Potential of Low Temperature Drying of Eastern Spruce and Eastern Hemlock

Eastern spruce and hemlock, 4/4 and 8/4 stock, were successfully dried in a low temperature dryer with optimum results obtained at 100?F, 10 percent EMC, and an air speed of 500 fpm. Based on current marketing practices, the low temperature drying of spruce and hemlock lumber cannot be economically justified. In the volume market, any gains in appearance or quality improvement would not generate sufficient price increases to offset cost based on estimated heat and power requirements. Air-drying costs are estimated from $5 to $10 per MBF, whereas low temperature drying costs are $6 to $18 per MBF based on electricity costing $0.02 per KW. Better grade material and the ability to meet market demands and to supply items for special orders might well justify the erection and use of a low temperature dryer.

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