A three-dimensional solid model for OSB mat

A three-dimensional solid model was developed to simulate behaviors of individual strands in the mat-forming process and to further investigate structural characteristics of an oriented strandboard (OSB) mat. Compared with prior models, this model provided a more realistic description of the mat structure. This simulation technology was also more flexible than the previous simulations in using varied strand geometry and different types of strand orientation, defining strand location, and solving the edge effect problem. Key processing parameters including strand geometry and nominal board density were investigated for their relationship to mat void volume ratio. The simulation results showed similar trends to the experimental data under the same processing conditions. The model can also be used to calculate the horizontal density distribution of OSB panels.