New Guy, needs Aspen and advice!

[RCSSTEVE]

Howdy Gents,
    Not sure this is the right place to post but am hoping someone can steer me to the right place.  I own a company that has made track and switches for Lionel ( O Gauge) trains for over 30 years. (of course I started when I was 5)  ;D  We have always used all wooden ties, (aspen). You can check our website at rossswitches.com. if you like. For years we had a supplier of aspen blocks that we cut into ties on an automated machine we built. They retired and since have had trouble finding a new supplier. So we have decided to take matters into our own hands. Just bought a brand new Wood Mizer 4 head moulder. Nice machine! Now we are looking for a supplier of rough aspen that we can run through it. Our finished dimensions are 3.130" wide, .255" thick, by 8-10 feet long. 8-13% moisture content pin knots OK. In testing I have used some 3/8 x 3.25" and everything is working beautifully. We are also considering buying a thin kerf resaw and cutting down 5/4 or so material to get 3 peices. I am a pure novice at this and any suggestions would be welcome!
Steve

[beenthere]

Where are you at, and how far away from aspen supply are you?

Sounds like you may want this in the "wanted" section but would like to hear more about what you have in mind for a thin-kerf resaw.  I've seen thin kerf resaws in pencil slat mfg plants that one couldn't see through the slit in the wood. Think the owner, Charles Berolzheimer, built his own saw (California Cedar Products).

[Gary_C]

First thing you should do is show where you are located. If you are anywhere near Minnesota I could provide you all the Aspen you need.

There are probably many ways to cut what you need, but it would be nice if you you knew how your previous supplier was cutting the Aspen. Probably the best way would be to kiln dry blocks and then resaw into blanks after drying. The reason for that is because aspen can warp and twist and it could be difficult to dry thin strips.

Also, what volumes do you buy?

[RCSSTEVE]

Sorry Guys, forgot to mention that we are in Norwich Ct. so will have to truck lumber in regardless. Our old supplier was in Wisconsin and may very well have gotten material in Minnesota. We use appx 4000-5000 8' finished lengths per year

[Max sawdust]

I am in Wisconsin and have lots of clear Aspen.  Post a message in the "wanted section" and we can talk.  I have lots of 4/4 and enough large cants to suppy a years worth. Will be at 8-13% by the end of summer
Max

[thecfarm]

Welcome to the forum RCSSTEVE.Glad to have you here.Not bad,6 hours later and you have you aspen.Glad to have another Northern guy here.

[RCSSTEVE]

I get the cannot post here in the wanted section.  ???

[thecfarm]

I think you need so many posts to post in wanted.We don't want someone to join just to sell or request something and than never to return.