Log Splitters Market by Type (Gas Powered, Manual, and Electric), Tonnage (Less Than 15 Tons, 15 to 30 Tons, and Above 30 Tons), Application (Domestic and Commercial), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Log Splitters Overview

A log splitter is a tool used to divide logs into smaller pieces. It can be operated by different power sources or manually. If there are few logs to split or small to medium-sized logs to split, the manual variant is the best to use. However, the motor-powered type is ideal if there are a sizable pile of logs or there is a need to split considerably larger logs. Electric or gas engines may be used to power log splitters. The choice of a specific log splitter can be made based on its unique usage since each has its advantages and disadvantages. There are several advantages of manual log splitters, such as they are cheaper than electricity-operated log splitters because they are not expensive to run as they do not require a source of energy to operate. They can be used anywhere, and they are safer for the environment as well. Powered log splitters are also in huge demand, as they are useful in splitting large logs in a quick and efficient manner. They can split logs very efficiently as they have a large splitting force due to the power source. An electric log splitter operates on one of two mechanisms: hydraulic or kinetic

Global Log Splitters Market Analysis

The global log splitters market size was $2,692.0 million in 2022 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of 4.4%, by generating a revenue of $4,130.4 million by 2032.

Source: Research Dive Analysis

COVID-19 Impact on Global Log Splitters Market

The global forestry operations have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic resulted in a complete halt to logging activities in the forests due to the imposition of the lockdown. there was a decrease in demand for log splitters due to the shortage of workers who performed logging activities in the forest. Log splitting is a physically demanding activity that involves close contact with others. Concerns about social distancing and safety precautions discouraged people from pursuing such activities due to fear of contracting the coronavirus. In addition, many social gatherings such as parties, events, and others were canceled or scaled down due to the pandemic owing to which the demand for firewood was reduced. This in turn affected the demand for log splitters during the pandemic. The countries that face harsh winters primarily demand wood for heating purposes. However, owing to the pandemic-induced lockdown, there were no logging activities in the forests across several countries which hampered the log splitters demand.

Increasing Demand for Wooden Furniture to Drive the Growth of the Market

Over the last few years, there has been a worldwide increase in demand for wooden furniture. This is because the wooden furniture provides a warm and natural aesthetic that appeals to many consumers. Also, it can bring a sense of coziness and timelessness to interior spaces. Wood furniture is manufactured from hardwood or softwood for its use in the residential and commercial sectors. This hardwood and softwood is in the form of plywood, laminates, or MDF, which are of definite size, shape, and weight. Thus, to cut this wood into specific size and shape, the furniture manufacturers use log splitters.  Hence, the increase in demand for furniture for residential as well as commercial use directly influences the manufacturing of log splitter equipment. Modern furniture requires log splitters to efficiently cut the wood into unique size and shape which is difficult with the help traditional or mechanical tools.. Obtaining wood from big trees for furniture manufacturers can be a complex and tiring task. This can be easily done with the help of a specific log splitter, according to the size and shape of the wood to be cut.

High Maintenance & Safety Issues to Restrain the Growth of the Market  

The log splitters requires high maintenance as technical or mechanical failure of any part can cause severe damage to the log splitter. Such issues can be resolved only with the help of technical experts.  For instance, the problems with log splitters include a dull or damaged splitter wedge or blade, low hydraulic fluid levels, a leaking hydraulic system, a clogged or dirty air filter, a worn-out spark plug, lose or damaged components, and a lack of lubrication. If there is any serious maintenance issue that requires equipment to be completely dismantled, it becomes very complicated task. Also, due to human errors during re-assembling the device can lead to severe injuries to the operator of log splitters. Hence, the hydraulic system of the log splitter needs careful inspection, along with checking the mechanical parts. For instance, the leakage of toxic fluid from the log splitters can lead to injury or even death. Thus, a qualified service technician is required to operate the log splitters to ensure safety of operations.  These maintenance and safety issues are projected to severely hamper the growth of the log splitters market.

Automation in Log Splitters to Drive the Excellent Opportunities

Manufacturing industry has benefited greatly from automation. The automation in the manufacturing sector reduces the human efforts and helps in performing various tasks with highest accuracy and safety.  If there is a need for human intervention to operate the machine effectively, automation may decrease that need with the help of various control systems. Automation has been known to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, assure greater quality, and ensure better operation with minimum operating errors. Developing automation in log splitters can improve overall efficiency and reduce the manual effort required to operate them. Developing log splitters with automatic log feeding, cutting, and splitting capabilities can significantly increase productivity for users. Automation in log splitters also makes the workplace considerably safer in terms of the safety of the user. Fixed or hard automation in log splitters may result in the performance of a repetitive set of operations, which allows for a high production rate for the user. With the programmable automation in a log splitter, customization can be made to both the product as well as the processing or assembly operations by modifying the control program of the automated log splitter to carry out specific tasks. The introduction of flexible or soft automation in log splitters can allow for greater flexibility in making changes to the product design. Commands can be given in the form of codes to ensure that the changes are performed quickly and effectively without compromising the quality of the work. The potential benefits of implementing automation in log splitters include increased productivity of the workforce, lower costs of operation, enhanced product quality, and a safer working environment.

Global Log Splitters Market Share, by Type, 2022

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The electric sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Electric log splitters are becoming highly popular as they are easy to operate owing to which many users can use them without having an experience with machinery. Also, electric log splitters typically have simple controls and require minimal maintenance compared to other types of log splitters such as gas powered or hydraulic. Furthermore, electric log splitters can be used indoors or in enclosed spaces such as garage, sheds, or other areas. In addition, the electric log splitters have a lower upfront cost compared to hydraulic or gas-powered models. Thus, the electric log splitters are a budget-friendly option for many users. These log splitters produce less vibration that leads to smoother and more comfortable user experience.

Global Log Splitters Market Share, by Tonnage, 2022

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The less than 15 tons sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Less than 15 tons log splitters are mostly used by homeowners who need to split logs for personal usage such as for firewood and DIY projects. Also, the log splitters with a splitting force of less than 15 tons are more compact and lightweight compared to larger models. This makes them more portable and efficient. In addition, homeowners who engage in DIY woodworking or construction projects might find smaller log splitters useful for processing smaller pieces of wood. In addition, the people with limited storage space might prefer smaller log splitters that can be stored more easily in places with less space.

Global Log Splitters Market Share, by Application, 2022

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The commercial sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Log splitters are used in various commercial applications where efficient wood processing is required such as forestry, agriculture, construction, and others. For instance, the sawmills and wood processing facilities use log splitters to convert logs into manageable pieces for further processing into lumber and wood products. In addition, log splitters are used in construction projects to process wood for framing, formwork, as well as scaffolding. The use of log splitters helps in creating uniform and appropriately sized wood pieces. Also, many farms and agricultural operations use log splitters for clearing land and preparing wood for fences. These factors are anticipated to boost the log splitters demand from the commercial sector in the upcoming years.

Global Log Splitters Market Size & Forecast, by Region, 2022-2032 ($Million)

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The North America log splitters market generated the highest revenue in 2022. The demand for log splitters in North America is majorly attributed to the colder climates that have led to an increase in the demand for firewood and a heating source for residential places. In addition, the U.S. has a significant DIY culture and log splitters are popular among homeowners who want to produce their firewood or engage in woodworking projects. Also, the U.S. has a substantial forestry where the demand for log splitters used in timber processing and other related activities is growing. Also, Canada's outdoor tourism industry, which includes camping and recreational activities requires the use of log splitters for firewood preparation.

Competitive Scenario in the Global Log Splitters Market

Technological advancement and partnership are common strategies followed by major market players. On August 07, 2023, Ryobi, a leading manufacturer of power tools, introduced the world’s first battery-powered kinetic log splitter. This log splitter is outpacing the other power sources of log splitters such as gas-powered. The Ryobi RY40740 kinetic log splitter delivers up to 12 tons of force and also eliminates the cost of maintenance which is usually associated with the use of gas-powered log splitters.

Source: Research Dive Analysis

Some of the companies operating in the log splitters market are Troy-Bilt, Champion Power Equipment, Inc., Brave Products, Boss Industrial, YardMax, NorthStar, Swisher, Ariens, Dirty Hand Tools, and Iron & Oak.