5. Other Setup Parameters Home Kiln theory Basic theory Kiln schedules based on drying gradient

Developing drying programs/schedules is an ongoing process of trying to perfect the drying quality and the efficiency of the kilns. In this section we focus on some of the parameters which do not relate to temperature and relative humidity. Kiln-direct's kiln controllers have been designed to allow the kiln operator more methods of fine tuning the drying process. These parameters can be used to optimize the kilns to the best drying quality and lower operating cost. Many of the parameters in this section are probably not relative to the standard kiln controllers.

Learn more about the advantages of kiln-direct controllers.

This system has been designed for drying all types of hardwoods and softwoods. The setup parameters described in this section can be used to fine-tune the kiln controller for each type of load you will be drying. When using the Kiln Link Direct network you can build a database for each type of wood and thickness. Each drying schedule/program can have their individual setup parameters, which is automatically sent to the kiln controller when a load is started initially. This system makes the operation of kilns very simple, without compromising your ability to take advantage of all the fine-tuning you need to maximize the kilns.

Setup control parameter.	This is the basic parameter, which will allow you to change your kiln controller from a sensitive hardwood kiln to a fast reacting pine kiln and anything in between.
Energy calculation setup.	On all our controllers we have incorporated a method to estimate the energy consumption of each kiln charge. As energy cost rises this ability becomes increasingly important and will allow you to find better schedules and kiln setups, which reduces the energy consumption and thereby the drying cost.
Main fans forward/reverse.	The forward and reverse operation of the main fans can be set differently for the predrying and the kiln phase as to provide you maximum flexibility.
Main fans interval operation.	In the kiln phase the operation of the main fans can be forced into interval operation when there is no moisture evaporation from the lumber. This prevents excessive case-hardening and reduces the electrical consumption.
Minimum venting temperature.	Also known as minumum exhaust temperature (MET). This parameter is only used in the kiln phase and very useful during initial startup to prevent venting before a desired kiln drying temperature has been reached. It is also useful on kilns with insufficient heat capacity.
Predrying to kiln phase period.	This is a unique innovation by kiln-direct and Wooddryer System. This feature combined with the interval operated main fans is especially useful on slow drying and color sensitive species. There is no other system which can detect free water in load and act upon this information in order to preserve the drying quality.
Conditioning.	Although our controllers can help you dry the lumber with less stress than a conventional "slave" type kiln controller it may be necessary to condition the lumber. When using the Kiln Link Direct network the conditioning can be started automatically or you can elect to engage it manually (most common). When the conditioning period has been started it can run indefinitely (until stopped manually) or for a preset time period after which the controller shut down the kiln automatically.

We hope this information meets with your expectation and approval. We always welcome your opinions and suggestions. You can email us at techsupport@kiln-direct.com.

5. Other Setup Parameters Home Kiln theory Basic theory Kiln schedules based on drying gradient

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