While many arborists may be wary of making the switch to battery-powered tools, there is a wide range of benefits that make it a move worth making. 

THE arboriculture industry is experiencing a significant shift towards more sustainable practices in today’s increasingly environmentally conscious world.

One of the most impactful of these practices is changing from petrol-powered tools to battery.

While this transition may raise questions for arborists who have always worked with petrol tools, there is a wide range of benefits to be enjoyed by making the switch such as reduced emissions, noise levels and operational costs.

Here, we discuss why now is the right time to consider a mixed fleet of battery and petrol tools, plus what to look for in a battery when making the transition.

The ideal battery 

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Constant advancements in battery technology mean that arborists now have a viable alternative to petrol power, without compromising productivity. Since the battery is one of the biggest factors determining performance, it is essential that arborists look for professional grade, high-quality lithium-ion batteries when making the change. The batteries in Stihl’s AP System have been developed with demanding professional use in mind, powering a wide range of accompanying tools with ease.

Stihl’s smart AP technology provides arborists with a battery that offers bi-directional communication, allowing tools to draw the precise level of power for the device in question to achieve the best performance and long working times.

Additionally, batteries in the AP range experience zero loss in power as the battery discharges. This is due to an intuitive constant power output feature which compensates for changes in voltage, meaning the battery tool offers full power all through the charge.

Noting the unpredictable weather here in the UK, it is essential that the battery is reliable in all weather conditions. Here, IPX4-certified batteries are the ideal choice. IPX4 batteries can be used in wet weather and can operate in cold temperatures too, reducing downtime and ensuring maximum productivity.

Modern batteries with connectivity integration, such as Stihl’s Connected offering, allows users to monitor charge cycles, energy consumption and overall battery health from their desktop or smartphone. Connected is also compatible with hand tools too, providing a full fleet management system for the user.

For extended ease of use, Stihl tools are also designed so the battery fits inside the machine for elite balance, handling and protection.

So, where to begin?

Chainsaws such as the MSA 220 T, Stihl’s most powerful battery top-handled saw to date, and the rear-handled MSA 220 C-B are great for arborists in the tree or as a chipper saw respectively. With a comparable power output to the petrol MS 201 models, MSA 220 chainsaws offer the same performance but with reduced running costs, maintenance requirements and emissions.

For smaller thinning tasks, the lightweight MSA 161 T is a great alternative to the petrol MS 151 T. Thanks to their quiet nature, battery-powered chainsaws help to improve communication between teams in the tree and on the ground, as well as with customers too.

For felling and processing larger trees, the rear-handled MSA 300 is available with an 18” guide bar and offers significantly more power compared to the MSA 220 C-B. The recommended AP 500 S battery has a long lifespan of 2,400 charge cycles, ensuring the payback period is reached early in the battery’s working life.

To reduce downtime, charging management needs to be considered in advance.

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The number of batteries varies depending on access to power, the number of operators and the nature of the work at hand – therefore a trial period is ideal to establish the exact requirements. The AL 301-4 multi-charger makes overnight charging hassle free, while the PS 3000 portable power bank allows batteries to be recharged during the day, ideal for businesses working across multiple locations away from mains power supplies.

Stihl’s AP System also offers a comprehensive range of tools, allowing arborists to complete auxiliary tasks such as hedge cutting or clearing jobs with ease.

Now is a great time for arborists to consider transitioning from petrol to battery-powered tools, given that technology advancements have helped to achieve the same level of power output between the two. However, to maintain high levels of productivity on site it is essential that the best quality batteries and machines are sourced for the job.

For more information on Stihl’s wide range of power tools, visit www.stihl.co.uk.