Vermeer's Ted Dirkx shares five questions to consider when choosing the best grinder for recycling operations.

Typically, more space is required to operate a tub grinder compared to a horizontal grinder due to the possibility of thrown objects. The patented Thrown Object Restraint System (TORS) can help reduce the likelihood and distance of objects being thrown from tub grinders.

Tub and horizontal grinders are designed to process very different materials. If you are processing large stumps or big chunks of wood, a tub grinder will require less material preparation and manipulation by the operator when compared to horizontal grinders. Tub grinders also can benefit from gravity and continuously feed the hammermill leading to optimal output in applications like green waste and mulch regrind. Horizontal grinders are particularly well suited for longer materials like whole trees and logs.

If you frequently need to reposition the grinder on the job site, it is best to choose one with tracks. Horizontal grinders like the Vermeer HG6000TX and HG6800TX are good options to consider. If you are moving from one site to another, you will want to consider any U.S. Department of Transportation size and weight restrictions in your area to see which unit will be more efficient to haul. The Vermeer DT6 optional integrated dolly transport system reduces the grinder height and turning radius, which make it convenient to permit and transport in many areas of the country.

For transporting Vermeer tub grinders, the sides fold in, giving them a travel width comparable to a similar-sized horizontal grinder. In addition, tub grinders without loaders are considerably lighter than horizontal grinders, which can help reduce transportation expenses.

While Vermeer tub grinders have the TORS to help minimize the amount of thrown objects and the distance they can travel, Vermeer horizontal grinders feature thrown object deflectors (TOD) to help reduce the quantity and distance of thrown material.

To help mitigate the risk of metal contaminants cycling through with organic material, both Vermeer tub and horizontal grinders can be outfitted with the optional Vermeer Damage Defense system. When certain metal contaminants are detected during operations, the Damage Defense system alerts the grinder control and automatically initiates the shutdown process, which can reduce the possibility of severe damage from metal objects entering the hammermill.