Collapse and moisture distribution in presteamed and kiln-dried incense-cedar squares

Previous research has shown that presteaming wood pieces 1 inch thick or less that have high extractives content can help speed drying and reduce the development of collapse. Therefore, a study was conducted in which 3-inch-thick squares of incense-cedar were subjected to high-humidity treatments, kiln-dried, and then evaluated for final moisture content (MC) distribution and collapse. No evidence of collapse was found after two preliminary tests in which squares were subjected for about 4 hours to 1) 212?F dry-bulb temperature (DBT) and 212?F wet-bulb temperature (WBT); or 2) 170?F DBT and 167?F WBT. In two more comprehensive tests, squares were subjected to 170?F DBT and 167?F WBT for 4-1/2 hours or to 173?F DBT and 170?F WBT for 5-1/2 hours. The squares were cooled, examined for collapse, and then dried. Near the end of drying, the squares were weighed about every 24 hours to monitor the average MC. Finally, each square was graded and shell and core MCs were determined from ovendried samples. The shell and core final MCs were not as uniform nor as low as desired, and a large number of squares showed at least a small amount of collapse. We conclude that the predrying treatments tried would not speed drying nor lessen the quantity of collapse.

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