22 Questions
What is the primary purpose of using a kiln in wood processing?
To accurately control the moisture content of the wood
How long does timber typically remain in a kiln during the seasoning process?
Two to five days
What type of wood seasons more rapidly in a kiln?
Softwoods
What is the function of steam in a kiln during the seasoning process?
To circulate around the wood and control humidity
What is the benefit of using a kiln in wood processing, compared to air seasoning?
It allows for more accurate control of moisture content
Why is it important to carefully stack the wood inside the kiln?
To allow for proper air circulation
What is a characteristic of softwood?
It is good for acoustic and thermal insulation.
What is the term for the timber in the form of a living tree?
Standing timber
Why are older trees selected for felling?
To allow younger trees to grow.
What is the purpose of storing logs in a clearing?
To allow some of the 'free' water content to evaporate.
What is a natural defect that can occur in timber?
Defects caused by the nature of the soil.
What is the term for the process of preparing the timber for commercial use?
Processing of wood.
Why are trees typically felled in winter?
When the tree has less moisture content.
What is the term for the timber that has been sawn and worked to the exact required condition?
Dressed timber
What is the primary characteristic of hardwood?
It is dense, closed grained and strong
What is the term used to describe the wood used for building or engineering purposes?
Timber
Which of the following woods is classified as a softwood?
Pine
What is the characteristic of hardwood that makes it resistant to fire?
It is non-resinous
What is the main difference between hardwood and softwood in terms of their weight?
Hardwood is heavy in weight, while softwood is light
What is the characteristic of softwood that makes it prone to catching fire?
It is resinous
Which of the following properties is common to both hardwood and softwood?
Contracting with heat and moisture
What is the significance of the annual rings in softwood?
They are distinct
Study Notes
Wood and Timber
- Wood refers to the natural material in trees, specifically the hard, fibrous structural tissue in stems and roots.
- Timber is wood used for building or engineering purposes, obtained from the trunk of a tree.
Types of Wood
- Hardwood:
- Obtained from deciduous trees
- Heavy, dark, dense, and strong
- Non-resinous, resistant to fire
- Examples: Oak, Maple, Mahogany, Cherry, Walnut, Rosewood, Teak
- Softwood:
- Obtained from coniferous trees
- Light, weak, and prone to splitting
- Resinous, can catch fire easily
- Examples: Pine, Ash, Hickory, Beech, Birch, Cedar, Redwood, Hemlock, Fir, Spruce
Properties of Hardwood and Softwood
- Hardwood:
- Contracts with heat and moisture
- Stronger, denser, and homogenous
- Good for framing, interior finishes, and furniture
- Resists fire better than softwood
- Nearly impervious to water (some varieties)
- High cost
- Softwood:
- Contracts with heat and moisture
- Good for acoustic and thermal insulation
- Flexible and strong, but not water-resistant
- Lower density than hardwood
- Good for interior finishes and furniture
Processing of Wood
- Stage 1: Felling of trees, usually done in winter when trees have less moisture content
- Stage 2: Storage of logs, allowing some water content to evaporate
- Stage 3: Transport to sawmill, using vehicles with lifting gear
Seasoning of Wood
- Kilns are used to speed up the seasoning process and control moisture content
- Wood is carefully stacked inside the kiln, and steam is circulated to reduce moisture content
- Softwoods season more rapidly in the kiln compared to hardwoods
Byproducts of Wood
- Plywood, Block Board, MDF, Particle Board, Veneer, Laminate, WPC (Wood Polymer Composite)
This quiz covers the characteristics and uses of hardwoods and softwoods, including their density, insulation properties, and applications in furniture and interior design.
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