A production process for manufacture of a laminate

Abstract

This invention relates to a process for the division of an individual input source log into discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing. The process comprises receiving an individual input source log, dividing the input source log into one or a plurality of output log portions of a predetermined length, wherein at least a portion of said output log portions resultant from said division are of a substantially equal or substantially constant or consistent longitudinal length, and wherein said substantially equal or substantially constant or consistent longitudinal length output log portions are procured as a feed stream of log material for a subsequent processing step. This process provides for the processing of logs and subsequent assembly into an end product formed from a composite of sticks derived from said processed logs.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]This disclosure relates to value extraction from tree stem materials (without any reduction to discrete fibre form) (i.e. from tree stem lengths) so as to provide resultant products of utility which, especially when from lower valued material and / or lower valued logs of a tree stem, will represent lumber value enhancement, or alternatively for greater utilisation of log material and conversion into resultant product.BACKGROUND ART[0002]Traditionally, dimensional lumber is produced for two main purposes. The first purpose being structural lumber and the second being appearance lumber. A third purpose also being for packaging.[0003]Structural lumber is produced and graded for properties of strength and stiffness. So-called “Early Wood” (core wood) has lower basic properties than so-called “Late wood” and inclusion of “Early Wood” in a piece of dimensional lumber can cause strength down grading. Defects, (knots, resin pockets, bark inclusions, decay, insect attack,...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a process for better utilizing logs or tree stems, especially those of conifers like Radiata Pine and Douglas Fir. The process maximizes the amount of useful wood and minimizes waste. The resulting wood sticks are of consistent dimension and cross-sectional profile, which can be used for a variety of applications such as construction. Additionally, the process removes moisture from the wood to reduce energy requirements for heat treatment or adhesive curing.

Problems solved by technology

These defects tend to be scattered through the length of a piece of lumber and lead to down grading on the basis of “a piece is only as strong as the weakest link”.

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