subject: Strimmers: How they Operate [print this page] Strimmers: How they Operate Strimmers: How they Operate
If you have never used a strimmer, or weed whacker as they are commonly referred to, you may not know how one works. It might seem silly to you that a few simple pieces of string can cut through weeds, plants and grass so easily. When a strimmer is turned on, a high-powered motor spins a rotating reel fast enough that the string becomes very stiff and tense. In forms a straight line and, depending on the quality of your strimmer, can cut through just about any grass, weed or plant.
Some of the lines you can purchase are made of monofilament and designed for cutting jobs that are more difficult; they are shaped more like a star rather than the normal cylindrical shaped lines on cheaper strimmers. The monofilament material lines are better for larger woody plants or small shrubs; they make a disk shape, which is necessary to complete jobs that are more difficult.
The operator of the strimmer hand winds the string onto the reel prior to starting the job; both ends of the line should be extending out from the reel housing. When the motor rotates the line straightens out and this allows the operator to place the strimmer in the location they want to trim and, using a swaying motion, to get an even cut.
When a line breaks the operator can then hit the reel on the ground and a mechanism inside will replace the line allowing you to continue your job without stopping and completely replacing the line. Some new models have an auto-feeder; these models are much more efficient, but also heavier in weight.
Some string trimmers operate on gasoline, a gas-oil mixture, battery power, or by a power cord. Depending on which type of strimmer you own your efficiency and quality of work will vary. Some more expensive brands made for tough jobs can cost hundreds of dollars while a cheaper model can cost as little as $100 or less.
When your strimmer needs replacing you should shop around to get the best deal. The internet is probably the best place to find good deals because it is very easy to compare prices.
