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Design and operation of a solar-heated dry kiln for tropical latitudes

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Lumber is usually dried to a specific moisture content prior to further manufacturing or use. While lumber can be air-dried, the ambient humidity in most localities prevents the lumber from reaching the moisture content necessary for dimensional stability and use, especially for interior use. Solar kilns are an inexpensive alternative to conventional steam-heated kilns, especially for small operations, and communities. Solar-heated kilns have great potential in developing countries, especially in remote locations with little access to conventional energy sources. This publication describes the construction and operation of a solar kiln for lumber drying in tropical latitudes.

Keywords

Kiln drying, low-cost lumber drying, lumber drying, solar-heated lumber drying, tropical hardwoods, tropical wood drying

Citation

Bond, Brian; Espinoza, Omar; Araman, Philip. 2011. Design and operation of a solar-heated dry kiln for tropical latitudes. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-134. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 14 p.
Citations
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/37390