Grade-reducing features in timber products

Authors: Nathan Kotlarewski, Michael Lee, Gregory Nolan
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2017, Issue N.Z.J.For. 62(3) 2017, pp 33-35, Nov 2017
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Non-permissible natural and processing features in appearance grade Tasmanian oak hardwood timber products cause significant downgrade in manufactured timber products. This study determined the potential quantity of recoverable timber from packs where natural and processing-induced features were present. Timber product manufacturers can achieve greater volumes of recovery and compliance to standardised timber grades by understanding the type and frequency of nonpermissible natural or processing-induced features. The removal of such features by docking them out, or avoiding the production of non-permissible features in the initial stage of production, are just two options available. This study identifies the importance for industry processors to investigate timber packs regularly to identify avoidable non-permissible features caused by processing practices, a lack of reflection on production and due diligence. This case study also demonstrates the importance of identifying which timber features are avoidable during the production stage, regardless of the standardised grading method and timber species, to prevent low product recovery.

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