Feasibility Assessment of an Innovative New Cross-Cut Shear Design

Since the early 1960's, cross-cut shearing for severing tree stems has been examined as a promising alternative to existing cutting equipment. Cross-cut shearing will result in a reduction of processing time as well as service and maintenance costs. Existing shearing equipment falls short of logger's expectations because of excessive fiber damage. Extensive individual efforts have been made to improve cross-cut shearing performance, but have failed for many reasons. By incorporating the following changes, it is anticipated that this innovative cross-cut shear will overcome and improve upon previous efforts: (1) variable pretensioning of shear blades; (2) lateral or slicing cutting motion; and (3) reduced blade thickness. It is anticipated that this shear will successfully enter the marketplace, by providing a safer and more economical method of felling operations.