FAST DRYING METHODS

 Mihaela Campean
Assoc.Prof., PhD -  „Transilvania” University of Brasov – Faculty of Wood Industry
Address: B-dul Eroilor nr. 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Tel/Fax: 0040 268 419581. E-mail: campean@unitbv.ro

Yves FORTIN
Prof. PhD, – Université Laval
Address: Pav. Abitibi-Price, Quebec, Canada, G1K 7P4
Tel: 418 656 2181. Fax: 418 656 5262. E-mail: yves.fortin@sbf.ulaval.ca

Ion Marinescu
Assoc.Prof., PhD - „Transilvania” University of Brasov – Faculty of Wood Industry
Address: B-dul Eroilor nr. 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Tel/Fax: 0040 268 419581. E-mail: campean@unitbv.ro

Abstract:
Having in view the long drying time and the frequently unsatisfactory quality of lumber drying when applying classical methods (low-temperature drying, conventional drying, dehumidification drying), a clear tendency for developing the so-called fast drying methods can be worldwide noticed nowadays. High-temperature drying, high-frequency drying, vacuum drying and different combinations of these methods can be included in this category. The physics of drying through these unconventional methods is less known, hence the hesitation of industrials to invest in such technologies is understandable, considering also the high investment costs involved. Therefore, in order to assist potential users, the authors tried within this paper to provide an objective presentation of the performances of fast drying methods, by emphasizing their advantages and their limitations. The paper represents a bibliographical synthesis based on the authors’ own experience, but also on information selected from recent reference literature.

Key words: lumber drying, high-temperature drying, high-frequency drying, vacuum drying, combined drying methods.