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Drying Timber: An Insight Into The Kilning Process

An Introduction To Drying Timber

Over the years we’ve seen our fair share of kilns: the ‘ovens’ at the heart of every brilliant sawmill for drying timber. There is an art and science to the successful running of these hangar sized ovens to ensure prized timber, and nothing less, is achieved each and every time. Live edge tables, featuring natural and rustic beauty, have become an obsession of ours here at L’Atelier Mata. To create these stunning pieces, hardwood slabs must undergo a meticulous kiln drying process. In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind kiln drying timber, exploring the principles and techniques that ensure their stability, durability, and suitability for live edge table production. By understanding the science behind kiln drying, you can make informed decisions, optimize the quality of your slabs, and deliver exceptional products to your customers.

The Science Of Drying Timber

Once cut timber slabs undergo two to three summers stacked outside to gradually season the timber and bring down moisture levels prior to the kilning process. Kiln drying is a crucial next step in the processing of hardwood slabs, as it eliminates excess moisture, kills off insect activity, stabilizes the wood, and minimizes the risk of warping, splitting, or other defects. By reducing the moisture content, kiln drying enhances the strength, density, and dimensional stability of the wood, allowing it to withstand changes in humidity and temperature more effectively. For this very reason only the most exerienced operative, often with decades of exerience, is chosen by the sawmill to undertake the work – in most situations it is the sawmill owner her/himself!

The Science Behind Kiln Drying: The kiln drying process involves a careful balance of heat, humidity, and airflow to achieve optimal results. Several scientific principles come into play during this process.

Moisture Content and Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC): Moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present in wood, typically expressed as a percentage of the wood’s weight. Kiln drying aims to reduce the moisture content to a desired level. Equilibrium moisture content (EMC) refers to the moisture content at which wood reaches a balance with the surrounding environment. The target moisture content for hardwood slabs used in live edge tables is usually around 6-8%.

Drying Schedule: A drying schedule outlines the specific temperature, humidity, and time parameters required for optimal drying. It is essential to follow a carefully designed drying schedule to ensure uniform drying and minimize the risk of defects. The schedule typically involves three stages: the initial heating phase, the main drying phase, and the conditioning phase.

Heat and Moisture Transfer: Heat and moisture transfer occur simultaneously during kiln drying. The heat energy raises the temperature inside the kiln, increasing the vapor pressure of the moisture in the wood. This pressure gradient drives moisture movement from the wood’s interior towards the surface. Proper airflow and ventilation ensure the removal of evaporated moisture from the kiln, preventing reabsorption and promoting efficient drying.

Wood Structure and Stress Relief: The structure of wood consists of long cellulose fibers embedded in a matrix of lignin. During the kiln drying process, as moisture is removed, the shrinking and rearrangement of wood fibers can create internal stresses. These stresses, if not relieved properly, can lead to warping or cracking. Conditioning, the final phase of kiln drying, allows the wood to rest and equilibrate, minimizing residual stress.

Monitoring and Control Of Drying Timber: To ensure successful kiln drying, precise monitoring and control of temperature, humidity, and airflow are paramount. Modern kilns are equipped with sensors and controllers that continuously measure and adjust these parameters, providing a controlled drying environment. In the careful introduction of heat, moisture and airflow the operator expertly creates premium quality slabs over 4 to 6 weeks of careful work!

What Can Go Wrong When Drying Wood?

There are several things that can go wrong during the kiln drying process, leading to potential issues with the wood. Here are some problems that can occur:

  1. Uneven drying: If the drying process is not carefully controlled, there is a risk of uneven drying within the wood. This can result in stress build-up, warping, or cracking. Proper air circulation and temperature control are crucial to ensure uniform drying.
  2. Overdrying: Excessive heat or prolonged drying can cause the wood to become overly dry, leading to brittleness, increased susceptibility to cracking, and potential damage to its structural integrity. It’s essential to monitor the drying process closely to avoid over-drying.
  3. Case hardening: Case hardening occurs when the outer layer of wood dries too quickly, forming a hard shell while the interior remains moist. This creates tension within the wood, which can lead to warping, splitting, or checking. Proper drying schedules and moisture content monitoring can help prevent case hardening.
  4. Internal stresses: Wood contains internal stresses that can be released or exacerbated during the drying process. Improper drying conditions or rapid moisture removal can cause these stresses to manifest as warping, twisting, or cupping in the wood.
  5. Mould and fungal growth: If the kiln is not properly ventilated or if the drying conditions are not adequately controlled, there is a risk of mould and fungal growth on the wood. This can degrade the quality of the wood, affect its appearance, and potentially lead to health hazards.
  6. Insect infestation: If the drying timber already contains insect larvae or eggs, inadequate temperature control or insufficient drying time can result in the survival of these pests. This can lead to insect infestation and subsequent damage to the wood.

Conclusion

Kiln drying timber is a scientifically driven process that optimizes hardwood slabs for live edge table production. By carefully managing heat, humidity, and airflow, kiln drying eliminates excess moisture, enhances wood properties, and reduces the risk of defects. Understanding the science behind kiln drying enables the sawmill to produce high-quality slabs, achieve dimensional stability, and deliver exceptional products to their customers (us in this case). Embracing the principles of kiln drying ensures that the natural beauty of live edge tables is combined with durability and longevity so that each table truly will last a lifetime..

What is the best shape for a dining table?

oval oak dining table

So you’ve decided your dining area is particularly special (it is), and it needs an extra special dining table to boot. But how do you know which dining table shape is right for you and your space?

As the dining table itself is the focal feature of a dining room, it’s important to select one that not only suits the space, but also your lifestyle. At Wicked we can create all sorts of sizes, styles and shapes. All you have to do is decide which is best for you…

Shape No. 1

Rectangle

This is the most celebrated dining table shape – and for good reason. Its lengthy, tight structure is perfect for entertaining on a large scale, famously with hosts positioned at each end.

The linear shape of a rectangular dining table readily fits into most dining areas and is easily the most accommodating shape for most living areas. In smaller dining rooms, when not in use, a rectangular table can be pushed against the wall, but if you have a really narrow dining area, choose long dining benches instead of dining chairs to free up space. These can be tucked under the table when not in use.

A rectangular table is usually between 90cm to 107cm wide. Narrower tables can work well in a tight space, but if the table is any narrower than 90cm, you may find it tough to fit place settings as well as food onto the table.

Though the most popular of shapes, the humble rectangle can be beautified with unique features. When we create our bespoke tables we ask customers how they envision their one-of-a-kind table. A rectangular table can be brought to life with an exciting external or internal live edge, which harks back to the beauty of the tree itself.

Shape No. 2

Square

Square dining tables are the perfect shape for smaller spaces where the table serves many purposes. If there are two to four people in your household, a square table is a great choice.

This shape helps to create a sense of balance and symmetry in a dining area. Celebrating contemporary style, this look can be enhanced further by using chrome and copper pedestals, and by pairing the table with matching hardwood benches. A square table creates an intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for small scale dinner parties and romantic nights in. It can be jarring to have a large rectangular table when there are only two or three people present for most of your meals whereas a square table is warm and inviting.

Shape No. 3

Oval

If you’re mulling over whether a rectangular or a square dining table is best for your space, perhaps the oval is your answer. An oval table combines the linear design of a rectangular table with the closeness and flexibility of a round table. If your area is made up of many straight lines and edges, the curves of an oval table will help soften your interior to make it more intimate and inviting. The curved edges make it great in small spaces too and can be incorporated into smaller dining areas with ease.

If you’re looking to highlight the soft nature of an oval table, it is always a good choice to combine chairs that feature similar characteristics.

Rather than table legs, a central pedestal base is a fantastic choice if you’re aiming for a sculptural and sophisticated décor. This draws attention to the decorative qualities of the oval shape as well as freeing up space for all of your guests to get tucked under that table and ready to eat.

Shape No. 4

Round

A round dining table is perfect for the hosts among us – by keeping everyone at the same distance from each other, this shape is great for creating an energetic and social atmosphere . A table with no corners is great for 2 reasons (3 if we count the kids not being able to run into them) – firstly, you can seat the maximum number of guests possible and secondly, from a style perspective, the curvature adds some shape variety to a room that is big and rectangular which livens a living space.

Opt for a pedestal base – these offer the most leg room, so your guests won’t need to compete with uncomfortably placed table legs.

A round table equals a more casual dining experience. An added benefit is that there is no need to fret when you have an uneven number of guests. If you’re used to people turning up unannounced when your signature dish is in the oven, then a round table is perfect for you.

So what shape dining table is best for you? Which shape is best for your space?

If you’re still scratching your head, why not give us a ring on 020 8432 3266 or email us at info@lateliermata.com

Have a good idea of what you’re looking for? Head on over to our Get a Quote page or mosey on over to our Shop for some inspiration.