In a cradle debarker, logs are loaded into a long trough that contains a series of horizontal and vertical conveyor chains, which are oriented at a slight angle to the path of the logs. The chains lift and drop the logs as they move along the trough. This action loosens and removes bark via compressive and shear forces that are generated between the logs in the trough.

Using the cradle debarker over other debarking methods can reduce energy consumption. Cradle debarker also inflicts less damage to the logs, leading to a greater wood recovery rate, decreased transportation costs through elimination of off-site debarking, and greater process control (Kramer et al., 2009., p.88).