Kiln Drying WOOD 2750

Lumber drying is one of the required processes for the production of a finished product that can be used by the customer. Lumber drying is a costly process because it uses more energy than all other processes combined in a sawmill plant. The process uses heat to eliminate moisture excess from wood. The pace and amount of moisture extracted from wood has significant impact on the final quality of the product. This course introduces learners to the science and operational principles employed in a kiln. This includes understanding wood structure, the mechanical/chemical relationship between wood and water, drying characteristics, production machinery, operator roles and responsibilities and what is expected as a final product. Students engage in their learning through online activities across the term, and in-class activities during an onsite week. Students' knowledge is assessed through online discussions, quizzes, and the final exam as well as through practical projects.