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A quantitative analysis of log volume concepts and product derivatives

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Title A quantitative analysis of log volume concepts and product derivatives
Names Smith, Douglas Sterling (creator)
Dilworth, J. R. (advisor)
Date Issued 1966-11-22 (iso8601)
Note Graduation date: 1967
Abstract One of the most important challenges facing foresters is the
development of a raw material measurement system designed to give
a complete inventory of log volume and to assist in planning the complete
management of log production. This paper introduces a concept
of production analysis in terms of solid fiber content. The basis for
the development of this concept is the measurement of logs and log
production in terms of cubic feet. Total raw material accountability
is maintained throughout the manufacturing process.
A mill study was undertaken to compare the results of this type
of analysis with results obtained by traditional analytical methods.
It was found that raw material management by this analysis can be
useful in measuring the effectiveness of a production design. This
analysis has further usefulness in projecting the results of proposed
changes in production design. The mill study was undertaken with the log input, primary lumber products, and sawmill residuals
measured in terms of cubic feet of wood fiber. This study is referred
to as treatment A in this paper. The mill study data were used to
project two changes in sawing practices, treatments B and C, and the
expected results are presented. The 471 logs in the study had a
volume of 172,850 board feet gross, and 143,490 board feet net,
Scribner scale. The logs had a volume of 24, 574 cubic feet on the
basis of Smalian's cubic foot rule. The volumes in the study were
assigned dollar values on the basis of grade and projected on the basis
of an annual cut of 30 million board feet, assuming the same variables
encountered in the test material. By using the values assigned to the
products in Treatment A, the total value of products was $2,802,481,
based on the assumed 30 million board feet cutting schedule. The
yearly product value for Treatment B was $175,769 more than Treatment A, and the yearly product value for Treatment C was $302,632
more than Treatment A. It is emphasized that any comparison of
other situations with those defined in this paper must be carefully
qualified.
A review of present and past log measurement systems includes
a discussion of the British Hoppus Foot, and the shaku and koku units
of measure used in Japan. Various cubic foot rules discussed include
Newton's formula, Huber, Smalian, Rapraeger and Sorensen. The more common board foot rules include Scribner, Scribner Decimal
C, Spaulding, British Columbia rule, International 1/4-inch and
1/8-inch rules, Brereton, and Doyle log rules. Measurement by
displacement and weight is discussed. Efforts in comparing the
economics of different measurement methods are reported.
The development of log residual products during manufacture
is discussed. These present both problems in terms of disposal and
opportunities for additional economic development.
A concerted effort is needed to design mensurational techniques
that will act as incentives toward the most complete and profitable
utilization of our forest resource. Toward this end it is suggested
that those in the field of forest mensuration coordinate their efforts
with the research and utilization fields toward a complete understanding
of the complex problem of wood measurement.
This paper concludes that cubic analysis of log input and
production outflow can better serve the needs of the forest products
industry.
Genre Thesis/Dissertation
Topic Forests and forestry -- Measurement
Identifier http://hdl.handle.net/1957/12913

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