delimber

A delimber is a forestry machine or attachment used to remove branches from a felled tree trunk, producing a limb-free log for processing and transport. Delimbing can be performed by a standalone delimber or by a delimbing head mounted on other equipment such as a harvester, forwarder, or yarding system.

Operation typically involves guiding the trunk through a set of delimb knives or blades. In fixed-head designs, knives are arranged along a frame to shear limbs at their bases as the log passes. In rotating-head designs, a wheel or drum carries knives that strip limbs while the log is fed through. Hydraulic actuators adjust contact pressure and travel to accommodate different trunk diameters and limb sizes. Some configurations use rollers or conveyors to position the log while limbs are removed.

Types and configurations include standalone delimbers and delimbing heads mounted on harvesters, forwarders, or yarding systems. The choice depends on the workflow and equipment available in a given operation.

Benefits of delimbing include reduced manual handling, faster processing, and improved log quality for downstream sawmilling or veneer production. Early delimbling can also reduce waste and handling damage by removing branches before transport and stacking. Limitations include reduced effectiveness on very large or irregular limbs, potential bark damage if misused, and the need for trained operators and regular maintenance of knives and hydraulic systems. Safety considerations focus on guarding moving parts and clear work zones during operation.