Log steaming and ringment for optimization of eucalyptus wood drying process

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of lumber Eucalyptus pellita previously subjected to annealing processes, steaming and drying under severe drought. The methodology used was based on the hypothesis that the use of combined techniques girdling and spraying would reduce the defects in the lumber after drying. Twelve trees of Eucalyptus pellita were collected, sectioned into three logs 3.0 meters where half of the total spent by annealing (1/3 radius) and the other half were steamed until the center of the logs reached 82ºC. Then the logs were split into boards by successive cuts tangential using a horizontal band saw. The boards went to a conventional drying oven, where a drying program considered severe for eucalyptus wood applied. After drying, it was determined the main defects occurred on tablets, such as cracking index, boards crook, boards bow, cup boards and presence of collapse. Overall, it was concluded that the completion of ring and application of spray improved the quality of lumber Eucalyptus pellita without compromising the final yield of the material. Defects in curving, arching and curling were considered mild, despite the severe drying.