FDM Asia July 2010

Engineered Wood Flooring:

Beware The Silver Bullet

Furniture Films:

More Than Meets The Eye

Wood Drying & Preservation:

Dried To Perfection

Furniture Design And Manufacturing Asia Established Since 1986 FDM ASIA MICA (P) NO. 209/11/2009 • PPS 1204/07/2010 (028224) • ISSN 0219-2284

JULY 2010

July 2010 VOL. 22 NO. 5 Cover Price: US$10.00

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ENQUIRY NO. 163

KUNO chair, design by Devi Khoirudin, The Best Overall Winner of Indonesian Furniture Design Competition

ENQUIRY NO. 130

Contents

JULY 2010 • VOL. 22 NO. 5

FOCUS

18

European Machinery Market: Recovery Underway

The financial crisis had resulted in a difficult year for the European woodworking machine industry.

Nevertheless, signs show that recovery is finally underway.

By Franz-Josef Buetfering, president, European Federation of Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers

22

Made In Germany: It Comes With The Label

After decades in the industry, German machine manufacturers are keeping their edge. By Kim Esser, head of marketing, Holzma

TECHNOLOGY

24

page

18

Laminating Technology: Digitally Printed, Folded Down

Advances in digital printing technology and modern fold-down systems are taking laminates further. By Karin Dullweber, Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF)

PANELS

28

28

22 Established in 1986, FDM Asia, formerly Asia Pacific Forest/Timber Industries, is a business magazine on sawmilling, woodworking, woodbased panels and furniture manufacturing. The Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising material and assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited artwork or manuscripts. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the magazine, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the prior written consent, not unreasonably withheld, of the publisher. Reprints of articles appearing in previous issues of the magazine are available on request, subject to a minimum quantity.

The views expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the Publisher and while every attempt will be made to ensure the accuracy

and authenticity of information appearing in the magazine, the Publisher accepts no liability for damages caused by misinterpretation of information, expressed or implied, within the pages of the magazine.

All correspondence regarding editorial, editorial contributions or editorial content should be directed to the Editor.

The magazine is available on subscription in Singapore at S$126.00 (GST applicable) per annum by surface mail. Subscription by airmail to readers in Asia Pacific costs S$160 per annum; Europe and the Americas, S$230 per annum. For further details, refer to the subscription card found within the pages of each issue. For more subscription information, please fax to: (65) 6379 2806 or email: brendatan@epl.com.sg.

MDF: The Composite Panel Potential

Medium density fibreboard can be used in more quantities as a response to environmentalists’ concern over global warming.

By Shiv Kumar Shet, business development manager, Biesse Manufacturing, India

Member of Business Publication Audit of Circulation, Inc. IMPORTANT NOTICE The circulation of this publication is audited. The Advertiser's Association recommends that advertisers should place their advertisements only in audited publications.

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Associate Of of Associate

FDM Asia is published eight times a year (printed 2nd week of issue month) by

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The Academy TheChinese Chinese Academy of of Forestry Forestry

MICA (P) NO. 209/11/2009 • PPS 1204/07/2010 (028224) • ISSN 0219-2284

ecopilot – new heights in product quality

ecopilot, our new retrofit software from the ContiRoll® ecoline family, controls board thickness to tenth-of-a-millimeter accuracy. Variations are corrected automatically by the distance control system. What’s in it for you? Improved thickness tolerances, less waste and less sanding down.

ENQUIRY NO. 144

www.siempelkamp.com

Contents JULY 2010 • VOL. 22 NO. 5

32

Regulars

MDF Production: The Board Binder

Selecting the right resin for MDF production ensures consistency and helps producers maximise plant productivity with increased profit margins. By Iain Stanton, composite wood panel marketing manager for Europe and Asia, Huntsman

SURFACES & FLOORING

34

Engineered Wood Flooring: Beware The Silver Bullet

Modified wood floors offer several benefits, but one should realise that modified wood is not a ‘silver bullet’ to all installation problems. By Peter Kaczmar, flooring expert, Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA)

DESIGN & DÉCOR

37 Furniture Films: More Than Meets The Eye

FDM Asia speaks to Sandra Ruhlig, business manager for decorative surfaces films at Klöckner Pentaplast, who gives her take on today’s trends and markets affecting furniture films. By Jerome Lim

WOODS & SUSTAINABILITY

40 Wood Drying & Preservation: Dried To Perfection

Environmental issues and increasing demand drive the need for greener and more cost-effective wood drying and preservation techniques. By Dr Jegatheswaran Ratnasingam, FIWSc

45 Wood Preservation: Chemistry At Work

Believed to be as old as the history of wood usage itself, wood preservation has an extensive usage in industrial, agricultural, and utility applications. By Augustine Quek

06 08 55 62 65a 65b

64 Page

57 Exhibition Review:

Xylexpo Milan

58 Exhibition Preview:

IWF Atlanta Cover credit: HOLZMA

57

48 What Makes A Fingerjoint?

52

48

The Dust Buster

W K Tan, MD, Lignar Engineering (Singapore), reveals the benefits of having an effective and efficient dust extraction system. By Derek Rodriguez

58

MARKET REPORT

54 Particleboard Production Increasing Worldwide

New plants in South Asia, Eastern Europe and South America are coming on stream. By BIS Shrapnel

4 FDM Asia

JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

54

advertisers’ enquiry numbers.

EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS

FEATURES

As fingerjointed lumber gains economic importance, one must take note of several factors that affect fingerjointing strength. By Dr Mohammad Mohammad, group leader, structure building systems, FPInnovations Forintek Division

Editorial Industry News Product Highlights Calendar Of Events Enquiry Form Subscription Form

20

ENQUIRY NO. 160

Editorial

Published by:

Eastern Trade Media Pte Ltd (a fully owned subsidiary of Eastern Holdings Ltd) Registration No: 199908196C

Informed Decisions

❝T

his is it, the Great Depression all over again.” Pronouncements of this kind have been rampant – within boardrooms, coffee rooms, lecture halls, blog sites and townhalls. While the 1930s may be too far back that it is no longer an active part of our collective memory, that period in history serves as a lasting cautionary tale and a motherlode of fiscal, economic, corporate and governance lessons.

Fast-forward to our 2010 version, we see governments, think tanks and corporate bodies creating new dogma and schisms: austerity, reigning in deficits, keeping costs down, being lean. All these, so that one can ride out this wave. Now, approximately 18 plus months after the first domino tile tumbled (ie: the Lehman Brothers collapse), companies are taking stock and assessing the “lay of the land” moving forward. In varying degrees, there are signs of recovery and causes for optimism.

Within the woodworking sphere, a sector not immune to the dire business climate, we see positive signs: costs of raw materials are declining which can mean a return of profit margins; healthy spend in new solid wood and panel processing technology/equipment, as evidenced by orders in the two recent woodworking trade fairs; US furniture orders increased 9 percent year on year.

While optimism is well and good for the human psyche, it is important that we refrain from painting the industry in broad brush strokes. It is better to err on the side of caution by not taking one or two positive news as an economic recovery.

Focus is key – focus on the tough work that lies ahead. Foresight is critical – the insights we pick up must be unbiased yet fact-based. Through our feature articles (such as the European machinery market situation, innovations around furniture film, analyses on engineered wood and its processes), we hope to provide tools and information that shall ultimately aid practitioners in the trade in making informed decisions. And if we, through this periodical, get a conversation going, we would be pleased to participate.

Enjoy our July issue, and we hope to hear from you.

Focus is key – focus on the tough work that lies ahead.

Foresight is critical – the insights we pick up must be unbiased yet fact-based.

managing director

Kenneth Tan

kentan@epl.com.sg

editor

Karen Zafaralla

karenzafaralla@epl.com.sg

staff writer

Jerome Lim

jeromelim@epl.com.sg

editorial assistant

Nina Xu

ninaxu@epl.com.sg

senior art director/studio manager

Lawrence Lee

lawrencelee@epl.com.sg

art director

Phyllis Ng

phyllisng@epl.com.sg

advertising sales manager

Sim Eric

simeric@epl.com.sg

business manager (China)

Ding Yongmei

neweastern_sh@yahoo.cn

assistant business manager (China)

Yumi Gui

neweastern_sh@yahoo.cn

senior circulation executive

Brenda Tan

brendatan@epl.com.sg

contributors

Augustine Quek Dr Jegatheswaran Ratnasingam Dr Mohammad Mohammad Franz-Josef Buetfering Iain Stanton Karin Dullweber Kim Esser Peter Kaczmar Shiv Kumar Shet

Executive Board chairman

Stephen Tay

group executive director

Kenneth Tan

financial controller

Robbin Lim

etm

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Trade Media Pte Ltd an Eastern Holdings Ltd company

Head Office & Mailing Address: Eastern Trade Media Pte Ltd 1100 Lower Delta Road, EPL Building #04-02, Singapore 169206 Tel: (65) 6379 2888 Fax: (65) 6379 2805

Karen Zafaralla Editor

6 FDM Asia JULY 2010 www.fdmasia.com

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Furniture Design And Manufacturing Asia

FDM Asia/China continues to uphold the reputation of having the Most Comprehensive Database for the Woodworking Industry in the Asia-Pacific Region.

24 years in the industry and still going strong. ✔ Reaching the right region and the right potential customers is essential in a successful marketing plan ✔ Partnering with the right media company is a critical component of marketing plans With its comprehensive database of 16,000 eBook and online subscribers, FDM Asia/China steps up to these expectations and marketing needs.

Our range of eMedia services include: Website Advertising, eBook Sponsorship, Email Blast and eNewsletter.

We work to provide customised programs tailored to suit your business needs and marketing budget.

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7

I N D U S T R Y

Industry News

News July 2010

Sumitomo To Build Particleboard Factory In Vietnam Hanoi, Vietnam: Tokyo-based Sumitomo Forestry, through its subsidiary Vina Eco Board, has plans to construct a particleboard factory in Vietnam.

The US$100 million facility will be built at the Phu An Thanh Industrial Park in the Ben Luc district of Long An province. It is expected to finish by June 2011 and start operations by November the same year.

Eustaquio Santimano, India

Already the third of its type in the country, the plant’s particleboard line features an eight feet-wide (approximately 2.44 metres), 24.5 metre-long CPS press, and is anticipated to produce 250,000 sq m of material annually.

Imports Of Chinese Wood Products Surge Beijing, China: China’s appetite for wood

compared to the same period last year.

million cubic metres, increasing 48 percent

products continues to grow, showing a

Other countries that saw an increase in

over the last year. Tropical logs accounted for

surge in demand for materials such as

the product’s exports to China include

a 27 percent share of the total exports.

log, sawnwood, veneer, plywood, panels,

Canada, the US, and Thailand.

and even wooden furniture in the first

Veneer imports amounted to 9,200

Total log products imports to China

tonnes (US$15 million), rising 13 percent

were 7.7 million cu m or US$1.3 billion

in volume and 19 percent in value during

In the International Tropical Timber

worth of log, up 37 percent in volume

the first quarter of 2010. Particleboard

Organisation report, the strongest surge

and 60 percent in value over the same

imports followed the trend, increasing

came from sawnwood imports, which

period last year.

83 percent in volume and 85 percent in

quarter of this year.

rose 83 percent in volume and 85 percent

Of the total, log imports from Russia

in value in the first quarter, amounting to

rose five percent to 3.5 million cu m,

three million cubic metre of sawnwood

imports from New Zealand soared 144

On the other hand, fibreboard imports

worth US$691 million.

percent to 1.3 million cu m, and imports

showed more moderate increase, up five

from Malaysia increased 144 percent to

percent in volume and 10 percent in value.

264,200 cu m.

The total imports were 54,500 tonnes

Much of China’s sawnwood comes from Russia, which shipped 40 percent more sawnwood to the East Asian country

8 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Tropical log imports amounted to two

value, totalling 73,500 tonnes valued at US$23 million.

valued at US$26 million. Similarly, plywood

Industry News

Singapore Companies Welcomed At ICFF New York City, USA: Singapore made

conventional associations with lamps. Mad

Business at IE Singapore, cited the US as the

its show debut at the 22nd International

Scientists revealed its collection of Modular

main growth driver for furniture trade, and

Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF),

Structural System products.

sees a spike in interest for new products from

which opened at New York City’s Jacob

Singapore Furniture Industries Council

US buyers due to the economic upturn.

president Andrew Ng said, “Our maiden

“Singapore furniture companies achieved

Five Singapore companies showcased

participation in this event is a significant

healthy export sales of S$4.7 billion (around

their latest product lines at the ICFF, namely

step for Singapore, allowing them to pit

US$3.4 billion) despite the downturn last

Air Division, Office Planner, as well as design

their creativity against more global players,

year, only a slight decrease of four percent

firms Mad Scientists, oon, and 1degOFF

Tan Soon Kim, Group Director for Lifestyle

from 2008,” he said.

K. Javits Convention Center.

by Bomania Designworx.

With a heavy emphasis on construction, structure and design, these companies exhibited their bestselling collections, such as Office Planner’s dynamic office desking furniture with individual work desks and oon’s innovative clip seat and pocket storage system.

Air Division presented its inspirational and eco-friendly range of furniture pieces from the 2010 Plank Living Collection, previously seen at earlier international Lim Jerome Singson

exhibitions such as IMM cologne, International Furniture Fair Singapore (IFFS), and the Milan Furniture Fair.

Making up the Light Play collection by 1degOFF were creations that attempt to defy

imports were 40,100 cubic metre in volume and US$22 million in value, increasing 20 percent and 12 percent, respectively, over the same period.

Imports of secondary processed wood products including wooden doors, windows, knockdown kitchen furniture, handicraft and packaging amounted to US$23 million, up 45 percent over the same period last year.

The report said that first quarter furniture imports by China were valued at US$72 million. These imports included wooden and bedroom furniture. China’s furniture imports were up four percent in value from the same period last year.

Tony the Misfit

frame seats, office furniture, kitchen furniture

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

9

Industry News

Norway, Indonesia Partner To Reduce Emissions

Price, Supply, Power Problems Confront Indian Wood Panel Producers

Oslo, Norway: Norway and Indonesia signed a partnership that will support Indonesia’s efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and degradation of forests and peat lands.

New Delhi, India: A rise of 25 percent in

Norway will pour US$1 billion over the next few years to support Indonesia’s efforts.

Stoltenberg

Yudhoyono

Norwegian PM Jens Stoltenberg and Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono together witnessed the signing of the agreement in Oslo.

The Southeast Asian archipelago will take immediate and decisive action to reduce its forest and peat-related greenhouse gas emissions.

plantation log prices, low log supply and irregular power supply are causing problems for particleboard and plywood manufacturers in India.

In a report disclosed by the International

“Indonesia stands by its commitment to reduce our emissions by 26 percent

Tropical Timber Organisation, plywood mills

relative to business as usual levels by 2020,” said Mr Yudhoyono. “This we

have seen it necessary to increase plywood

will do out of our own funds through a set of measures I will be announcing

prices due to a sharp increase in the cost of

in the near future.”

poplar and eucalyptus logs, as well as a 15

“With the help of international partners, we could reduce our emissions by as much as 41 percent,” the Indonesian leader added.

percent increases in resins prices.

Board manufacturers in Punjab, Haryana

The two countries’ agreement coincided with the recently concluded Oslo

and Uttaranchal have increased prices by

Climate and Forest Conference, where a global climate and forest partnership

five to 10 percent, whereas South Indian

was established.

manufacturers have set 15 percent higher

Funds will initially be devoted to finalising Indonesia’s climate and forest strategy, building and institutionalising capacity to monitor, report and verify reduced emissions, and putting in place enabling policies and institutional reforms.

A two-year suspension on new concessions for conversion of natural forests and peat lands into plantations will be implemented.

By 2014, the plan is to move to an Indonesian-wide instrument of funding contributions in return for verified emission reductions.

prices.

Low log supplies coupled with simultaneous increase in demand for processed products has led to panic in raw material sourcing.

Increasing imports of high quality, large girth peeling grade logs seem to be the only immediate solution.

Funds will be managed by an internationally reputable financial institution

The industry needs additional large-scale

in compliance with international fiduciary, governance, environmental and

plantations of various high yielding species.

social standards.

China has been successful in establishing large-scale plantations and India could use this as an example of how to increase the

APP Timber To Take Interns From Dutch University

plantation production.

Shah Alam, Malaysia: APP Timber has signed an agreement with Van Hall-

Scheme which has been successful in employing

Larenstein University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands to provide at

workers in their own states and reducing

least two internships per annum.

workforce migration.

Manufacturers also complain of labour shortage. One of the reasons given for this is the National Rural Employment Guarantee

The internships will take place at APP Timber’s headquarters in Malaysia

India still suffers from a lack of power

for the third- and fourth-year students of ‘International Timber Trade’ as part

plants. Many of existing units are experiencing

of the Bachelor of Forestry and Nature Management course.

production disruptions due to irregular fuel

Van Hall-Larenstein offers this course combining nature and environment with responsible entrepreneurship.

Each selected student will be provided with a minimum internship period of three months to allow them to learn more about the international timber trade.

The training is expected to benefit students for their future careers.

10 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

supplies. Plants which are planned to run in three shifts have been forced to run only one shift. As a result, the power plants have low productivity and energy supply is inadequate to satisfy demand.

Industry News

Italian Machinery Orders Surge In Q1 Milan, Italy: Orders of Italian woodworking machinery surged 41 percent in the first quarter of 2010, according to a trend survey conducted by the Italian Woodworking Machinery and Tool Manufacturers Association or Acimall.

The news comes amidst heightened optimism for foreign and local markets hoping to see a recovery from the financial crisis this year.

The Confindustria member association saw a 43.8 percent increase in foreign markets and a 26 percent increase in the Italian market.

From January to March 2010, prices recorded a slight increase (plus 0.2 percent), while the period of ensured production is at 1.8 months on March 31.

Forty-four percent of interviewed entrepreneurs expect a stable production trend while 30 percent anticipate growth, as opposed to 26 percent who indicate a negative production trend.

Employment was considered stationary by 63 percent of the respondents, in contrast to the remaining 37 percent who said it was falling. Fifteen percent of the respondents say stocks grew, with 48 percent indicating that available stocks were stationary. The remaining 37 percent reported a decline.

The forecast survey suggests possible short-term dynamics in the industry. Since the Italian woodworking industry is highly export-oriented, with 70 percent of production shipped around the world, cautious expectations are currently focused on foreign markets.

Overall, 45 percent of those surveyed expect growth in overseas orders in the second quarter of this year, while 48 percent anticipate the volume to remain stable.

On the domestic market, majority of survey participants (59 percent) predict substantial stability, while 26 percent are confident the situation will improve.

US Furniture Orders Grow 9 Percent High Point, USA: Furniture orders within

last year, with several up in double

first quarter of 2009, but it does appear

the USA grew nine percent compared

digits. The 61 percent is up from

that we are coming out of the slump,”

to the same period the previous year,

58 percent last month.

concluded Smith Leonard managing partner Ken Smith.

according to a recent survey by High

Year-to-date, new orders remained

Point-based accounting and consulting

nine percent ahead of the first

“It will be interesting to see what the

firm Smith Leonard.

quarter of 2009. Some 61 percent of

April and May results are as we should

The figure, which was experienced

the participants reported increases

feel the impact of what was believed to

in March, was two percent higher than

year-to-date, down slightly from

be the best High Point Market in the last

February 2010.

last month.

several years,” he added. “We continue

Approximately 61 percent of the

“Admittedly, we are still

participants had increased orders over

comparing to weak results in the

to hear that business does seem to be picking up.”

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

11

Industry News

Unknown Bacterium Causing Oak Disease

APP Timber Asia Welcomes Asia Rep

Edinburgh, UK: A previously unknown bacterium may be causing the

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: APP Timber Brazil

acute oak decline disease that has been ravaging oak trees, according to

recently announced the appointment of Jorge

scientists from Forest Research, the scientific research arm of UK’s Forestry

Villanueva to its Asia operations. He will be in

Commission.

charge of the sourcing of Brazilian hardwoods

Not to be confused with ‘sudden oak death’ caused by a fungus-like

for APP Timber’s operations in Asia.

pathogen, the condition can kill a tree in as little as four or five years, and has

Villanueva started in Interholco as an international

been found affecting hundreds of trees across central and south-east England

trader in Switzerland and spent 15 years of his

and parts of Wales.

career buying and selling sliced veneers, lumber,

Symptoms of acute oak decline include dark fluid bleeding from splits in

flooring and hardwood decking.

the bark on tree trunks, and as affected trees approach death there is a notable deterioration of the canopy, or treetops, and ‘dieback’ of the branches.

While investigation of the disease is ongoing, the Forestry Commission has published new advice for woodland owners worried that their oak trees might be suffering from the disease.

Titled ‘Managing Acute Oak Decline,’ the guide gives advice, based on the knowledge they have gained so far, on how to recognise the disease, what to do about it, and how to minimise the risk of spreading it The guide stresses the importance of monitoring the progress of the disease, of limiting access to infected trees, and of disinfecting boots, vehicle

Stora Enso, EIB Sign US$210 Million Loan Agreement Helsinki, Finland: Stora Enso has signed

wheels, machinery and equipment to help prevent its spread.

If an infected tree is to be used for timber, the guide recommends the bark

an agreement with the European

and sapwood be removed and burnt on site, and the logs cut into planks on

Investment Bank (EIB) for a €165-million

site before being removed. Planks can be kiln-dried at high temperatures to

(US$209.5 million) loan to be used for

kill any remaining bacteria.

research and development.

It is unknown whether the disease affects timber quality, so caution is advised when deciding how the timber will be used.

The loan agreement is part of the commitment by EIB to lend altogether

The guide also advises against using acorns from infected sites when

€230 million to the forestry products

planting new oak trees,

giant, including the €65-million loan

and explains how to

announced on 10 February 2010.

report suspected cases

“We have a long and good

to Forest Research’s

relationship with EIB. This is its third

Disease Diagnostic and

loan for Stora Enso’s research and

Advisory Service.

development projects. We are pleased

Forestr y

with the competitive terms of the

Commission is urging

The

loan,” says Stora Enso CFO Markus

everyone who looks after

Rauramo.

oak trees to be vigilant

UK Forestry Commission

and follow the advice

12 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Stora Enso invested €71.1 million in research and development in 2009.

in the guide, which was

Research and development

written by Dr Sandra

concentrates on steering of networked

Denman, Susan Kirk,

strategic research as well as

and Dr Joan Webber of

operations and product development

Forest Research.

in three research centres: Imatra in Finland, Karlstad in Sweden and

An oak tree damaged by the acute oak decline disease

Mönchengladbach in Germany.

Industry News

Fred Fokkelman. Rotterdam, ZH, Netherlands

Industry News Industry News

Certification Has Positive Impact On Sustainable Forest Management–Study Wagenigen, Netherlands: Forest certification such as that of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has a positive economic, social, and ecological impact on tropical forest management.

This is the conclusion drawn from a study carried out by the Netherlands’ Wageningen University in which 123 evaluation reports on the management of natural tropical forests were analysed.

The market-based initiative of the FSC, which started in 1993, and of other forest certification agencies allow timber companies to obtain a higher market price for their products if their forest management satisfies specific socio-economic and ecological principles and criteria.

An interdisciplinary team led by Marielos Peña-Claros from Wageningen University examined 123 evaluation reports of certified tropical natural forests managed by 119 private or governmental bodies, such as municipal authorities.

The reports were screened according to three sustainability criteria: ecologically, economically and socially responsible management.

On the whole, the most difficult criteria to satisfy are not the social criteria (such as poor working conditions).

The eight most common obstacles include the safety of foreign workers, the management plan and the protection of rare species. In all, these account for 42 percent of the problems cited in the reports.

The three pillars of sustainable development are stressed equally, ENQUIRY NO. 162

although there are some differences among the various countries.

Although the area of certified forests has risen steeply since 2003 by approximately 250 percent, the researchers emphasised the need for strong incentives to continue boosting the area of sustainably managed forests. www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

13

Industry News

Long-Term Price Increases For Wood Biomass Market Seen Westford, USA: In the first of an ongoing series of quarterly forecasts, Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) finds that production of wood-based energy will resume its upward trajectory in 2010 and continue to grow through 2024.

With rising demand for new sources of bioenergy from wood pellets, biomass electricity and biofuels, consumers are left wondering where the fuel supply will come from, and at what price.

Shehal Joseph, Sri Lanka

FEA predicts continued growth not only from these emerging sectors, but also from traditional forest products companies.

The added demand for biomass supplies will force increased extraction of logging residues and intensified use of roundwood in the years to come.

While prices will ease in the short term, all biomass

years, returning almost 90 percent of the supply that

grades will experience price increases after 2012

was lost from 2005 to 2009 by the end of 2012.

After accounting for increases in biomass demand

as a result.

“A developed and diversified wood-based energy

related to production from the traditional forest

sector will have a profound impact on the economics

products industry (namely pulp and nonstructural

of the entire forest products industry,” said Erik

panels), FEA estimates that mill residue supplies

Kankainen, FEA’s Senior Economist for Bioenergy

available for bioenergy will grow by 5.4 million

and Timber.

oven-dry tonnes from 2009 to 2012.

“Our forecasting service will answer the many

Wood pellet production will continue to rise at a

questions surrounding the scale of the sector’s

rapid pace, driven by domestic and export demand,

development, as well as quantify the economic

and biomass electricity generation will also grow.

effects growth in bioenergy will have on the rest

Rising housing starts and an improving economy will boost residue production over the next several years, returning almost 90 percent of the supply that was lost from 2005 to 2009 by the end of 2012.

Biofuel production will be a key consumer of wood biomass over the long-term, though not until

of the industry.”

FEA’s first Wood Biomass Forecast also finds

conversion technologies are proven and tested on

that rising housing starts and an improving economy

a commercial scale by a round of first generation

will boost residue production over the next several

biofuel facilities currently in the planning phases.

AHEC Sees Market Potential For Hardwoods In Jordan Amman, Jordan: The American Hardwood

With aims to help develop the market

Export Council (AHEC) has identified Jordan

further, AHEC has partnered with local

as an important and growing market for

importer/distributor A. A. Kattan & Sons

With the recent boom in Jordan’s

American hardwoods, given the Kingdom’s

to conduct a workshop on species and

construction industry, American hardwoods

contribution to the US$69.3 million worth

lumber grading, held at the Grand Hyatt

have been making the rounds in Jordan’s

of US hardwood exports to the Middle East

Hotel in Jabal Amman.

most recent high-end developments.

for sustainability,” said Roderick Wiles, referring to the workshop.

“We are taking significant steps to

“The initiatives we are taking in the region

The country is showing increased demand

raise awareness in new market sectors

have resulted in growing recognition for US

for interior wood products as its construction

for American hardwoods in the region,

hardwoods among specifiers, importers,

sector continues to witness rapid development

as more governments in the Middle East

retailers, and developers of major construction

amidst growing economic stability.

undertake major initiatives to address calls

projects,” added Wiles.

and North Africa region last year.

14 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Industry News

Metso To Supply Pulping Technology In Russia Helsinki, Finland: Metso will supply the main technology for Ilim Group’s new kraft pulp mill, to be built in Bratsk, Irkutsk Oblast, Russia. The value of the order is approximately €180 million (US$215 million).

Metso’s scope of supply will cover a complete fibre line comprising a digester, a screen room, an oxygen delignification system, brown stock washing and bleaching plants with wash presses and a drying line with a Fourdrinier wet end and two baling lines.

The new pulp mill will produce 720,000 tonnes

Also included in the Bratsk reconstruction

of bleached softwood market pulp a year, bringing

program are a new recovery boiler and an upgrade

the overall annual pulp production at Bratsk to over

of the evaporation plant. Other deliveries include

one million tonnes.

automation systems for all process areas, and

When in operation, the Bratsk mill will be one

necessary analysers and special equipment for

of the world’s largest and most modern softwood

quality and runnability management.

pulp production facilities. The overall investments

The new pulp mill is scheduled to start up in 2012.

A Metso pulp mill in Mucuri, Brazil

of the St. Petersburg-based firm in the project are about €570 million (nearly US$700 million).

Arauco Gets 50 Percent Stake In Dynea

Vietnam Expects US$2.8B Wood Product Exports

Santiago, Chile: Arauco acquired 50 percent of

Hanoi, Vietnam: Vietnam is expected to earn US$2.8 billion from wood

Brasilian chemical resin firm Dynea. The Santiago,

product exports this year, US$200 million lower than its earlier-set

Chile-based company signed an agreement of sale

target, said Nguyen Ton Quyen, chairman of the Vietnam Wood and

through its Brazilian subsidiary Arauco do Brasil to

Forest Products Association.

claim a 50 percent stake in Dynea Brasil corporation

“Prices are 10 percent lower than a year ago and it is not easy to

shares, owned by joint venture partner Dynea in

seek those raw materials with certificates of origin that meet US and

Lillestrom, Norway.

EU import requirements,” Mr Quyen explained.

Following the all-cash US$15 million transaction,

Orders from large export markets are expected to increase in the

Arauco do Brasil acquired full ownership of

coming months with signs of recovery in the global economy while

Dynea Brazil.

retailers often stockpile for the end-of-year shopping season.

“This investment allows us to continue consolidating

Mr Quyen suggested Vietnamese wood products exporters pay

Arauco’s position in the wooden panel market in

increasing attention to new export markets like Russia and the Middle

Brazil, as well as its expansion in Latin America.

East, rather than rely too heavily on traditional ones including Japan,

It also confirms the company’s commitment to

the US and the EU.

the sustained growth of its industrial areas in the

Meanwhile, wood product makers make and offer their products

countries in which we operate,” said Arauco CEO

for sales on the domestic market, particularly in major cities, said

Matías Domeyko.

Mr Quyen.

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

15

Industry News

Sarah Palin NHLA Keynote Speaker Memphis, US: Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican Vice Presidential Nominee Sarah Palin will address convention attendees during the opening session of the upcoming National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) annual convention.

Dubbed as a global gathering for hardwood industry players, the event will take place from October 13 to 16, 2010 in Vancouver, Canada.

NHLA executive director Mark Barford, welcoming Palin’s participation, said, “The hardwood industry has been successfully self-regulated for more than 110 years. Governor Palin supports a free enterprise system with limited government involvement and auburnxc

understands that industries such as ours are a great example of America’s pioneering spirit.”

Responding to previous convention feedback,

Ms Sarah Palin

NHLA has adjusted this year’s convention schedule to three full days with less conflicting events for attendees,

honoured to welcome her to the premier hardwood industry

exhibitors and sponsors.

event,” Barford added.

“Every year we strive to build a speaker lineup of top

Additional speakers, industry panellists and education

newsmakers and industry leaders. Governor Palin’s participation

programmes at the 2010 NHLA Annual Convention will be

continues this tradition and again we are very excited and

announced subsequently.

RFID Improves Lumber Distribution Schaumburg, USA: Radio Frequency

management system has enabled Cox to

where the lumber should be stacked in the

Identification (RFID) has found its way

gain greater visibility into the locations

yard on a monitor in the forklift.

into lumber distribution.

of its lumber package in real-time. The

When the package is stacked, the

In need of a system that would reduce

system has reduced loading and pick-ticket

information is transferred wirelessly,

inventory errors, wood products manufacturer

errors to achieve a shipping accuracy of 99

enabling management to track a package's

Cox Industries employed RFID systems

percent. It also provides customers with

whereabouts, born-on dates and order

from Motorola and Stark to automate its

increased levels of visibility and control

fulfillment process.

manual tracking processes.

over change requests.

Implementing the RFID-based inventory

For example, if a customer calls

along with an ERP (Enterprise Resource

partway through the process of loading

Planning) system, a purchasing system

an order and asks to make a change to

and several other applications that will

the order, the information is transmitted

provide a single, integrated inventory

wirelessly and sent out to a forklift operator,

platform.

ensuring that the customer change order

midnightcomm, USA

is accurately filled.

An RFID tag

16 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

The RFID solution is being implemented

Greg Campbell, director of operations at Cox Industries, said: "The RFID system...

The forklifts are outfitted with mobile

is helping us reach our goals of increasing

RFID readers, which read the RFID tags

operational efficiencies and redefining

attached to the lumber packages. When

customer service by improving worker

a forklift picks up a package of lumber,

productivity by 44 percent and increasing

the readers read the RFID tag, and the

annual inventory turns by as much as

operator views the information regarding

two times."

Industry News

IWPA Adopts New Veneer Standard Alexandria, USA: The International Wood Products Association

veneer faces continue to be thinner and thinner, we realised that

(IWPA) unanimously approved a new voluntary veneer grade to

adjustments to the standard had to be made.”

“It’s a better explanation of what mills need to know in order

supersede the 10-year-old 'Product Standard for Imported Wood Veneer and Platforms.'

to satisfy customers’ demand, and what users can expect from

The new specifications establish minimum acceptable

suppliers.” added Mr Newburger. While the product standards are

requirements for each grade, and reflect the current trend in

advisory, and compliance is voluntary, their consistent application

the way veneers are being produced and used in veneer and

is encouraged.

The newly adopted standard is the result of two years work by

plywood markets.

“It was time to do an overhaul,” said Bronson Newburger, VP of Clarke Veneers and Plywood. “Taking into account that

the IWPA Veneer Committee chaired by Mr Newburger. The standard was approved during the Association’s annual meeting in April.

Ben Britten, Melbourne, Australia

Ikea Joins Anti-Illegal Logging Alliance

US Timber Producers To Benefit From Rainforest Protections

Washington DC, US: Swedish furniture giant Ikea pledged support for the recently launched Forest Legality Alliance, which aims to aid private sector efforts and policies to reduce trade in illegally harvested wood.

Apart from Ikea, Alliance members are: the American Forest & Paper Association, the Hardwood Federation, the International Wood Products Association, NewPage Corporation, the Retail Industry Leaders’ Association, Staples, and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.

Illegal wood that makes its way into international trade creates an unlevel playing field for the private sector, allowing a few bad actors to put

Washington DC, USA: US timber producers stand to rake in billions

companies with legal operations at an unfair

more in revenue by curbing tropical deforestation, a recently released

disadvantage. It also affects poor, rural residents

report said.

in developing countries who rely on forests for

Titled ‘Farms Here, Forests There: Tropical Deforestation and US

food, fuel, and other benefits.

Competitiveness in Agriculture and Timber,’ the report indicates that

Responsible forest management delivers

the timber industry stands to earn US$36 billion to US$60 billion more

renewable raw material for a wide range of

by 2030 with increased rainforest protection from illegal logging.

products, such as timber and paper.

Findings in the report show that overseas agriculture and logging

Initiated by the World Resources Institute,

operations are expanding production by cutting down the world’s

the Environmental Investigation Agency, and

rainforests to produce cheaper commodities on the world market that

the US Agency for International Development

undercut American goods. The report estimates that ending deforestation

(USAID), the Alliance is open to businesses,

would boost revenue for US producers across a number of related

industry associations, financial institutions and

industries by between US$196 billion and US$267 billion in 2030.

civil society organisations with a stake in legal

Other than timber players, US producers that would see the most

forest product supply chains.

benefit are those in the soy, beef, and oilseed industries.

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

17

Focus

European Machinery Market:

Recovery Underway

D

ue to the decline of the economy, European woodworking machinery manufacturers are suffering from shrinking order volumes.

The economic downturn has turned out to be more dramatic than the experts feared it would be. Over the next few years the world market will shrink, and the outlook for the wood industry is cloudy. The momentum that European woodworking machinery manufacturers had gained years before has now ground to a halt, but they maintain their leadership position in the world markets with Germany and Italy as the two strongest export countries – accounting for about half of worldwide exports.

The difficult conditions are also making it hard for their customers to obtain financing for investments, but the demand for mechanical equipment for processing and finishing wood continues to be apparent.

According to the latest forecast, production will go back to positive figures only in the second half of 2010 and growth will be moderate until the end of next year. And employment – according to the Organisation For Economic Co-operation and Development

18 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

After a difficult year for the European woodworking machine industry, signs show that recovery is finally underway. By Franz-Josef Buetfering, president, European Federation of Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers (EUMABOIS) (OECD) – will be much slower to recover than production.

Pushing Back Globalisation Another serious problem of the crisis is the breakdown of international trade, which has pushed back the process of economic integration on a global scale, causing a sort of ‘de-globalisation.’

Eastern Europe has seen a better trend than its Western counterparts, but its collapse was more dramatic, which is why we still see some caution in purchase decisions of customers. There will have to be an increased workload for the wood and furniture industry before we can see a significant rally of investments. For the time being, demand is mainly represented by old equipment replacement or adaptation of manufacturing systems.

The effects of the international economic crisis had a strong impact in Italy. The main event, Xylexpo in Milan, had less visitors than expected,

with numbers standing at approximately 50,000, as the vicinity of the two shows complicated the decisions of exhibitors and visitors.

The downturn hit the import and export of all countries at the same time, triggering multiplying and chain effects on investments, consumption and employment.

The most affected industries are those open to international competition, which had expanded most during the past few years thanks to the global integration of production processes. The woodworking machinery industry had built its growth on export, depending on foreign business by more than 50 percent of production.

Meanwhile, German-speaking markets have been a safe route for woodworking machinery manufacturers looking for a way out of the crisis.

Investments have been holding on relatively well, allowing for a solid base in the future.

Focus

Exporters market share for 2009 show European machinery as still the dominant brand despite the downturn.

6000 5000 4000 3000 2000

––– Eumabois

1000

––– Rest of the world ––– Europe other countries

0 2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

Graph showing the export trend value from the earlier part of the decade to present. Recent years have seen a significant drop in European machinery exports caused mainly by the financial crisis

7,64%

Eumabois Countries

Rest of the World Japan

Country

7,88%

Europe other Countries 2,87% 4,67%

United States 6,22%

Taiwan China

8,70%

Well-Positioned Nevertheless, European companies were well positioned before the crisis. This is proved by the fact that, despite massive turnover reductions, only few companies have gone bankrupt. With their products, European firms are not just competitive, but leaders in many respects, the most tangible evidence being their 60 percent market share.

Even in the most troubled periods, European companies have conducted their business properly. Despite painful cuts, they have focused on innovation.

R&D departments have pushed on the accelerator and today they can approach

62,02%

Value (million euro)

Var. % 09/08

Eumabois Countries

3052

-39,2%

Europe other Countries

376

-37,4%

Rest of the World

388

-33,1%

Japan

141

-57,7%

United States

230

-24,2%

Taiwan

306

-35,9%

China

428

-25,3%

Export market in millions of Euros

the markets with improved products.

Eumabois has supported the action of companies towards Russia, Ukraine, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic.

However, such expansion has changed their vision, as these markets are mainly dominated by small enterprises. This strategy is an important signal for our associates and is strictly connected to the quality issue.

This approach is based on industry standards and regulations – the European Commission standards for instance – which protect products and their production from the negative effects of competition at all costs.

The Way Out Signs of improvement are coming mainly from Asia, particularly China, while South America is also showing stronger propensity to investments. Even the key market of North America seems to be stabilising, though at low levels.

In Russia, the crisis has cleaned up the exhibition calendar and consequently funnelled the country’s potential. Despite some problems, Russia is still one of the best markets for woodworking machinery manufacturers.

Markets in Eastern Europe are still weak. Customers have to deal with the consequences of the financial crisis. The

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

19

Focus 2008/2009 drop harmed several companies in this market, one of the biggest in the world. We see much interest, but companies still have few opportunities to get loans at affordable costs. For this reason, Russia will express its full potential with some delay.

There’s no denying the industry has gone through a major crisis. Turnover collapsed and is still very low in many companies. Such difficulties are expected

Eastern Bloc countries opened up new ways to the East.

German-speaking markets have remained at good levels even during the most difficult periods, and the handicraft sector distinguished itself as a good buyer. Then, China confirmed its potential as output market for European manufacturers. Growth rates have gone back to sustained levels, which are very promising both for

volumes are still low. South American markets are emerging for their resources.

There are plenty of raw materials, but machinery import duties are curbing competition. There is an increasing demand for quality, and consequently for European machinery.

Encouraging Results The latest trade fairs in Asia (Indiawood Bangalore, WMF Beijing) and Europe

From South America, to Russia, to China, there are many opportunities to seize after the crisis. The big challenge is to tailor products to specific customer requirements in each market. to endure a while longer, but there are also clear signs that the industry has taken the way out. More and more indicators show that the curve is turning upwards.

Recent exhibitions have brought not only a more favourable climate, but new business as well.

The woodworking machinery industry has completely disappeared in some European countries such as England.

This is complicating things. On the other hand, the political turn of former

primary processing products like panels and MDF, and for furniture and finished products. In Southeast Asia there are still good opportunities for some sectors, and Vietnam in particular is considered a secret promise for European suppliers.

But Asian competitors are quite strong. With its construction industry booming and hence boosting demand for furniture, doors, and windows, India is an interesting growth market, although

Ligna 2009: Future issues include energy efficiency and efficient resource exploitation.

The latest trade fairs in Asia and Europe feed good hopes, as they closed with results much beyond expectations.

20 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

(Holzhandwerk Nuremberg and Xylexpo Milan) feed good hopes, as they closed with results much beyond expectations.

European exhibitions enjoyed huge attendance with local and international visitors – more than 100,000 visitors in Nuremberg, 50,000 in Milan, with a 50 percent share of international visitors.

Poland’s Drema woodworking and furniture fair in Poznan recorded an extraordinary trend, but was confronted by two events: first, the closing of European airways due to the volcanic cloud grounded exhibitors and visitors; second, the airplane crash that killed the Polish president. Despite these adversities, the number of visitors increased by 16 percent and it was encouraging to see the propensity to invest of many operators in Poznan.

Under current circumstances, encouraging results were seen in Nuremberg. With 1,273 exhibitors from 35 countries and 16,500 visitors from outside Germany – Holz-Handwerk/Fensterbau reached the same levels as 2008, proving that the industry is recovering.

At Ligna 2009 it was already clear that the future issues would be energy efficiency and efficient resource exploitation. In Hannover, big news and innovations were presented in this area,

and the subject will keep us busy for a long time.

Another factor companies have to manage is how to respond to relentless globalisation. Sales organizations will have to become more and more global, if you look at future markets. From South America, to Russia, to China, there are many opportunities to seize after the crisis. The big challenge is to tailor products to specific customer requirements in each market.

Choosing Original Meanwhile in Eumabois, we have decided to inform customers about the necessity of purchasing original machines and components. This approach seems more effective than a direct fight against counterfeiting, and for this reason we launched the ‘Choose the Original –

Choose Success’ campaign in 13 member countries to increase customers’ awareness of the value of original technology.

Counterfeiting is unacceptable, because it threatens manufacturers and customers to the same extent.

On the contrary, the benefits of original technology are evident. To have success on the Asian markets, European manufacturers must orchestrate their action.

So, recovery seems to have started and the industry is struggling to climb back up towards the top. Will we ever go back to pre-crisis production volumes?

New producing markets will arise, although Europe will likely continue to

Holzma

Focus

be the key owner of research and the best technology of the industry.

Wood, the best raw material of all times, will always be needed and in demand. FDM

ENQUIRY NO. 7001

Innovation Changing Compact as never before Precision, which leaves everything behind Quality, which is more than convincing Advantage - the next Generation - Now

ENQUIRY NO. 146

Further information on www.ima.de IMA AG Asia Pacific Pte Ltd 2 Kallang Pudding Road #05-16 Mactech Industrial Building Singapore 349307 Tel: 65 6749 6588 Fax: 6749 6577 info@ima-sg.com www.ima-sg.com

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

21

Focus

Made In Germany:

It Comes With The

Holzma

Label T

he German mechanical engineering industry enjoys a good reputation all over the world – and has done so for at least 150 years. In 1862, German engineers inspired experts visiting the London International Exhibition with their innovations, and for the first time seriously challenged the dominance of the English engineering industry. This trend intensified in the following decades.

In 1887, England introduced the requirement of having these products marked ‘Made In Germany’ to protect the industry at home. What started as a warning to customers soon became a mark of reputation. Thanks to mechanical engineering specialists, the ‘Made In Germany’ reputation still stands today.

22 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

After decades in the industry, German machine manufacturers are keeping their edge. By Kim Esser, head of marketing, Holzma

Competitive Edge Customers around the world associate the ‘Made in Germany’ label with quality.

And though quality also has its price, leading German manufacturers enjoy an excellent reputation in Asia and are steadily increasing their penetration of the market.

What is the reason for this?

“Customers require high-precision cutting and expect reliability in their production process,” explains Jochen Rehm, Holzma area sales manager for Asia. “Innovative technologies and processes, together

with first-class quality, are not an end in themselves – these directly and exclusively benefit the customer.”

Across varied businesses and industries, customers are keen to procure technologies that reduce production time, optimise the use of available resources, and deliver high-quality results. All these ensure a fast return on investment and lasting profitability.

This is particularly important for players in the competitive Asian markets.

To survive in this economic sphere, one needs a production process that is

A holistic approach across the organisation and across geographies will aid a company in designing solutions.

not only cost-effective, but, even more importantly, efficient and reliable. Mr Rehm sees the investment behaviour of Asian business partners as being conscious of high performance and precision, even in intensive operation.

Service In Difficult Times This behaviour has not changed even in a time of global financial and economic crisis. Some customers have postponed a few investments; but in principle, nothing has been called into question.

Until new investments are made, the existing machines and facilities must run as reliably as possible. “An extensive and strong service network is more important than ever for customers. This is key to

the continuing dominance of any world market leader,” says Mr Rehm.

“In times of a weak economy and declining sales volume, it is critical to maintain the strength of service technicians and experts in the respective local markets to ensure that valuable regional know-how is preserved and always available to customers,” stresses Christof Stadel, Holzma head of service and support.

Along with quality, customers around the world associate the ‘Made in Germany’ tag with service performance. As an example, Holzma manages logistical and geographical limitations systematically to increase service availability in Asia and around the globe, with plans to introduce a new customer call centre for the service and support area.

and reliability of these machines must meet all standardised quality criteria whether they are made in Germany, Spain, China, or Brazil. Numerous measures have been put in place to systematically ensure that these criteria are met. These include the close cooperation between locations.

The HPP 180 is an example of this.

Holzma's German engineers worked together with their Chinese counterparts to develop this model for Asian markets.

Although the entire production process was completed at Homag's Shanghai plant, close coordination between engineers in China and in Germany maintains quality and ensures a competitive price-performance ratio even in keenly competitive markets.

Same Standards

“In striving for uniformly high levels of quality, one must not lose sight of the special requirements of individual markets,” states Mr Rehm. For example, a company will only build and sell particular models in select markets. But one should also keep an eye on technology concepts that can be extended on the basis of a modular system and then adapted to customer requirements.

“A holistic approach across the organisation and across geographies will aid a company in designing solutions that meet the increasing demands of the customers,” shares Rehm. “Particularly in Asia, we are seeing rapid changes in production processes. Whereas previously large quantities were dominant, today the demand is for more flexibility and scope of application to allow production in small batches of exactly the quantities required,” he continues.

Companies must respond to this demand with fast, high-performance and energy-efficient solutions. A typically ‘Made In Germany’ product steps up to this challenge and thrives in fulfilling it. FDM

The presence of ‘off-site’ service centres, outside of the home country, may give an impression that variances in service and product quality are imminent. How does a European brand preserve quality and performance in production and service? Knowledge sharing is a strategy utilized by many companies whereby, as an example, an accredited field service technician installs and maintains the machinery, and trains the operators using a standard qualification matrix.

This strategy ensures that knowledge is passed on and transferred directly to the customer.

What holds true for service also applies to manufacturing. For instance, although not all Holzma panel saws are produced in Germany, the quality

Holzma

Holzma

Focus

In striving for uniformly high levels of quality, one must not lose sight of the special requirements of individual markets.

Holistic Approach

ENQUIRY NO. 7002

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

23

Technology

Laminating Technology:

gy l printing technolo Advances in digita king ta own systems are and modern fold-d ,

By Karin Dullweber laminates further. s of European Producer the Association of Laminate Flooring

24 FDM Asia  JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Technology Digital and porous synchronous printing has made fancy décors, while new developments in overlay technology help to optimise both the look and durability of the flooring.

While it may still be a little unusual to find Mona Lisa, Picasso and Marc Aurel on laminate flooring, it is no longer exceptional. The laminate flooring industry has seen surges in the use of digital printing, as the industry’s trade fairs feature décors that are designed for commercial buildings.

Most European manufacturers have yet to catch on, but the trend is increasingly becoming popular.

Printing & Overlay

ENQUIRY NO. 132

D

espite contentions that it is not ‘real wood,’ laminate flooring are increasingly becoming popular with project planners, architects, landlords as well as private home owners due mainly to its installation ease and design possibilities.

Emphasis has recently been given to improvements not only on the laying systems, but also on the flooring’s surface.

Meanwhile, porous synchronous printing is breaking ground as well. Wooden décors produced with this printing technology deliver an authentic look, showing knots and pores of the chosen wood that can be traced perfectly while lending structure and depth to the surface. Real or fake V-bevels emphasise this impression. The so-called ‘hand scraped look,’ also another development, allows for flooring that appears to have been done by hand.

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

25

Technology

Product highlights Tarkett: Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring Aquastyle from Tarkett is a water-resistant flooring system for surfaces exposed to water spills, making it appropriate for kitchens or bathrooms. Its Moisture Resistance Technology (MRTech) joint treatment gives the product capacity to prevent water ingress.

Aquastyle can be used for sealed areas with a range of dedicated accessories: underlay, waterproof sealing profile and waterproof skirting. The laminate includes an anti-slip R10 safety feature, reinforced impact resistance and abrasion, and stain and cigarette burn resistance.

Available in wood or stone designs, Aquastyle is made of 84 percent natural and renewable material.

Overlay, the ‘icing on the cake,’ has experienced tiny changes in the composition of varnishes and resins to produce new looks and levels of gloss. As the range of overlay options expand, high-gloss or ultra-matt looks which are not easy to produce are becoming an increasingly popular trend among laminate floors.

Overlay is also crucial to the floor’s production when it comes down to resistance to scratches and anti-static. But these extra features come at a cost and not all consumers are prepared to pay this. But with this feature the laminate flooring industry can further upgrade its product quality.

Laminates In Bathrooms Now used in bathrooms, laminate flooring has cores made of glued wood or plastic which are resistant to swelling under moist conditions. Thanks to special edge machining that have made these floors acceptable for such purposes, some European manufacturers have a separate range of moistureresistant laminate floorings for wet rooms.

On installation, users of laminate flooring can find help in modern fold-down systems which simply have to be laid against one another along the longitudinal groove. This eliminates the need for any tools that can potentially damage the floor’s surface. Manufacturers have also developed extras for laying to make the job of laying floor boards an easier one.

With its circular V-groove and classical appearance, the rustic board is gaining ground among laminate users as well, although plank and two-strip designs still haven’t lost their appeal. Narrow boards (around 130 mm wide) and long boards (lengths from 1.80 m) are proving to be trendsetters.

Today’s laminate floorings are designed to allow the fitting of LED light or cable systems beneath the surface. Skirting boards coloured to match or contrast with the floor are the final element of the product range, thus making a powerful statement. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7003

26 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Enquiry No: 7100

Kaindl: Real-Wood Laminate Flooring Kaindl Two, the real-wood laminate flooring collection from Kaindl, mimics the finish of natural wood such as exotic, softwood, and vintage. Prints are produced using Kaindl’s in-house digital printing technology, allowing for several colours, designs, photographic motifs, as well as veneer images of rare wood species to be printed on genuine wood.

With 12 UV-cured top coats, Kaindl Two features an interlocking panel joint system, a slim-fit panel effect, and four-sides micro bevel 3D effect. The Kaindl Two collection was recognised as ‘Product of the Year’ for 2010 by Heimwerker Praxis.

Enquiry No: 7101

ENQUIRY NO. 143

Panels

MDF:

followed by Europe and North America.

These three areas together produce 85 percent of the world’s total production in MDF. Furthermore, China produces the most as far as any other country is concerned, producing approximately 14 million cubic metres of MDF every year. With environmentalists predicting

dno1967

T

he International Furniture Research Group estimates the increase in medium density fibreboard or MDF usage to be from 12 to 16 percent every year all over the globe. The annual production of MDF worldwide was approximately 37 million cubic metres in 2003 and 2004 with Asia dominating the bulk of production,

Composite Panel The

Medium density fibreboard can be used in more quantities as a response to environmentalists’ concern over global warming. By Shiv Kumar Shet, business development manager, Biesse Manufacturing.

Potential

imminent attacks from Mother Nature due to global warming issues, it is high time we take note of recent disasters happening worldwide and take suitable actions to counter them.

One thing the woodworking industry can contribute is the use of panels made from composite materials. MDF is the most widely used form in this sector.

Sought-After

© Casey Fleser

As a third-generation wood substitute, MDF is the most sought-after board in the modern woodworking industry. MDF faces a stiff competition from its counterparts such as the particleboard, plywood, honeycomb, and high density fibreboard

28 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

MDF, usually covered in laminates, is used in cabinets, molded furniture, speakers, kitchens, and flooring.

Panels

Removing The Bark The initial step in production is identifying the suitable wooden logs before debarking.

Sometimes the bark is also used, but to optimise quality and finish, the bark is sometimes excluded in further processing.

Another reason for this is because the grit of the bark can damage machinery, leading to additional expenses. Hence, the bark is avoided in most cases.

Debarking of logs is an important process in any setup making MDF. Today, many plants begin the manufacturing process in the first step and skip debarking as these start off with chips Horia Andrei Varlan

Bark is sometimes excluded from further processing as it may damage machinery.

ENQUIRY NO. 159

(HDF), but MDF is often preferred due to its non-resonant properties.

To elaborate, MDF is basically comprised of softwood broken down into very small wood fibres, which are materials that constitute the forming of MDF. Unlike the materials in particleboards, fibres used in MDF are much smaller; hence they are denser and stronger than particleboards. The variation in properties of MDF boards depends on the different species and type of softwood used in manufacturing. These days, materials other than wood such as waste paper, bamboo, glass, aramide and waste wood are also used and the results have yielded good quality MDF.

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA  JULY 2010

29

Panels

Chipping is the process wherein debarked logs are chipped to smaller sizes. Some plants begin with debarking and chipping as they directly start off with wastage from other plants. These are re-chipped by a disc consisting of blades fixed on thick, radial plates numbering between four to twenty.

The chips are screened as either undersized or oversized. The oversized chips undergoes further processing while the undersized chips are used as fuel.

The final product is passed over magnetic separators to remove impurities.

Next comes the pulping. Finely chipped particles are fed through a screw feeder in the form of plugs before being heated to approximately 130 to 150°C for about one or two minutes.

Two common softwood species are the Monterey Pine and Scots Pine.

Softwood is broken down into very small fibres that constitute MDF

30 FDM Asia  JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Blowline And Pendistor Blowline takes in the defibrated fibres into its line. The blowline is generally a 40 to 45 millimetre-thick pipe that facilitates the passage of fibres at high velocity.

To improve moisture resistance, wax and resin is used in the blowline while the fibres are still wet. This is done to avoid the bundling of the fibres and to retain its properties. A sudden expansion in the diameter of the blowline to 1500 millimetre along with its heating to about 550°C (by heating coils) dries the fibres.

The consistent shakeup of the fibres distributes the resin uniformly.

The Moisture Content (MC) is approximately 15 percent at this stage and is considerably reduced in the process. The fibres may be stored in containers depending on whatever time it needs to be kept. The time for which fibres are retained at this point before it goes in for the mat forming is not critical.

The pendistor is the process of placing fibres on a moving conveyor plate by consistent air velocities. Here, it is important to maintain the air velocities to achieve a uniform layer on the conveyor prior to the pressing action. The thickness on the conveyor from the pendistor will be around 230 to 600 millimetre thick before it gets reduced in thickness at the pre-presser unit.

Pre-Final Stage The pressing device is the pre-final stage where the required thickness of the panel is processed. Here, the sequence of actions is quite critical since heating, pressing and cutting is all combined in a sequential chain with accurate precision timing and control.

The size of the panel can be achieved

Jim Linwood

Undersized Or Oversized

Take note that MDF consists of wood cells such as tracheids, vessels and fibres, which are not to be mistaken for particles.

The defibrator is the process in which two plates rotating counterclockwise with radial grooves converge at the circumference, breaking down the plugs at high pressures and temperatures.

This defibrates the wood and softens the lignin which helps the separation of fibres in the lamella. Steam is extracted from the pulp. All this happens within a span of a minute in the defibrator. A secondary refiner is utilised to get a fine, spongy pulp.

Josh Jackson

and other waste wood coming from other plants or forests. As with the making of veneers in which the flitch is often removed, logs of 2 to 2.5 metres in length are loaded on lathes for debarking. Other machines such as a Cambio ring debarker are also used.

This is the fastest and most widely practiced method as it can process up to one tonne per minute.

Panels in two ways: by cutting it laterally as it is lowered from the pendistor, or by cutting it off with a saw on the conveyor plate of the pressing line. Pressures of up to 3500 MPa and temperatures reaching 200°C are involved in this process. Some huge plants such as those in Wagga use hot presses up to seven daylights to counter demand.

Press sizes can be 1.5 to 2 metres wide and 5 to 20 metres long.

In finishing, the boards or panels are later cut to required finish as far as sizes are concerned. They are then sanded and trimmed after being cooled in a dryer. Storage is mandatory since it allows the resins to cure the panel and give it its exact properties. Normally a melamine or veneer layer is opted as per requirement of the end user.

MDF is used in cabinets, molded furniture, speakers, kitchens, and flooring.

The advantages of the MDF panel include its flexibility in usage (as far as contours are required), availability, environmental friendliness, cheaper cost, consistency in desired properties, as well as its excellent adaptability to veneers. However, one must also note that it cannot resist

Flickr 4Jazz

Finishing

Dust emitted during work may cause lung infection and irritation to the naked eye.

water, that it is heavier than chip board and plyboard, and that it requires more tools to be used by the worker.

Another word of caution is that dust emitted during work is injurious, and may cause lung infection and irritation to the naked eye. Present day machines come with FPH certification*, ensuring better duct extraction and reduced risk to the operator.

*FPH certification is awarded by the Institute for Machine Tools (Institut für Werkzeugmaschinen or IfW), a research body at the University of Stuttgart, Germany focusing on machine tool design, metal cutting, woodworking, automation engineering and sustainable production engineering. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7004

Product highlight Biesse: CNC Working Centre Biesse’s Rover Gold CNC working centre features a 12kW electro spindle and boring head with 21 drill bits.

The machine, used by kitchen and office furniture manufacturers who work on MDF panels, has 10 position tool changers fixed with the beam and 24 Cabfablab, the Hague, Netherlands

vacuum cups with different sizes.

Featuring a relay control system with mobile control board, the Rover Gold also has a remote control that enables spindle and axis adjustment.

An MDF board.

Enquiry No: 7102

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

31

Panels

MDF Production:

Board The

Selecting the right resin for MDF production ensures consistency and helps producers maximise plant productivity with increased profit margins. By Iain Stanton, composite wood panel marketing manager for Europe and Asia, Huntsman

Binder W

hen manufacturing any type of composite wood panel, it is important that the right adhesive is chosen for the job. Many different factors come into play beyond the physical characteristics and performance of the binder. For instance, the wood species used directly affects how it will react. This, in turn, will dictate the chemical composition of the resin required to effectively produce strong panel products.

Selecting the right resin for Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) production ensures a consistent product that performs as desired, but more than that, it can also help producers to maximise plant productivity, with a positive impact on profit margins in turn.

Huntsman

One Such Resin

32 FDM Asia  JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) is one such resin frequently used in this particular application. Sometimes misunderstood as a high-cost alternative to conventional formaldehyde-based resins, in practice MDI is in fact the preferred resin choice for MDF production.

A tried and tested technology, MDI has consistently proven that it can increase panel performance and that it is an affordable option for manufacturers of MDF. MDI provides a bond with the wood particles or strands as it has a reaction with the wood itself when put under intense heat, thereby creating a chemical weld. This is a different and superior type of bond to the mechanical weld that formaldehyde-based products produce. In the case of formaldehyde products, it is visible where one material starts and another ends.

MDI can help manufacturers of composite wood products such as MDF, particleboard and oriented strand board to achieve a more stable processing window, improved material performance in terms of internal bond strength, and increased protection against thickness swell while reducing production costs.

Panels Diffusion Interface

Tale Of Two Resins Manufacturing MDF using emulsifiable MDI with a continuous press differs from the production of MDF with Melamine Urea Formaldehyde (MUF) resins. Since the two resins behave differently, the manufacturing approach has to be altered. MUF resins create a physical bond, whilst emulsifiable MDI resins create a chemical bond (polyurea glue). This reaction has to be managed in a different way within the press. EMDI resins that are run with the same process parameters as MUF resins will result in blown boards.

These MDI resins are formaldehyde-free and fast-curing adhesives and are preferred binders for MDF production. They provide water-resistance, strength and stability by creating a chemical as well as physical bond with wood. Their fast cure time allows MDF manufacturers to significantly increase production output. MDI resins can be used 100 percent volume or as a catalyst with other adhesives, increasing line speed by up to 15 percent.

Adjustments to the press profile are critical in order to produce quality boards with excellent physical properties. FDM

Huntsman

Huntsman

MDI bonds by forming a diffusion interphase. The resin spreads over the surface of the wood and penetrates into cracks, cell lumen and even Wood fibres in MDF production cell walls. Penetration depths of up to 1 mm are readily achieved, which is well beyond the three cell depths that are commonly assumed as needed for wood resins to provide adequate adhesive strengths.

In the diffusion interphase, the MDI effectively becomes one with the wood and this, along with the penetration and the spread, is responsible for the strong performance expected from MDI-bonded wood including the resistance to thickness swell and the high strengths.

MDI, with its strong chemical weld, can offer MDF manufacturers the following benefits: • Increased mill productivity • Increased tolerance to a variety of wood species • Increase in the panels’ physical property performance • Fast curing • Ease of adding biocides or fire retardants • Excellent strength to weight ratio • Compared with traditional formaldehyde options, MDI resins require a lower dosage making it a cost-effective binding option when comparing on a cost/sq m basis.

Flooring made of MDF board

Product highlight Huntsman: MDI Emulsion Huntsman’s range of I-Bond MDI wood resins contain no added formaldehyde and are considered as ‘exempt’ within the requirements of section 93120.3 of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards. Using I-Bond resins allows products to be classified as both CARB I and CARB II compliant as well as Japanese fourstar compliant, which is of increasing concern to producers.

Enquiry No: 7103

ENQUIRY NO. 7005

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

33

Surfaces & Flooring

Engineered Wood Flooring:

Beware

Modified wood floors offer several benefits, but one should realise that they are not a ‘silver bullet’ to all installation problems. By Peter Kaczmar, flooring expert, Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA)

The

Chemical modification involves the impregnation of permeable species of wood with chemicals. These react with water-binding sites present in the wood cell wall, resulting in the wood becoming more stable and resistant to distortion.

Of the modified woods which can be used in the flooring sector, Accoya is the main example where the chemical process ‘acetylation’ produces a hard, resilient and stable material from a softwood species with virtually no cupping. The

main drawbacks are the slight smell of vinegar, species limitations, and colour choice (the process can only be used on permeable wood species).

Impregnation treatments are responsible for products such as Vecowood, Lignia, and Indura Wood, which can all be used for flooring installations.

The processes for Vecowood, Fibre7 and Osmose Indurite involves impregnating wood with fine chemicals that penetrate dry wood when applied under pressure.

Accys Technologies & Titan Wood

R

esistance to decay. This has been, historically, the main driver for wood modification. This is the impetus for modifying specifically low-durability timber species as these require a preservative treatment to extend its service life. However, this may also result in beneficial changes to wood properties. These have increased both the performance of wood products and the range of applications.

The use of new, modified timber products as alternatives to natural wood floor coverings is growing, if recent trends are anything to go by. While these alternatives’ penetration into the flooring market is slow – due in large part to the scepticism of long-standing users of solid wood towards innovation – products such as Accoya, Indura Wood, Vecowood, Lignia, Lunawood, FloThermo and Thermowood are starting to take root. Their usage has crept to the point where they are being considered even for large flooring installations.

Properties & Benefits Modified wood is defined as natural wood that has been treated with a chemical, biological or physical agent to enhance its performance. It excludes wood treated with wood preservatives. There are three wood modification processes: chemical modification, impregnation treatment and thermal modification.

34 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Indoor/outdoor Accoya wood flooring in use in Switzerland. The product has applications for flooring that can run continuously from inside a house to a deck outside. It can also serve as a solid wood flooring solution over under-floor heating or bathroom situations where dimensional stability is critical.

Surfaces & Flooring

Decay Of Engineered Wood Products

By APA – The Engineered Wood Association Degradation of wood by decay fungi is commonly

take hold. It’s important, however, to prevent conditions

referred to as rot, decay, brown rot, or dry rot. Fungi are

that can trap and hold moisture, reducing the wood’s

forms of plant life that derive their nutrition by using

ability to dry.

other organic materials as food. Decay is spread by microscopic spores that are produced by the fruiting

Special Considerations

bodies of fungi.

The exposed end grain of wood products requires

These spores are ever-present in the atmosphere. As

special consideration, such as flashing or other means

evidenced by buildings worldwide, wood construction can

of protection, since the high capillarity of end-grain

provide centuries of service life. Proper design, construction

increases water absorption. Therefore, effective sealing

and maintenance is geared toward keeping wood moisture

of the edges of plywood, OSB and composite siding

content below the threshold that supports decay.

products is imperative. It also helps to control checking in veneer-faced siding products.

Decay Growth & Risks Conditions necessary for decay growth include moderate temperature: a range of 10 to 32 deg C is ideal; food: organic matter including most wood species; moisture: prolonged conditions where the moisture content is in excess of 20 to 25 percent; and oxygen. Of these factors, keeping wood below the threshold moisture content level

• Untreated wood should never be in contact with the ground.

• Untreated wood should never be in permanent contact with concrete foundations.

• Installed wood should be no closer than six inches to the finish grade.

of 20 to 25 percent is the primary means of preventing

Building Standards

decay fungi from growing in wood.

Exterior applications of wood products, such as

Protect interior or sheltered applications, such as floors

sliding and trim, have increased decay risk due to direct

and roofs, from moisture leaks. Properly ventilate these

exposure to moisture. Wood products have a history

areas. The (US) building code generally requires that

of good performance because they are exposed to

attic spaces be ventilated by providing one sq ft of net

moisture only intermittently and are able to dry down

free ventilation for every 150 sq ft (approximately 14 sq

below elevated moisture content levels before decay can

m) of attic area.

Likewise, the code generally requires that crawl spaces be ventilated by providing one sq ft of net free ventilation for every 150 sq ft of crawl space area. The use of vapour retarders and proper placement of vents may permit a reduction in required ventilation area.

Homeowners are occasionally concerned that the engineered wood products used in their new home will eventually decay because they were exposed to moisture during construction. They should not be concerned, because decay requires prolonged moisture exposure

Lignia / Fibre7

for fungi to grow. The short exposure during normal construction is not sufficient for decay, and once the construction is complete, the materials dry down to a moisture level below that required for decay growth.

Impregnation treatments are used to create Lignia wood ENQUIRY NO. 7007

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

35

Surfaces & Flooring Modification Type

Commercial name of modified product

UK availability

Thermal

ThermoWood® S and D

✔

Plato®wood

✔

Retitech

™

Bois Perdure© FLO.TERMO®

✔

Modified woods can improve on the natural product in many ways, but like wood itself they do not offer a ‘one size fits all’ solution. They must be weighed on their individual merits when selecting for specific contracts.

Celloc

®

polymers that make up wood, hence changing its ✔ Lunawood® properties. This can mean ✔ Chemical Accoya® an increase in dimensional stability, although in many ✔ Kebony® thermal modification Belmadur® processes, there is a ✔ Impregnation Indura Wood* reduction in the amounts ✔ Vecowood® of some structural polymers.

This results in a reduction ✔ Lignia™ of density, strength and The table above shows the modification processes of wood, the surface hardness. product names, and their availability in the UK. A number of these modification processes may change These compounds polymerise, or bind or enhance the appearance of wood. together, and fill voids normally filled Thermal modification darkens lighter with air in dry wood, thereby increasing coloured woods and different shades wood density and hardness. can be achieved with different thermal regimes. The colour extends throughout Dyes & Heating the wood section, which is desirable for Dyes may be added in both processes, flooring where maintenance, including which change the colour of the wood sanding, is anticipated. Similar benefits throughout its section. This can be used can be obtained with the impregnation to enhance the aesthetics of softwoods processes, where pigments may be and permits repeated sanding without added specially to enhance or change loss of colour. Again, species that are the appearance of products such as with normally permeable are selected to Vecowood and Indura Wood. enable modification to occur throughout the section. The main in-service benefit of the impregnation processes is improvement of surface hardness and dimensional stability.

Heating wood to temperatures of 160 to 230˚C for several hours or several days produces thermally modified woods such as Thermowood, FloThermo and Lunawood. Heating wood to these temperatures and holding the temperature for these periods alters the chemistries of a number of structural and non-structural Vecowood showing range of colours.

Vecowood / Kurawood

MENZ HOLZ

Caution Ahead As with most products, it is important to exercise caution when considering modified wood substrates for certain situations as attendant disadvantages are not apparent.

For example, with thermal treatment, the surface of certain species has a tendency to become softer and therefore less capable of withstanding high levels of traffic. There is also a tendency for some reduction in splitting resistance and glue performance, which may influence the type of installation that is proposed.

On the other hand, the use of modified woods as floor coverings has much to offer in terms of improvements in dimensional stability and resistance to distortion. This may allow for greater flexibility in terms of the dimensions of board or plank widths used in specific circumstances. Improved hardness achieved with some forms of modification may also extend the range of circumstances a species – otherwise considered unsuitable for heavy-traffic environments – may be used.

Undoubtedly, these product innovations offer greater flexibility within the wood flooring sector to extend the use and improve the overall perception of wood as a floor covering. However, the specifier must take care not to shoot himself in the foot by using this innovation as a ‘silver bullet’ to solve all installation problems.

Modified woods can improve on the natural product in many ways, but like wood itself they do not offer a ‘one size fits all’ solution. They must be weighed on their individual merits when selecting for specific contracts. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7006

36 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

&

DesignDecor

Furniture Films:

More Than

MeetsTheEye Speaking to FDM Asia, Sandra Ruhlig, business manager for decorative surfaces films at Klöckner Pentaplast, gives her take on today’s trends and markets affecting furniture films. By Jerome Lim

FDM Asia: What are the available types of furniture films in the market today?

SR: There are two main types: 2D and 3D. 2D films are used for furniture, case goods (eg: tables, cabinets) and home décor products (eg: wall panels, partition walls, stereo speakers, TV stands). They are also for retail fixtures.

2D films can be applied in numerous ways: metal lamination, flat lamination, profile wrapping, drawer wrapping, and miter folding. They are ideal for laminating over wood substrates, such as particleboard and MDF. 3D films are suitable for press applications on MDF substrates. They are used for door and cabinet fronts, desk and tabletops, furniture components, displays, and store fixtures.

There are three main polymers used in the decorative surfaces marketplace today – polypropylene (PP), PVC, and polyester (PET) films. PP is typically used in lower-cost applications such as draw wrapping and profile wrapping. PVC is the most popular film choice and is used in 2D applications as well as 3D solutions.

PET is used in higher-end applications for kitchen and bathroom doors. That said, the most important factor in determining film choice is the design, with respect to the local taste.

Further, the choice in surface finish is very important as it can give a different nature to a piece of furniture. While a design in high gloss creates cool and noble optics, the same colour in a super matte surface can create a natural and warm impression.

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37

&

DesignDecor

FDM Asia: Could you elaborate on the differences between 2D and 3D films?

FDM Asia: What should buyers or specifiers look out for?

Could you let us know about purchasing pitfalls?

SR: 2D and 3D go into different applications and products.

Basically, 3D is equivalent to a thermoformable film, while 2D films usually are non-thermoformable. 2D is used for profile wrapping, flat lamination, and drawer wrapping. The 2D film is glued inline and then wrapped to the particleboard.

The main applications for 3D films are kitchen and bathroom doors. 3D film is thermoformed with heat and pressure to a shaped and pre-glued MDF board. That also means that 3D solutions add value to the furniture as it offers more possibilities regarding the shape and the design of the door.

SR: Quality is crucial due to long life expectancy of furniture, especially in kitchens, as most retailers offer a 10-year guarantee.

There are all types of quality levels available in the marketplace.

However, using a high-quality film will help ensure the furniture will last.

The recent trend toward high-gloss surfaces has resulted in a rise in expectations for high-quality films. In particular, the customer expects a perfect gloss level, surface quality close to perfection, and depth of optics. With high-gloss films, quality is extremely important. One lower-quality component can diminish the overall result in terms of surface quality and depth of optics.

Other important considerations are colour accuracy, light stability, chemical resistance, and scratch resistance. Colour accuracy from batch to batch is a benefit for customers to enable them to mix batches in their inventory and to have the security that they can be assembled even in one kitchen. Light stability is critical since a customer will not want to have any yellowing after a short time.

The surface must be resistant to chemical substances (eg: cleaning agents, juices, coffee stains). It must also be scratch resistant to hold up to daily use. Using thermofilm solutions is a real advantage due to the ability to provide washable surfaces and resistant humidity.

The biggest pitfall is using lower-quality materials. To achieve the best results, one must use quality components not only in film, but also for the MDF and the glue. At the end of the day, the quality of the piece of furniture is achieved by the combination of materials.

FDM Asia: What types of prints are popular with consumers?

SR: Maybe it is a sign of the times or a reaction to the economic downturn, but furniture design is increasingly leaning more towards natural colours in warm tones and moving away from the greyish and cool-looking designs from the last few years. Today’s modern living space features warm colours, such as antique white, cream, yellow-green, light brown, and grey-brown.

Working with these colours, we see a strong trend of wood reproductions combined with natural influences. New interpretations of oak and ash are especially popular. The challenge is to combine naturalness, elegance, and quality in designs that meet the market’s needs.

It varies by region, but generally highgloss films are very popular around the globe. Consumers view high-gloss surfaces as elegant and modern. The surface itself is state-ofthe-art and has excellent surface optics.

38 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

FDM Asia: How does one recognise a poor quality film?

SR: There are several signs: 1) rapid discolouration of the film; 2) poor scratch resistance; and 3) missing light stability. Those problems usually separate the wheat from the chaff. It is important

&

DesignDecor 50 years HOMAG

to bear in mind that the purchase of a kitchen represents an important investment so that quality expectations are met.

Mit Partnerschaft

Securing success through partnership and zum strategy und Strategie Erfolg

FDM Asia: How can users maximise the life and appearance of furniture films?

SR: Treat them according to the operating guidelines, especially guidelines on cleaning agents.

SR: High gloss will continue for the next few years. A highgloss finish is still viewed as very elegant and stylish. We see increasing interest in super matte surfaces, such as our Turmalin, Siena, and Umbra finishes.

FDM Asia: From your experience, how has the economic downturn affected the furniture film business?

SR: We have seen demand fall. As such, inventories are not turning over as they did prior. Due to decrease in demand, smaller production lots are being ordered. This is a challenge for the industry as it is set up for larger runs.

© www.MARTINI-werbeagentur.de 03/2010

FDM Asia: What new trends are seen emerging in furniture films?

FDM Asia: What is your outlook on the Asian furniture film market?

SR: For the Asian market, we see the rise in income directly correlating to increased demand for 3D films as more and people are able to afford a new kitchen.

The demand for high-quality kitchens will also increase as a result. From a design perspective, we see high-gloss films continuing to lead the way. FDM

HOMAG PRACTIVE Range

ENQUIRY NO. 7008

Product highlights

BRANDT BÜTTFERING

Klöckner Pentaplast: Furniture Film

HOLZMA

PRACTIVE - the HOMAG Group range designed specifically for the woodworking shops, offers top-quality engineering and software at an affordable price. Outstanding machines for sawing, sanding, drilling and assembly, as well as for edge banding and complete processing. The successful range is complemented by a top class service back-up.

We are there when you need us!

Contact us at info@homag-asia.com

LIGMATECH

Lino Ash from Klockner Pentaplast shows the various aspects of the ash tree. Combined with the Striatura surface (a deep and longitudinal embossing) and the solid colors of Turmalin and Umbra, this design creates a 3D effect. The Turmalin and Umbra colours in earthy tones are designed to blend with the Lino Ash and are available in a super matte finish.

WEEKE HOMAG SCHULER

ENQUIRY NO. 161

HOMAG Asia Pte. Ltd. 68 Sungei Kadut Loop · #04-00 Nutzcentre Singapore 729504 Tel.: +65 6369 8183 · Fax.: +65 6369 8313 info@homag-asia.com

Intelligent woodworking solutions

Enquiry No: 7104

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22.06.10 10:24

Wood & Sustainability

Wood Drying And Preservation:

Dried To Perfection

akasped

Environmental issues and increasing demand drive the need for greener and more cost-effective wood drying and preservation techniques.

By Dr Jegatheswaran Ratnasingam, FIWSc

40 FDM Asia  JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Wood & Sustainability ‘air-drying.’ This method proved to be time consuming, and also uneconomical.

Since the advent of drying technology, the removal of moisture from lumber has been completely transformed.

Two Innovations Two major technological innovations brought about this change: first, the development psychometric controls that regulated temperature and humidity in the ambient air around the lumber. This resulted in the development of commercial kiln drying of lumber, making the process

Shrinkage is inevitable in wood as it will swell and shrink depending on the humidity in the ambient condition. This imposes undesirable stresses in the lumber which must be avoided if the lumber or wood product is to function well in service. has simple sugar molecules as its main building blocks) makes it non-durable, as it is susceptible to attacks by biodegrading organisms such as fungi and insects.

Hence, in order to boost the durability of wood and prolong its service life, wood requires the application of preservative chemical treatment.

These ‘treatments’ which include both drying (for moisture removal) and preservation (for chemical treatment application) have far reaching implications on the properties of wood and also the cost economics involved.

Standing trees can have moisture contents in excess of 200 percent, as water is essential for tree growth. Hence, in freshly cut trees moisture contents of up to 100 percent is normal, which in turn must be brought down to between 12 and 14 percent before sawn lumber can be ready for further processing or constructional use.

Historically, the removal of moisture from lumber was confined to ‘drying under the sun’ or what is commonly known as

Wood Drying Prerequisites The drying of wood needs three essential and interrelated factors: • An atmosphere capable of receiving water vapour • Energy to heat up and drive water from the wood • Air movement around the wood Simply stated, there is a need for dry air, heat and moving air or wind. These three combined will dictate the rate at which the wood dries out, creating the prevailing psychometric conditions that drive moisture out of wood.

Water in wood is present in two forms: (1) free water, which is the water loosely held in the cavities in wood, and (2) bound water, which is the water tightly held in the cell walls of the wood. When green or wet lumber starts to dry, the water that is first removed is called free water. The energy required to evaporate this water is low and is quite similar to that of ‘accelerated air drying.’ On the other hand, when all the free water has been removed, the wood reaches the Fibre Saturation Point (FSP).

The FSP varies between 25 and 30 percent Moisture Content (MC) depending on species. Water that remains in wood below the FSP is called bound water and requires considerably higher energy levels to break its bonds within the wood.

of moisture removal from lumber faster and economical.

Second was the widespread use of air conditioning in buildings. The extensive use of air-conditioning meant the humidity in the room was much lower (usually between six and ten percent) than the humidity in the ambient air.

Therefore, lumber to be used in such environments must be dried to between six and ten percent if the lumber is to avoid catastrophic shrinkage.

Shrinkage is inevitable in wood as it will swell and shrink depending on the humidity in the ambient condition. This imposes undesirable stresses in the lumber which must be avoided if the lumber or wood product is to function well in service. Against this backdrop, wood drying has become a prerequisite for the manufacture of valueadded wood products of Moist wood harbours bacteria and fungi that induce rotting. any scale.

Slavomir Ulicny, Raznany, Slovakia

W

ood is by far the single most important raw material used by mankind since human civilisation began, yet its efficient use has been hampered by its intrinsic property: the affinity to gain and lose moisture from and to its surroundings. For this reason, wood’s instability in the presence of moisture has adversely affected its reputation as a premier raw material for industrial application.

Apart from moisture, the lingo-cellulosic nature of wood (ie: being a composite made up of cellulose and lignin, wood

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41

Wood & Sustainability

John Nyberg. Copenhagen, Denmark

Wood Drying Physics

Cracks may appear on wood that is improperly dried.

In fact, as the moisture content drops below 30 percent, the energy required in drying wood increases sharply.

Eventually, wood will reach a moisture content that is in equilibrium with the surrounding ambient humidity – a point commonly referred to as the Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC).

In fact, any change to the temperature of relative humidity will alter the prevailing EMC. Hence, wood drying is a process by which altering the temperature and humidity regimes in the drying chamber establishes a series of EMCs. These series of EMCs form the basis of the ‘drying schedules’ or ‘drying tables’ used by commercial drying plant operators.

42 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Although air drying time for a one-inch Dark Red Meranti (Shorea species, a very common commercial wood material in Asia) board may take two months, that for a two-inch board may take four, while those for thicker lumber can take years, the drying time has been significantly reduced with the advent of accelerated drying technology.

Presently, commercial wood materials are often air-dried to between 25 and 30 percent MC before being placed in a dry kiln. Though often high, the time and costs associated are off-set by better end-product quality and economic returns, making these drying facilities investments that pay itself off.

As mentioned previously, heat energy is one of the prerequisites for drying.

The common sources of heat energy in the wood drying industry are: (1) steam, (2) hot water and (3) hot oil, although the latter two are least preferred due to their low heat transfer efficiency.

Steam has emerged as the most reliable and economical source of heat energy, as its generation from boilers using wood-waste is highly efficient and cost-effective for the mills. Further, saturated steam as a source of heat energy has high heat transfer efficiency, providing the necessary heat load to dry wood in an economic manner. More than 95 percent of the existing hardwood dry kilns in the South East Asian region are steam heated and humidity controlled with reversible fans.

Reversible fans and baffles facilitate the air movement necessary for drying wood, taking moisture away and bringing heat back from the wood surface. Airflow is periodically reversed to ensure even drying across the width of the drying stock.

Baffles and false ceilings are used to force the air through wood packages across the wood surface. This ensures that there is little short-circuiting of the airflow, which in turn may create unevenly dried wood stock. The temperature in the drying environment is usually measured using a standard thermometer, expressed as the dry-bulb temperature.

The interaction between temperature and humidity creates a stable humidity environment to which wood will dry out. In this respect, wood behaves like a piece of ‘sponge’ continuously absorbing and desorbing moisture from and to the environment it is in.

This stable moisture condition will be reflected as the moisture content of wood. The moisture content of wood can be determined from the weight changes of sample boards, or

Wood & Sustainability

Conventional Kiln Drying In a 2009 survey by the International Furniture Research Group (IFRG) in Southeast Asia, it was found that the average drying defects expressed in volume loss is between four to seven percent, depending on the wood species. It must be emphasised that the manifestation of drying defects is not only a function of the drying process, but is also influenced by the wood species as some wood species are more prone to drying defects compared to others.

A good example is Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis), which is highly prone

to warping during the drying process.

In general, when the drying rate is accelerated, severe drying defects that are not visible on the wood surface such as honeycombing, collapse and internal splits will form. Therefore, the wood drying process should be carried out at a regulated and controlled rate that corresponds to the natural moisture flow rate within the wood, in order to avoid the formation of drying defects.

Wood Drying Economics The process of wood drying has become an integral part of any value-added wood products manufacturing industry, and wood drying plant operators are increasingly conscious about the need to be cost-competitive. In this context, wood drying as a process is simply about “removing moisture from wood to the

desired level, in the shortest possible time with minimal defect.”

Although technology offers many options, at the end of the day economics will prevail. Hence, it is no surprise that research pursuits into wood drying throughout the world is focused on optimising the drying process to ensure the highest possible yield.

Other drying methods include the use of dehumidification kilns, pre-dryers, and solar kilns. Novelty drying techniques include vacuum drying, press drying, solvent or exchange seasoning, high frequency or microwave drying, and vapour drying.

Preservation Treatments Wood being a ligno-cellulosic material is prone to biodegradation. Inevitably, some wood species, especially the

ENQUIRY NO. 158

through the use of moisture meters.

Nevertheless, accurate determination of wood moisture content is essential to ensure an efficient and effective wood drying process.

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43

Wood & Sustainability medium and low density wood, require preservative chemical treatment in order to protect it from fungi and insects, which are the most common biodegradation agents attacking wood.

Biodegradation of wood in any form is undesirable as it weakens wood in terms of its strength as well as its appearance.

It is for this reason that wood preservation has grown to become a sizeable industry, with a market value of close to US$100 million within Southeast Asia alone in 2009.

According to the IFRG, as the increasing amount of lesser-known wood species makes it to the market place, the demand for wood preservation is also expected to grow substantially over the years.

Copper chrome arsenate and other inexpensive organic biocides have been

preservatives that do not impair the environmental quality. Nevertheless, all innovations in the wood preservation sector is confined to the development of new preservative chemical systems, as the methods of preservative application using the vacuum-pressure chamber remains the most widely employed technique up to date.

Ironically, despite being a prerequisite to prolong the service life of wood, the wood preservative industry remains highly cost sensitive. It is for this reason that many water-based preservative systems, particularly the borate-based system, continue to find widespread acceptance in the marketplace where it remains one of the most cost-effective wood preservative. Inevitably, the economics of the wood preservative industry is also

As the increasing amount of lesser-known wood species makes it to the marketplace, the demand for wood preservation is also expected to grow substantially over the years.

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purely numbers, rather than its efficacy against biodegrading agents.

Cost Economics & Quality As wood resources around the world come under increasing pressure for conservation, the wood resources available will have to be used efficiently and effectively.

Cost economics and quality will therefore become the determinants in any treatments (drying and preservation) for wood. Although wood science and technology has come a long way since its beginning, the evolving market continues to exert pressure on the wood and wood products suppliers to continue to upgrade their products to ensure sustainability and environmental friendliness. FDM

ENQUIRY NO. 7009

Rubberwood from rubber trees is highly prone to warping during the drying process.

Yun Huang Yong. Harbord, Australia

the traditional wood preservatives used for many decades worldwide. However, growing environmental and disposal concerns as well as stricter governmental regulations have caused a dramatic shift towards preservatives with lower mammalian toxicity levels and environmental friendliness, such as copper and borate-based systems.

In fact, according to industrial experts the current market trend is focused on employing totally organic biocides based on relatively benign and expensive agrochemicals. However, from the research perspective there appears to be an intense effort to develop non-biocide methods to protect wood.

Nevertheless, synthetic pyrethroids and other water-based preservatives such as borate compounds continue to make a strong presence in the marketplace, as the global market calls for low toxicity

Wood & Sustainability

Wood Preservation:

Chemistry

At

Work Accoya

Believed to be as old as the history of wood usage itself, wood preservation has an extensive usage in industrial, agricultural, and utility applications. By Augustine Quek

W

ood preservation encompasses measures and processes taken to prolong wood’s useful life and to increase its durability and resistance to decay or attack by insects or fungus.

Falling within this broad definition is wood drying which involves the removal of moisture and applying any number of different preservatives to wood, timber, wood structures or engineered wood.

Wood treatment provides long-term resistance to organisms that cause deterioration. If applied correctly, wood treatment extends the productive life of timber by five to 10 times. If left untreated, wood that is exposed to moisture or soil for sustained periods of time will become weakened by various types of fungi, bacteria or insects.

The practice of wood preservation is

believed to be as old as the history of wood usage itself. It can be gleaned that historically, wood is treated if it is to be used primarily for industrial, agricultural, and utility applications.

Wood Preservatives: A Closer Look Wood preservatives can be classified into two broad categories: water-borne

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45

Wood & Sustainability

made available oil-borne preservatives formulated as water in oil emulsions or dispersions in water. Coal-tar creosote, one of the most widely used wood preservative, is made by distilling coal tar obtained after high temperature carbonisation of coal.

Creosotes distilled from tars other than coal tar are also available, such as wood-tar creosote, oil-tar creosote, and water-gas-tar creosote. However, these creosotes are generally less

According to the Australian Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation (FWPRDC), green sawn hardwood can increase in value from about US$350 per cubic metre or less, to US$2,000 per cubic metre or more with drying and processing. include various metallic salts and other compounds. The principal compounds used are combinations of copper, chromium, arsenic and fluoride. Many common water-borne preservatives include Chromate Copper Arsenate (CCA), Acid Copper Chromate (ACC), Ammoniacal Copper Zinc Arsenate (ACZA), Alkyl Ammonium compounds (AAC) and inorganic boron.

Water-borne wood preservatives, without arsenic or chromium, include Ammoniacal Copper Quat (ACQ), Copper Bis (dimethyldithiocarbamate) (CDDC), Ammoniacal Copper Citrate (CC), and Copper Azole-Type A (CBA-A).

Oil-borne preservatives are usually dissolved in petroleum or other organic solvents in order to penetrate wood.

Research developments have recently

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wood being a more stable substrate for paints and translucent coatings.

Chemical-Free Methods Thermal treatment is a chemical-free method of wood preservation. In this process, moisture is removed from the wood. Wood drying has been may be described as the art of ensuring that gross dimensional changes through shrinkage are confined to the drying process.

When wood is exposed to high

Accoya

preservatives and oil-borne preservatives.

Water is the most common solvent carrier in preservative formulations due to its availability and low cost. Waterborne preservatives are often used when the wood surface are required to be clean, paintable, and free from objectionable odour.

However, water-borne systems may swell timber, leading to increased twisting, splitting and checking than other preservatives. Water-borne preservatives

Engineered wood can be used to replace traditional materials such as steel, such as the ones on this road bridge made out of Accoya wood at Sneek, Netherlands

effective than coal-tar creosote in protecting wood from decay and insect attacks. Other oil-borne preservatives include linseed oil, pentachlorophenol solutions, organic biocides, organometallic compounds and light organic solvent preservatives (LOSP).

Another method for wood preservation that has been extensively studied is the acetylation of wood. This method uses acetic anhydride to react with wood at the molecular level to improve its performance properties.

Acetylation effectively changes chemical groups called free hydroxyls within wood into acetyl groups, reducing the ability of wood to absorb water. This also limits the wood’s ability to swell and shrink.

Other benefits of acetylated wood include extended coating life due to acetylated

temperatures (200°C or more), its properties change significantly. Sugars inside the wood break up into a form that is inedible to pests, and natural protective compounds in the wood are effectively distributed to protect the wood.

Drying timber is one approach for adding value to sawn products from the primary wood processing industries. Wood drying is also done as part of the preservation process before applying preservatives.

There are two main methods of drying wood, air drying and kiln drying Air drying is the process of removing moisture from wood by exposing it to air. Although the temperature, and relative humidity cannot be controlled in air drying process, it is the simplest method of seasoning mainly based on the natural wind circulation over a stack

Wood & Sustainability

of sawn timber on raised foundations, in a clean, cool, dry and shady place.

One of the main benefits that air drying wood offers is colour retention.

Kiln seasoning is drying of timber by keeping it in closed chamber in controlled temperature. In the kiln, the timber is stacked in closed chambers where the equipments are fitted to manipulate and control the temperature and relative humidity of drying the air, and its circulation through the timber

Radio frequency (RF) drying uses microwave radiation to heat the kiln charge. RF drying can be combined with vacuum (RF/V) to reduce the boiling point of water and further reduce the drying temperature. RF drying is still uncommon due to high operating cost as the heat of vapourisation is provided by electricity rather than local fossil fuel or waste wood sources.

Solar kilns uses heat from solar radiation to dry wood, and originated

Challenges Ahead Environmental concerns were raised in the last decade around certain wood preservation processes. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has restricted the use of CCA to certain applications. In Europe, Directive 2003/2/EC restricts the marketing and use of arsenic, including CCA wood treatment.

Wood Preservation Across The Ages: A Snapshot ✔ Prehistoric Era: The Beakermen, a prehistoric group living in the Llandaff area of Cardiff in the UK about 4,000 years ago, applied charring to wood. ✔ Ancient Greece: Records of wood preservation can be dated back to Alexander the Great’s rule (356 to 323 BC), when bridge wood was soaked in olive oil.

✔ Anno Domini: Pliny the Elder (AD 23 to 79) described the preparation of 48 different kinds of oil for wood preservation, including one in which wood is rubbed with oil of cedar to make it resistant to woodworm and decay.

✔ Industrial Revolution: During the Industrial Revolution, wood preservation became a cornerstone of the wood processing industry, with inventors and scientists such as Bethell, Boucherie, Burnett and ✔ Pre-100 BC: The Chinese were already immersing in saltwater Kyan making historic developments in wood preservation, with the wood that will be used as building materials. preservative solutions and processes. ✔ Roman Times: The Romans protected ship hulls by brushing ✔ 1800s: Commercial pressure treatment began in the latter half of the wood with tar. this century with the protection of railroad crossties using creosote.

stack. The drying is faster and more precise than air drying.

Kiln seasoning enables wood to be dried to any desired moisture content regardless of weather conditions. It normally takes two to five weeks for wood drying in kiln. Almost all commercial timbers of the world are dried in industrial kilns.

as small, hobbyists’ backyard systems.

Now commercially available as fullfledge systems with internal controls, solar kilns can match conventional kilns performance while saving significant energy costs.

Newer forms of drying treatment include vacuum, radio frequency and solar.

Vacuum drying works by operating at reduced pressures to increase the rate of moisture movement from the interior of the wood to the exterior.

Many commercial variations of vacuum drying exist, such as hot water platten vacuum kilns, discontinuous drying, and super-heated steam vacuum (SSV).

Albrecht Photographic Artistry

Newer Forms

The steadily increasing global demand for wood and wood products has meant a continuous effort in improving wood drying and preservation methods

However, the steadily increasing global demand for wood and wood products has meant a continuous effort in improving wood drying and preservation methods.

According to the Australian Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation (FWPRDC), green sawn hardwood can increase in value from about US$350 per cubic metre or less, to US$2,000 per cubic metre or more with drying and processing.

The clear benefits of well-dried and preserved wood meant that the industry will always seek better, newer and novel methods to do so. FDM

ENQUIRY NO. 7010

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47

Features

Fingerjoint?

What Makes A

As fingerjointed lumber gains economic importance, one must take note of several factors that affect fingerjointing strength. By Dr Mohammad Mohammad, group leader, structure building systems, FP Innovations - Forintek Division

F

ingerjointed lumber is a successful example of using small dimension and low-grade lumber to produce high quality products through innovation.

The product is gaining economic importance, especially for the manufacturing of engineered wood products (eg: glulam, i-joists, and so forth).

The process of fingerjointing is complex and requires considerable efforts in order to determine and evaluate the various workable optimum conditions of jointed wood members. Many factors are known to affect the strength of fingerjoints. Some are related to wood, such as species, density, natural defects, Moisture Content (MC), temperature and ‘gluability’ of the species. Others are related to wood machining including:

48 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

type of adhesive and gluing processes, condition and cutting tools, curing time and applied assembling pressure.

MC & Temperature Typically, the MC of wood in bonded products should be close to the Equilibrium Moisture Conditions (EMC) that the product will be subjected to in service. However, large variations within individual boards and between boards are not uncommon in a kiln-dried load of lumber. Since end joints usually contain a large proportion of end grains, control of glue penetration becomes critical.

Two schools of thoughts exist in explaining why poor performance is associated with high MC of wood and an aqueous type of adhesive (ie: Phenol

Formaldehyde or PF, Phenol-Resornicol or PRF, Melamine Urea Formaldehyde or MUF). One study showed that when the wood contains excess amounts of moisture, it absorbs less water and adhesive. This leads to excessive adhesive mobility, followed by squeeze-out when end pressure is applied, thus resulting in a thin glue line.

Other studies have concluded that at high MC, adhesive remaining in the glue line after pressing is diluted and is therefore absorbed by the wood, resulting in a starved joint. At a low MC (below 6 percent), studies have shown that the glue tends to dry out and most of the water from the adhesive migrates into the wood, leading to a granular adhesive.

Features

Increasing wood temperature by heating the fingerjoint accelerates polymerisation of thermo-setting adhesives which lead to increased viscosity of the adhesive, thus reducing excessive penetration of adhesive into the wet wood. Higher temperature could also pre-cure the glue and cause insufficient penetration.

On the other hand, wood that is cold or frozen could decelerate the polymerisation reaction, keeping adhesive at low viscosity for a longer period of time, leading to excessive penetration.

Findings from a recent study carried out at FPInnovations in close collaboration with Université Laval indicated that the MC of fingerjointed black spruce lumber (Picea Mariana) has more impact on the

Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) than temperature, for the range of conditions and the type of adhesives studied (Polyurethane-emulsion-polymer).

Results also showed that the operating envelope for PEP adhesive is between 12 and 16 percent MC and between 5 and 20˚C, while the optimum MC for PRF adhesive was found to be around 16 percent.

It was also found that PRF adhesive performed better at high MC.

Fingerjoint profiles are manufactured using cutting tools (a revolving head made up of a series of stacked knives, shaped saw blades or a head holding replaceable bits). There are three main types of structural fingerjoints: vertical, horizontal, and inclined.

Under normal production conditions, the vertical profile is relatively stronger than the horizontal configurations, which is directly linked to the bonding area. Five variables usually define the geometry of a fingerjoint: slope, pitch, width, length, and tip width. Several profiles of structural fingerjoints are commonly used to join wood: feather, male-female and reverse. Except for shouldering, the three joint profiles have basically the same geometric parameters.

A study conducted at FPInnovations between 2000 and 2002 in collaboration with Université Laval evaluated the performance of fingerjointed black spruce lumber for three joint configurations: feather, male-female and reverse.

Significant differences were found for bending strength among the three joint profiles. The same trend was observed for ultimate tensile strength but differences were not as significant.

The analysis indicated that feather profile performs better than male-female and reverse profiles.

FP Innovations

©Weinig

Geometry & Profile

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49

Features failure of the wood and squeeze out the glue.

In a joint study conducted by FPInnovations and Université Laval on fingerjointed 2x3 black spruce to investigate the optimum end pressure, it was found that an end pressure around 3.43 MPa (498 psi) is most suitable for fingerjointing black spruce for structural applications (see figure 1). Lower or higher end pressure can result in lower tensile strength.

Quality Control

Influence of end pressure on the tensile strength of fingerjoints.

Pressure is needed to ensure the closest possible contact between the finger surfaces to be glued and for the adhesive to form a continuous and uniform layer with optimum thickness.

It is also intended to force the fingers

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40.0 35.0 30.0 25.0 20.0 15.0 100

300

500

700

Pressure (psi) Mean

Minimum

Figure 1: Optimum End Pressure for Fingerjoints.

5th––Poly (Mean)

900

FP Innovations

Fingerjointing End Pressure

together so that a locking action is obtained, giving a certain immediate handling strength after gluing.

Generally, as higher pressure is applied, more locking efficiency and performance can be obtained (up to the point where damage to the wood could occur). Excessive pressure, however, could damage the tips of fingers or split the finger roots, cause compression

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Suitable Adhesives Technically, any adhesive suitable for bonding wood could be used for bonding fingerjoints, however, certain factors limit the choices. Those factors include intended use and service conditions (ie: exterior vs interior exposure, structural vs non-structural), physical and mechanical properties of an adhesive, curing speed and method, cost, and sometimes colour.

Adhesive selection for a manufacturer of structural fingerjointed products may begin as a cooperative effort between the manufacturer and an adhesive supplier. Together they should thoroughly review the product, its intended service environment, and all production processes and equipment before choosing an appropriate adhesive.

The two primary goals for a quality control system in any fingerjointing operation are to: 1) detect substandard products; and 2) find the cause of a problem and search for a solution. Typical quality control procedures involve the evaluation of strength and delamination resistance of fingerjoints. Strength evaluation of fingerjoints for quality control purposes can be divided into two categories: destructive and non-destructive.

Non-destructive testing of fingerjoints has always been an attractive concept, since it would make it possible to evaluate all joints produced. A recently completed study at FPInnovations focused on developing a non-destructive evaluation

FP Innovations

Features increased value for trim blocks; reduced chip production; higher product value for low-grade material; and more efficient use of kilns (medium temperature).

With modern adhesives technology, it is possible to fingerjoint pieces of lumber with high MCs. It is even possible to fingerjoint dry and wet pieces, whether or not they are frozen.

For the fingerjointed lumber industry to succeed, it must take advantage of the existing state-of-the-art knowledge produced through many years of research into the fingerjointing process and product quality. Adoption of some of the critical technical information on new and innovative processing and adhesive technologies will enable the industry to optimise operations and stay competitive. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7012

technique by means of Computer Tomography (CT) technology. Results are promising in terms of its potential application for online FJ quality control and evaluation.

In addition to bending or tensile strength, fingerjoints are also monitored for delamination resistance. Delamination resistance is an indirect measure of the ability of the fingerjoint to resist strength degradation when exposed to high moisture conditions. The delamination resistance evaluation that has been adopted by the Canadian standards is similar to that usually used for assessing glued joints for exterior applications.

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Maximum precision: +/- 0,15 mm

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ENQUIRY NO. 157

One example where the adoption of new technologies could make a difference for the fingerjointing industry is associated with the type of adhesive used and the moisture conditions of the raw materials. Even though fingerjointing is most commonly performed on dry material, there are economic advantages to jointing blocks in the green state:

Notum – The Experience Reliable & Innovative User-friendly operation

WINTERSTEIGER SEA Pte Ltd., 2 Ang Mo Kio Street 64 # 05-03A, Singapore 569084 Tel. +65 6363 3384, Fax +65 6363 3378, markchang@wintersteiger.com.sg, www.wintersteiger.com

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51

Features

Dust The

Buster

W K Tan, MD, Lignar Engineering (Singapore), reveals the benefits of having an effective and efficient dust extraction system. By Derek Rodriguez

FDM Asia: Tell us about your company.

Mr Tan: We deal with used woodworking machines, mainly European-made or Japanese-made. We do the reconditioning work and sell the machines as reconditioned machines with warranty.

The other part of our business is the dust collecting system for industries such as the woodworking industry, the paper industry, the fibre glass industry, and the recycling industry.

Although our dust collecting systems are not only for the woodworking industry, this is where our main customers are.

In terms of territories, we cater mainly to the ASEAN, China, India and Middle East market as well.

FDM Asia: How important is a dust collection system in a woodworking environment?

Mr Tan: In a woodworking factory, a dust collecting system is a requirement, especially for medium and large factories.

Most customers know how to buy good machinery. And for good machinery, they need good tools. The next thing they need is a good dust extraction system, which can reduce machine maintenance and reduce the number of product rejects.

Rejects can cost a lot of money and if you don’t have a proper dust extraction system, you might have to do reworking for the finishing of the final product due to the dust. The costs for this, together with the costs for maintenance of the machines, are very high.

Also very important for the wood industry are fire hazards.

If the machines are not well maintained, any spark or small heat can cause fire and even result in lives lost and we have

52 FDM Asia  JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

seen it happen. We have actually gotten a lot of business from customers that have had experiences with fire before they used our system.

FDM Asia: How long does it take to implement a dust collection system from scratch?

Mr Tan: A small one takes two weeks. A sizeable one can take four to five months. Major ones can even take up to a year.

FDM Asia: Is it possible to retrofit a factory that is using a substandard system?

Mr Tan: Yes, we can reorganise a poor system. A lot of our work last year during the crisis involved big companies wanting to reorganise their factory.

Features

We also provide very easy expansion. Since ours is a modular system which can be expanded easily, factories can increase their capacity easily. It is very flexible in a sense that our system allows factories to reorganise very easily.

The reason for reorganisation is to have better productivity, to have a better flow, and to save a lot of money.

FDM Asia: Give us your thoughts on the global financial situation and whether you have learnt any lessons from the recession?

W K Tan (right), MD, Lignar Engineering (Singapore) at the Interzum Guangzhou

In some cases, when they relocate their factories, they want a new system.

In other cases, when factories are merged, we reorganise their systems.

We are able to do it in a minimum amount of time in order not to disrupt their production.

Mr Tan: After having gone through a few (economic crises), we are more prepared this time round. We were actually quite fortunate that we are able to secure jobs from good customers who needed our services. Some customers wanted to change to our system to be more efficient. If they are more efficient, they will naturally have returns and that pays for itself.

This crisis also does us some good. When the market bounces back, most companies will need the machines immediately. Not many have them in stock but we do.

Delivery can be six months in some cases, but we can do it in one month. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7013

FDM Asia: How long can a system usually last before it has to be replaced?

Mr Tan: Many of our systems have already been running for 20 years.

These are all permanent fixtures that only require maintenance. For example, some parts that have wear and tear can be changed. And even then, you are talking about 20,000 hours or four to five years for a change.

The systems won’t get obsolete. However, newer ones can be more efficient, meaning they use less energy.

FDM Asia: How do you differentiate yourself from your competitors?

ENQUIRY NO. 108

Mr Tan: Our system is very stable; if you run them 24/7 you won’t face problems and this is very important for the factory because any stoppage or any breakdown will cause a lot of production and delivery problems.

On the safety side, we have set a very high benchmark, complying with the European standards. On the efficiency side, our systems are very energy-efficient.

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53

Market Report

Particleboard Production Increasing Worldwide

New plants in South Asia, Eastern Europe and South America are coming on stream. By BIS Shrapnel

G

lobal production of particleboard is forecast to increase from 69.9 million cubic metres in 2009 to 84.1 million cubic metres in 2013, based on current expansion plans and estimated capacity utilisation rates, according to economic forecaster and industry analyst, BIS Shrapnel.

Its Particleboard in the Pacific Rim and Europe, 2009 – 2013 report found production of particleboard in Asia has been growing rapidly over the past decade, but greater Europe, including Russia and Turkey, remains the dominant particleboard producing region.

The increase in production of particleboard is being driven by strong growth in the key end-use sectors of the product – housing construction and furniture manufacturing. Similar findings were shown in the company's companion report, Medium Density Fibreboard in the Pacific Rim and Europe, released last month.

In USA The downturn in housing construction in the United States reached the bottom of the cycle in 2009, and is expected to move into a rapid upswing from 2010 to 2013. This will drive economic growth not only in the United States, but in many of its key trading partners around the world.

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It will also drive renewed demand for furniture, and ultimately the demand for particleboard and MDF. Housing construction in other key regions such as Europe and Asia will also drive an upward phase in the demand for particleboard and MDF over the forecast period.

Rest Of The World In 2009, Europe produced 62 percent of the world’s particleboard, North Asia produced 14 percent, North America produced nine percent, South Asia produced eight percent, South America produced six percent, and Australasia produced one percent. Production of particleboard in Europe is forecast to drop slightly to 60 percent by 2013.

Over the same period production in North America and South Asia is expected to increase slightly to nine percent, and in South America production is forecast to increase to seven percent. Production of particleboard in North Asia and in Australasia will remain unchanged.

Confirmed new capacity for particleboard will amount to 6.4 million cubic metres by 2013. There have been announcements for several new plants in key producing regions, including one known plant planned for Malaysia, two each for Russia, India, Indonesia and Vietnam, three for Brazil, and seven for Turkey.

Medium-Density Fibreboard Particleboard, as with Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF), is mainly used in housing construction and furniture manufacturing.

MDF, however, is quite expensive and there is potential for particleboard to replace MDF as a more cost-effective alternative for furniture manufacturing as well as a substitute for plywood.

As the global financial crisis took hold in 2009, consumption of particleboard declined by five percent. BIS Shrapnel is forecasting a modest three percent increase in consumption in 2010, followed by an acceleration to eight percent in 2011 and then a slight drop to five percent in 2013. The average annual growth in consumption will be six percent over the four years from 2010 to 2013, which is a total increase of approximately 24 percent over the forecast period.

BIS Shrapnel found the global financial crisis also had a significant impact on particleboard prices – which are estimated to have declined by an average of 16 percent in 2009. Over the four years from 2010 to 2013, as the global economy moves into an upward phase, prices are projected to increase by an annual average of FDM six percent.

ENQUIRY NO. 7011

Product highlights Altendorf: WA 8X

RazorGage: Saw Stop Gauge

Applicable to wood, plastic and non-ferrous metals, Altendorf's WA 8X sliding table saw can be used for cutting large panels of polyethylene or Plexiglas, or crosscut thick plastics. It features an eye-level operating panel, making it accessible from both sides of the machine. Its extraction hood’s design allows it to switch between narrow and wide hoods in seconds, and cut heights of up to 125 mm.

Further, it has a motorised rip fence with a traverse speed of 250 mm/sec and an accuracy of +/− 1/10 mm.

Its emergency cut-out mechanism prevents the risk of crushing, and a mounted crosscut fence enables cutting of 90° angles.

RazorGage-ST MiniTouch, the entry-level price point automated saw stop gauge from RazorGauge, features a 4x6” color touch screen allowing either decimal or fractional hot-key dimensional input.

The machine may be mounted onto an existing table or cabinet using standard carriage bolts that fit “T” slots in the bottom of the extrusion. With multiple menu screens including hot-key dimensions included as standard, MiniTouch machines are available in working lengths up to 44 feet.

The machine is upgradeable to a Windows XP Pro PC platform with a 15” touchscreen for networking and optimising.

Enquiry No: 7105

Enquiry No: 7106

Hettich: Automatic Drilling & Insertion Machine

E-Chain Machinery: Double End Tenoners

Blue Max, an automatic drilling and insertion machine from Hettich, has exchangeable drilling units on all modules that reduce preparation time, as well as a 550mm depth adjustment facility with LCD display for exact positioning.

The latch-lever profile can be rotated and individually positioned for four different basic settings. An LCD display facilitates lateral adjustment of the drilling and inserting unit by a total of 2,250mm.

The model’s pneumatic caterpillar drive makes it possible to drill system-32 hole-lines with the automatic drilling machine, while a five-spindle, horizontal drilling unit drills end-face dowel holes.

Double end tenoners from E-Chain Machinery are used for sizing, moulding profiles and sanding curved profiles on parallel sides of workpieces.

Applicable for use on all wood types including hardwood, softwood and manufactured wood, the product is used in the manufacture of office furniture, bedroom furniture, kitchen furniture, parquet, windows, doors, and frames.

The double end tenoners are fully customisable in terms of working widths, configuration of working units, motor horsepower, and other mechanical details.

Enquiry No: 7107

Enquiry No: 7108

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

55

Product highlights Wintersteiger: Thin-Cutting Band Saw

Thermopal: Hemp Board

Featuring a 660mm cutting width for cutting wide plank flooring or panels, the DSB Singlehead 660 thin-cutting band saw from Wintersteiger features block guidance in wet and dry cutting, and allows both planed and rough cut blocks to be cut without retooling.

Due to its extended cutting width, the band saw, with its flexible saw blade guiding system, is also used for three-layer or multiple layer boards in door production, and can cut the full width of a door panel. The Singlehead 660 is also capable of processing alternative materials such as cardboard, composites, and other non-wooden material types.

Weighing much less than other composite boards, Thermopal’s HPL composite board “Hanffaser Composite” is a lightweight board made of the hemp shives that are obtained when the plant is processed. The shives are lighter than wood fibres, but no less resistant to tearing.

One cubic metre weighs only around 450kg, which is less than other chipboard panels.

The surface allows screws to be inserted anywhere on it, and is available coated with 0.8mm of Thermopal HPL. Customers can create combinations of any of more than 300 designs and 11 different surfaces with some 20 core materials in the design, surface, core technology (DST).

Enquiry No: 7109

Enquiry No: 7110

Techno: Nesting Machine

Häfele: Sliding Door Fittings

The LC Series Nesting Machine from Techno features a five-horsepower automatic tool change spindle, fivespindle drill bank, vacuum table hold-down system, ten horsepower pump, material location pins, and nesting software.

Machine bases are designed of tubular steel that is welded, ground, and stress-relieved. Each drive system consists of ballscrews on all four axes with an X-Axis beam that includes twin Z-Axes ensuring independent control over the automatic tool changer and drill bank.

The package includes an automatic tool-drill calibration via tool calibration touch pad.

As part of the Slido range of sliding door fittings from Häfele, the Design 80-Y supports single and double sliding doors made from wood with a minimum thickness of 38mm and a maximum weight of 80kg.

Like most sliding doors, the product takes up little space and is popular with property developers. Appropriate for home and office environments, the entire sliding mechanism is concealed within the door, according to the manufacturer.

Smuso soft and self-closing mechanisms are also available separately with the Design 80-Y.

Enquiry No: 7111

56 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Enquiry No: 7112

Exhibition Review

Xylexpo 2010

FieraMilano-Rho Exhibition Center • May 4-8 2010 • Milan, Italy

C

lear signs that the crisis affecting the woodworking machinery and technology industry is coming to an end was apparent at the recent Xylexpo.

The exhibit, held at the FieraMilano-Rho exhibition centre in Milan, Italy, from May 4 to 8, gave little indication of an industry reeling from a crisis as it saw 652 local and international exhibitors cover a net exhibition area of 42,500 sq m.

The spectacle unfolded to about 25,000 international and more than 26,000 local visitors who networked with exhibitors at the show.

Despite figures showing the exhibit as a success, the organisers admit putting up the show was no easy task.

“It was a good exhibition,” said Xylexpo GM Paolo Zanibon. “We knew we had to face a difficult period, with global woodworking technology trade down by 37.5 percent. However, Xylexpo is holding on, proving it still deserves the role it has been playing for 42 years in the global industry exhibition scenario.”

Ambrogio Delachi, president of the Italian Woodworking Machinery and Tools Manufacturers Association or ACIMALL, agreed: “These are not just words. Many exhibitors have told me about their satisfaction and the quality of visitors coming to Milan, who were actually interested in the acquisition of solutions and technology within the next few months.

Exhibitors also reported receiving concrete responses from visitors, hinting at an upbeat economic outlook for the coming months.

“These businessmen did not just walk around the stands, they had a real need to update their production equipment. There were orders signed during the exhibition, something we had not seen for a long time,” added Mr Delachi.

The next Xylexpo will take place two years from now, on May 8-12, 2012, at the FieraMilano-Rho exhibition centre. FDM ENQUIRY NO. 7014

www.fdmasia.com www.fdmasia.com| |FDM FDMASIA ASIA APRIL JULY 2010

57

Exhibition Preview

IWFAtlanta 2010

Georgia World Congress Center • Atlanta, USA • August 25 to 28, 2010

O

nce again, the Georgia World Congress Center opens its doors to a major woodworking exhibition in the Western Hemisphere, the International Woodworking Fair 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Fair, which runs for three days from August 25 to 28, welcomes 800 exhibiting firms from the woodworking industry in North America and around the world. To wit, the previous IWF boasted 20,000 buyers – more than 2,000 of them from 85 countries.

Woodworking Symposium In line with the exhibition, visitors and exhibitors can participate in a series of all-day and half-day symposium on woodworking topics the day prior to the opening. Wood IQ will present ‘Finishing Technology and Sustainability:

58 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

The Pathway To Profits,’ a day-long symposium that includes topics such as maximising profitability through cost and waste reduction, meeting compliance standards to capture a larger share of green building opportunities, and cost management for spray operators.

Design Emphasis & Technical Sessions Another symposium, titled ‘Selling Closets From A-Z - The Perfect Niche For Today’s Market’ will feature speakers from the Association of Closet and Storage Professionals who will talk about the nuances of the cabinet industry. Other symposia series will discuss issues on countertops, organising specifiers’ events, outsourcing, margins and pricing, case studies, and dealing with upholstery over-supplies.

Exhibition Preview

Exhibition Preview

The show’s ‘Design Emphasis’ will display furniture pieces designed and built by students from colleges and universities throughout the USA.

ENQUIRY NO. 140

Meanwhile, the show’s ‘Design Emphasis’ will display furniture pieces designed and built by students from colleges and universities throughout the USA. Students get the chance to demonstrate their creativity and talent before a judging panel of furniture industry designers, manufacturing and retail executives, and members of the

trade press who have design-oriented backgrounds. A total of US$14,000 in prize money will be awarded during the special ceremony.

Twenty-one technical conference sessions, spread out in six topical tracks over four days, are also lined up for the event’s participants.

Opportunities include witnessing innovations in manufacturing and material processing, seeing live demonstrations, and expanding networks within the industry.

The six tracks will cover areas of business management, production strategy, manufacturing techniques green/ environment, marketing and business development, as well as a non-wood based track to be delivered by leaders in the industry.

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59

Exhibition Preview Challengers Award Visitors can also look forward to seeing an unprecedented number of 22 finalists for this year’s Challengers Award. The award, known as the woodworking industry’s highest honour, recognises advancements in technology or significant contributions to environmental

improvement. It focuses on companies that have distinguished themselves by developing innovative technology in products, materials, supplies and services, and challenges IWF exhibiting companies to develop devices that advance the industry.

Richard Campbell, IWF 2010

2010

Challengers Award committee chairman, said: “The quality of the products entered made it difficult to choose 20 finalists. Because of the innovative products that were entered, the IWF Executive Committee decided for the first time in the Challengers Award Competition history to have 22 finalists.

Challengers

Distinguished

The Finalists At A Glance*

Accurate Technology: Software Application ProCAB QC from Accurate Technology is a software application to measure and document the dimensional quality of fabricated or purchased parts such as cabinet doors.

Designed for use with a ProTable-CAB two axis measuring system, the program provides a method for importing production or purchase order part data via CSV files. Operators measure the dimensional quality of the fabricated parts in random sequence, as ProCAB QC tracks and documents the results.

Black Bros: Roll Coater Minimising waste in both process and material in the roll coating operation, the L300RC roll coater from Black Bros uses 30 percent less electricity than a similar machine made 10 years ago.

According to the manufacturer, users can expect to save over two and a half hours from daily clean-up, weekly preventive maintenance and monthly roll changing. *Partial List Of Finalists

60 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Accuwrap: Steel Cabinet Door & Light Valence Designed for the woodworking industry, the stainless steel moulding and five-piece cabinet door from Accuwrap employs materials that are cut and assembled using conventional woodworking tools and hardware.

The laminate wrapped on MDF moulding enables the cutting and installing of stainless steel moulding with conventional wood working tools. Custom profiles, edge banding, and laminate available in matching Stainless steel are available.

Benz: Reciprocating Knife Cutter For use in ‘C’ axis equipped CNC machine, the RCK1 reciprocating knife cutter from Benz utilises a standard spoil board to hold material.

With a reciprocating speed of up to 6,000 strokes per minute, the unit is designed to cut fabrics, leather, veneers, rubber, carpet, cork, vinyl and other similar products. Equipped with a spring-loaded floating ring, it is available to fit any models equipped with ‘C’ axis.

Exhibition Preview The investment these companies have made into research and development for the industry should be rewarded.”

The seven winning products will be announced on the first day of the Fair after the final judging on August 24th.

Finalists and winners will be given recognition via a conspicuous display

area throughout the four days on the show floor. The special area will provide buyers information about the 2010 finalists and winners.

Among the companies participating in the event include Accoya, ACIMALL, AkzoNobel, Renolit, Barberan, Becker Aroma, Blum, Burkle, Dieffenbacher,

Electronic Wood Systems, Hafele, Hess, Hettich, Leitz, NHLA, Schattdecor, Weyerhaeuser, and Wintersteiger.

IWF Atlanta 2010 is sponsored by the American Home Furnishing Alliance, the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America, and the Woodworking Machinery Industry Association.

Achievement Award Precision Drive Systems: Tool Change Spindle System Dyna-Loc from Precision Drive Systems is a compact automatic tool change spindle system that incorporates standard HSK style tool holders. The conventional drawbar and spring packs are removed, and the pneumatic actuator is moved to the front of the spindle.

System features include a fail-safe design to eliminate accidental tool ejection in the event of a failure. The design also eliminates the hollow shaft, drawbar, spring packs, and expensive HSK clamping sets.

Lamello: Assembly Connectors Clamex P connectors from Lamello are used for RTA case goods and modular components. No screws or tools are needed, as connectors slide in pre-cut slot, match up joining panels easily with built in alignment tabs, lock cam lever in place by a turn of a hex key pulling parts together tightly for a strong durable connection.

Parts with Clamex P can be preinstalled, stacked and packaged without risk of damage during transport.

Merritt Machinery: Wide Belt Wet Sander The Meinan BFS-40W wide belt wet sander from Merritt Machinery sands finished panels without further need for ductwork.

The machine uses environment-friendly and chemicalfree water circulation for sanding, with Perlite filtering system to trap sanding particles and dust.

USNR: Saw Optimiser USNR’s AddVantage chop and rip scanners scans wood for geometric measurements and natural and manufacturing defects. By identifying grading characteristics such as wanes, cracks, knots and stain, AddVantage determines the cuts which will result in the highest value recovery from the boards.

The AddVantage products utilise economical four-sided multi-spectral vision, infrared laser geometric profile and optional patented x-ray density measurement to identify and classify a wide range of characteristics. FDM

ENQUIRY NO. 7015

www.fdmasia.com | FDM ASIA JULY 2010

61

Calendar of Events 2010 JULY 15-18 – Furnitex 2010 Melbourne Exhibition Centre Melbourne, Australia Australian Exhibitions & Conferences Tel: +613 9654 7773 Fax: +613 9654 5596 Email: furnitex@aec.net.au Website: www.furnitex.com.au

24-27 – Wood Products & Technology Tra & Teknik 2010 Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre Gothenburg, Sweden Elmia Fairs / Svenska Mässan Tel: +46 31 708 80 00 Email: tra@svenskamassan.se Website: nemonet.swefair.se/templates/ StartPageMain____1059.aspx or www.snipurl. com/vioy9

8-11 – Woodpro Africa 2010 MTN Expo Centre, NASREC, Gauteng Johannesburg, South Africa Specialised Exhibitions / Allworld Exhibitions Tel: +27 (0) 11 835 1565 Fax: +27 (0) 11 496 1161 Email: roz@specialised.com Website: www.woodpro.co.za

16-19 – ZOW Turkey 22-24 – Woodmach Cebu Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino Cebu, Philippines Global-Link MP Events International Tel: +63 2750 8588 Fax: +63 2750 8585 Email: shiela.tan@globallinkph.com Website: www.globallinkmp.com

25-28 – IWF 2010: International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Supply Fair Georgia World Congress Centre Atlanta, Georgia, US Tel: +1 404 693 8333 Fax: +1 404 693 8350 Email: iwf@iwfatlanta.com Website: www.iwfatlanta.com

October

27-29 – 6th Furniture Asia 2010 Karachi Expo Centre Karachi, Pakistan Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan Tel: +92 21 111 222 444 / 3453 6321 Fax: +92 21 3453 6330 Email: info@furnitureasia.com.pk Website: www.furnitureasia.com.pk

27-30 – ForMóbile 2010: International Suppliers Fair for the Wood & Furniture Industry Parque de Exposições do Anhembi (Anhembi Exhibit Park) São Paulo, Brazil Brazil Trade Shows Tel/Fax: +55 41 3014 8787 Email: formobile@feiraformobile.com.br Website: www.feiraformobile.com.br

August 19-Sept 4 – Homes Middle East Furniture & Furnishings Show 2010 Expo Center Sharjah Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Expo Center Sharjah Tel: +971 6 577 0000 Fax: +971 6 577 0111 Email: info@expo-centre.ae Website: www.homesmiddleeast.com

62 FDM Asia JULY 2010 | www.fdmasia.com

Istanbul Convention Centre Istanbul, Turkey Survey Marketing and Consulting GmbH Tel: +90 (0) 212 324 9610 Fax: +90 (0) 212 324 9609 Email: info@zow.com.tr Website: www.zow.com.tr

September 1-5 – The 24th International Famous Furniture Fair 2010 Guangdong Modern International Exhibition Center Guangdong, China Tel: +86 769 85900111 Fax: +86 769 85585780 Email: fbf@3f.net.cn Website: www.3f.net.cn

3-6 – China International Home Furniture Fair 2010 China Import & Export Fair Pazhou Complex Guangzhou, China China Foreign Trade Guangzhou Exhibition Corp & China Foreign Trade Centre Tel: +86 20 26088888 Email: marketing@fairwindow.com.cn Website: www.cftc.org.cn

7-10 – Furniture Manufacturing & Supply China 2010 Shanghai New International Expo Centre Shanghai, China Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo International Exhibition Tel: +86 21 6437 1178 Fax: +86 21 6437 0982 Email: william.yuan@ubmsinoexpo.com Website: www.fmcchina.com.cn

3-6 – W10 National Exhibition Centre Birmingham, UK Huddlestone Ltd Tel: +44 01629 530 998 Fax: +44 01629 530 999 Email: info@w10exhibition.com Website: www.w10exhibition.co.uk

6-10 – Ho Chi Minh City Expo 2010 Ho Chi Minh City International Exhibition & Convention Centre Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry & Trade Tel: +84 8 3823 9572 / 3823 9571 Fax: +84 8 3823 4536 Email: trade@hchiminhcity.gov.vn Website: www.hcmcexpo.com.vn

8-11 – Index Furniture 2010 Bandra-Kurla Complex (MMRDA Grounds) Mumbai, India Universal Expositions Ltd Tel: +91 22 2830 2870 Fax: +91 22 8216 140 Email: marketing@ueindia.com Website: www.indexfairs.com

*All details subject to change without notice.

Please check with organisers for updates.

13-16 – 2010 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase The Fairmont Hotel / Hyatt Regency Vancouver, Canada National Hardwood Lumber Association Tel: +1 901 399 7551 Email: l.covington@nhla.com Website: www.nhlaconvention.com

20-24 – 7th China-ASEAN Expo Nanning International Convention & Exhibition Centre Guangxi, China Tel: +86 10 8812 8036 Fax: +86 10 8811 6532 Email: caexpo@caexpo.orgcaexpo@caexpo.org Website: eng.caexpo.org

13-16 – ZOW Italy Veronafiere Verona, Italy Survey Marketing & Consulting Tel: +39 0541 783775 Fax: +39 0541 635056 Email: info@zow.it

15-18 – Maison Bois 2010 Angers Parc Expo Saint Sylvain d’Anjou, France Atlanbois / Angers Expo Congress Tel: +33 2 40 73 73 30 Fax: +33 2 40 73 03 01 Website: www.salon-maison-bois.com

16-20 – Wood Processing Machinery 2010 Tüyap Fair Convention & Congress Center Istanbul, Turkey Tuyap Fairs & Exhibitions Organisation, Inc. Tel: +90 (212) 867 11 00 Fax: +90 (212) 886 93 99 Email: sales@tuyap.com.tr Website: www.woodmachineryistanbul.com

19-20 – MTC Global Woodmart 2010 Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Malaysian Timber Council Tel: +603 7803 2276 Fax: + 603 7803 3276 Email: Fairsconnection@gmail.com Website: www.globalwoodmart.my

November

24-26 – IFFT Interior Lifestyle Living Int’l Furniture Fair Tokyo International Exhibition Centre (Tokyo Big Sight) Tokyo, Japan International Development Association of the Furniture Industry of Japan / Mesago Messe Frankfurt Corp Tel: +81 3 3262 8443 Fax: +81 3 3262 8442 Email: info@ifft-interiorlifestyleliving.com Website: www.ifft-interiorlifestyleliving.com

16-19 – Wooden Construction Krasnoyarsk 2010 Siberia International Exhibition Business Centre Krasnoyarsk City, Russia Restec Exhibition / Krasnoyarsk Fair Exhibition Tel.: +7 812 320 6363 Fax: +7 812 320 8090 Email: main@restec.ru Website: www.restec.ru

December 3-5 – Office Today Colombo BMICH Memorial International Conference Hall Colombo, Sri Lanka Buysell Interactions Tel: + 91 44 2835 3739 Fax: + 91 44 2835 0839 Email: info@buysellint.com

17-19 – Japan Home & Building Show 2010 Tokyo International Exhibition Centre Tokyo, Japan Japan Management Association Tel: +81 3 3434 1988 Fax: +81 3 3434 8076 Website: www.jma.or.jp/jhbs/en/

4-12 – Bangkok Furniture Festival Impact Exhibition & Convention Centre Nonthaburi, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2314 0855 Fax: +66 (0) 2319 8337 Email: service@unionpan.com Website: www.unionpan.com

22-26 – ZOW Moscow Expocentr’ Krasnaya Presnya Fairgrounds Moscow, Russia Survey Marketing + Consulting GmbH / Restec Exhibition Tel: +49 (0) 521 965330 Fax: +49 (0) 521 96533 to 99 Email: zow@survey.info Website: www.zow.ru

24-27 – Homex & Household Expo 2010 Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre Hong Kong, China Hong Kong-Asia Exhibition (Holdings) Ltd Tel: +852 2591 9823 Fax: +852 2573 3311 Email: hkexhi@hka.com.hk Website: www.hka.com.hk

To be considered for inclusion in the Calendar of Events, send details of event (name, date, venue, organiser contact) to: The Editor FDM Asia.

Eastern Trade Media Pte Ltd. 1100 Lower Delta Road. EPL Building #04-02. Singapore 169206.

Tel: (65) 6379 2888 | Fax: (65) 6379 2805 | Email: fdmasia@epl.com.sg

Kindly indicate the events you are interested in and fax the sheet/s along with your details in the Product Enquiry Page on page 72a to (65) 6379 2806 or enquire online at www.fdmasia.com

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63

Advertising Index ENQ. No

Advertisers / Agency

PaGe No.

163

AMERICAN HARDWOOD EXPORT COUNCIL ifc

132

becker acroma thailand ltd

25

158

bino (SH) Machinery CO LTD

43

140

fulpow industrial corp

59

161 homag asia pte ltd

39

151 huntsman (Belgium) BVBA

OBC

146 ima ag asia pacific pte ltd

21

143 iwf 2010

27

130

1

java incorporated bhd

159 Jiangsu Five Continents machinery co ltd

29

160

5

MIFF SDN BHD

144 siempelkamp maschinen- und anlagenbau gmbH & co KG

3

108 taihao woodworking machinery co ltd

53

153 tong fong cutters co ltd

64

162 wen chih machinery co ltd

13

148 weyerhaeuser marketing ibc 157 wintersteiger sea pte ltd

Legend:

51

Advertisers with e-Brochures

Head Office

Representative office

Sim Eric Tel: (65) 6379 2888 Fax: (65) 6379 2806 Email: simeric@epl.com.sg

Ding Yong Mei Tel: 86 21 6276 8394 Fax: 86 21 6276 4170 Email: neweastern_sh@hotmail.com

SINGAPORE Eastern Trade Media Pte Ltd 1100 Lower Delta Road EPL Building #04-02 Singapore 169206

SHANGHAI, CHINA SHANGHAI NEW Eastern Media Co. LTD 15D Block B, Victoria Plaza, No.1068, Xikang Rd, Shanghai, P.R, China 200060

Regional Sales Representatives Taiwan

ENQUIRY NO. 153

Robert Yu Tel: 886-4-2325 1784 Fax: 886-4-2325 2967

Japan

Ted Asoshina Tel: 81-3-3263 5065 Fax: 81-3-3234 2064

Korea

Young-Seoh Chinn Tel: 822-481 3411/3 Fax: 822-481 3414

This quick reference guide is provided as an additional service. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or ommission.

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ENQUIRY NO. 148

E-mail: alder@weyerhaeuser.com or visit our website at wy.com/alder

No Added Formaldehyde – The Right Choice

I-Bond resins, the family of no added formaldehyde MDI resins from Huntsman, are the natural choice when trying to satisfy emissions standards like CARB I and II, or the Japanese F****.

With over 25 years experience of supplying resins to the wood panel industry, Huntsman have developed a range of products designed for the manufacture of Medium Density Fibreboard and Particleboard. I-Bond, no added formaldehyde resins provide a cost effective solution today, whilst meeting the environmental challenges of tomorrow.

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I-BONDÂŽ is a registered trademark of Huntsman Corporation or an affiliate thereof in one or more, but not all, countries.

ENQUIRY NO. 151

To find out more about the many benefits of the I-Bond range of no added formaldehyde resins, please contact us: Huntsman, No. 452 Wen Jing Road, Minhang Development Zone, Shanghai 200245. Email: ibondwood@huntsman.com. Telephone: +86 21 6462 6868