Wood drying! (Wood seasoning)

So today, we studied the types of wood drying, also known as wood seasoning. (NOT LIKE THE SEASONING YOU PUT ON YOUR PIZZA) - Mr. Simmons.

Air drying:
This is done by exposing the woods to a continuous air flow which will permeate through the timber and at a rate demoisturize the timber. Unfortunately, the demoisturization cannot be completely controlled with this method, and will depend on the climate it is done in. For example, if done in cold climates it may be extremely slow. Moisture loss however, can be controlled better if the timber is coated in a substance that is impermeable.

Kiln drying:
This is down by heating the timber, air circulation is brought in to make the drying process more effective. Unlike air drying, Kiln drying has advantages such as killing living organisms in the timber such as fungi. And Kiln drying may also be done regardless of weather conditions which makes it more effective as it can be done during the times in which air drying cannot.

 

Extended: Wood defects.

If drying processes are not done properly, the woods may have certain defects which can reduce the quality of the timber, such as:
Warping, cupping, twisting or other forms of the woods changing shape due to the woods shrinking.
Rupturing of the tissue, split ends or collapse. This may occur when the timber is dried unevenly.