SEASONING
Seasoning is the process of
removing the moisture of the timber upto such an extent that under normal
condition the atmosphere should have no effect on the timber as regards its
shrinkage and expansion. The moisture contents by this process are reduced up to
8-15% depending on the climatic conditions of the area where timber is to be
used.
Timber Seasoning increases
the strength of timber, eliminates wood rot, prevents changes in the dimensions
and shape of the articles made of timber,
and ultimately improves the quality of finishing of timber.
OBJECTIVES OF SEASONING
Following are the main objects of seasoning timber:
1. To reduce the weight of the
timber. The economical reason for seasoning timber is to reduce
shipping charges. Seasoning of timber reduces the weight of timber up
to a considerable amount, which results in the easy transportation of timber
and less fuel consumption of the vehicle.
2. To increase the work ability,
durability and strength of the timber. After the seasoning of timber, it serves
the purpose of increasing the durability, such that the design life of the
component increases to a specific duration.
3. One of the important reasons
for seasoning timber is to have a check on injury caused by the
insects and to prevent decay before the timber is placed in service.
4. Seasoning prepares the wood
for its injection with preservatives and for other industrial
purposes.
5. For the safety
measures, timber should not shrink more than some specified value once placed
in service. Seasoning of Timber has the property to reduce the shrinkage
of timber.
6. To reduce the moisture
content to remain in equilibrium with the moisture content of the atmosphere.
Moisture in timber is an absolute requirement for its decay. Timber or wood
which can be kept dry by using the principle of seasoning is less likely
to undergo decay.
SIGNIFICANCE OF TIMBER SEASONING
Significance of Seasoned Timber is as discussed below,
1) Timber that is seasoned gains several qualities with the loss
of moisture.
2) The strength of Timber tends to increase after seasoning.
3) The tendency of timber to split, shake or warp
decreased, hence seasoned timber is much easier to work with.
4) Seasoned Timber is safer when used in machines.
5) Artificial Seasoning of timber will dry up the sap that creates
an environment for fungi and parasites their living.
6) Seasoning of Timber reduces the weight of Timber making them
significantly lighter for their transportation.
7) It is well-known fact that if timber is kept dry it will be less
prone to decay.
ADVANTAGES OF NATURAL SEASONING
1) Less investment cost is required.
2) It is best suited, to non-uniform and low market demand.
3) Natural Seasoning operation does not require skilled labour.
DISADVANTAGES OF NATURAL SEASONING
1) A large piece of land is required for carrying out the seasoning.
2) Desired moisture content may not be obtained.
3) The process of seasoning is very slow and on average takes 2-4 years as
it depends on natural air, we have no control over it.
4) Non-uniform seasoning of timber is obtained.
5) Attack of fungi and insects cannot be avoided during the process.
ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL SEASONING
1) Seasoning of timber is uniform, hence considerable defects such
as shrinkage, cracks, and wrapping are minimized.
2) Removal of moisture content is fast; hence the process becomes
economical.
3) Fungi and insects attack is reduced.
4) Painting and finishing of timber become effective.
DISADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL SEASONING
1) The cost of processing is high.
2) Time to time supervision by skilled personnel is
required.
3) Uneconomical if the demand for timber in the market is less.
Ms.M.Darneshree
Assistant Professor
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