Browsing by Author "Araman, Philip A."
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- Analysis of Red Oak Timber Defects and Associated Internal Defect Area for the Generation of Simulated LogsWinn, Matthew F. (Virginia Tech, 2002-12-05)Log sawing simulation computer programs can be a valuable tool for training sawyers as well as for testing different sawing patterns. Most available simulation programs rely on databases from which to draw logs and can be very costly and time-consuming to develop. In this study, a computer program was developed that can accurately generate random, artificial logs and serve as an alternative to using a log database. One major advantage of using such a program is that every log generated is unique, whereas a database is finite. Real log and external defect data was obtained from the Forest Service Northeastern Research Station in Princeton, West Virginia for red oak (Quercus rubra, L.) logs. These data were analyzed to determine distributions for log and external defect attributes, and the information was used in the program to assure realistic log generation. An attempt was made to relate the external defect attributes to internal defect characteristics such as volume, depth, and angle. CT scanning was used to obtain internal information for the five most common defect types according to the Princeton log data. Results indicate that external indicators have the potential to be good predictors for internal defect volume. Tests performed to determine whether a significant amount of variation in volume was explained by the predictor variables proved significant for all defect types. Corresponding R2 values ranged from 0.39 to 0.93. External indicators contributed little to the explanation of variation in the other dependent variables. Additional predictor variables should be tested to determine if further variation could be explained.
- A Business Model for a Red Oak Small Diameter Timber Processing Facility in Southwest VirginiaPerkins, Brian Russell (Virginia Tech, 2006-12-12)The conversion of red oak small diameter timber (SDT) into solid wood products was investigated. The objectives of this research were to 1) determine the yield of lumber, pallet and container parts, and residues from SDT and the market potential for these products; 2) determine the economic feasibility of a SDT sawmill and pallet part mill located in Southwest Virginia; 3) develop a business plan for a SDT sawmill and pallet part mill located in Southwest Virginia. The methods for this research consisted of resource, yield and economic analyses, and the development of a business model. The resource analysis indicated an ample supply of red oak SDT available in Southwest Virginia. The yield analysis used red oak SDT logs, which were manufactured into lumber, container parts and wood residues. The yield of 3" wide container parts from cants varied from 63% to 66%. The 1" nominal lumber produced was mainly 2A and 3A, 74%, and 24% was 1 common. The economic analysis utilized break even, net present value and internal rate of return analyses to determine the economic feasibility of utilizing red oak SDT. The results of the study indicated that the sawmill-only processing level scenario is not economically feasible given the specified conditions and assumptions. However, the results showed that the sawmill and pallet part mill, actual yield scenario at $35/ton delivered log cost is economically feasible. The hypothetical business model for Southwest Custom Hardwoods was economically feasible. The final net present value was calculated to be over $750,000 and the final internal rate of return was 11%. Future yield studies should weigh logs so that the yield of residues and solid wood products can be directly compared. Future research into the utilization of hardwood SDT should include yield studies of other species and other product mixes.
- Developing an Evaluation Program for Lumber Drying Operations in BoliviaEspinoza, Omar A. (Virginia Tech, 2006-05-01)The Bolivian forest products industry has experienced substantial growth during the last ten years. Exports of value-added products have largely replaced logs and green lumber, and raw materials for wood products have shifted to lesser used species. Important investment has taken place in lumber drying capacity, which unfortunately was not always accompanied by sound drying practices. Several non-governmental organizations, with U.S. financial aid, are currently supporting the industry with technical assistance. This project assists these efforts by assembling much needed information regarding lumber drying, and providing tools for performance measurement of drying practices. A survey was conducted among Bolivian companies to determine lumber drying capacity, technology and practices. Results showed a total drying capacity of 6,104,250 board feet in 167 kilns. Technology and practices used are highly variable. Thirty six percent of kilns are home-made, and 59% are European commercial brands. Upon completion of the survey, a set of analytical tools was developed and tested in six Bolivian firms. These tools were designed to systematically evaluate lumber drying operations and formulate actions for improvement. Equilibrium moisture content (EMC) during storage, manufacturing and shipping was monitored in plants located in three Bolivian cities and inside containerized shipments of wood products. Findings showed differences between EMC and lumber moisture content from -1% to 7%. Differences between EMC inside dry-lumber storage and processing facilities varied between 0% and 3.6% and were greatly influenced by facility configuration. Climate during shipment of wood products largely depended on packaging materials and methods, which attenuate sharp changes in ambient conditions. Monthly values for outdoor EMC for the main cities of Bolivia were calculated based on historic weather data and are reported.
- The Effect of Green Insulation Standards on Moisture Accumulation within Framing of Residential StructuresKnight, Kevin Brian (Virginia Tech, 2012-01-18)Green building standards recommend use of a variety of new thermal insulation products. However, durability of wooden framing used in conjunction with new insulation materials has not been thoroughly examined, specifically in reference to interstitial condensation. This research used a single-sided hot-box design to measure moisture content of wood framing during a 60-day period. The resulting moisture content of the wood framing was compared as tested with spray-applied cellulose and polyurethane versus fiberglass batt insulation. The average moisture content of framing insulated with cellulose and polyurethane was greater than framing insulated with fiberglass. Based on the results from this research, the use of spray-applied cellulose and polyurethane insulation materials may increase the risk of structural durability. Green building standards, such as LEED for Homes or the National Green Building Standard, emphasize creating energy efficient structures to limit negative impact on the environment. Green building practices employed to increase energy efficiency of the building enclosure may overlook possible adverse effects that these practices may have on structural durability. Because spray-applied cellulose and polyurethane insulation increase moisture content of wooden framework within building enclosures, it can be deduced that energy efficient insulation may increase risk of moisture-related biodeterioration of the building enclosure. After review of points awarded for insulation materials within LEED for Homes and the National Green Building Standard, results from this study imply that the National Green Building Standard does not emphasize durability of wooden structures in their guidelines at the present time.
- The Effectiveness of Splicing Notched Pallet Stringer Segments With Metal Connector PlatesTong, Chao (Virginia Tech, 1997-08-01)Notched stringer segments spliced with metal connector plates (MCPs) and pallets with spliced stringer(s) were tested in static bending in order to determine the relative effectiveness of different stringer splicing methods and under what conditions the process is or is not effective. The species tested were oak, southern yellow pine, yellow-poplar, and two combined species - oak and yellow-poplar, and oak and southern yellow pine. The metal connector plates used were 3 x 4-inch, 3 x 6-inch truss plates, and a 3 x 4-inch plug plate. The splice methods tested were a vertical splice (VS), a 45° angle splice (AS), and a vertical splice with -inch gap between segments (VSG). The results of bending tests of these specimens were compared to non-spliced whole stringers and pallets containing whole stringers. Multiple comparison, statistical methods were used to analyze all test data. An analysis of the failure locations and types of specimens was also used to analyze test results. Vertical spliced stringers with 3 x 4 and 3 x 6 inch truss plates were the best designs of those tested. Spliced stringers were an average of 112% and 74% bending strength and stiffness of new non-spliced stringer. These plates were an average of 26% stronger and 13% stiffer than the 3 x 4 inch plug plate splice stringer. There was no difference between the performance stringers spliced with 3 x 6 and 3 x 4 inch truss plate. An angle splice design and the addition of 1.25 x 6 inch truss plate on the tension side of spliced stringer did not appear to improve the strength and stiffness. A gap between segments significantly reduces splice strength and stiffness by an average of 35% and 16% respectively. When mixing stringer segment species, the performance is determined by the weaker segment. The average strength and stiffness of pallets containing spliced stringers were similar to that of pallets with whole stringers, however the variation in performance was greater when notched stringer pallets contain splices.
- Evaluation of a direct processing system for converting no. 3 grade red oak logs into rough dimension partsLin, Wenjie (Virginia Tech, 1993)The primary objective of this study was to assess the economic feasibility and profitability of the direct processing system for converting No.3 grade red oak logs into rough dimension parts. In the first part of this study, the cutting yields of green dimension parts and dollar value recovery from No.3 grade red oak logs by the direct processing system were estimated. A combination method of actual log sawing and simulated cutting was used to obtain the dimension yields. Two sawing patterns (live-sawing and five-part-sawing) and two cutting sequences (rip-first and crosscut-first) were tested for their effects on dimension yields, cutting lengths, and dollar value recovery. It was found that live-sawing resulted in significantly higher dimension yield than five-part-sawing. If followed by rip-first, live-sawing also resulted in higher dollar value recovery than five-part-sawing. Rip-first and crosscut-first has no significant differences in dimension yield, however, rip-first can recover more dollar value than crosscut-first if longer cuttings have higher value. The results of this study indicated that the combination of live-sawing and rip-first has the highest dimension yield and dollar value recovery if longer cuttings have higher value. In the second part of this study, the mill designs of the direct processing system for the various sawing patterns and cutting sequences were developed. The computer simulation/animation models for these designs were built using SIMAN IV/CINEMA. These models were used to predict the dynamic performances and production rates of the various mill designs. Based on simulation results, the direct processing system with one headrig saw can process from 17.8 to 20.5 MBF No.3 grade red oak logs and turn out 11 to 14.3 MBF Clear-two-face, 4/4 random width green dimension parts per shift. In the third part of this study, a financial analysis using discounted cash flow methods was conducted over a ten year planning horizon to determine the economic feasibility of the direct processing system that processes No.3 grade red oak logs directly into rough dimension parts. Under the assumptions of this study, measured by both Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), all of the six designs evaluated are economically acceptable. With the highest NPV of $4,193,700 and the highest IRR of 29.6 percent, the design that uses live-sawing and rip-first with manual chop saws was found to be the most economically attractive selection. The profitability of the direct processing system, measured in ROS (Return on Sales), was estimated and compared with the reported profitability for the hardwood dimension and flooring industry. The results indicated that the direct processing system are more profitable than the conventional processing system for making dimension parts. The sensitivities of NPV and ROS to the changes in dimension part price, log price, labor cost, overhead cost, capital investment, weighting factor for part lengths, green cutting yield and drying and remanufacturing loss were analyzed. Dimension part price, green cutting yield and drying and remanufacturing loss were found to be the most important factors that affect the economic feasibility and profitability of the direct processing system.
- Evaluation of metal connector plates for repair and reinforcement of wood palletsClarke, John W. (Virginia Tech, 1992-07-05)Pallet repair and reinforcement with metal connector plates (MCPs) may reduce wood waste while providing pallet users with quality, economical pallets. The study objectives were to evaluate the effect of MCP repair and reinforcement on pallet performance, and to evaluate preliminary standards for repair and reinforcement of pallets with MCPs. Whole pallets and pallet components were tested. Stringers and notched segments were tested in static bending, while end feet were tested for resistance to fork tine impact. Whole pallets were evaluated with a test protocol that simulated the effects of long-term handling. Stringers, repaired at notch corners, had greater strength, but less stiffness than the original stringers. Notch reinforcement with MCPs resulted in stringers with greater strength and stiffness than equivalent unreinforced stringers. No consistent species-width effect was found for strength of plated stringers. MCP-repair of above-notch failures did not restore the original strength or stiffness of notched segments. However, these repairs may be satisfactory since above-notch failures are secondary in frequency of occurrence. No differences were found between performance of plates used to repair stringers and notched segments. Both repaired and reinforced end feet had greater impact resistance than the equivalent original or unreinforced end feet. Wood species, rather than stringer width, had a greater influence on MCP performance. In general, tests of whole pallets supported the results from component tests which suggests that component testing may be a practical means of assessing the effect of repair and reinforcement techniques on pallet performance.
- An Examination of Appalachian Forest Products ExportsParsons, Brigitte A. (Virginia Tech, 2003-04-17)The primary goal of this study was to identify value added export opportunities for the hardwood products manufacturing industry. By studying current industry practices and trends, we can better understand the opportunities hardwood lumber businesses have exploited in the past and could do so today. The study found that opportunities exist for businesses with the right initial mindset preparing them for exporting, the proper equipment, and the appropriate educational experience. Surveys of hardwood lumber manufacturers in 1989 and 2002 addressed similar objectives and helped better understand export participation of hardwood lumber manufacturers in the Appalachian Region. The objectives of this research project included determining current export experience, access and use of export development programs, key export markets, and mill production, marketing, equipment, personnel and other attributes of the region's hardwood lumber industry. Other objectives included determining if any significant changes in the region's hardwood industry had occurred, and in particular, what was mill export market experience in the past 15 years. The key was to identify key factors that lead to export marketing participation. This study showed that export market participation is growing as forest sector businesses consolidated during this period. Businesses were found to seek assistance from multiple government agencies, trade associations, and most importantly from their customers. While the largest export market continues to be Canada, little information is available on other businesses purchasing Appalachian hardwood lumber, indicating the need for more research on markets and their size. Important species for exporting are red oak, yellow-poplar, white oak, and maple, and higher grades of hardwood lumber continue to be the top three. Owning a kiln is essential to exporting, and having an above average size marketing staff was found to be helpful. The most important attribute of exporters is an open-minded management that sees the benefits of exporting.
- Factors influencing the production of Indonesian sawnwood and plywoodSiregar, Hezlisyah (Virginia Tech, 1996)The forest products industry of Indonesia grew rapidly after the establishment of the log export ban policy in May 1980. As a result, within about five years, Indonesia was transformed from the biggest exporter of tropical logs into a major exporter of processed wood products. To better understand this transition, this study presents multiple regression models of Indonesian sawnwood and plywood production and consumption based on time series data from 1970 to 1994. This study had three main objectives: 1) to create models that can be used for projecting future production of Indonesian sawnwood and plywood, 2) to identify the relationship and establish the degree of association between production and factors that influence their trends, and 3) to analyze Indonesian forestry policies of log export ban and sawnwood export tax as they affect production of sawnwood and plywood. Domestic sawnwood consumption was modeled as a function of population, log export policy (no log export ban vs. log export ban), and sawnwood tax policy (tax vs. no tax). Domestic plywood consumption was modeled as a function of population, consumer price index (CPI), and log export policy (ban vs. no ban). Export plywood consumption was modeled as function of exchange rate, log export policy, and sawnwood tax policy. The consumption and production of sawnwood and plywood were analyzed by multiple regression techniques. All parameters in the sawnwood and plywood equation were found to be significant. However, price did not influence the consumption or production of sawnwood and plywood significantly. All parameters in this study were found to be elastic. It is found that, during the period under investigation (using 1970 as the base year), the production and consumption of Indonesian sawnwood and plywood increased considerably. The projection of sawnwood and plywood productions for 5 years (1995-1999) also shows an increasing trend.
- The Feasibilty of Recycling CCA Treated Wood From Spent Residential DecksBailey, David Samuel (Virginia Tech, 2003-03-14)The amount of CCA treated wood being removed from spent residential decks is increasing at a tremendous rate. While most spent CCA treated wood is being disposed in landfills, further useful and environmentally beneficial alternatives have to be met. This research estimated the percentage of recoverable lumber from spent CCA decks that can be recycled into other usable products. Six residential decks were removed from service, by either demolition or deconstruction procedures. It was found that 86% of the CCA treated wood from the residential decks could be recovered as reusable CCA treated lumber. It was also found that deconstruction of a residential deck, rather than demolition, was not a factor in the volume of CCA treated wood recovered. Chemical and mechanical properties of the removed CCA treated wood were also analyzed. The chemical retention of the deck material proved that most of the spent CCA treated wood could be used in above ground applications. The stiffness of spent CCA treated wood from residential decks was approximately equal to that of recently treated CCA wood. The strength properties were slightly lower than recently treated CCA wood probably due mainly to physical and climatic degradation. Products were then produced that could be successfully utilized by recycling centers or community and government organizations. Products manufactured included, pallets, picnic tables, outdoor furniture, residential decks, and landscaping components. Waste management, recycling, and government organizations were interviewed to determine what markets and barriers exist for recycled CCA treated products. Most landfill and recycling facilities do not currently sort or recycle CCA treated wood, citing the main reason as a lack of a viable market. Potential users were interested in the material but citied they did not know where to locate the material. A communication barrier exists between the waste management industry, recyclers, and users; which is preventing the successful recycling of CCA treated wood from spent residential decks.
- Introducing Lesser-Known Wood Species from Certified Forests in Bolivia to the U.S. MarketCossio Antezana, Victor H. (Virginia Tech, 2007-07-10)A nationwide mail survey was conducted among importers and other members of the supply chain linked to the importation of tropical hardwood products to assess the market potential for Bolivian lesser-known wood species (LKS) in the U.S. market. One hundred and eleven companies responded to the questionnaire and provided information on their interest in importing lesser-known wood species, their willingness to pay for a Bolivian wood species substitute, percentage of their imports that are environmentally certified, and important factors considered to try new wood species. The results indicate that tropical hardwoods represent 33% of the product mix of companies that purchased wood products. Typically, companies imported less than 100 MBF in 2006. Sawnwood was the product that was imported the most, followed by plywood, veneer and flooring. Six Bolivian LKS are among the top 16 new wood species purchased by respondent companies in 2006 and three Bolivian LKS are part of the top 12 common tropical wood species imported in the U.S. Sixty-seven percent of overall respondents stated that they have plans to increase the imports of tropical hardwoods in 2007. Typically, members of the supply chain tried 1 to 2 new wood species in 2006. Retailers were the sector that tried the most, on average 5 new species. Price and availability were the major reasons to try new wood species. A MS-Access database was developed that allows comparisons of 20 potentially marketable Bolivian LKS with 10 common U.S. domestic hardwoods and 20 common tropical hardwoods imported into the U.S. Finally, strategic marketing recommendations are suggested to promote Bolivian LKS in the U.S. Results indicate that there are good opportunities for Bolivian LKS in the U.S market.
- An Investigation into Attitudes towards Recycling CCA Treated LumberAlderman , Delton R.Jr. (Virginia Tech, 2001-04-12)This research examines the effects of evaluations, beliefs, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on the contractor's decision intention to recover used CCA lumber. The purpose of this research was to determine the factors that affect recovery. This research proposes that a contractor's decision intention to recover is affected by evaluations, beliefs, subjective norms, and perceived barriers to recovery. The study included a mail questionnaire that was sent to over 2,800 contractors. The questionnaire was used to collect both demographic data and an evaluation of the factors believed to affect the recovery of CCA treated lumber. Data was collected primarily through the mail survey, where participants rated the factors believed to affect the recovery of spent CCA lumber. Extrapolation indicates that nearly 2.4 million cubic meters of treated lumber were removed in 1999 from the demolition of decks. It was also discerned that only two of the respondents recovered used CCA lumber on a full-time basis. Additionally, there appears to be a lack of knowledge regarding the chemical components of CCA treated lumber, the proper disposal methods, and handling of the product. This has profound strategic implications for not only the wood treating industry but other industries as well. The second phase of the research utilized ordinary least squares regression and a structural equation modeling program to model the factors concerning the contractors' decision intention to recover. The findings indicate that contractor beliefs and components of perceived behavioral control are the primary drivers in the contractor's decision intention to recover. Regarding beliefs, the findings indicate that contractors have a minimal belief that the recovery of the CCA lumber is necessary. This indicates that a marketing communications program should be developed to address the necessity and benefits of recovery. Recovery facilities and programs were found to be nonexistent and will have to be developed in order to facilitate recovery. Concerning programs, the overwhelming response was that some type of financial incentive would have to be incorporated to initiate recovery. In conjunction with the development of programs, recovery facilities will have to be developed that are convenient for the contractor to dispose of the used lumber.
- Investigation of New and Recovered Wood Shipping PlatformsGerber, Nathan Samuel (Virginia Tech, 2018-06-28)This study was performed in order to acquire key market information and information on raw material usage for the wood pallet and container industry in 2016. Historical trends in the wood pallet market were also analyzed between 1991-2016 using the results of previous Virginia Tech and U.S. Forest Service pallet surveys. Paper mail questionnaires and online questionnaires were sent to 2,520 companies that manufactured or wholesaled wood pallets and crates in the United States to obtain these data. The wooden pallet and container industry produced an estimated 508 million new wood pallets in 2016, which is a 22% increase since 2011. Approximately 35% of this was 48” x 40” pallets, which continues to be the dominant standardized pallet size. Approximately 39% of new wood pallets were custom sizes which is a significant decrease from the 60% share found in 2011. Stringer class pallets remained the dominant pallet class with 76% share while block pallets and skids only accounted for 21% and 3% of the market, respectively. Approximately, 38% of these new wood pallets were heat treated. Furthermore, an estimated 341 million pallets were recovered and sold as recycled/repaired or remanufactured pallets in 2016. The most common size of the recycled or remanufactured pallets was 48” x 40”, accounting for 69% of the recycled market. Ninety-one percent of recycled or remanufactured pallets were stringer class pallets while block class pallets made up the remaining 9%. Wood byproduct usage has changed since 2011. The conversion of broken pallets and wood waste to landscape mulch (37.5%) and animal bedding (4.2%) have declined with a proportional increase in other uses (28.3%). Biofuel conversion has remained steady since 2006 at 30%.
- An Investigation of Wood and Wood Packaging Waste in the United StatesShiner, Zachary Philip (Virginia Tech, 2018-07-19)Each year a large number of wooden pallets are manufactured, recycled, and disposed of during the transportation of goods throughout the United States. The production of these pallets consumes a significant amount of wood and a large number of pallets also end up in landfills at the end of their useful life cycle. However, these pallets can be recovered through repair, broken apart into components, ground into mulch, fuel, animal bedding, or used by landfills for day to day operations. The purpose of this research was to investigate the total number of pallets and crates reaching landfills in the United States as well as to gain a better understanding of the overall waste stream. This was done by surveying all licensed Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Construction and Demolition (CandD) landfills in the continental United States. A questionnaire was sent to these landfills, and this entire study was intended to build upon previous Virginia Tech landfill surveys conducted in 1995 and 1998 with some changes made after careful review. Overall, it was found the average MSW facility in the United States received 185,077 tons of waste and the average CandD facility received 74,911 tons. This results in a total national estimate of 253 million tons of MSW and 76.9 million tons of CandD waste. Approximately 18.3 million pallets were landfilled and an additional 13.8 million were recovered, repurposed, or reused at MSW facilities. At CandD facilities, approximately 19.2 million pallets were landfilled while 38.3 million were recovered.
- Lean Manufacturing: Setup Time Reduction in Secondary Wood Manufacturing Facilities in North AmericaKucuk, Enis (Virginia Tech, 2016-06-28)Since the emergence and the subsequent evolution of lean manufacturing concepts, numerous enterprises of different scale and specialties have adopted lean tools and techniques in their facilities with varying success. In general, lean manufacturing related studies have been conducted on large manufacturing firms, such as the automotive industry. Yet, lean manufacturing tools and techniques are also suited for small enterprises. Thus, the main concern of this study is to investigate the success of set-up time reduction efforts (one of the steps needed to achieve 'one-piece flow') in secondary wood products manufacturing facilities on four woodworking machines (moulder, shaper, table saw, and band saw) based on firm size. The first objective of this research is to explore the results of the implementation of set-up time reduction efforts on selected woodworking machines in enterprises of varying size. It is assumed that company size is a major factor influencing the rate of set-up time improvements. To that end, the first hypothesis, which states that 'Small firms are less successful in reducing set-up time through set-up time reduction efforts than are large firms,' has been developed and supportive questions have been corresponding created. While statistical testing of the hypotheses created for this is not possible due to the limited number of participants, speculations about the possible outcome can be made. Thus, for hypothesis one, the data obtained does not show any sign of a relationship between a firm size and the success rate of set-up time reduction efforts. The second objective of this study is to investigate how a firm's productivity is affected by set-up time reduction efforts as related to firm size. With regards to some of the weaknesses of typical small manufacturing firms (e.g. having limited budget and resources, intuitive management strategies including lack of strategic planning), large firms, by and large, are expected to be more successful in increasing productivity through set-up time reduction. To that end, the goal is to investigate results of the set-up time reduction efforts in terms of productivity improvement in manufacturing facilities. With this in mind, the second hypothesis was proposed, which reads 'Small firms achieve lower productivity gains through set-up time reduction than do large firms.' For the second hypothesis, while no conclusive proof can be offered, no sign of a relationship between firm size and productivity gain through set-up time reduction could be found. Another objective of this study is to explore the success rate of set-up time activities on the four types of woodworking machines in industry facilities considering the training activities provided by manufacturers. The aim is to compare set-up time improvement performance of manufacturers between enterprises which trained their workers/operators and enterprises which did not train their employees. To understand the relationship between the scale of firms (and/or facilities) and training activities to improve set-ups, the third hypothesis, which reads 'Small firms are less concerned with set-up time reduction through training than are large firms,' has been developed. For the third hypothesis, while testing is not possible, it appears that there is no relationship between firm size and the level of concern for set-up time reduction through training activities. The final objective of this research is to investigate whether the secondary wood manufacturing firms studied experienced a bottleneck in their production due to the long set-up actions of machines. In order to accomplish this objective, the final hypothesis, 'In both, large and small firms, bottlenecks occur at machines with high set-up times,' has been developed. The final hypothesis cannot be accepted or rejected due to the limited number of responses obtained, set-up time was a frequently indicated explanation for the occurrence of production bottlenecks in secondary wood products manufacturing firms.
- The Management of National Forests of Eastern United States for Non-Timber Forest ProductsChamberlain, James Luther (Virginia Tech, 2000-11-27)Many products are harvested from the forests of the United States in addition to timber. These non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are plants, parts of plants, or fungi that are harvested from within and on the edges of natural, disturbed or managed forests. Often, NTFPs are harvested from public forests for the socio-economic benefit they provide to rural collectors. Social science and market research methods were used to examine the extent that NTFPs are addressed in national forest management plans, identify and explore issues that affect their management, and determine the attitudes and perceptions of forest managers at various levels within the U.S. Forest Service. Non-timber forest products have not been considered in national forest management plans to the extent that have other forest resources. Fewer that 25 percent of the current management plans for the national forests of eastern United States address NTFPs. However, the Forest Service Directive System provides sufficient policy and procedural direction at the national and regional level for the management for NTFPs and legislation enacted in 2000 directs the Forest Service to develop a pilot program to beginning managing for these products. Managers with expertise and education in botany, wildlife, recreation, and wilderness had significantly more positive attitude toward managing for NTFPs than did managers with a more traditional (timber-based) educational background. A regression model of intention to include NTFPs in the forest management plans was developed using data from forest managers and based on the Theory of Reasoned Action. Both attitude and perception were found to be significant determinants of behavior intention. A common perception among forest managers is that NTFP management is not an issue of public concern. Also, managers do not perceive that the lack of management is a problem. Without a visible and vocal constituency, the impetus for change must necessarily come from within the organization. Efforts by the U.S. Forest Service to manage for NTFPs will be hampered by a lack of information and expertise. But, the activities of more progressive national forests suggest that sufficient knowledge does exist for the agency to take a more proactive approach to management.
- Modeling the Adoption Decision Process of Future Scanning and Optimizing Technology in Hardwood SawmillsBowe, Scott Arthur (Virginia Tech, 2000-06-02)A nation-wide survey of hardwood sawmills was conducted in the fall of 1999. The objectives of the survey were to determine the differences between adopters and non-adopters of scanning and optimizing technology, identify the company expectations of scanning and optimizing technology, and model the adoption decision process for future scanning and optimizing technology. These objectives were chosen because timely information was not available on the hardwood sawmill industry, and even less was known about the overall state of technology with the industry. The survey consisted of a mail questionnaire which was sent to over 2000 hardwood sawmills. The questionnaire was used to collect demographic, equipment, and preference scale information on the hardwood sawmill industry. The second part of this project used the Analytic Hierarchy Process to model the adoption decision process for future scanning and optimizing technology in hardwood sawmills. Data was collected through personal interviews with two hardwood sawmill groups including adopters and non-adopters of advanced scanning and optimizing technology. The interviewee rated the importance of the decision factors in the adoption decision process. They also rated the influence of four sawmill departments on the adoption decision process. The results from the mail survey found that the average yearly lumber production was 7.6 million board feet per sawmill. The most common type of scanning and optimizing technology, headrig optimization, was only in use by 27 percent of the responding mills. Advanced scanning and optimizing technology such as edger-optimizers and trimmer-optimizers were only in use by 10 percent and 5 percent of the respondents respectively. Adoption decision factors for scanning and optimizing technology were rated. Improved raw material recovery and increased lumber revenues were the two most highly rated factors. Accuracy of grading was the most highly rated factor for automated grading systems. The adoption decision model found that production related issues were most important in the decision process and that the production department was the most influential of the sawmill departments. Overall, scanning and optimizing technology adoption within the hardwood sawmill industry is low. For those that have adopted advanced scanning and optimizing technology, production issues were the driving factors.
- Non-Timber Forest Products Marketing Systems and Market Players in Southwest Virginia: A Case Study of Craft, Medicinal and Herbal, Specialty Wood, and Edible Forest ProductsGreene, Sarah Marsden (Virginia Tech, 1998-01-30)Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are important in rural southwest Virginia as a source of household sustenance and supplemental income. The trade in NTFPs from this region is centuries old and now helps supply growing worldwide demands. Although marketing is a vital part of optimizing the value of these products, it has been ignored in rural natural resource development. This research analyzes marketing systems for selected NTFPs in southwest Virginia by describing marketing chains, interpreting data on important marketing elements, and comparing results within and between different groups of NTFPs. Product categories selected for emphasis are crafts (grapevine wreaths, baskets, furniture, and birdhouses), medicinal and herbal products, specialty wood products (musical instruments), and edible forest products. This qualitative, exploratory study utilizes direct interviews with fifty market players at various levels in marketing chains. Results provide information on NTFP products, value addition, market outlets, pricing, promotion, distribution, and marketing chains. Hundreds of people are involved with the NTFP trade in southwest Virginia and marketing can help ameliorate negative effects of job scarcity. The greatest opportunity for local level marketing exists for market players of crafts and specialty wood products. Medicinal and herbal products are the only category which very little local value addition takes place within the region and as a result, market players have minimal control over marketing. Edible forest products are not marketed but are collected only for consumption in the household. Several opportunities for marketing include improving market access for crafts and specialty wood products, increasing production through cultivation for medicinal and herbal products, and developing capacity for edible product cultivation.
- The potential for short length lumber in the furniture and cabinet industriesWiedenbeck, Janice K. (Virginia Tech, 1992)The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate short length lumber (less than 8 feet long) utilization opportunities within the furniture and cabinet industries. In the first part of the study a data bank of mapped red oak lumber was used to search for differences in lumber characteristics between lumber length groups. The same data was used to evaluate opportunities for improving the value of a piece of lumber by trimming a lower grade, longer length piece to obtain a shorter, higher grade board. The defect data indicated that wane makes up a slightly higher percentage of the total defect area for short boards than for long boards but the degree of crook deviation for short boards is significantly less than for long boards. The value improvement analysis indicated that fifteen percent of the 1 Common, and 49 percent of the 2A Common, 8 and 9 foot long boards could be trimmed to a higher grade, higher value short board. The effect of lumber length on random width dimension yields was examined using the CORY lumber cut-up program. For 10 of the 18 cutting bill combinations examined, the regression between total yield and lumber length was significant. In the significant crosscut-first relationships total yield decreased with increasing lumber length. In the significant rip-first relationships total yield decreased as lumber length increased. The variable which showed the strongest and most consistently significant relationship to lumber length was the average volume of parts produced per furniture rough mill sawing operation; the regression of board feet per sawing operation was significantly and negatively related to lumber length in 14 of the 18 cutting bill combinations tested. Regression results indicated that as crook decreases, total cutting yield, average cutting length, part volume per sawing operation, and part value tend to increase. Short and longer length lumber yields were also compared in mill studies. The mill studies were conducted at a crosscut-first furniture rough mill and at a rip-first cabinet rough mill. Total yield, the yield of the longest length cutting on the cutting bill, the percentage of total yield made up of the three longest length cuttings, average cutting length, and crosscut and rip saw rates were investigated. The only significant regression relationships detected were: 1 - for the crosscut-first, 2A Common analysis the percentage of total yield made up of the three longest length cuttings was inversely related to lumber length, and 2 - for the rip-first, 1 Common and 2A Common analyses the ripsaw volume throughput rate improved with increasing lumber length. Simulation studies based on models of these same two rough mills indicated that the volume and value of parts cut from short length lumber in a crosscut-first rough mill compares favorably with the volume and value recovery obtained from longer length lumber. In the “worst case” crosscut-first production alternative the breakeven short length lumber price was only $129 less per thousand board feet than the going market price for longer length lumber. For the rip-first model the volume and value of parts produced from short lumber was only 60 percent that of the longer length lumber. The breakeven short length lumber prices calculated for this model ranged between $373 and $653 per mbf.
- Predicting Pallet Part Yields From Hardwood CantsMitchell, Hal Lee (Virginia Tech, 1999-02-12)Pallet cant quality directly impacts pallet part processing and material costs. By knowing the quality of the cants being processed, pallet manufacturers can predict costs to attain better value from their raw materials and more accurately price their pallets. The study objectives were 1) to develop a procedure for accurately predicting hardwood pallet part yield as a function of raw material geometry and grade, processing equipment, and pallet part geometry, 2) to develop a model for accurately predicting raw material costs for hardwood pallet parts as a function of yield, 3) to examine current pallet industry methods of determining hardwood cant quality, and 4) to develop and evaluate hardwood cant grading rules for use in the pallet industry. Yield studies were necessary to accurately quantify the relationship between yield and cant quality. Thirty-one yield studies were conducted throughout the Eastern United States at pallet mills producing pallet parts from hardwood cants. 47, 258 board feet of hardwood cants were graded, and the usable pallet part yield and yield losses were determined for each grade. Yield losses were separated into three components: kerf loss, dimension loss, and defect loss. Kerf and dimension losses are a function of raw material and part geometry and were calculated without regard to cant quality. Defect loss is dependent on cant quality and was calculated for each cant grade as a function of total yield, kerf loss, and dimension loss. Mathematical models were developed from twenty-eight mill studies to predict each yield loss component as a function of cant dimensions, grade, and orientation, cutting bill parameters, pallet part dimensions, and kerf. Dimension and kerf losses were predicted geometrically. Regression analysis was used to predict defect loss. Results indicated that these models accurately predicted the total yield of usable pallet parts and pallet part material costs as a function of cant quality and price. Results also indicated that the pallet industry's current method of counting the number of "bad" ends per cant bundle to determine cant quality is not adequate. The effectiveness of the proposed cant grading rules was determined by grading cants and analyzing the cant grade distributions and corresponding pallet part yields. The grade rules produced statistically different quality divisions between grades. However, a more practical single cant grade based on the minimum quality for the proposed grade 2 rules is recommended.