Here in northeast Ok, about how long will it take to dry fresh cut lumber in my solar kiln? No DM. Just sun and fans. I have always air dried before. I thought it may do ok this time of year. Thanks in advance, bg
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/22420/2888/DSC01296.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/22420/2888/DSC01297.JPG)
Bill, That's a nice looking kiln for sure! I have not sawn any Sycamore yet, but have 4 logs ready to cut, so I can't tell you anything about it. What are the dimensions of your kiln? The only thing I see missing is a KILL switch! Looking good, keep up the good work. Andy
I am impressed with the awesome kiln you have.
Are there two layers of clear plastic?
Thanks Andy, I haven't installed a kill switch yet. Do you really think I need one? I may need you to wire it in for me if so. 12' x 6' outside dim. Thanks Gene. Just one layer. bg
Im impressed with your kiln Bill. Could you give us (wanna be kiln builders) some more info. on yours?
You can look in my gallery for some info and photos. Its 12'x6' outside. 4ea. 4x6" runners on the bottom. Floor is 6" thick with treated plywood on each side with insulation in between. Walls are2x4" and insulated, with treated plywood also. Doors are the same. 2ea. Outside has treated plywood for the back and pine lap siding for the rest. 120v gable fans. Interior is painted with black foundation sealer. Roof is 45 degrees with green house plastic from Lowes. 4ea. vents. bg
You will be surprised at the additional heat and faster drying you get with a second layer of plastic. You can use something like heavy polyethylene on the inside of the frame...it will need to be replaced when it gets brittle, but it's not very expensive.
Quote from: GeneWengert-WoodDoc on December 17, 2013, 04:25:36 PM
You will be surprised at the additional heat and faster drying you get with a second layer of plastic. You can use something like heavy polyethylene on the inside of the frame...it will need to be replaced when it gets brittle, but it's not very expensive.
If you use greenhouse grade 6 mil it will last longer. ;D
They claim it will last 4 years. It will be less in a hotter spot.
It is the uv light that damages plastic films, so using an uv absorber greatly extends the life. Such films have a variety of names, such as greenhouse. Somewhat expensive, but often worth the money. When used as the second, inside layer, life is extended as the outer cover likely absorbs or reflects some uv..
It isn't really terrible costwise. Around $600 for 30X120 in PHX. That would cover a pretty big kiln. ;D
I agree about the extra plastic. I have seen 168 degree temps in the summer time. I am not in any big hurry about drying. I just do personal projects anyway. But I do appreciate the tips. bg
About the Sycamore...I've dried quite a bit of it and it dries quickly and with little or no degrade (QS). I've never tried flat sawn as I'm always sawing for maximum ray effect, but I've heard it will often twist itself into a pretzel. I do have some wide Sycamore slabs that are air drying and look pretty good though.