Kiln schedules based on drying gradient Home Kiln theory Basic theory

What is your responsibility as a kiln operator and how can you implement these responsibilities?

Operating one or more kilns is a big responsibility and should never be taken lightly. A kiln operator controls a process which can seriously effect the economy of the company. The cost of inattention to the daily operation can easily amount to more loss in value than an operator's own yearly pay. This job and its responsibilities require a person with a high level of self discipline and a flexible work schedule (extra overtime in order to attend to the kilns).

• It is wise for any kiln operation to have a trained assistant available to relieve the head kiln operator from time to time; in addition, the lumber company will benefit from having trained and knowledgeable personnel as backup should it loose the main kiln operator.

Normally the kiln operator's responsibility is expanded to the extended drying process consequently, the kiln operator is responsible for quality control throughout a lumber yard. He is the one that the company will depend on to solve problems not related to the sawmill and secondary manufacturing, such as moulding and planning. The kiln operator’s job is very important and his responsibility is not limited to the four walls of a kiln chamber and it’s controls. The kiln operator must/should follow the lumber from the day it enters the lumber yard/sawmill to the day it ships, in order to spot and correct problems that are normally considered drying related problems. Many times these problems occur before and sometimes after the kiln drying process itself.

Partial list of the things the kiln operator should look for

• Before the sawmill: How long have the logs been in the log piles? This is especially important on whiter species that are prone to stain, mildew, mold, etc. It can make a difference whether the logs are under water.
• After the sawmill: How long does the lumber stay dead packed after it has been sawn? This is especially important on whiter species that are prone to stain.
• Is chemical treatment needed: If the lumber is going to stay dead packed for a longer period will it be dipped in an anti- stain/fungus chemical and what is the concentration?
• On incoming green lumber:During transport was the lumber covered to prevent checking on the surface of the packs?
• When placing the lumber on sticks:
  • Was the lumber stacked using dry sticks in order to prevent sticker stain?
  • Were the sticks placed in a straight line on standard spacing?
  • Were special sticks used with grooves to prevent stain?
  • Learn more about proper sticking procedures and methods.
• Air drying/storage before the kilns:
  • Were the packs kept away from the direct sun and/or rain, either by placing it in a shed or with a cover on top of the lumber piles?
  • Were the faster drying species placed in areas with natural high air flow, in a forced air fanshed or in a predryer system?
• During kiln loading: Were the blocks (kiln runners) placed in line with the sticks and was the general loading performed to maximize air flow? Misplaced blocks will create bent boards during the drying process.
  Learn more about how a kiln should be loaded.
• After kiln drying: Is the lumber stored in a dry area where it cannot pickup moisture before shipping?

We hope this information meets with your expectation and approval. We always welcome your opinion and suggestions. Feel free to email us anytime. Thank you for your continued interest.