We compared the efficiency of dehumidifier drying of beech and oak wood (50 mm thick). We evaluated the time, the speed of process, the quality of dried wood and energy requirement. The drying was performed in an industrial dehumidifier drying chamber (6 m3 capacity), according to the manufacturerʼs drying schedules. The specified climate conditions were verified using a parallel system of temperature measurements, relative air humidity and wood moisture content. Quality control was done visually, with continuous recordingof moisture gradient and with measurements of drying stresses. The drying of beech and oak wood was time efficient from the fresh state to 20 % moisture content; then significantly less. The quality of beech wood was satisfying, with the exception of inner colouring, meanwhile, the oak wood showed a higher moisture gradient and the need for additional conditioning phase. From the energy perspective, the process is acceptable only for drying of fresh wood, for additional drying up to lower final moisture content we recommend the use of alternative methods.
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