Wood Fiber Moisture
Accuracy Through Moisture Sensing
Wood fibers are usually cellulosic elements that are extracted from trees and used to make materials including paper, and paper products but also in uncommon applications as well. Reliable and real-time moisture sensors for these processes can improve quality control as well as increase production. Energy is not wasted by over-drying the wood fiber, and the rejected material is significantly reduced.
The strength of wood is often dependent on water, but this does not mean that wood cannot be exposed to moisture. In fact, wood and water generally coexist peacefully. Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally absorbs and releases water to adjust to its environment. Wood can absorb substantial amounts of water without reaching moisture levels that would attract decay fungi.
Fiber saturation averages around 28%. Fiber saturation is a critical parameter for understanding both shrinkage and decay processes. The elongated cells of wood resemble tapered drinking straws. Initially, water is absorbed by the cell walls. Once the cell walls reach their capacity, any excess water is stored in the cavities of these tubular cells. At fiber saturation, the moisture content is at a level where the cell walls are saturated with water. Decay typically begins when the wood’s moisture content exceeds fiber saturation. Additionally, fiber saturation marks the threshold for wood shrinkage.
Control Moisture Levels Now
non-contact
Our equipment never comes into contact with the product, allowing for less waste
zero drift
Our sensors are guaranteed not to drift over time – which saves time and money
closed loop
Create a closed-loop process by tying a moisture sensor into your PLC. Full control over the line!
no recalibrations
We’ve mastered the art of moisture sensors – your unit will never need to be recalibrated for the same product twice!
Installing Efficiency
The best way to continually analyze wood fiber moisture is to install the sensor 4-12 inches above the belt. Whether you choose to manually or automatically monitor your product, our sensor allows continuous monitoring to ensure the best quality throughout the process.
Our unique wood fiber moisture product also allows continual and accurate monitoring, even with small gaps in flow on the belt. Our sapphire optics system allows real-time process measurement, which you can read more about in our sampling technology section.
Our sensor does well in dusty environments, but if your environment produces an extreme amount of dust, we recommend also installing an Air Purge System to keep your sensor working at optimal levels. If the sensor is installed near the dryer outlet, you may also need to involve a cooling element like air or water to avoid overheating.
Contact
We offer service and support throughout the world for our moisture measurement sensors and would be happy to connect you with a rep in your area. Contact us today for more information!
Understand the Process
Wood fiber moisture can affect many aspects about the wood or wood-based products. It is important for those involved in the manufacturing of wood fiber products to have accurate readings on moisture content in order to deliver top-quality products to their customers.