost much.

 

[J_J]

mikefromnh said he was going to use the old Energy log splitter valve for the lift, which is an open center valve.

 

[mikefromnh]

I'm not against buying a closed center valve if what LD1 suggested would work.

Could I then use the existing open center valve off the PB of the auto cycle for an adjustable wedge? I wouldn't need to adjust the height of the wedge while the auto cycle valve is in use.

 

[Arc weld]

How can you use a closed center valve without a variable pump? I think you're confused. 11 GPM is with no load. If you want to use 2 circuits at once, it's going to be painfully slow probably about half the flow.