Invented in Germany by Peter Jensen in the 1880s, the first wood chipper (a simple metal box mounted to a truck) was designed to chip and transport wood more easily. During the Industrial Revolution, wood chippers gained popularity to meet the increasing demands of the logging industry. By the 1950s, the introduction of the high-speed drum chipper started the evolution toward the commercially popular chipper bodies we know today.
While those early designs did create efficiency gains, the need for innovation was clear, both for functionality and safety. Over the years, there have been significant advancements in the engineering, features and customization options available in modern-day chipper trucks. Read on to learn more about the evolution of chip bodies.
Innovations and Improvements
We’ve implemented many engineering and design improvements in our chip bodies at ARBORTECH, including:
Better Materials
Modern chip bodies are often constructed using durable materials such as high-strength metal. At ARBORTECH, we use heavy-duty galvanneal steel. These heavier duty materials help to improve the durability and performance of truck bodies over time.
Smooth Sides
ARBORTECH chip bodies feature solid side walls to maximize advertising space and reduce areas for debris to stick and cause issues over time. You can promote your business while reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and repairs.
Safety Features
Safety has become a top priority when it comes to chip bodies. Modern designs from ARBORTECH incorporate features such as lockable toolboxes, reflective markings and DOT-approved ID light covers to protect against flying debris.
The SKYBOX Model
Our patented SKYBOX chip body features a retractable roof that can be opened or closed by one operator without the need for any tools. You can chip trees and brush, then push the rear roof panels forward to load large or bulky landscaping materials from above.
Customizable Design
Our models can be customized based on your size and feature requirements. ARBORTECH chip bodies feature a range of upgraded design features, including coated liners and underbed surfaces to protect against rust and extend the life of the chip body.
Today’s ARBORTECH Chip Bodies
Explore our current chip body lineup to see how design innovations have resulted in high-performing tree service solutions. Find the model that meets your needs, then reach out to request a quote.
Fixed Roof Body (FRB) – This is our basic model and a single solid unit, ideal for professional tree-trimming applications.
Removable Roof Body (RRB) – With this model, the top comes off for landscape companies that haul tall loads like trees or top loading mulch.
SKYBOX Retractable Roof Body – The proprietary SKYBOX roof design can be opened or shut in the field, allowing landscapers to dump their chips and load supplies in a single trip.
Urban Aerial Body (UAB) – The UAB allows operators to attach a lift bucket to a chip body, providing improved versatility in forestry applications.
At ARBORTECH, we are committed to staying at the forefront of chip body innovation. It is our goal to provide customers with high-quality chip bodies that are reliable, efficient and built to last. Contact us today to learn more.