Design and Evaluation of Log-To-Dimension Manufacturing Systems Using System Simulation

Abstract

In a recent study of alternative dimension manufacturing systems that produce green hardwood dimension directly fromlogs, it was observed that for Grade 2 and 3 red oak logs, up to 78 and 76 percent of the log scale volume could be converted into clear dimension parts. The potential high yields suggest that this processing system can be a promising technique for dimension manufacturing. To further explore the potential of this processing system, this study tests different mill designs and examines the effect of mill configurations, log grade, and cutting bill on dimension production rate. System simulation techniques are employed to aid in the design and evaluation of the proposed dimension mills. The results of thisstudy show that the dimension production rates in mills configured for live-sawing average 22 percent higher than those configured for five-part (cant) sawing. The part production rates in mills processing Factory Grade 2 logs averaged 41 percent higher than those processing Factory Grade 3 logs. Other results show how different cutting-length specifications can impact production rate. The application of system simulation as a tool for identifying resource bottlenecks and improving overall mill efficiency is also illustrated.

Citation

Lin, Wenjie; Kline, D. Earl; Araman, Philip A.; Wiedenbeck, Janice K. 1995. Design and Evaluation of Log-To-Dimension Manufacturing Systems Using System Simulation. Forest Products Journal. 45(3): 37-44.