Wood Moisture Content
Moisture content refers to the amount of water present in wood, expressed as a percentage of its dry weight. It directly impacts the wood’s properties and must be monitored to ensure optimal performance and prevent issues like warping, cracking, or rot.
How Dry Should Wood Be Before Turning?
The ideal moisture content for turning wood varies depending on the type of wood and the intended use. Generally, hardwoods are turned at a lower moisture content (6-10%) than softwoods (8-12%). Here are some guidelines:
* For interior use: Wood should be dried to 6-8% moisture content.
* For exterior use: Wood should be dried to 9-12% moisture content.
* For fine turning or intricate projects: Wood should be dried to 6-8% moisture content.
Determining Wood Moisture Content
The most accurate way to determine wood moisture content is using a moisture meter, which provides a direct reading. If you don’t have a moisture meter, you can approximate the moisture content by observing the wood’s condition:
* Dry wood: Is lightweight, has no visible cracks, and does not feel moist to the touch.
* Wet wood: Is heavy, has cracks, and feels damp or wet to the touch.
Drying Wood
Wood can be dried naturally by stacking it in a dry, well-ventilated area for several weeks or months. Alternatively, you can use a kiln to dry the wood more quickly, but this requires specialized equipment and expertise.
It’s crucial to monitor the wood’s moisture content during the drying process to prevent over-drying, which can make the wood brittle.