Kiln drying Canadian softwoods and hardwoods: Different species - Different problems

A mail survey on kiln drying problems faced by Canadian companies processing softwood and/or hardwood timbers revealed important differences in drying methodologies, and dried product quality. Two significant differences in the drying process were identified related to electrical energy consumption and spraying systems, but none in kiln control. For kiln drying problems, softwood mills preferred the assistance of kiln manufacturers, while operations drying hardwoods or both softwoods and hardwoods more frequently consulted research institutes. Dried product quality problems were more crucial to mills that only dried hardwoods. Results of this research could provide companies with a better understanding of their sector, point out possible opportunities for increasing the profitability and stability of the wood products industry, as well as assist in focusing research efforts.