Abstract: A debarking chain including a closed chain link attached to an open link by a series of translational and rotational movements. A second chain added in a similar fashion with the first chain locking the second chain in place.

Abstract: The debarking chain includes a quick disconnect for attaching the debarking chain to a drum. A connecting link is releasably attached to the drum. A chain comprised of closed links is attached to the drum via the connecting link by an open link which connects the connecting link to the end closed link on the chain. The open link includes an opening for receiving a reduced cross-section of one side of the end closed link. A terminal end is formed on the open link by the opening which will prohibit the end closed link from passing over the terminal end until the end closed link is rotated such that the length of its interior aperture is aligned with the longer dimension of the terminal end of the open link. Upon such alignment, the terminal end will pass through the aperture of the end closed link to connect the chain to the drum.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delimbing a plurality of elongated tree stems includes at least a pair of vertically mounted, longitudinally offset flail members with flexible impact members mounted on rotatable drums. The drums rotate in the direction of stem flow through the flailing station and limbs and other debris can be collected within a defined area. A housing is structured to define a feed slot through the flailing station. In an alternate embodiment infeed rolls are provided to vertically orient the plurality of stems so that debarking as well as delimbing can be efficiently performed at the flailing station.

Abstract: Apparatus for flail debarking a plurality of logs simultaneously. The logs are fed substantially side-by-side to a flail debarking unit having sets of flailing units disposed above and below the feeding plane of the logs. A size reducing means is disposed below the feed plane of the logs for reducing the debri from the logs before it is directed to an external location.

Abstract: An improved feed roll for logs and the like has a plurality of radially extending trapezoidally shaped pyramids spaced circumferentially about the surface. In adjacent rows an offset may be provided and certain dimensional relationships are provided to yield increased traction with a reduction in tree surface damage.

Abstract: A self-releasing choker has ferrule holding jaws in a casing movable between a ferrule accepting station, a load carrying station, and a ferrule releasing station located intermediate the other two stations. Locking means holds the jaws closed while in the load carrying station and releasing means permits the jaws to open only while they are moving past the ferrule releasing station in the direction of the ferrule accepting station. Dampening means provides a time delay to keep the jaws from moving all of the way to the ferrule releasing station when the load is only momentarily taken off the ferrule.