Primary processing of eucalypts and factors affecting it

Abstract

Eucalypt timber is extremely versatile and is used for diverse purposes. Increases in the world's population and in standards of living cause a continuous increase in the demand for forest products from intensively managed, fast growing eucalypt plantations. To take full advantage of the potential of the eucalypts, it is necessary to understand material properties such as growth stresses in standing trees, logs and cants (and the possible reduction of these stresses), brittle heart, kin0 rings and knots. Material properties should be carefully considered when planning all processing activities from felling and log-making, to primary log breakdown or sawing. Production lines that can be considered, consist of frame-saw lines, double-arbor-multiple-circular sawlines, single to quad-band lines or even rotary veneer peeling for the production of laminated veneer lumber.