Wood drying is a long time process, which we try to shorten by increasing of drying potential and drying temperature, while maintaining a satisfactory quality of dried wood. We compared the effects of harsh and mild drying conditions on drying rate and quality of beech wood. Both procedures were compared by intermittent removal of samples. We measured the average moisture content, moisture gradient and casehardening, and we tested the mechanical properties of wood in the middle and surface layers. The drying rate was higher in harsh drying conditions, so the drying time was shorter. Moisture content gradient was lower in mild drying process and showed smaller casehardening. Mechanical properties were better in mild drying condition than in harsh drying condition.
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