Southern Research Station

Title: A segmental analysis of current and future scanning and optimizing technology in the hardwood sawmill industry

Author: Bowe, S.A.; Smith, R.L.; Kline, D. Earl; Araman, Philip A.

Date: 2002

Source: Forest Products Journal. 52(3): 68-76.

Description: A nationwide survey of advanced scanning and optimizing technology in the hardwood sawmill industry was conducted in the fall of 1999. Three specific hardwood sawmill technologies were examined that included current edger-optimizer systems, future edger-optimizer systems, and future automated grading systems. The objectives of the research were to determine differences between user groups for advanced scanning and optimizing technologies and to identify company expectations of these technologies. Three comparison groupings were used including company size, sawmill technology, and National Hardwood Lumber Association affiliation. These objectives were chosen because timely information for this technology was not available. The survey consisted of a mail questionnaire sent to over 2,000 hardwood sawmills. Adoption decision factors for scanning and optimizing technologies were rated on a 7-point Likert-type scale. Improved raw material recovery and increased lumber revenues were the two most highly rated factors for both current edger-optimizer and future edger-optimizer systems. Accuracy of grading and system lifespan were the most highly rated factors for automated grading systems. Responding companies expressed concern over the high initial cost of such technology; however, a short return on investment outweighed the high initial cost issue in many cases. For those that have adopted advanced scanning and optimizing technology, production-related issues were the driving factors.

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Citation

Bowe, S.A.; Smith, R.L.; Kline, D. Earl; Araman, Philip A.  2002.  A segmental analysis of current and future scanning and optimizing technology in the hardwood sawmill industry.   Forest Products Journal. 52(3): 68-76.