For sawmills producing three to twenty million board feet annually, this book shows how to survive, prosper, and ensure future profitability. It explains sawing philosophies, high yield equipment, simple and efficient mill layouts, quality lumber drying, and value-added techniques.
Small Sawmill Handbook is a guide for the small mill operator who is not satisfied with the status quo and wants to shape his mill for the future. It's also an excellent introduction for novices who want to develop a good understanding of the theory as well as the practical aspects of sawmill operations.
Contents include: the raw material; sawing patterns, the key to yield and productivity; sawmill equipment for primary breakdown; secondary breakdown; edging, trimming, and sorting; mill layouts; lumber drying; and value-added manufacturing. Dozens of photos and illustrations show how sawmilling principles are put into practice.
