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Introduction

In air drying the rate at which the timber dries to the equilibrium moisture content is dependent upon climatic conditions, whereas in kiln drying by the control of temperature and humidity it is possible to increase or decrease the rate of drying. A timber drying kiln is simply defined as 'a closed structure designed or adapted for the purpose of reducing the moisture content of timber and wood based products'. In NSW there are approximately 30 plants kiln drying timber.

• Principles of Kiln Drying
  
  
• Measurement and Control of Temperature and Humidity
  
  
• Kiln Schedules and Correct Drying Practice
  
  
• Kiln Construction
  
  
• Types of Kilns Used in Australia
  
  
• Practical Aspects of Kiln Drying
  
  
• Timber Defects Caused by Drying
  • Brown Stain in Radiata Pine

  • Collapse in Hardwoods

  • Case Hardening in Timber

  • Warpage in Timber

• Alternative Drying Methods and Recent Technological Developments
  • High Temperature Kiln Drying

  • Dehumidification Drying

  • Solar Kiln Drying

  • Dielectric Drying

URL: http://www.anu.edu.au/Forestry/wood/drying/kiln.drying.html