The Effect of Conventional Seasoning Methods on the Twisting Behaviour of Young<i>Pinus patula</i>Timber / DIE EFFEK VAN KONVENSIONELE DROGINGSBEHANDELINGS OP DIE DRAAITREKGEDRAG VAN JONG<i>P. PATULA-HOUT</i>
Abstract
ABSTRACT The effect of various conventional seasoning treatments, restraint, storage, log diameter and position of boards in logs on the twisting behaviour of 19–20 year old P. patula timber was determined. The results indicate a distinct influence of restraint and to a lesser extent of temperature on twist, especially so on boards containing pith associated wood of the 27–36 em diameter class and all the boards, regardless of board position in the log, of the 17–23 em diameter class. The benefit of reduced twist through the application of restraint and higher temperatures was generally maintained after a 12 months storage period. It seems as if P, patula boards remain fairly stable during storage when only small moisture changes take place in the timber but the boards of the 17–23 em log diameter class and especially those containing pith associated wood, increased by 3–6° in twist with a loss in moisture content of only 3%.