Vermeer’s WC2300 and WC2500TX whole-tree chippers enable contractors to add value to their business, offering a range of features that bridge the gap between equipment for smaller jobs and machinery for larger infrastructure projects.

When it comes to infrastructure development, initial works commence well before construction starts. Extensive tree management is often required at these sites to clear the way for workers and construction machinery to arrive and operations to commence.

Contractors wanting to be competitive in winning these jobs need reliable equipment strong enough to handle mulching branches and grinding stumps, while also being cost-efficient, reliable and timesaving. What separates experienced smaller contractors from those working on larger projects is the equipment they use.

Chipping away at the whole tree

Vermeer’s machines are equipped to handle even the toughest of tree matter, with SmartCrush technology that automatically increases down pressure when difficult material enters the cutting drum. The variable-speed, dual-infeed conveyor chains in Vermeer’s equipment streamline productivity, allowing operators to concentrate on loading the machine – not pushing material through.

It was the power and strength of Vermeer’s whole-tree chippers that first attracted Tree and Stump Eaters business owner, Shane Bannister.

Long lifespan

25 years ago Shane started the business that became Tree and Stump Eaters with a single stump grinder. As his small team took on bigger jobs, refined techniques and developed skills, larger jobs presented themselves and his fleet grew to include two Vermeer BC1800XLs. But Shane recognised that equipment that could efficiently process larger volumes of material would save him time and create further opportunities for business growth.

Shane purchased the first BC2100XL to land in Australia back in 2010, and 13 years later this machine has tallied up 8500 hours of use, prompting Shane to offer, “It now deserves a well-earned break, but will continue to be used on smaller jobs.”

Growing

In 2022 Shane decided it was time to take the next step and go bigger.

After extensive research into advancements in chipper technology and what other brands had to offer, Shane couldn’t go past Vermeer’s WC2500TX. An added bonus was the machine’s tracks, which would allow Shane to get into the often-boggy work environments of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula where he often removes trees.

“I just liked the way they’re built,” said Shane. “They’re a lot stronger. The infeed table is seriously solid, and the size of the infeed is massive. Pictures just don’t do its size justice.

“I’m happy with the smart design and the way they operate. They’re built strong and tough, and they’re good-looking machines.”

Cost effective

As well as being strong, Vermeer’s whole-tree chippers are extremely efficient. Shane said his WC2500TX can fill a 30-metre bin in between 10 and 15 minutes.

“The quality of the chips being produced is as good as I’ve seen,” said Shane. “I was a bit nervous about selecting the correct drum and blade option to suit Australian hardwood, but after some discussions with, and feedback from, the engineers and from the guys in the Vermeer factory in the USA, I can say they got it right.”

Features that make a difference

High-wear material flow areas of the machine, such as the drum, discharge chute, cutter housing and infeed conveyor floor, are designed with replaceable bolt-in wear parts to extend machine life.

Vermeer’s whole-tree chipper can also efficiently move around job sites without the need for additional support equipment. Shane opted for Vermeer to add rubber overlay on his machinery tracks to enable him to carry our work on a wider variety of surfaces.

“We want to be able to work on roads, but we don’t want to damage the roads. Steel tracks will just damage the roads, especially on hot days. And we don’t have to put bog mats down everywhere,” he explained.

The ACS control system designed specifically for the whole-tree chippers allows operators to remotely engage and disengage the clutch, reposition the machine, adjust the discharge chute, and monitor the machine’s health.

“This new one’s pretty easy to operate,” said Shane. “It’s all remote controlled. The person in the excavator just operates it and everyone else just has to stand clear and let it do its job.

“It’s a pleasure to work with it. It’s just so easy. It makes our job so much easier.”

Visit the range of Vermeer chippers here, or contact your local Vermeer Australia team on 1300 VERMEER.