Influence of Sawing Methods on Lumber Grade Yield from Yellow-Poplar

This article discusses a theoretical method by which sawing of yellow-poplar logs could be simulated through the use of photographs and diagrams of sawline patterns. Through a series of trial-and-error applications a theoretical sawing technique was developed. The method involves grading and photographing all four faces of uniform length logs, then gang sawing them to expose the internal defects. Each board is photographed on both faces. Knots are accurately plotted. A transparent sheet with theoretical sawlines is placed over the log-end diagram with a specific defect sawline orientation. The composite is then photographed and cross-referenced with the actual diagram. Fifty yellow-poplar study logs were theoretically sawn over 2,800 times through this process. Conclusions were made that sawing a log on three faces only, produces higher lumber values than sawing on four faces. This study suggests that the many variables in sawing can be investigated by analytical approach. However, verification can be accomplished only by a statistically sound mill study. Other species have not been considered.

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