UNIDIRECTIONAL MULTI-PATH LUMBER KILNS

摘要

Embodiments provide a unidirectional multi-path kiln with two or more chambers and generally parallel flow paths extending through the kiln, on opposite sides, from charge entry portals at a first end of the kiln to charge exit portals at a second end of the kiln. Moist heated air flowing from the second heated chamber is received in the first chamber and circulated around the lumber charges with one or more fans. The lumber charges proceed in the same direction on the flow paths through the heated second chamber, which may be an existing kiln. Charge exit portals at the distal end of the kiln and/or intermediate charge portals between the second chamber and a third chamber may be provided with insulating members configured to reduce airflow from the second chamber through the charge exit portals.

主权项

1. A method of heat treating lumber using an elongated enclosure comprising a first chamber, a second chamber, first and second charge entry portals at a proximal end of the elongated enclosure, first and second charge exit portals at an opposite distal end of the elongated enclosure, a first flow path extending through a first side of the elongated enclosure from the first charge entry portal to the first charge exit portal, and a second flow path extending through an opposite second side of the elongated enclosure from the second charge entry portal to the second charge exit portal, the method comprising:
moving a first plurality of lumber charges along the first flow path in a first direction of travel and a second plurality of lumber charges along the second flow path in said first direction of travel, such that at least some of the lumber charges are positioned within the first chamber while others of the lumber charges are positioned within the second chamber; supplying heated air to the interior of the second chamber, wherein supplying the heated air causes a pressure differential between the second chamber and the first chamber; recirculating heated air received from the second chamber across the first and second flow paths within the first chamber; and reducing airflow through the first and second charge exit portals from the second chamber.