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Ancient craftsmen recognized that wood could warp or split due to moisture changes, leading to early drying practices to ensure stability. Ancient builders, particularly in Japan, also developed long-term drying methods to ensure dimensional stability.
Wood is hygroscopic - it absorbs and releases moisture depending on its environment. When it dries below the fiber saturation point (around 25–30% moisture content), it begins to shrink. This shrinkage is not uniform: it is greatest tangentially (across growth rings), less radially (perpendicular to rings), and minimal longitudinally (along the grain). These variations can lead to warping, cupping, or cracking if drying is too fast or uneven.
Controlled drying, whether by air or kiln methods, is essential to minimize defects and ensure the wood reaches a moisture content compatible with its final environment - its equilibrium moisture content (EMC). Matching the final moisture content to expected conditions reduces future movement after installation.
Drying also improves wood’s strength, reduces its weight, and increases resistance to decay. It allows for better finishing and fastener performance. However, improper drying can cause internal stresses or defects like checking and honeycombing.
Understanding the link between moisture content and dimensional change is central to both traditional craftsmanship and modern wood technology. By managing drying carefully, woodworkers and manufacturers ensure that products remain stable, functional, and durable over time.
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