SRM-266
OPERATION
X7502028004 31
© 02/21 ECHO Incorporated
Understanding what causes these reactive forces may help you to avoid
them, and can help you to maintain control of the equipment if you
experience a sudden reaction during cutting. Reactive forces occur when
the force being applied by the cutting teeth of a blade meet resistance, and
some of the cutting force is directed back toward the equipment. The greater
the cutting force or the amount of resistance, the greater the reactive force.
Push and Pull Forces
Push and pull forces are reactive forces that push the
equipment directly toward the operator, or that pull the
equipment directly away from the operator. These forces
are the result of cutting on the sides of the blade. The
direction of the force depends on the side of the blade
being used, and the direction of blade rotation at the point
of contact. The reactive force is in the opposite direction of
blade rotation at the contact point, regardless of where the
contact is being made. These types of reactive forces are
also called “Blade Thrust.
As shown in the illustration, a blade turning
counterclockwise will cause the equipment to pull away
from the operator if the point of cutting resistance is on
the left side of the blade. If the point of cutting resistance
is on the right side of the blade, the equipment will push
back toward the operator. In both examples, the reactive
force is in the opposite direction of blade rotation at the
contact point where resistance occurs.
Kickout
Kickout is also a reactive force caused by resistance to
cutting, but the direction of blade thrust is lateral (to the
left or right of the blade), instead of forward or back toward the operator. In
most cases, Push, Pull, and Kickout can be reduced or eliminated by:
• Using the correct blade for the cutting job
• Using properly sharpened blades
• Applying consistent, even force to the blade
during the cut
• Avoiding obstacles and ground hazards
• Using extra care when cutting harder materials
such as extremely dry brush, saplings, and
small trees
• Cutting from a stable, secure position
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