Moisture Mapping A Guide to Wood Moisture Content

Wood Moisture Content

Wood moisture content (WMC) is a critical factor in determining the quality and durability of wood products. Excessively high or low WMC can lead to problems such as warping, cracking, and decay. Therefore, it is essential to understand how to measure and control WMC.

How Dry Should Wood Be Before Turning?

When turning wood, it is important to use wood that is dry enough to prevent tear-out and splintering. The ideal WMC for turning varies depending on the type of wood, but generally, it should be between 8% and 12%. Wood that is too dry can be brittle, while wood that is too wet can be difficult to work with and may not produce a smooth finish.

Measuring Wood Moisture Content

• Electrical moisture meters: These devices measure the electrical resistance of wood to determine its moisture content.
• Pin-type moisture meters: These meters use pins to penetrate the wood and measure the moisture content at the point of insertion.
• Oven-drying method: This method involves drying a sample of wood in an oven and then weighing it to determine the WMC.

Controlling Wood Moisture Content

Once the WMC of wood has been measured, it can be controlled by using the following methods:

• Air drying: Wood can be air-dried by stacking it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Kiln drying: Kilns can be used to control the temperature and humidity of the air to dry wood more quickly and evenly.

By following these guidelines, woodworkers can ensure that their wood is at the correct moisture content for turning, resulting in high-quality, durable finished products.