Author Topic: Just getting started - first run at air drying (Read 536 times)

Marshall7199 · « **on:** October 04, 2019, 07:51:33 PM »

Well, after way too much standing in the shadows soaking up the plethora of knowledge from seasoned veterans skilled in their craft, I finally opened a few walnut drops and put them up for drying. Primary purpose was experimenting and learning how to use the Wood-Mizer LT28. After a blade change, rigging a cradle to hold the small lengths, it was all fun from there. The larger 42" x 50"+ X 3" walnut slabs was contracted out by a guy with a chain saw mill. They were a bit wide for the LT28.

I have a black shade cover that I put over the top and the front of the pile to keep the sun from drying the wood too fast. Anyone see any issues this?

I have more 20-24" diameter drops I will be learning on then tackle the larger 8-16 ft length pieces of walnut. This Black Walnut is beautiful wood! It is such a joy to see what is inside these logs when it looks like a pile of firewood from the outside.<b

Southside · « **Reply #1 on:** October 04, 2019, 08:38:28 PM »

Personally I don't like having a stack with one side against a building. An end would not be such a big deal, but you run the risk of some of the lumber not drying as evenly.

Nick whack of logs there. On the one in the middle of the front row it looks like the top branch is shaped like a heart. If that is the case I would be tempted to get cookies out of that - have them nice and dry in time for Valentines day $$$

mredden · « **Reply #2 on:** October 07, 2019, 04:17:23 PM »

Rain cover??

doc henderson · « **Reply #3 on:** October 07, 2019, 05:00:10 PM »

nice job sacking, and strapping. the red straps, are they bungies? the nylon ratchets work better, and with one in the center and stickers on the ends, it may warp your pieces a bit. need two straps on the ends, or stickers in the middle also IMHO. I agree the air movement may be an issue. I would not enjoy restacking. could put a couple box fans behinds the stack to help move air. need to pad the sharp corners, maybe some osb to make a flat roof. @Southside sentimental much?

if covered in black tarp, could put clear over that with something to make an air gap. @Marshall7199 welcome.

Marshall7199 · « **Reply #4 on:** October 12, 2019, 06:59:47 AM »

Thanks for the comments. HF has a parking lot sale with ratchet straps selling at 4 for 6.99. I will be removing the bungi cords and adding the straps.
Also picked up a HF 3500 winch for $99.00. Not a fan of HF but need one for the LT28 to roll longs on to the bed.

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