Non-electric chain saws are portable outdoor equipment with sharp cutting chain mounted on a bar that is used to cut woods by applying force through a pulling gas operated string. These make work such as tree felling, bucking, pruning and any other work involving wood cutting much easier and faster. However, a question that comes to mind is – Are we able to use a gas chain saw for hours on end? Or will they overheat or run out of gas too quickly? Let’s analyze.
Fuel Efficiency
Typically, gasoline chain saws are endowed with fuel tank capacities ranging between 12 to 20 fluid ounces. This means that with average power rating of between 35 to 60 cc coupled with an average fuel consumption of 0.1 to 0.2 pounds per horsepower-hour this would translate to between 30 minutes to 1 hour of run time on a full tank. Of course low-kick or less powerful chain saws may consume less fuel and provide better run times.
The actual time that a gasoline chain saw would run is also influenced by the specific cutting operations, type and thickness of wood being cut, continuous operation and intermittent use, bar type fitted, experience of the operator, chain condition and efficiency of the 2-stroke oil mixer among others. Complex jobs and constant use would require more fuel than simple jobs done in segments with intervals.
Overheating Concerns
The most significant disadvantage associated with the prolonged use of this particular tool, namely gasoline chain saw, is the problems with overheating. The chain saw operates on a two-stroke engine that requires the adequate supply of lubricating oil to avoid seizure because of heat. Most of the modern saws are made to last reasonable durations of time and therefore can be a challenge to run for very long durations. The power may get affected and some part could get damaged without proper breaks to allow the cooling down of the engine.
However, the durability and toughness can be said to be standard with most of the medium to high capacity chain saws today such as the Farm Boss series and definitely they can withstand some degree of usage without breaking. Professional models that come with specially designed mufflers or CRVs, to release compression and consequently heat, exist. These should not however be taken to the extreme though. The operational capacity is generally different from the size of the saw- a 40 cc model which cannot sustain one hour of uninterrupted sawing is different from a 90 cc model which has a capacity of intermittent sawing for two hours. Therefore checking on the recommended usage duration for a model is beneficial.
Protecting the Investment
On the downside, care should be taken not to overstrain a chain saw to avoid cases of breakages. While current models of chain saws can operate for relatively lengthy periods, this is always beneficial to take frequent breaks to reduce the amount of time the chain sees during the operation hence increasing its durability. It allows the metal parts to shed off heat while at the same time avoiding the buildup of pressure within the crankcase. low oil levels also leads to overheating which operators need to be wary of through regular oil analysis.
Maintaining the chain sharp and properly tensioned also helps to reduce heat produced and excessive wear of the components. It is equally important to clean air filters and ensure there is no debris in clutch and sprocket sections. How the fuel mixing ratios are implemented avoids the deposits that impacts the engine output benefits. And the regular maintenance becomes critical if the intention is to operate the machine for extended durations.
In conclusion, although it can be used for long duration occasionally, it is capable of not damaging a good machine but using it repeatedly without safeguards can reduce the lifespan of a machine. It is advisable to be conscious of the symptoms of overheating and to give them adequate time to cool since it is a common problem. Using an additional chain saw specifically designed for such applications or changing from one saw to the other might be cost effective for those who spend hours operating them. Abiding on the usage recommendations and utilizing the right preventive care stays crucial for longevity.