Moisture content plays a crucial role in the longevity and performance of wood products. Wood moisture content (%) is the amount of water vapor present within the wood as a percentage of its oven-dry weight. When wood moisture content is too high, it can cause swelling, warping, cracking, and decay. Conversely, if wood moisture content is too low, it can become brittle and susceptible to damage.
Determining the appropriate wood moisture content for turning is essential to ensure a successful outcome. If the wood is too wet, it can cause the lathe to bog down, or worse, the workpiece may come flying off. Conversely, if the wood is too dry, it can become brittle and difficult to turn without cracking.
The ideal wood moisture content for turning will vary depending on the species of wood and the specific turning project. In general, hardwoods should be turned at a moisture content between 7% and 10%, while softwoods should be turned at a moisture content between 8% and 12%.
To ensure that wood is at the right moisture content for turning, a moisture meter can be used. This device measures the electrical resistance of the wood, which is directly related to its moisture content. By inserting the moisture meter’s probes into the wood, the moisture content can be quickly and accurately determined.
Moisture mapping is a process in which the moisture content of wood is measured at various locations and times. This data can then be used to create a moisture map, which provides a visual representation of the moisture distribution within the wood. Moisture maps can be used to identify areas of high or low moisture content, which can help to identify potential problems and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
Moisture mapping offers numerous benefits to woodturners, including the ability to:
Moisture content plays a critical role in the performance of wood products, and maintaining the appropriate wood moisture content is essential for successful turning. Moisture mapping is a valuable tool that can help woodturners to identify, monitor, and manage wood moisture content, ensuring the longevity and integrity of their finished products.