A cylinder mower, also known as a reel mower or rotary mower, is a specialized lawn care machine designed to deliver a precise, clean cut to grass. Unlike standard rotary mowers that use a single horizontal blade, cylinder mowers employ a series of vertically arranged blades that rotate against a fixed bottom blade (bed knife). This scissor-like action ensures a superior cut, making cylinder mowers the preferred choice for golf courses, sports fields, and high-end residential lawns.
How a Cylinder Mower Works
The Cutting Mechanism
Helical Blades (Reel): A cylindrical drum with multiple spiral-shaped blades that rotate at high speed.
Bed Knife (Bottom Blade): A stationary blade positioned at the base of the reel.
Power Source
Manual (Push Reel Mowers): Operated by human force, ideal for small lawns.
Electric/Battery-Powered: Environmentally friendly with low noise.
Petrol (Gasoline) Powered: More powerful, suitable for large areas.
Tractor-Mounted: Used for extensive turf maintenance, such as golf courses.
Adjustable Cutting Height
Most cylinder mowers allow height adjustments by raising or lowering the bed knife or the entire reel assembly. This feature is crucial for maintaining different grass types at optimal lengths.
Key Components of a Cylinder Mower
The Reel (Cylinder)
- Made of high-carbon steel for durability.
- Contains 5 to 12 blades, depending on the model.
- More blades provide a finer cut but require more maintenance.
The Bed Knife
- A hardened steel blade fixed at the base.
- Must be kept sharp and properly aligned for optimal cutting.
The Roller
- Located at the front and/or rear.
- Helps create striped patterns on lawns (common in sports fields).
- Provides stability and smooth mowing.
The Drive System
- Manual mowers rely on user pushing.
- Motorized versions use belts, gears, or hydrostatic transmissions.
Grass Catcher (Optional)
- Collects clippings for a cleaner finish.
- Some models discharge clippings sideways or mulch them.
Advantages of Cylinder Mowers
Superior Cut Quality
- Produces a cleaner, more even cut than rotary mowers.
- Minimizes grass damage, reducing disease risk.
Healthier Turf
- Sharp shearing promotes faster healing.
- Prevents frayed grass tips that turn brown.
Striping Effect
The roller bends grass in alternating directions, creating a professional striped appearance.
Environmentally Friendly Options
- Manual and electric models produce no emissions.
- Lower noise levels compared to petrol mowers.
Disadvantages of Cylinder Mowers
Higher Maintenance Requirements
- Blades must be kept sharp and properly aligned.
- Dull blades result in poor cutting and grass damage.
Not Ideal for Overgrown Lawns
- Struggles with tall or wet grass.
- Best suited for regularly maintained lawns.
Higher Initial Cost
Professional-grade models are more expensive than rotary mowers.
Limited Terrain Adaptability
- Works best on flat, even surfaces.
- Uneven lawns may cause scalping (cutting grass too short in spots).
Common Applications of Cylinder Mowers
Golf Courses
Used on greens, fairways, and tees for a tournament-quality finish.
Sports Fields
Football, cricket, and rugby pitches require precise, striped cuts.
High-End Residential Lawns
Homeowners seeking a manicured look prefer cylinder mowers.
Municipal Parks & Formal Gardens
Provides a neat, professional appearance.
Cylinder Mower vs. Rotary Mower: Key Differences
| Feature | Cylinder Mower | Rotary Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Action | Scissor-like shear | Single spinning blade |
| Cut Quality | Clean, precise | Rougher, can tear grass |
| Maintenance | High (blade alignment crucial) | Low (easier to sharpen) |
| Best For | Short, fine turf | Tall, rough grass |
| Cost | Higher initial cost | More affordable |
Maintenance Tips for Cylinder Mowers
Sharpen Blades Regularly: Dull blades damage grass.
Check Bed Knife Alignment: Misalignment causes uneven cuts.
Clean After Use: Grass buildup leads to rust and inefficiency.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Prevents wear and tear.
Conclusion
A cylinder mower is a precision tool designed for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the highest quality lawn cut. Its scissor-like action ensures a clean, healthy trim, making it ideal for golf courses, sports fields, and well-maintained home lawns. While it requires more maintenance than a rotary mower, the superior results justify the effort for those seeking a pristine turf appearance.
