The Forestry Forum

We are just getting done with our kiln chamber and would like a little heads up.
My kiln is 2X6 construction with R-19 faced with 6mil plastic.  The paneling is 4x8 7/16 paneling.  We will be painting with the aluminized roof paint and caulking all joints.  It is set on a 18X16 4 1/2 " pad.  My internal kiln dimensions are 16" wide 10' deep and 8 1/2" tall.  My kiln is a gently used Ebac LD 3000 with the 2 16" circulating fans.  I know the kiln is probably not capable of getting the internal temp to the magic 140 mark so we are installing a couple of baseboard heaters to give it a little boost. 

Is there anyting I must do prior to running my first load through or to season the kiln?  I hate the thought of screwing up a bunch of cherry or walnut because I didn't do my research.  Any suggestions or hints are appreciated.

Thanks, Flip

Quote from: flip on December 12, 2005, 01:48:16 PM
My internal kiln dimensions are 16" wide 10' deep and 8 1/2" tall.

Are those dimensions correct? Seems awful small.  :D

Errrrr. 16'?

 8) That sounds better.

And 8 ½ feet tall too I suppose.  :)

Errrr. Yep.  You've heard the the saying can't chew gum and walk...I can't talk on the phone and type ;D ::)

Flip,

Try a load of Poplar first to get the hang of the particulars, then work your way up to your high dollar products.

If you lose a load of Poplar you want cry as much if you loose a load of Cherry.


Just a thought.




Mark

Flip,
Mark is on the right track about starting with easier woods and working your way up, however, I'm not sure that poplar will tell you much about the kiln. Short of filling the kiln with water from a waterhose, or setting the thing on fire, a load of poplar is almost guarenteed to come out in good shape.  SYP is a little harder to do right. Beech or Hickory is another step up. Oaks can be tougher.   Good luck.
VA-Sawyer