Stump shredders can be the size of a lawnmower or the size of a truck. Most do their job via a high-speed disc with teeth that grind stumps and roots into small chips.
A typical die grinder includes a cutting disc with fixed carbide teeth. The cutter wheel movements are controlled by hydraulic cylinders to push the cutter head laterally along the log and raise and lower it.
Die grinding is done using a very powerful, heavy and potentially dangerous machine. Stump grinding is usually done by a qualified arborist or landscape architect. For DIY projects it is possible to rent log shredders from tool rental companies.
If you choose to grind the stump yourself, there are some safety rules that must be followed:
Read and follow all instructions included with the stump grinder rental or purchase. Stump grinding can literally become a life-or-death situation if done incorrectly, so this is important for the safety of everyone involved.
Wear a hard hat, safety glasses, earplugs, gloves, work boots, long sleeves and trousers, avoid loose clothing, remove jewelery and tie long hair at the back.
Remove anything you can see that could turn into a bullet from around the work area, such as small rocks.
Consult utility companies for possible underground pipes or cables.
Set a boundary around your work area for the safety and security of others.
Stump grinding can be incredibly satisfying. Do-it-yourself billet grinding is a viable working option, assuming the user is strong enough to hold the machine and abides by all the rules.
