Timber iQ Feb / March 2016 | Issue: 24

Design & Construction February - March 2016 // Issue: 24 // Price: R40,00 incl.

ISSN 2305-9648

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS 12

18

22

30

2

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

4

EDITOR'S NOTE

10

CONTRIBUTORS & EVENTS

12

TIMBER DECKING - POOLSIDE RETREAT

18

COVER STORY - FORESTA TIMBER GROUP

22

KITCHEN FURNITURE - MEYER VON WIELLIGH

27

TIMBER FLOOR HEATING - SAWLFA

30

TIMBER INTERIOR - 2015 LEAF AWARDS

32

INDUSTRY NEWS - FSC UPDATES

34

FORESTRY LEGISLATION - WAGE INCREASE

36

ARCH NEWS - HIGHLANDS SAWMILL

38

NEW INDUSTRY EVENT - WOOD WORLD SA 2016

CONTENTS

CONTENTS OFFICE FURNITURE AND FLOORING - INNOVATIVE SPACES

40

SAW SAFETY - SAWSTOP

41

WOOD PROTECTION - JAX OLEUM

42

PLUG-IN PLANTATION - NEW TIMBER MILL IDEA

44

U.S. TRADE - AMERICAN HARDWOOD EXPORT COUNCIL

46

DRY FORESTS - UNDER THREAT & UNDER-RESEARCHED

48

SOLAR TIMBER DRYING - PUT TO THE TEST

52

PROTECTED TREES - DAFF LIST OF PROTECTED SPECIES

59

TIMBER PROFILE - KIAAT/BLOODWOOD

60

REFORESTATION - UNILEVER AND WILDLANDS

64

42

48

60

64

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

3

EDITOR'S NOTE

The dog days of summer It's February in Cape Town, and it is hot. No, it's hotter than hot.

The breeze outside is nothing more than an aspiring sigh. The drought gripping our nation is not helping. We're feeling lethargic, listless, tired.

Welcome to the dog days of summer.

N

ot that I’m referring to dogs lying around limply in the heat, although that does sound like my mutts.

The reference is of course a throwback to ancient times when people looked to the sky to track seasons, and the Greeks found that summer’s most intense heat occurs when Sirius, the Dog Star (Sirius being the hunter Orion’s dog) rises with the sun. The Romans started referring to the added swelter from the scorching Sirius as ‘dies caniculares’ or ‘days of the dog star,’ and many moons later the English would call this sultry period the ‘dog days.’

Staying on the topic of dogs...

I think most people will agree that dogs give back unconditional love, spontaneous affection and unquestionable loyalty in exchange for very little. And they are always so grateful, aren’t they. Grateful for a basic box to sleep in, grateful for the same food day after day, grateful for a scratch behind the ear. Dogs really are so happy with so little. I think there’s a lesson in that for me.

The world is in such a bad state, it’s easy to become frustrated and angry. People are behaving poorly, our resources are being depleted, our planet is rebelling, our economies are failing, and our businesses are under strain.

We are all affected. And it’s easy to become discontent because we’re working harder and harder but getting less and less.

The question is how to deal with it all and keep a positive outlook. Personally, I’ve learned that very few things are within my individual control – and to see real change, I have to start with me.

So, even though these are particularly tough times all round, I have to improve my attitude. Rather than nurturing my anger at the injustices of this world, or lamenting all my ‘cannot haves,’ I will be even more grateful. Grateful for my box to sleep in, grateful for fresh food to eat each day, grateful that I can still try to make a difference. And always grateful for your support of Timber iQ. This year may have started on a subdued note for many in our industry, but there is a lot to look forward to! Join us at industry events, starting with the upcoming 6th HWZ Wood Conference, to the new Wood World SA expo in August, and keep the dialogue going.

For now, we’re happy to keep timber design and construction a hot topic. Join us as we celebrate the Foresta Timber Group’s ongoing success in this issue, and the use of timber in general in all our other features. Until next time, here’s to timber and to the great times yet to be built with it.

Celéste

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CONTRIBUTORS & EVENTS

CONTRIBUTORS

THE TEAM EDITOR:

STEPHANIE DYER Stephanie Dyer’s love for, and interest in wood, led to a career in wood science, working at the South African Forestry Research Institute and the CSIR, where she was involved in research on wood properties of indigenous and introduced species. She also provided a wood identification service at these institutes and, since relocating to Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal in 1998, she has continued with the service. Stephanie lectured part-time at Pretoria Technikon for the National Diploma in Timber Technology and, more recently, on Forest Products and Processing at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg. Stephanie holds an MSc in Plant Anatomy and is a Professional Natural Scientist.

Celéste Perrin celeste@trademax.co.za

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin billy@trademax.co.za 082 266 6976

ADVERTISING: Angeline Martin angie@trademax.co.za

LAYOUT & DESIGN:

RICHARD MÜLLER There can be no doubt that Richard Müller knows timber. He followed his B.Sc in Wood Science from the University of Stellenbosch (1993) up with a B.Eng (Mechanical) in 1996, and then an M.Sc in Wood Science in 2011. His thesis was titled ‘Performance and operation of a solar hardwood drying kiln utilizing natural dehumidification.’ His corporate experience includes working for Thermodynamics Fluids and Design (TFD) as a Design and Projects Engineer from 1997 – 2000, as well as providing ad hoc consultation and training on the drying, preservation, processing and use of timber. Since 2000, he has been a lecturer at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (formerly PE Technikon – Saasveld). His areas of expertise range from timber drying, kiln design, steam plant design and timber preservation, through to wood identification and properties, timber processing and fireplace designs.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Craig Patterson craig@trademax.co.za

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Belinda Thwesha belinda@trademax.co.za

TRADEMAX PUBLICATIONS Tel: 0861 727 663 Fax: 0866 991 346 www.trademax.co.za Postnet Suite 241 Private Bag X103 N1 City 7463

DISCLAIMER

DUBAI WOOD SHOW 2016 4 - 6 APRIL 2016, DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE (UAE) Visit www.dubaiwoodshow.com for more info

THATCHERS ASSOCIATION OF SA (TASA) 10TH ANNIVERSARY AND LAUNCH OF TASA'S "GUIDE TO THATCH CONSTRUCTION IN SA" 23 APRIL 2016, FOREVER HOTEL, CENTURION

The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor Timber iQ magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated, in editorial content or advertisements, in this issue.

Email admin@sa-thatchers.co.za for more info or visit www.sa-thatchers.co.za

WOODEX FOR AFRICA 9 - 11 JUNE 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JHB Visit www.woodexforafrica.com for more info

CAPE CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE & TRADE EXPO 11 - 12 AUGUST 2016, CTICC, CAPE TOWN Visit www.cape-construction.co.za for more info

GET IN TOUCH 10

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Like us Timber iQ

Follow us Timber iQ

Connect with us Timber iQ

Visit us www.trademax.co.za

BETTER THAN TIMBER

The design and construction of a fence around your home is not just for boundary markings. It also complements the style of your home alongside providing privacy and some level of security.

UCO fence is available in various sizes, with wood grain texture giving you a timber look-alike finish but with fibre cement durability.

UCO Decowood is a durable strip made from fibre cement. It is environmentally friendly, termite-proof and weather resistant.

Ideal for both internal and external use, it can be used as stair risers and treads, ceilings, feature walls, louvers, decking and fencing.

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TIMBER DECKING

Poolside retreat at Le Monde Garden

TIMBER DECKING

The focus of this winery garden project was to create a space that played with the balance between public and private space whilst creating a controlled journey for the visitor. Echoes of the surrounding vineyards can be found in the linearity that is expressed throughout the garden.

TIMBER DECKING

TIMBER DECKING

T

he award-winning Le Monde winery nestles between the sea and the hills of North East Italy, an area steeped in traditional wine culture. The site houses both the winery and a visitors’ centre, along with a guest house. The surrounding fence is constructed of flat Corten steel pieces arranged vertically. The width and rotation of each individual piece allows control of the visual permeability of the garden.

Visitors are led from the Wine Tasting Room to where the pathway forks: Left takes you down towards the main garden and right takes you directly up to the winery building. Following the leftmost path you are brought around to the garden’s main entrance, which holds a large Corten plaque inscribed with musings on wine by various poets. The pathway snakes up through the entrance towards the main building. To the left of the path is a low wall, over which you can see into the private garden. But further along this wall, showers and seating areas of the private space suddenly cantilever and increase to full height, in order to obscure the view to the swimming pool. Combined with the right-hand wall, this effectively blocks the view to the private garden from the winery building.

Cleverly positioned slots on the stone allow glimpses of the water and play with horizontal strips of vertical garden; these sequences of horizontal indications end with a glass slot that allows the view of the barbecue fire on the opposite part.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

15

TIMBER DECKING

Within the private space, intended for use by guests, the wall stretches along the whole garden, culminating in a barbecue and log store where it meets the building at the top end. Here a glass-andtimber shade reaches over the seating area, to allow use of the space even during the hottest times of the day.

The pool is divided into two separate sections by stone steps that sit just above the water level, giving the illusion that they float. To one side is a shallow bathing hydro-massage pool while the other, larger section, allows for swimming. An automated cover for the pool is concealed beneath one edge.

Teak timber flooring follows on from the stone steps down the length of the private garden, culminating in a seating area. At the far end of the garden this timber surface seems to fold back on itself, raising up on curved steel beams and becoming a shade for the sunken seating below.

The overall result is a garden that’s at one with its surroundings and offers visitors a beautifully considered environment that they feel welcome to journey through, whilst ensuring that the residents and guests have a private space to relax within.

For more information, visit www.alessandroisola.com.

16

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

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COVER STORY

Cable drums manufactured by Foresta Drum Manufacturing.

Foresta Timber Group 21 years later and stronger than ever!

After more than two very successful decades serving the industry, the Foresta Timber Group has a lot to be proud of. Their proven ability over the years to assess and consistently meet their clients' needs has ensured the Group's impressive growth and current recognized standing as an innovative market leader. As we join in celebrating their milestone achievements, MD of the Foresta Timber Group, Duppie Du Plessis, tells us more about recent happenings within the company as well as what the next year is likely to hold in store.

Timber iQ: What sets you apart to make the Foresta Timber Group unique?

Foresta: The Foresta Timber Group is comprised of Foresta Drum Manufacturing and Foresta Timber and Board. What makes us unique is the fact that we are timber wholesalers, retailers and manufacturers of timber products. We specialize in raw timber and timber products and can therefore offer expert advice and service to our clients – whilst maintaining competitive prices.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Timber iQ: Foresta Drum Manufacturing recently moved to new premises. What was the motivating factor behind the move?

Foresta: The primary reason was to consolidate our operations, as we had been operating from four different sites in Alrode, Alberton. The consolidation onto a single, bigger site offers us the opportunity to streamline our operations, so that we can be more cost-effective whilst also being able to increase our output. This translates into competitive prices and a wider selection of timber and timber products for our clients.

COVER STORY

Offices and boardrooms at the new Foresta Drum Manufacturing site.

Timber iQ: Your line of branded products has become a focus over the past few years. What makes them unique?

Foresta: We manufacture a range of very well priced branded products, including skirting, flooring, ceilings, reversible decking and half logs. We use the best quality Pine and Saligna timber to manufacture these products to stringent quality standards.

Timber iQ: Will you be introducing any new products or product lines this year?

New Foresta Drum Manufacturing reception area.

Foresta: As market leaders, we are constantly on the lookout for new, innovative timber and timber related products. We will most certainly introduce one or two more branded products, which we will manufacture, depending on market demand.

FORESTA FAST FACTS • Serving trade, manufacturers, joineries, building contractors, developers, hardware shops, etc. since 1994.

• Structural S5/S7, Pine ceiling, Rhino ceiling board, crating & industrial, shutterply, Saligna, Meranti and much more.

• Onsite DIY Shop + new onsite Paint Shop.

• Online shop coming soon!

Training room at the new Foresta Drum Manufacturing site. // FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

19

COVER STORY

Timber iQ: What challenges do you expect to face in the timber industry in 2016?

Foresta: The shortage of Pine timber is still a challenge; in fact, our suppliers’ stock holding is the lowest it has been in years, partly due to an increase in demand from the market. We can therefore expect some price increases this year.

In terms of imported hardwoods such as Oak, Beech, Cherry and Maple, the current exchange rate is most definitely going to impact the prices negatively. Overall, it certainly looks like we have a tough year ahead of us, and it will impact everyone in the industry and related industries.

Notwithstanding these challenges, we remain committed to our values, our mission to always move forward, and our most important priority – our customers. As our slogan says so well, “Broaden Your Horizons with Wood.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tel: (011) 908 5828 or (011) 864 8521 Email: sales@foresta.co.za Website: www.foresta.co.za

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Timber stocked at the new 4,5000m2 Foresta Drum Manufacturing site.

KITCHEN FURNITURE

Uncompromisingly functional.

Undeniably beautiful.

The brief for this new kitchen challenged the team at Meyer von Wielligh to deliver a modern kitchen that would not draw too much attention, but at the same time present details that catch the eye. Not surprisingly, timber played an important role in realizing this beautiful result.

Photographs: Courtesy of Meyer von Wielligh

T

imber iQ had the pleasure of getting first-hand insight into what made this project such a success from Meyer von Wielligh’s co-founder, Norman Meyer, who took a direct and hands-on approach to the installation.

Meeting the client’s requirement for exceptional functionality underscored by finer detail throughout the kitchen, Meyer explained, required a well thought through plan and execution that ensured a definitive space for each function of the kitchen. Some of the particulars include the top cupboards made out of metal with a dovetail detail joint on the edges, and an extractor built into the counter – so as not to obscure or detract from the beautiful sea views. In addition, wood detail was placed on the front of the island, which doubles as hidden storage space.

"Wood as a material is something that people are drawn to. It's welcoming and rich in character.

It's almost that you can't help but rub your hands over a piece of wood if presented with it."

- Norman Meyer ABOUT THOSE CHAIRS The umthi stools form part of the Meyer von Wielligh signature range of furniture. The company’s furniture is nature inspired. Cofounder Norman Meyer says they are always looking to find the right balance between form and function, and prefer to strip their designs down to the essentials whilst still retaining character. Strong timber joints are used to make sure the stools can be passed down from one generation to the next.

22

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

The idea behind the island space was to have cupboards on both sides, in order to maximize the usefulness of the space. The inspiration for the island front came from the instomi sideboard, which has the same type of façade. This specific design highlights the imperfections and uniqueness of the timber as an attractive feature.

KITCHEN FURNITURE

QUALITY COMBINED WITH PRACTICALITY “The challenge was to get the kitchen to blend into the room and not draw too much attention, but at the same time be something beautiful and practical,” Meyer noted.

“Kitchens have to be functional, and they have to last for a considerable number of years. That’s why we always use the best quality hardware and materials in our kitchens.

Here, we made use of a lot of internal drawers. Drawers are very practical and allow for the optimal use of space,” he continued.

“The wall-counter kitchen section created a darker restrained backdrop for the eye-catching lighter oak front island. The arrangement of the darker top with the walnut doors, metal cupboards and fronts combined with the oak island doors created an interesting mix between elements that are restrained and disappear, and others that are attention seeking in various degrees. In the evenings, the two top cupboard lights create soft counter lighting for ambiance.”

THE CHOICE OF TIMBER “We made use of American walnut on the back wall section of the kitchen because of the brown honey colour that we felt blended in perfectly with the metal fronts and top cabinet and dark tops. It also created the right contrast between the metal top cupboards and metal drawer fronts that we were looking for,” Meyer explained, adding that the umthi stools were also made out of walnut so as to complement the kitchen.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

23

KITCHEN FURNITURE

“The fitted cupboard is used as a bookshelf/ guest WC. The doors are cladded in walnut. The idea for the unit came from our ‘mud’ cabinets.

The inspiration is a dry vlei, reflecting the ground cracking into mud shards. We recreate the effect with wood, using a technique that we’ve successfully experimented with in our workshop.”

Overall, the resulting muted backdrop to the island section was set off perfectly by the oak on the kitchen island doors.

“The cracked oak highlighted the island area, adding not only character to the space, but making it the focal point of the kitchen.”

It is customary for Meyer von Wielligh to leave the wood used in their work as natural as possible. As a treatment option, they oil the timber.

When asked why he selects timber when it comes to furniture and interior (kitchen) design, Meyer replied: “Being a trained cabinetmaker, my love for wood as a material of choice is undeniable. For me, there is an appreciation and respect for the material because each piece of wood is unique. I like working with wood because it’s a clean, warm material filled with character. By applying our skills at Meyer von Wielligh, we hope to transform the appreciation we have for the material into items that our clients love to use but also find beauty in.”

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Award-winning Meyer von Wielligh is based in George Industria in the Western Cape, with a showroom in Cape Town.

For more information, visit www.meyervonwielligh.co.za or send an email to norman@meyervonwielligh.co.za.

OPEN TO COLOUR, OPEN TO FINISH, OPEN TO CHOICE

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The South African Wood, Laminate & Flooring Association “ HELP “ I am sick & tired of the problems with my wooden floor”

Do not let this happen to you Ensure you use a SAWLFA accredited installer SAWLFA have an impartial opinion service (inspection report) SAWLFA deal in wood, laminate and vinyl plank flooring

Contact: 011 455 2822 See www.sawlfa.co.za for more details

TIMBER FLOOR HEATING

What you may not know about under timber floor heating Many people don't know that timber floor heating can be a very viable option. SAWLFA addresses some of the misconceptions on this topic and sheds light on pertinent facts you should take note of if you are considering this as an option in your home.

THE CRITICAL FACTS FIRE: Probably the biggest misconception when it comes to timber floor heating is that the floor will catch fire. But, as SAWLFA (the Southern African Wood, Laminate & Flooring Association) explains, this is not an inevitable eventuality. In fact, there is no risk of fire with underfloor heating for solid wood floors, as the cable is embedded and encased in the floor screed.

ELECTRICAL FAULTS: Another aspect of underfloor heating that must be clarified is the fear of electrical faults: There is almost no chance of an electric fault occurring, provided the system is correctly installed and correctly connected to the earth leakage system. It is strongly recommended that only professionally qualified contractors or installers be tasked with this important job.

SAWLFA can provide valuable assistance when it comes to choosing a flooring contractor.

COST: As far as costs go, it is refreshing to learn that the heater uses less power than three 100-Watt light bulbs – making it much more affordable than one might think.

DAMAGE: Should the unit get damaged, the heater is designed to trip the circuit breaker in the home and can be repaired by the installer.

MORE OF WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW What types of wood flooring can be heated?

SAWLFA: Most quality wood flooring, including laminate and engineered wood floors, can be heated. However, one should always first obtain confirmation of their suitability from the manufacturer or supplier before going ahead with an installation.

As illustrated here, with all laminates, vinyl planks as well as wooden flooring, the probe should be under the floor in the screeds. Image courtesy of FloorworX. How is under wood floor heating installed, and is there a preferred method?

SAWLFA: One method is for the heating to be embedded into the concrete or screed surface during the early floor preparation and before the finalization stage. There are also systems that sit on top of the screeds under the floor that are suitable for wooden flooring.

For solid wood and engineered floating floors that use the sticky mat installation system, the pads must sit on the screeds under the sticky mat. For laminate and floating click system engineered floors, a thin heating pad lies hidden between the flooring and underlay.

What is covered by the under timber floor installer/ contractor?

SAWLFA: Each company will offer its own guarantee or warranties, so those will need to be discussed with the installer.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

27

TIMBER FLOOR HEATING

Where or how do you find a flooring contractor qualified to install under timber floor heating?

SAWLFA: The suppliers of the heating systems do provide guidance and assistance to new installers of underfloor heating, but SAWLFA recommends that you obtain and check references before going ahead with an installation.

What impact does heating have on the floor joints in terms of the floor expanding and contracting, and could that lead to eventual damage?

SAWLFA: A low power heater that covers the entire floor area will ensure even distribution of heat through the timber floor, thereby making sure that expansion and contraction throughout the wood floor is also even, with no tension on the floor joints.

Is there an optimal or maximum floor temperature that should be observed?

SAWLFA: A floor limitation sensor must be installed to limit heat under the wood floor, so as NEVER to exceed 27° Celsius.

Do you have to take out special or additional insurance for under timber floor heating installations and systems?

SAWLFA: Not that we are aware of, but this should be confirmed with your insurance company.

GENERAL CAUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS • Do not use underfloor heating on solid or engineered floors that are installed on battens; only floating floors can accommodate heating.

• Always check with the manufacturers of the flooring and underlay that their products are compatible with electric floor heating systems.

• Laminate flooring should have a high density fibre (HDF) core with a density of at least 850kg/m³.

• Laminate floors should be between 7mm-12mm thick and have a joint strength of at least 600kg per linear metre.

• The under laminate heating pads should be installed on top of a polyethylene foam or reconstituted rubber with a minimum thickness of 2mm.

• A thermostat with floor sensor should be installed under the floor to ensure the floor temperature does not exceed 27°C.

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• Under laminate heating pads must be electrically earthed and protected by an earth-leakage relay device.

The installation must comply with the applicable statutory requirements where it will be installed.

• The power cords of the under laminate heating pads should be matched to the rated power of the heater. If more than one heater is connected to a thermostat, the power cord from the thermostat to the plug or supply must be rated correctly for the current of the combined heaters to prevent overloaded cords from overheating and potentially causing a fire.

• It is important to use the correct size and number of heating mats so that the area to be heated can reach the required temperature, and also so that even heat distribution can occur.

• Only one thermostat per room should be used, with a maximum load of 3,500W, and not one thermostat for several rooms.

• To prevent possible overheating or damage to your wooden floor, do not cover the heated floor with articles that will trap the heat such as rugs, beanbags, cushions or mattresses. As an example, heat can build up under the rug, which could cause the floor to dry out or shrink.

• Furniture must have at least 50mm clearance between the underside of the furniture and the top surface of the floor to allow air flow.

LAMINATE FLOORING CAUTIONS • Do not heat laminate flooring with glued locking systems or systems that include metallic strips.

• Do not heat laminates that have an underlay or cushion material pre-attached to the underside.

• Do not use under laminate heaters on stairs, as they should not be folded.

So, under timber floor heating could very well be both a practical and welcome option for the astute homeowner who does his homework and takes steps to ensure a proper installation.

For more information, visit www.sawlfa.co.za.

MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER OF ALL MOULDED PINE TIMBER PRODUCTS: FLOORING, DECKING, CEILINGS, HALF LOG CLADDING, SOLID LOG WALL SYSTEMS, BALUSTRADING, HANDRAILS, LAMINATED POSTS.

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HEAD OFFICE & FACTORY Physical: 8 Fechter Street Knysna Industria Postal: PO Box 2385 Knysna, 6570

Cell Cell Cell Cell

Francois: 082 411 0513 Brett: 082 553 2822 Kobus: 082 535 3397 Dean: 083 671 4999

Fax: 044 382 6358 Email: timbaclad@telkomsa.net

www.timbaclad.com

TIMBER INTERIOR

TIMBER INTERIOR

Exceptional Awarded top honours in the 'Refurbishment of the Year' category of the 2015 LEAF Awards, this chapel, featuring intricate Japanese cypress wooden lattice panels, appropriately respects and reflects the significance of its setting.

Photo credit: Arena International, courtesy of source: v2com

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he annual LEAF Awards, founded in 2001, brings together leading architects, designers, developers and suppliers across the globe, recognizing innovative architectural design projects and excellence in building design. Every year, each project submission is judged within its specific category by a panel of leading industry experts from around the world.

The ‘Refurbishment of the Year Award’ celebrates the best new concept of an existing building, and encompasses interior design, building use, and creative use of materials and space to highlight change within the structure. The 2015 award was sponsored by Kingspan and went to Nikken Space Design LTD for their work on the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel, Hiroshima Chapel, in Japan.

Hiroshima is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. Set in a country already respected for its spirituality, and known for its traditional arts and crafts marked by refined workmanship, the designers were very conscious of the fact that this new hotel chapel could not be planned merely as a commercial facility. The fact that the chapel’s entrance would be in the lobby area, facing the courtyard, meant it would be the very face of the hotel.

HAND-CARVED A large tree forms the motif of the wooden panel design, called the Power of Flower, which carries the theme of ancestral roots and the prosperity of future generations.

To conceptually align the various flowers and plants in the design, a kimono designer was commissioned to incorporate traditional patterns found in Japanese kimonos.

One hundred wooden panels were used, with each unit measuring 2x1m. The 15mm-thick Japanese cypress panels were meticulously carved by hand to show the cutwork pattern. This extraordinary level of dedicated labour has made this a wooden dome chapel of exceptional scale – even for Japan.

When light filters through the cutwork, it casts shadows onto the aisles below. The effect has been described as a sun-stippled forest, with sunlight coming through the trees to bless those inside.

For more information, visit www.arena-international.com/leafawards/.

To convey the appropriate ‘brand message,’ the team focused on a design concept that would create a distinctive, unrivalled space. Wooden lattice panels were used to create a sun-dappled chapel seamlessly integrated with the garden.

CALL 0861 727 663 TO BOOK YOUR

ADVERT // FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

31

INDUSTRY NEWS

Important updates from the FSC The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) recently amended its Chain of Custody Advice Note and also published a Revised General Accreditation Standard and updated Controlled Wood Standard.

AMENDED CHAIN OF CUSTODY ADVICE NOTE - 50% LABELLING THRESHOLD EXTENDED In December 2015, the FSC confirmed that the FSC International Board of Directors approved a one-time measure to extend the ‘FSC Mix 50 per cent registered’ claim for chip and fibre products until the new chain of custody standard becomes effective (the target date is 1 July 2016).

The FSC Mix label is used on products to demonstrate that at least 70% of the wood in the product is from FSCcertified or reclaimed material, and that 30% is from controlled wood sources. The threshold changed from 50% to 70% in 2011; however, due to sourcing constraints, a phase-out period was granted to 388 companies to continue using the FSC Mix label on products with the 50% threshold until 31 December 2015.

Many companies have made tremendous strides in reaching the 70% threshold (and higher) at most of their production sites, but have not reached the threshold at all due to limited certified forest in proximity to their mills.

As such, on 20 November 2015 and after consulting stakeholders, the FSC International Board of Directors agreed to an additional, limited extension of six months to the registered companies to allow them to finalize their sourcing and stock issues, and to align with the Chain of Custody Certification (FSC-STD-40-004) revision process.

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Full details about the extension can be found in the Advice Note (ADVICE-40-004-003), which is part of the Directive FSC-DIR-40-004. With the introduction of the revised chain of custody standard in July 2016 (tentative target date), all companies will need to meet the 70% threshold for all new products manufactured under the percentage system.

REVISED GENERAL ACCREDITATION STANDARD On 15 December 2015, the FSC published the revised General Requirements for FSC-Accredited Certification Bodies (FSC-STD-20-001).

This standard specifies requirements for the competence, consistency, impartiality, transparency, rigour, and accessibility of evaluations conducted by FSC-accredited certification bodies.

The standard has been revised to ensure conformity with the ISEAL Assurance Code and compatibility with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standard 17065 (Conformity Assessment – Requirements for Bodies Certifying Products, Processes, and Services).

MAIN CHANGES • The revised standard has been restructured and now follows a similar structure to ISO 17065.

• The revised FSC standard has been simplified by directly incorporating relevant ISO 17065 requirements and advice notes, thereby providing a harmonized set of requirements in one document and eliminating redundancies.

• Some parts of the standard, including requirements on impartiality, complaints and appeals, as well as auditor qualification and training, have been clarified and strengthened.

• A new procedural document, General Requirements for an FSC Training Program (FSC-PRO-20-004), was developed and will be submitted for approval by the FSC Board of Directors in March 2016.

INDUSTRY NEWS OUTCOMES The revised standard improves the overall consistency of the certification bodies that operate the FSC certification programme, particularly concerning the qualification and training of FSC auditors. It thereby implements GA 2014 Motion 52 on training and qualification requirements for FSC audit teams, and GA 2014 Motion 66 on auditor rotation.

FSC CONTROLLED WOOD STANDARD APPROVED AND PUBLISHED On 11 November 2015 in Helsinki, Finland, the FSC Board of Directors approved the Requirements for Sourcing FSC Controlled Wood (FSC-STD-40-005 V3-0). The standard has now been published on the FSC International website, and it is planned that it will enter into force on 1 July 2016.

The approved standard can be downloaded from this website link: https://ic.fsc.org/en/certification/ requirements-guidance/normative-framework/standards.

It outlines the requirements for organizations with an FSC chain of custody certificate to implement a due diligence system to avoid material from unacceptable sources that cannot be used in FSC Mix products. Unacceptable sources are the five categories of controlled wood as defined in the standard.

WHY AND HOW WAS THE STANDARD REVISED? At the 2011 FSC general assembly, members passed Motion 51: Strengthening the Controlled Wood System. This triggered the revision of the standard.

The process for revisions followed The Development and Revision of FSC Normative Documents (FSC-PRO-01-001). A technical committee was formed to guide the process, with balanced representation from the economic, environmental and social chambers. Drafts of the revised standard underwent two rounds of public consultation, as well as field tests in Australia and Romania in 2014, and in Canada and Russia in 2015.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHANGES TO THE REVISED STANDARD? The revised standard introduces a due diligence approach for sourcing controlled wood. Organizations are now required to ensure that the material they use is controlled, by: • ­implementing a due diligence system for obtaining information on their supplies; • ­conducting a risk assessment (using an FSC risk assessment procedure); and • ­mitigating the risk of sourcing unacceptable material (related to the origin of the material itself, and of mixing in the supply chain).

OTHER IMPORTANT CHANGES INCLUDE: • Strengthened requirements for transparency via public reporting.

• More detailed requirements for the treatment of stakeholder feedback and complaints.

• Simpler and clearer requirements for information on the origin of material.

• New requirements for using FSC risk assessments, and for organizations to conduct risk assessments where no FSC risk assessment exists.

• New requirements for risk mitigation, which allow organizations much greater flexibility in how they mitigate specified risks of sourcing unacceptable material at a low level.

• Specific requirements for mitigating risk related to the rights of Indigenous Peoples and traditional people, and threats to intact forest landscapes.

• Advice notes on the current standard have been integrated into the revised standard, as relevant, and others will eventually be removed from the FSC normative framework.

NEXT STEPS With the standard finalized and published, FSC will shift its focus to communication about the revised standard and providing educational and training materials designed to help stakeholders understand the FSC controlled wood system and due diligence. This will include fact sheets and webinars, and more details will follow in early 2016.

UPDATE ON RELATED PROCESSES The decisions made by the board during the approval of the revised controlled wood standard related to a number of other important documents and processes.

• FSC National Risk Assessment Framework (FSC-PRO-60002a) will undergo a minor revision to align it with the approved standard FSC-STD-40-005 V3-0, and to improve clarity, based on experiences with FSC risk assessments that have already been undertaken.

• The FSC Secretariat will work with the Board’s strategic planning committee to design the controlled wood strategy for 2016. The controlled wood strategy will not affect the standard that has just been approved, but will instead be used to guide future revisions. The revised standard FSC-STD-40-005 V3-0 is a first step in improving the FSC controlled wood system.

• The finalization of the major revision of Controlled Wood Standard for Forest Management Enterprises (FSCSTD-30-010 FSC) has been put on hold and will only be undertaken after the controlled strategy process is completed. Instead, a minor, technical revision of the current standard, and its accreditation standard (used by certificate holders to evaluate an organization’s conformity with requirements), will be conducted as an interim solution.

For more information, visit www.ic.fsc.org.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

33

FORESTRY LEGISLATION

Forestry sector sees minimum wage increase on 1 March 2016 The minimum wage for the agriculture and forestry sectors will increase effective 1 March 2016, to ensure that workers' salaries keep up with the rising cost of living.

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n August 2015, the Department of Labour (DoL) started hosting a series of national public hearings intended to review and investigate the farm and forestry sectors’ minimum wages and conditions of employment prescribed in the Sectoral Determination (SD) 13 for the Farm and Forestry Sector.

The DoL announced on Wednesday, 3 February 2016, that the minimum wage for the agriculture and forestry sectors will increase as of 1 March 2016. “These wage adjustments are to ensure that workers keep pace with the rising cost of living while boosting the purchasing power, which benefits the economy,” Minister Oliphant said in a statement.

Sectoral Determination regulates wages, working hours and other basic conditions of employment for sectors deemed ‘vulnerable.’ The Sectoral Determination broadly deals with the protection of workers involved in farm and forestry activities.

The DoL, however, noted that it was aware of the challenges faced by the agricultural sector owing to the drought and the fact that many farmers were having to consider whether or not to retain labour. “We encourage farmers in areas that are affected by drought to apply for ministerial variations in terms of Section 50 of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Section 50 makes provision for the Minister to replace or exclude any basic condition of employment provided for in the Act,” Minister Oliphant said. She noted that farmers were encouraged to solicit guidance on how to apply for variations from their relevant associations.

The hearings commenced following authorization from Labour Minister, Mildred Oliphant, after she signed the required notices in February 2015, which were subsequently published in the Government Gazette in terms of section 52 (3) of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. The ratification prompted the start of the investigation, which carried an invitation for stakeholders in the sectors to submit their written representation regarding the inquiry.

The hearings, held across the country, offered both employers and employees in the sectors the opportunity to submit their input on new minimum wages for the farm and forestry sectors, as well as any other working conditions related to the operations within the sectors.

SECTORAL DETERMINATION IN THE FORESTRY SECTOR INCLUDES: • Commercial timber growers • Emergent timber growers • Contractors where the majority of time is spent in forestry activities • All transportation within the forestry sector • A domestic worker employed in a home on a plantation • A security guard employed to guard a plantation who is not employed by a private security company

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To calculate minimum wage increases, the Department applied the CPI (consumer price index) excluding the rent paid by farm owners, and said this rate should be lower than what the Department used to apply – which was CPI for quintile 1 (poor people) as published by Stats SA for a specific period.

Agri SA head of labour relations, Elize van der Westhuizen, said the increase works out to about 6.6%.

MINIMUM WAGES FOR FARM/FORESTRY WORKERS 2014/2015

1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016

As of 1 March 2016

Monthly

R2,420.41

R2,606.78

R2,778.83

Weekly

R558.60

R601.61

R641.32

Daily (9 hours)

R111.72

R120.32

R128.26

Hourly

R12.41

R13.37

R14.25

ARCH NEWS

Highlands Sawmill receives usual top-notch service from Arch Arch Wood Protection firmly believes in understanding and meeting each customer's unique needs, regardless of the size of their operation.

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his was evident when Highlands Sawmill, a small mill servicing the Harding, Weza and rural areas, decided to take a big step and expand their operation by installing a Tanalised®C treatment plant.

“We’re very excited about the successful commissioning of our Tanalised®C wood preservative treatment plant, and look forward to the positive impact it is going to have on the growth and development of our business.”

“Being the local suppliers of sawn timber, we were often faced with the dilemma of having to turn away customers who requested treated timber. This led to our decision to expand our services by installing a Tanalised®C wood preservative treatment plant. As a small operation, the process was at first daunting. However, the team from Arch made this a smooth transition for us with their ‘hand-inhand’ service – from start to finish,” said Geoff Hogg, the owner of Highlands Sawmill.

The Arch after-sales support team has taken over the reins and will provide ongoing support that goes beyond the supply of treatment products. This includes the implementation of Arch’s Tan-Treat™ electronic Quality Support System, which will enable Highlands Sawmill to reap the benefits of all-important cost savings and improved efficiency in their business.

Highlands Sawmill benefited from Arch’s expertise as a highly qualified team that could comfortably supervise the entire site. Every phase of the project execution was meticulously managed – from the design of the civil drawings all the way through to the plant erection, installation and commissioning – thereby ensuring timely completion within quality and safety requirements.

“I am very impressed with the high level of expertise and professional service received from Arch,” added Hogg.

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“Assisting our customers with a future in the treatment industry is an integral part of our commitment to supporting the growth and development of the timber industry as a whole. We look forward to a long-standing relationship with Highlands Sawmill, and wish them every success with the expansion of their business into Tanalised®C wood preservative treatment,” concluded Doug Sayce, General Manager of Arch Wood Protection.

Highlands Sawmill is a family-run business. Geoff’s wife Vee runs the office and son Gary manages timber procurement. Gerhard Pretorius, who has also received timber treatment training from Arch, was recently employed to manage the sawmill.

NEW INDUSTRY EVENT

NEW: Wood World SA 2016 Timber iQ is delighted to introduce Wood World South Africa, a new event set to showcase the latest trends, developments, products and services for a broad cross-section of the woodworking industry.

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his woodworking and timber processing exhibition will be running alongside Interbuild Africa 2016 from 17 – 20 August 2016 at the Expo Centre - Nasrec in Johannesburg, in Hall 5.

Wood World South Africa is a joint venture between Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery and Hannover Fairs International. Hannover Fairs is the organizer of Ligna, the largest woodworking and timber show in the world, while Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery is the largest exhibition organizer in South Africa – with more than 48 years’ experience in running business-to-business trade fairs in South Africa and the SADC region.

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW South Africa’s wood and pulp sector is an established sector, capable of making a significant contribution to the South African economy. In addition, there is huge potential for growth in the sector across Africa. “Africa contributes only 3% of global GDP, but since 2000, GDP per capita has grown at a faster rate than any other country or region apart from developing Asian countries.”1 African furniture consumption amounts to $9-billion annually (about 2% of

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annual global consumption). Main markets that consume 500-million US Dollars or more in furniture, per annum, include: South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria and Morocco.

South Africa and North Africa have the highest per capita furniture consumption. Despite volatile economic conditions, labour relations and other infrastructural issues, there has been consistent growth over the past five years in furniture consumption in urban areas in South Africa. Furniture imports into Africa have grown from $2.5-billion in 2009 to $3.6-billion in 2013.

It is evident that woodworking, forestry, furniture and other related industry sectors have grown considerably over the past five years and are poised for significant growth, across Africa, in years to come. Participating in the Wood World South Africa exhibition will give companies the ideal platform from which to interact with key decision makers across Africa, showcase their products and services, and gain greater brand awareness of other products and services.

REFERENCE 1: 2015, March. Retrieved from: http://www. worldfurnitureonline.com/PDFres/65-Mgazine/#p=12.

NEW INDUSTRY EVENT SOME OTHER FACTS ABOUT THE RELEVANT INDUSTRIES IN SA: • Statistics suggest about 80,000 forestry workers and an estimated 121,000 people are employed in other related industries that use wood as a primary input.

Therefore, between 200,000 and 260,000 people are directly employed in the forests, processing- and other related industries.

• About 40% of these people are employed in sawmilling, 30% in pulp and paper manufacturing, and the balance in secondary processing. In addition, there are those employed by the smaller primary converters such as those making poles, matches, and charcoal.

Timber frame construction: There are about 265 timber frame builders in South Africa. It is estimated that more than 1,550 timber frame buildings are erected each year, with a total value of R1.5-billion per annum.

Forestry: This sector in South Africa employs more than 70,000 people and contributes R6-billion per annum to the South African economy. Forestry products contribute 1.1% to South Africa’s GDP. Exports of these products from South Africa have grown; from R9.5-billion in 2011, to R15-billion in 2014. South Africa imports just under $3-billion worth of wood and timber products per annum.

EXHIBITOR AND VISITOR PROFILES Exhibitors at Wood World South Africa cover a broad spectrum of products and services, including: • Woodworking machinery and accessories • Sawmilling machinery and equipment • Timber processing • Timber and woodworking products • Decking and flooring • Wood material and veneer production • Furniture manufacturing supplies • Pulp and paper manufacturing • Complementary equipment • Finishes and fittings

Visitors to Wood World South Africa include prominent decision makers in all areas of building and construction: • Furniture manufacturers • Wooden door and frame industry • Carpenters and cabinetmakers • Timber construction • Construction and shopfitting • Government organizations To book your stand, send an email to Roz Nash, Exhibition Manager - Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery, at: roz@specialised.com For more information, visit www.woodworldsa.co.za.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

39

OFFICE FURNITURE AND FLOORING

Furniture answers the call for innovative office spaces There has been a marked increase in demand by businesses for innovative office spaces that are more conducive to collaboration and teamwork. Well designed, well made furniture helps to meet that need.

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he higher demand for more ‘collaborative’ work spaces has brought about a massive drive in the office furniture and design industries towards local manufacturing, designing and developing of products to international standards. This is according to the CEO of Ditulo Office Furniture Engineers, Isla Galloway-Gaul.

interactive spaces is now also gaining great traction within the corporate environment,” she said. Galloway-Gaul also commented that, from a furniture engineering and manufacturing viewpoint, a focus on empowerment and meeting the needs of the modern-day workplace is vital to growing people, skills and businesses.

Reflecting back on last year, Galloway-Gaul said in a media statement that the workplace environment is changing as companies adopt a more holistic approach to doing business, with a focus on team integration and participation.

Another interior design element, namely flooring, also commands a fresh perspective. In a recent address to students from the Greenside Design Center on the latest trends in design, production and sustainability in flooring, lecturer Mike Hyam commented on the often overlooked role of flooring as a design element and how important it is to make the most of walking surfaces in design.

Galloway-Gaul noted that furniture plays an important role in this regard, and needs to be not only comfortable and flexible, but at the same time carry a high level of acoustic qualities to keep out disturbing office noises while allowing communication within the space to be projected clearly.

“While creative industries such as advertising have utilized collaborative spaces for team meetings and brainstorms for many years, the use of such collaborative and

SAWMILLERS AND SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY SAWN BOARD

Manufacturers of pine board, decking, cladding, ceiling and flooring.

TEL: 033 – 940 0040 EMAIL: lumbersales@ucl.co.za WEBSITE: www.midlandspine.co.za

He added that developers and property owners now regard sustainable flooring as an important factor to comply with the Green Building Council of SA's Green Star Ratings, which add status to new developments in the green age we are living in.

SAW SAFETY

New in SA

- a foolproof system to prevent saw injuries Anyone using a table saw is at risk of incurring an injury to their fingers or hand, or worse an accidental amputation. But now these types of costly and often devastating injuries can be prevented with the SawStop system, available in South Africa for the first time.

A

ccording to SawStop, suppliers of North America’s number one cabinet saw, the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission reports that 1 table saw injury occurs every 9 minutes, and 10 table saw amputations occur every day. While recent statistics for the South African market are not readily available, the danger remains the same. The SawStop system is designed to prevent accidental amputations and injuries to fingers.

HOW IT WORKS 1.DETECT • The blade carries a small electrical signal. Any change to this signal promptly activates the safety system.

• When skin contacts the blade, a change in the signal is caused – and the safety system is immediately triggered. This happens because the human body is conductive.

2.ACTIVATE • An aluminium brake springs into the spinning blade and stops it.

• The blade’s momentum pushes it underneath the table so that there can be no further contact.

• Power to the motor is shut off.

• All this happens in less than 5 milliseconds!

3.RESET • Easily reset the saw by simply replacing the blade and affordable brake cartridge, and your saw is operational.

• The entire reset process takes less than 5 minutes.

The patented SawStop safety system has been incorporated into a contractor saw, a professional cabinet saw and an industrial cabinet saw, with additional features (like dust collection) and accessories available.

SawStop is available in South Africa through Vermont Sales.

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

41

WOOD PROTECTION

River Island Store, Eastgate Shopping Centre.

Wood transformation

All wood needs to be nourished and protected, as the team behind Jax Oleum reminds us. And if you can do this with a single coat application in any one of more than 50 striking colours, the grain and look of the wood can be completely transformed to yield truly remarkable results.

J

ax Oleum, proudly manufactured in South Africa, is a single coat, oil-based wood stain that has been on the market for just over a year. Already its impact on and response from industry has been exciting and positive, as evidenced by the many famous South African brand stores, high-end houses and apartments in which you will find Jax Oleum at work, protecting wood.

PROTECTING SOUTH AFRICA'S WOOD To name but a few projects that feature Jax Oleum: • The wood finishing in the newly revamped Wimpy restaurants (work done by Shopfitting Studio: www.shopstudio.co.za) • The vibrant colours of the wood in the Nando’s outlets • The wood finishing at the elegant Westcliff Hotel, Johannesburg (work done by Fundamental Designs: www.fundamental.co.za) • High-end apartments that have been revamped in Melrose Arch (work done by Inner Space Design: www.innerspacedesign.co.za) • Engineered floor finishing in Timberland, River Island, Ferrari Bryanston, Cotton On and H&M (work done by FINFloor SA: www.finfloor.co.za)

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Primi Piatti, V&A Waterfront - Cape Town.

WOOD PROTECTION

Proving to be the top South African product of choice for single coat, oil-based wood stain applications as recommended by interior decorators and architects, these Jax Oleum testimonials from some very satisfied clients speak volumes:

Inside a newly revamped Wimpy.

• “We were looking for a hard-wearing, natural woodenhancing seal to finish this commercial flooring project.

We really liked the great variety of colours the Jax Oleum collection offered us, and with such easy applications we really didn’t look any further. Great products!”

– FINFloor SA (customer and also a distributor of Jax Oleum) • “Of all the products out on the market for wooden flooring and furniture. . . I have had the best results with Jax Oleum. My clients have a huge choice of shades and colours to choose from. I like the friendliness of the staff and the immediate availability of the product. Very handy to have a great local product.”

– Jacqui Nucci, Inner Space Design Incredibly effective and highly durable, Jax Oleum takes only one coat to colour and protect wood against the elements. Once applied to a prepared surface, the oil penetrates into the upper layers of the wood in mere minutes before any excess can simply be wiped away. It can be used inside as well as outside – for gum poles, window frames, flooring, doors and furniture, in solid wood or veneered finishes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tel: (011) 444 7221 Email: info@jaxoleum.co.za Website: www.jaxoleum.co.za

Future Classics showroom.

DO YOU HAVE A GREAT PROJECT OR STORY TO SHARE WITH TIMBER iQ READERS? Send your article and high resolution images to editor@trademax.co.za or call 0861 727 663 for more information.

YOUR PRINT MEDIA PARTNER OF CHOICE, SUPPORTING LOCAL TRADE.

CONTACT US: info@trademax.co.za / 0861 727 663 / www.trademax.co.za

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

43

PLUG-IN PLANTATION

Jaco Jonker receives his award as the regional finalist in the Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year competition from Musa Shangase, Corobrik Commercial & Marketing Director. His winning entry is entitled ‘The Plug-In Plantation.’ It is the reforestation and industrialization of the Nasrec Precinct through the implementation of a new timber mill industry.

Plug-In Plantation: Idea for new timber mill industry scoops award The 29th Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Awards has seen social awareness and technical excellence and innovation blend with sustainability. Taking top honours in one of the regional rounds is the novel concept of reforestation through a new timber mill industry.

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nnovative thinking is the mark of a fine architect, and it will take innovation to meet the architectural challenges of the future. Accompanying innovative thinking is the ever-advancing technology at architects’ disposal, which, when fully utilized, can improve efficiency and further expand on individual designs. The many aspects that make up fine design include the principles of

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sustainability, appropriate built costs and attractive life cycle costs, technical skills, and an appreciation of the social context of a structure in its community. This is particularly evident in South Africa where these various aspects must be deftly incorporated into structures that meet government’s requirements for an ever-expanding urban landscape.

PLUG-IN PLANTATION However, it is creative flair that sets great architects above their peers as they strive to make exceptional and meaningful contributions to South Africa’s diverse and multi-cultural landscape.

This was evident in the run-up to the 29th Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Awards, according to Dirk Meyer, Managing Director of Corobrik. The competition has been held annually for the past 28 years to reward and advance excellence in the profession nationwide. It starts with regional rounds at eight major universities throughout South Africa. Then, the overall national winner from among the regional finalists is named and presented with a cheque for R50,000. (The 29 th Architectural Student of the Year Awards function will be held in Johannesburg in May 2016.)

Musa Shangase, Corobrik Commercial & Marketing Director, recently presented prizes to architectural students of the University of Johannesburg. The regional winner of R8,000 was Jaco Jonker, with Lance Ho Hip receiving the R6,500 second prize and three people sharing third place. They are Kirsty Fick, Julian Almond and Lucille Jacobs. Onthatile Magalemela received the prize of R4,500 for the best use of clay.

THE PLUG-IN PLANTATION Jaco Jonker’s thesis is The Plug-In Plantation: Reforestation and industrialization of the Nasrec Precinct through the implementation of a new timber mill industry.

Jonker says his thesis project explores how we can reshape an important part of Johannesburg’s southern reef band, the Nasrec Precinct, to reduce direct and secondary impacts of soil erosion, heavy-metal toxins, and rampart water evaporation from increasingly frequent dust storms along the engineered mine dumps in the area. In order to do this, the project envisions how existing ‘thirsty’ Eucalyptus tree groves in the area can be replaced with more sustainable varieties of Conifer tree plantations.

In this process, industries based on harvesting this timber will be generated. The final architectural program imagines smaller ‘villages’ along Nasrec Road that specialize in the tending, growing, and harvesting of the new Conifer tree plantations, accommodating specific tradespeople such as carpenters, tree fellers, and botanists.

The project also explores how these villages can become educational training workshops to train people on how to use cheap, recycled computer parts and program these mechanical components using the Arduino platform to maintain and upgrade the timberharvesting mills.

Visit Hout Bay House and Þnd out more about our unique research project and modern timber constructions! www.houtbayhouse.info www.hwz.co.za capetown@hwzinternational.com m.detko@hwzinternational.com gareth.hare@ifatimber.co.za

OfÞce Product specialist Distribution partner

Follow Hout Bay House on Facebook to get regular updates about interesting events!

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

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U.S. TRADE

Exports of U.S. hardwood lumber and veneer to South Africa reached $8.87-million in the first three quarters of 2015 Following the release of this figure, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) confirmed plans to ramp up its strategy in South Africa with education aimed at all key participants of the timber chain.

T

otal exports of U.S. hardwood lumber to South Africa reached a value of $5.40-million and a volume of 7,422m3 during the first three quarters of 2015, according to AHEC, the leading international trade association for the American hardwood industry. The statistics, compiled from the latest data released by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), reflect marginal declines of 10% and 14% in value and volume respectively over the January to September period of 2014.

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But unlike lumber, direct exports of U.S. hardwood veneers to South Africa, which reached a total value of $3.47-million during the January to September period of 2015, showed an increase of 35% in comparison to the same period in 2014.

U.S. TRADE

South Africa

Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for Africa, Middle East, South Asia and Oceania.

WIDE MIX OF AMERICAN HARDWOODS ON OFFER A closer look at the statistics reveals that White Oak continues to dominate shipments, but a wide mix of other hardwood species was also exported. Aiming to raise the profile of American hardwoods in South Africa, AHEC has announced plans to ramp up its strategy in this country in 2016 with education aimed at all elements of the ‘timber chain,’ including specifiers (architects and interior designers), end users (furniture and joinery manufacturers), as well as importers and distributors.

AHEC plans to organize educational seminars and workshops that will revolve around educating attendees about the wide variety of American hardwood species as well as their important environmental credentials. “AHEC is deeply committed to the promotion of American hardwood as a leading material of choice for the region’s interior design professionals.”

“We are currently implementing key initiatives that aim to raise awareness of American hardwoods, enabling designers, architects and consultants to learn more about the advantages and benefits obtained from using them,” said Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for Africa, Middle East, South Asia and Oceania.

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“Members of South Africa’s flourishing interior design community are constantly in search for wood varieties that offer key characteristics such as consistent quality combined with high aesthetic value. American hardwoods offer these qualities alongside strong environmental credentials as well,” Wiles concluded.

• Spread rate of 30-60m2

• Easy to maintain

• Colours and protects in one single layer.

• Can be applied to all wood types and furniture • Durable and eco- friendly protection for interior wood surfaces

Distributors in South Africa, Africa, Mauritius and Seychelles.

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info@monocoat.co.za

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www.rubiomonocoat.co.za

DRY FORESTS

Photo credit: Simon Wijers

Tropical Dry Forests: Under Threat and Under-Researched Dry forests support the livelihoods of many of the world's poorest people, but these valuable ecosystems are disappearing fast, and research to inform policy is, in large part, lacking.

WHAT IS A 'TROPICAL DRY FOREST'?

There are many types of dry forest around the world.

One definition5 identifies the following characteristics: 1. A tropical climate, with summer rain bringing 500mm – 1,500mm annually.

2. A dry season of 5 – 8 months.

3. Dry forest canopies are typically more open than the dense, closed canopy of a tropical rainforest.

4. Dry forests are also an important habitat for endangered species; e.g., Komodo dragons, giraffes, sloth bears and kingfishers.

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DRY FOREST QUICK FACTS • Dry forests comprise almost half of the world’s subtropical and tropical forests.1 • Two-thirds of tropical dry forests in the Americas have already been converted to other land uses, with the rate as high as 95% in some countries.7 • Fuelwood demand may be the second largest cause of deforestation in developing countries.11 Asia is thought to account for almost half of the world’s fuelwood consumption.12 • Despite the clear and urgent need for policy to support dry forests, much of the data required is absent or incomplete. In particular, dry forests in the Caribbean are significantly under-researched.

DRY FORESTS

WHY ARE DRY FORESTS IMPORTANT? Dry forests account for nearly half of the world’s tropical and subtropical forests,1 spanning large areas of Africa, Latin America and the Asia Pacific. The timber and nontimber products they provide are essential to the livelihoods and well-being of millions of the world’s poorest people.2 Dry forests also provide invaluable ecosystem services that support the agricultural systems upon which millions of subsistence farmers depend.3 Yet tropical dry forests are at even greater risk of disappearing than humid forests, primarily due to higher population densities and the associated demand for energy and land.

Dry forests differ from humid forests in the goods and services they supply and their management needs, 4 yet receive relatively little research attention – which means the data sets required for site-specific, evidence-based policy are often incomplete.

Some 2.4-billion people – about 40% of the population of less developed countries – cook with fuelwood. Of these, 764-million people may use wood to boil water for drinking.15

LIVELIHOODS: Dry forests supply products that can be gathered and sold, such as beeswax, honey, plants, insects or wood for charcoal making. These freely accessible products provide even the very poor with enterprise opportunities, which, with support, can become a means of economic development and poverty alleviation.16

CARBON STORAGE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION: By storing carbon, dry forests help mitigate climate change. It is known that dry forests store less carbon than humid forests, but very little is known about the actual amounts of carbon stored, as measuring carbon stocks requires a different approach from humid forests, and dry forest inventories tend to be incomplete, missing, or out of date.17

CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION: The food and

WHY TROPICAL DRY FORESTS MATTER TO PEOPLE FOOD: Tropical dry forests contribute to local diets with wild fruits, vegetables, nuts, edible insects and bushmeat.

These forest products are extremely important for food security, especially in times of scarcity. In addition, wild foods provide essential nutrients to the diets of people who live in or near forested areas.14

FUEL: Wood is the main source of energy for households

livelihoods provided by dry forests may play a critical role in building communities’ resilience to climate change and variability.18

SUPPORT OF AGRICULTURE: Dry forests provide a wide range of ecosystem services, such as water management, livestock provisioning, pollination services, nutrient cycling and soil improvement. Through these services, dry forests play an important, complex – yet not fully understood – role in supporting the agricultural systems upon which millions of subsistence farmers depend.3

in dry forest areas.

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DRY FORESTS

Photo credit: Nagarjun Kandukuru

PRIORITY AREAS FOR RESEARCH ON TROPICAL DRY FORESTS An analysis of the state of knowledge on tropical dry forests revealed the following research priorities for building knowledge to inform policy:19 • Establish a globally agreed definition of tropical dry forests. The FAO definition5 is one possible option.

• Establish national and global dry forest inventories.

• Improve knowledge of the biophysical aspects of dry forests, their ecosystem services and opportunities for sustainable intensification of agriculture in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

• Investigate human–forest interactions in Latin America, Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

• Facilitate information sharing on research methodologies across regions.

• Assess the impacts of cross-border and internal trade and investment, the potential for carbon sequestration, and environment–development trade-offs in all regions.

• Examine how the needs and demands of humans and forestry management systems change as societies change.

• Update information on deforestation in African dry forests.

• Research the contribution of dry forests to livelihoods across Latin America.

• Research all aspects of dry forests in Asia, the Pacific and the Caribbean.

• In all regions, increase research on sustainable management of dry forests, as well as analysis of forestry policy and policy in other sectors that affect dry forests.

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For detailed recommendations on research in dry forests, see Blackie et al. 2014. Tropical Dry Forests: The State of Global Knowledge and Recommendations for Future Research.

CIFOR discussion paper. Bogor, Indonesia: Center for International Forestry Research.

The preceding fact sheet was authored by the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and was produced and published as part of the CGIAR research programme on forests, trees and agroforestry.

For more information on Tropical Dry Forests: www.cifor.org/publications/pdf_files/WPapers/ DPBlackie1401.pdf

REFERENCES: 1.Murphy P and Lugo A. 1986. Ecology of tropical dry forest.

Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics 17:67–88.

2.Waeber P, Ramesh B, Parthasarathy N, Pulla S and Garcia C. 2012. Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests in South Asia: A Research Agenda. Prepared for “Key Issues for the Global Dry Forests” workshop organized by CIFOR/ForDev, Zurich, 28–30 October.

3.Chidumayo E and Gumbo D, eds. 2010. The Dry Forests and Woodlands of Africa: Managing for Products and Services.

London: Earthscan.

4.Wunder S. 2001. Poverty alleviation and tropical forests: What scope for synergies? World Development 29:1817–33.

5.Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN. 2001. Global Ecological Zoning for the Global Forest Resources Assessment 2000: Final Report. Rome: FAO.

DRY FORESTS

"Hundreds of millions of people depend on dry forests. Destroy these forests and you destroy their wellbeing." - Dr. Phosiso Sola, CIFOR REFERENCES CONTINUED: 6.Campbell BM, Angelsen A, Cunningham A, Katerere Y, Sitoe A and Wunder S. 2007. Miombo woodlands: Opportunities and barriers to sustainable forest management. Unpublished internal paper, Center for International Forestry Research; Syampungani S, Chirwa PW, Akinnifesi FK, Sileshi G and Ajayi OC. 2009. The miombo woodlands at the cross roads: Potential threats, sustainable livelihoods, policy gaps and challenges. Natural Resources Forum 33:150–59.

7.Portillo-Quintero C. and Sánchez-Azofeifa G. 2010. Extent and conservation of tropical dry forests in the Americas. Biological Conservation 143:144–55.

8.Poffenberger M. 2006. People in the forest: Community forestry experiences from Southeast Asia. International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development 5:57–69.

9.Gillespie T, Lipkin B, Sullivan L, Benowitz D, Pau S and Keppel G. 2012. The rarest and least protected forests in biodiversity hotspots. Biodiversity and Conservation 21:3597–611.

10.Lasco RD, Pulhin FB, Sanchez PAJ, Villamor GB and Villegas KAL. 2008. Climate change and forest ecosystems in the Philippines: Vulnerability, adaptation and mitigation. Journal of Environmental Science and Management 11:1–14.

11.Makonda F and Gillah P. 2007. Balancing Wood and Non-Wood Products in Miombo Woodlands. Working Papers of the Finnish Forest Research Institute 50:64–70.

12.Arnold M, Köhlin G, Persson R and Shepherd G. 2003. Fuelwood Revisited: What has Changed in the Last Decade? CIFOR Occasional Paper No. 39. Bogor, Indonesia: Center for International Forestry Research.

13.Chidumayo E and Kwibisa L. 2003. Effects of deforestation on grass biomass and soil nutrient status in miombo woodland, Zambia. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment 96:97–105.

14.Ickowitz A, Powell B, Salim MA and Sunderland T. 2014. Dietary quality and tree cover in Africa. Global Environmental Change 24:287–94.

15.Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN. 2014 State of the World’s Forests. Rome: FAO. 16.Jumbe CB, Bwalya SM and Husselman M. 2008. Contribution of Dry Forests to Rural Livelihoods and the National Economy in Zambia. Bogor, Indonesia: Center for International Forestry Research.

17.Skutsch MM and Ba L. 2010. Crediting carbon in dry forests: The potential for community forest management in West Africa.

Forest Policy and Economics 12:264–70.

18.Dewees P, Campbell B, Katerere Y, Sitoe A, Cunningham A, Angelsen A and Wunder S. 2011. Managing the Miombo Woodlands of Southern Africa: Policies, Incentives, and Options for the Rural Poor. Washington, DC: Program on Forests (PROFOR).

19.Blackie R, Baldauf C, Gautier D, Gumbo D, Kassa H, Parthasarathy N, Paumgarten F, Sola P, Pulla S, Waeber P and Sunderland T. 2014. Tropical Dry Forests: The State Of Global Knowledge And Recommendations For Future Research.

Discussion Paper. Bogor, Indonesia: Center for International Forestry Research.

SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

Solar kiln drying put to the test Is solar drying better than air drying? Does it deliver quality results? Timber iQ learns more about a fascinating research project that tested this theory and involved a special solar kiln.

The findings may surprise you.

Article credit and source: Richard Müller, M.Sc Wood Science, B.Eng (Mechanical), Lecturer and Wood Technology Programme Coordinator at NMMU, George Campus, School of Natural Resource Management.

T

he idea of using solar kilns to dry timber is not new. In fact, a considerable amount of research and development has gone into the topic since the 1960s.

Locally, between June 2000 and February 2009, several high-density hardwood drying runs were conducted – and they produced dried timber to an excellent quality. The experts had an explanation for the good results produced by a solar kiln that uses natural dehumidification, but the theory had to be tested with a proper research study.

Richard Müller, now Lecturer and Wood Technology Programme Coordinator at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) School of Natural Resource Management, proceeded to conduct an appropriate study using the solar kiln at the NMMU Saasveld campus, and subsequently published his thesis on the results. Here he shares the specifics with Timber iQ.

DEHUMIDIFICATION, CONDENSATION, HEAT LOSS AND OTHER FACTORS

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Although Wengert (2010) described the double plastic or glazing layers to reduce conduction heat losses, none of the 31 kilns as described by him use the humidity control method of natural dehumidification at night, which is in use at the Saasveld solar kiln. However, it is mentioned by Wengert (2010) that inadequate venting may result in very high humidity, which may result in slow drying.

More recently, an update of the 31 different designs of research and industrial solar kilns has been documented

by Wengert (2010). Two categories distinguish these kilns, namely: solar kilns with external collectors, and greenhouse-type solar kilns.

According to Banks (1969), solar kilns are proven to offer the following advantages: • Solar drying is faster than air drying.

• Timber can be dried to a moisture content (MC) lower than 10%. The MC is not limited to the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) during air drying.

• The drying quality is better than air drying, provided that a good control system is in place.

• The drying costs are competitive.

A major drawback is the lower operating temperatures that can be attained by solar kilns when compared to commercial kilns. However, the successful drying of highdensity hardwoods requires low temperatures when the timber is above fibre saturation point (Vermaas, 1995), and therefore solar kilns remain a viable option for this purpose.

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Dehumidification is the process whereby the water vapour in the air (humidity) is reduced by means of the condensation of the water vapour in contact with a surface below the dew point temperature of the air. Electrical dehumidifiers in dehumidifier kilns (Simpson, 1991) use a condensing surface of an evaporator coil in a refrigeration cycle (Stoecker & Jones, 1982). Instead of an electrical dehumidifier, a solar kiln can utilize natural dehumidification, where a portion of the solar kiln external wall surface is naturally cooled by cold exterior temperatures. The term ‘natural dehumidification’ is used in this greenhouse-type solar kiln to prevent confusion with electrical dehumidifiers.

Sattar (1993) described a number of solar kilns, one of which was mentioned as a ‘self-dehumidifier.’ This kiln is described as a ‘Solar dry wood kiln’ by the Solar Kiln Company (Solar Kiln Company, 1983).

Lumley and Choong (1979) performed an economical comparison between two kiln designs, based primarily on the shape of two collectors: a greenhouse-type solar heat collector and an enclosed drying chamber with an external solar heat collector. Greenhouse-type kilns have the advantage of being inexpensive, they are easy to design and build, and they are simple to operate. However, they tend to have radical diurnal temperature fluctuations due to substantial night losses (Lumley and Choong, 1979).

SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

These kilns proved to be successful in developing countries, but have a major drawback of practical size limitations. In such structures the timber volume increases faster than the surface area needed to collect the necessary solar energy. Furthermore, the diurnal temperature fluctuations in greenhouse-type solar kilns create the problem that venting at night brings greater heat losses.

Lumley and Choong (1979) mentioned the possibility of using a greenhouse-type solar kiln, with natural selfdehumidification. The possibility of water removal by condensation could eliminate the need for venting and have the following advantages: • Heat loss during venting could be eliminated • Part of the heat of evaporation may be recovered • Reduction in heat losses could allow heat build-up in the structure, so final drying could take place at higher temperatures

NATURAL DEHUMIDIFICATION STUDY Over time, as the benefits of solar drying became apparent and various solar kiln designs were developed and studied, the late Dr Dieter Steinmann (from the University of Stellenbosch), a respected timber drying specialist, introduced a solar kiln with a unique way of automatic humidity control. The humidity control, or rather autoregulation, is achieved by a process of natural dehumidification at night.

Between June 2000 and February 2009, a number of highdensity hardwood drying runs were conducted [Karri gum, grey iron bark (E. paniculata), black ironwood, cherrywood, assegaai, white pear and hard pear, blackwood and black wattle] that produced timber dried to an excellent quality, with the following key requirements: • A narrow final moisture content range to be used in a specific climate to limit subsequent shrinkage and swelling; • Stress-free timber to be machined more efficiently; • Free of any form of warp, and • No cracks or checks.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the operation and performance of a solar drying kiln and determine its effectiveness in drying high-density hardwoods through the utilization of natural dehumidification.

PARAMETERS First, an internationally recognized method was used to assess the drying quality after the timber had been dried in the Saasveld solar kiln. (Drying quality was established as being inclusive of drying defects, the within and between board moisture content variations.) The results would indicate whether the claims of the good drying quality were valid.

The next step was to demonstrate the operation of this solar hardwood drying kiln that utilizes natural dehumidification. Temperature and humidity data was continuously collected at five positions, both inside and outside the kiln, while the moisture content of the timber was also continuously measured.

THE SAASVELD SOLAR KILN The Saasveld solar kiln, then valued at R70,000 if using brand new hardware, is a modified ‘greenhouse-type’ solar kiln with an arrangement to facilitate airflow through the stacks. It operates on the principle that the air that passes through the load is heated inside the kiln via solar radiation. The temperature is not controlled, but relies purely on solar heat gained from the sun. The concrete floor, acting as a heat store, is painted black to increase solar absorbency.

The natural dehumidification is achieved by circulating the humid kiln air through an air jacket on the periphery of the solar kiln. Remarkably, no venting system is used, nor any human/controller intervention. Conditions inside the kiln simply depend on the natural heat collection by day and natural dehumidification by night.

A theory was hypothesized to explain the reasons for the good drying results in this solar kiln, but the theory had to be validated through proper research.

This resulted in the following study, utilizing the Saasveld solar kiln. NOTE: This is the only study that has ever been conducted in the world investigating the drying of timber with uncontrolled solar heat gain (for temperature) and natural dehumidification (for humidity ‘control’ although there is no control). Dr Dieter Steinmann was the study leader, and the resulting thesis was published by Richard Müller.

Figure 1: The Saasveld solar kiln

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SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

The solar kiln at 33°S latitude is 9,8m long by 8m wide, with an apex height of 3,5m. The kiln centre line is oriented in a north-south direction.

The main cover stretching over the kiln consists of an inflated double layer of 180Îźm-thick polyethylene plastic that forms an air jacket. The gable ends have a single plastic layer with a double loading door and an entrance door at opposite ends.

Curved steel ribs shape the kiln outline. The second last rib forms the position of the fan frame and plenum wall. A transparent plastic plenum wall underneath the second last rib divides the greenhouse tunnel in unequal parts. The smaller part forms the plenum chamber and the larger main chamber contains the timber stacks. The polyethylene plastic sheets are attached to a concrete base below the steel structure with standard greenhouse clamping rails.

Back door Axial fan Ă˜1200 Plenum chamber

Plenum wall Centrifugal fan

Door Tarpaulin

Feedback valve

Weeping holes Loading door

Figure 2: Schematic isometric view of the Saasveld solar kiln

The plenum wall supports the main fan, which circulates the air through the stack. The 380V three-phase 3kW axial flow fan, with a diameter of 800mm, is situated on top of a steel frame in the plenum wall. The steel frame has an opening that is equal in size to the stack cross section.

From the schematic view it can be seen that the fan creates a negative pressure inside the plenum chamber. This results in air being sucked through the stacks and being blown back into the main chamber over the stacks. Air bypass and air short-circuiting is prevented by covering all the stacks on the sides and the top with a tarpaulin. The tarpaulin is fixed to the frame, which forms part of the plenum wall. The only openings to the load are at the air inlet side, south, and the plenum chamber, north. The average air velocity through the stacks is 1.52 m/s.

Kiln air from the main chamber is blown by a 0.15kW single-phase radial fan into a 400mm diameter manifold. From the pressurized manifold, air enters the double-layered plastic air jacket of the main cover via flexible hoses. This keeps the air jacket inflated. The blower is situated in the middle and top of the kiln chamber.

Air exits the air jacket via feedback valves through which the air reenters the kiln chamber. Feedback valves are equally spaced inside the kiln on both sides (east and west), 300mm from the kiln floor. Each feedback valve has a simple manual setting to control the amount of feedback to ensure an even air movement over the entire inflated double-plastic layer.

As the air from the main kiln chamber gets circulated through the inflated air jacket, the air comes in contact with the outer plastic sheet.

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Figure 3: Tarpaulin covers the sides and top of the stacks

SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

Should the temperature of this sheet be lower than the dew point of the air in the solar kiln, condensation will occur on the inside of the outer sheet. The condensate will flow down, and it collects at the bottom of the inflated air pocket. The condensate gets released to the outside via small weeping holes, which have a diameter of 0.8mm to 0.9mm – punched with a straightened paper clip.

NATURAL DEHUMIDIFICATION AT NIGHT The unique humidity control is achieved by a process of natural dehumidification at night. As the air from the main kiln chamber is circulated through the inflated doubleplastic layer, the air comes in contact with the outer plastic sheet. If the temperature of this sheet is less than the dew point of the air in the solar kiln, condensation will occur on the inside of the outer sheet. The condensate will flow down, collecting at the bottom of the inflated air pocket.

The liquid condensate is released to the outside via small weeping holes (< 1mm) in the outer plastic skin right at the bottom of the air jacket. The weeping holes were initially punched with a straightened paper clip.

This unique auto-regulated process of natural dehumidification at night controls the humidity, and uses no venting system, nor any human/controller intervention.

This type of humidity control is extremely simple as cooler night temperatures are a certainty, with no control system or human intervention necessary. Without vents, there is no transfer of air between the inside and outside of the kiln. Conditions inside the kiln are merely dependent on the natural heat collection by day and natural dehumidification by night.

DRYING RESULTS The solar kiln was loaded with 20.1m3 of the high-density hardwood Eucalyptus diversicolor, 25mm thick, with air-dry density of 893kg/m3. The 25mm-thick stickers were spaced 400mm apart.

The timber dried in 130 days. Three sample boards per stack, thus 24 in total, were used to monitor the drying progress.

A ‘ZA Dry Q’ drying quality assessment was performed on two stacks from diagonally opposite corners of the kiln load. Measurements were taken along the height, length and width of the stacks. The results indicated outstanding moisture distribution with little drying stress, only one surface check, and no internal checks, collapse, short bow or surface discolouration. A number of end checks were visible, mostly due to growth stresses (common in Eucalyptus species). The results conformed to the ZA Dry Q softwood appearance grade specification, except for end checks – remarkable for the drying of any hardwood.

The final moisture content distribution was extremely tight, averaging 11.5% with standard deviation of 0.97%.

The moisture gradient averaged 1.49% with standard deviation of 0.5%. The moisture content and moisture gradient were equally distributed in all three geometric directions throughout the load.

The results confirmed that the kiln could be successfully used by hardwood processors who need to dry highdensity hardwoods within a reasonable time to an excellent drying quality. Processors in developing countries or who have little drying expertise could also benefit.

DATA ASSESSMENT Temperature and humidity data, collected continuously over a 24-hour period over the entire run, provided insight into the internal and external atmospheric conditions during different stages of drying.

Analysis of this data helped to clarify exactly how this kiln operated and explained the concept of its drying abilities; for example, the extent of moisture evaporation from the timber and the dehumidification of air. It must be stressed that the collection of temperature and humidity data was to enable a study of the kiln operation and not to control the atmospheric conditions inside the kiln.

Dry bulb (Td) and wet bulb (Tw) temperatures were measured at critical chosen positions inside and outside the kiln to generate data to determine other atmospheric parameters. These other atmospheric parameters were: temperature, relative humidity, equilibrium moisture content (EMC), absolute humidity (AH) on a mass basis, and dew point temperature. This was done with precalibrated thermocouples and a data logger. Data was captured once every minute. The average of these values were computed, stored and downloaded every 10 minutes. This means that 144 values per day were stored for each of the nine thermocouples while monitoring the moisture content.

Data was logged for the 130 days of drying.

Figure 4: Comparison of the drying of sample boards at different heights in the stacks

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SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

ANALYSIS

Position 2 Td Stack out

1. KILN LOAD INLET TEMPERATURES The daily average internal temperature increased throughout the drying run from 18.0°C initially to 25.7°C at the end. The maximum internal dry bulb temperature for each day increased similarly, from 24.0°C to 38.1°C, with an average maximum internal temperature of 26.1°C. It was statistically proven that the day of drying and the average daily air kiln temperature correlate significantly. The external temperature had no influence in this rise in temperature as drying progressed.

The daily maximum kiln temperatures stayed below 28°C when the moisture content was above fibre saturation point.

Thereafter it increased at the end of drying to a maximum temperature of 38.1°C. The low value of maximum internal temperature with wood moisture contents above fibre saturation point confirmed the lack of cell collapse.

Position 5 Td Exterior Tw Exterior

Back door Plenum chamber

Axial fan Ø1200

Position 3 Td Jacket in Tw Jacket In Plenum wall Centrifugal fan

Door Tarpaulin

Position 1 Td Stack in Tw Stack in

Feedback valve

Position 4 Td Jacket out Tw Jacket out

Weeping holes Loading door

Figure 5: Positioning of the thermocouples

2. KILN LOAD INLET HUMIDITY IN TERMS OF EMC A general trend was evident towards a decreasing equilibrium moisture content (EMC) as drying advanced. The EMC decreased automatically from a daily average of 18% (±3%) initially to 8% (±1%) at the end of drying.

The EMC was never below 7.3%.

Generally, a lower EMC condition was experienced from 08h00 to 17h00. The periods of lower daytime EMCs were extended a little as drying progressed.

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Figure 6: Daily maximum load inlet temperature against the drying days

Surface checks form mostly during the initial drying stage when the timber surface layers dry too much and a moisture gradient results in drying stresses. Equalizing of this moisture gradient was promoted every night by the longer periods of high EMC at night during the initial drying stages. The low EMC variation during the last drying stage and the higher temperature (increase diffusion coefficient by 1.5 times) proved the reason for the extreme low variation of final moisture content.

SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

3. EVAPORATION OF WOOD MOISTURE FROM THE LOAD INLET TO THE LOAD OUTLET BY EVALUATING THE ABSOLUTE HUMIDITY (AH) AT THE LOAD INLET AND OUTLET Interesting results were obtained for a typical day during five successive stages during drying.

Incidences of condensation, when the temperature at the jacket exit was equal to the dew point temperature, occurred mostly from 17h00 to 07h30, with a leeway of 30 minutes on either side. The possibility for condensation became progressively less as the moisture content of the wood reduced.

5. COMPARISON BETWEEN TEMPERATURES INSIDE THE KILN AND EXTERNAL TEMPERATURES The kiln air temperature was on average 6.45°C higher than the external air temperature. Bergwind conditions and warm days contributed to lower internal temperatures than external temperatures for 6.5% of the time. The difference between internal and external temperatures, as well as the daily internal temperature fluctuation, increased significantly as drying progressed.

Figure 7: Difference in AH between load outlet and load inlet during the five stages of drying. Positive values indicate evaporation, and the opposite for adsorption.

During the afternoons and into the night the temperature inside the kiln did not drop as quickly, due to the stack and concrete in the kiln that acted as a source of heat for the kiln air. The lower heat capacity of the timber is evident as the moisture content dropped.

A general pattern of surface evaporation occurred during the day from 07h30 until 16h45. Evaporation occurred only at night when the wood moisture content was higher than 45%. Below this, the timber load adsorbed moisture during the night. This adsorbsion benefited the release of the moisture gradient even further, with the resulting prevention of surface checks. The maximum adsorption occurred constantly at 19h50.

These findings justify switching off the main circulating fan from 16h45 to 07h30, once the timber reaches 45% moisture content. Another consideration is to run the fan up to 20h00 to supply water vapour for adsorption by the wood. Instead of one big fan, more and smaller fans, driven by photovoltaic cells, can be used. Fans will be allowed to operate until the batteries are depleted, only to be recharged and in operation the next day.

4. DEHUMIDIFICATION IN THE JACKET: COMPARING THE TEMPERATURE AT THE JACKET EXIT AND THE DEW POINT TEMPERATURE As mentioned, humidity ‘regulation’ was achieved by a process of natural dehumidification at night, with no control system or intervention necessary. The air from the main kiln chamber was circulated through the inflated double-plastic layer (the air jacket) where the air came into contact with the outer plastic sheet. Here condensation occurred at night when the temperature of this outer sheet was lower than the dew point of the air in the solar kiln.

The condensation drops down and is released by the weeping holes at the bottom.

Figure 8: Typical average daily difference = (internal temperature - external temperature) for a typical 24 hours during five drying stages.

6. COMPARISON BETWEEN HUMIDITY IN THE KILN AND EXTERNAL HUMIDITY The absolute humidity (measured in g water per kg dry air) inside the kiln was consistently higher than outside the kiln, making it feasible to vent. This difference was at its maximum at noon when the moisture content was below 43%. This would be the best time of the day to vent. A simple form of venting, like opening the door during lunch hour, can be applied when the timber reaches fibre saturation point.

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SOLAR TIMBER DRYING

Initially, the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) inside the kiln was higher than the EMC outside. This condition gradually reversed to an evenly distributed lower EMC inside than EMC outside.

This drying ‘schedule’ followed the trend of the T3C2 – schedule for Eucalyptus diversicolor (by Boone, et al.) until FSP of 30% MC was reached. This explains the excellent drying quality of the load.

7. PROTECTION OF TIMBER FROM EXTREME WEATHER, LIKE BERGWIND CONDITIONS

Nocturnal equalizing and conditioning, comparable to intermittent drying schedules as described by Haque and Langrish (2006), resulted from:

Harsh conditions of high temperature and low humidity, like ‘bergwind,’ is a common problem during the air drying process of high-density hardwoods when the timber is above fibre saturation point (FSP). The exterior EMC had no influence on the conditions inside the kiln as there was no air exchanged between the kiln air and external air.

Previously, Bergwind conditions with an EMC as low as 1.9%, together with a temperature of 38°C were recorded.

High-density hardwoods above FSP would suffer severe drying defects such as cell collapse and surface/end checks if they were exposed to these conditions. At MCs above FSP, the kiln temperature was lower and the EMC higher when high external temperatures prevailed. This protected the timber against drying defects such as checks and collapse.

There is a lot of moisture available in the initial drying stage, so it will saturate and absorb the heat. In the later drying stages, with fewer dangers of drying defects, the kiln offered less protection against warm external conditions, and the kiln temperatures increased as the timber dried and reached a maximum of 38°C. Although the solar kiln operates under all weather conditions, it is dominated by the MC of the timber.

8. COMPARISON WITH OTHER DRYING SCHEDULES The parameters derived from the data indicated a gradual decrease in EMC and a gradual temperature increase typically found in drying schedules in climatically controlled kilns.

• No evaporation at night below 45% MC; • Improved moisture diffusion in heated timber, highest at the end of drying; • Adsorption of moisture on the wood surface that increased as the drying progressed and reduced the moisture gradient; and • The long drying time with mild climatic conditions.

CONCLUSION The functioning of the Saasveld solar kiln can be summarized as drying of the timber during the day and the drying of the air (dehumidification) at night. The danger is to complicate the kiln by trying to improve it with various types of control equipment and switch gear.

Timber processors, who need to dry high-density hardwoods within a reasonable time to an excellent drying quality, will benefit from solar kilns that utilize natural dehumidification. The operator does not require great technical skills or drying expertise.

The operating cost is very low as no drying personnel are needed. The simplicity of the system, together with the low cost of the kiln, makes it ideal for less economically developed countries, individuals who have little drying expertise and areas where technical backup is not readily available.

For more information, email the author Richard Müller at Richard.Muller@nmmu.ac.za.

Decking | Flooring | Exotic Timber | Solid Beams | Sawmilling

HOW CAN TIMBER HOME KITS HELP U?

Plantation Sawmilling & Boards cc 100 Marmer rd. Highbury, Randvaal Henley on Klip Tel: 016 365 6660 / 6548 www.plantsaw.co.za www.facebook.com/plantsaw

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Eco-Friendly suppliers of the finest African Hardwood Timber

PROTECTED TREES HEREWITH THE MOST RECENT DAFF LIST OF PROTECTED TREE SPECIES UNDER NOTICE NUMBER 1161 OF 2015, AS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE UNDER SCHEDULE A: BOTANICAL NAME

ENGLISH COMMON NAMES

AFRIKAANS (A), SEPEDI (P), SESOTHO (S), SETSWANA (T), TSHIVENDA (V), ISIXHOSA (X), ISIZULU(Z)

OTHER COMMON NAMES

NATIONAL TREE NUMBER

Kameeldoring (A)/Mogohlo (NS)/Mogôtlhô (T)

168

Vaalkameeldoring (A)/Mokholo (T)

169

Kremetart (A)/Seboi (NS)/Mowana (T)

467

Peulmahonie (A)/Mutokota (V)/Inkehli (Z)

207

Groendoring (A)/Ugobandlovu (Z)

251

Acacia erioloba

Camel thorn

Acacia haematoxylon

Grey camel thorn

Adansonia digitata

Baobab

Afzelia quanzensis

Pod mahogany

Balanites subsp. maughamii

Torchwood

Barringtonia racemosa

Powder-puff tree

Poeierkwasboom (A)/Iboqo (Z)

524

Boscia albitrunca

Shepherd’s tree

Witgat (A)/Mohlôpi (NS)/Motlhôpi (T)/Muvhombwe (V)/ Umgqomogqomo (X)/Umvithi (Z)

122

Brachystegia spiciformis

Msasa

Msasa (A)

198.1

Breonadia salicina

Matumi

Mingerhout (A)/Mohlomê (NS)/Mutu-lume (V)/Umfomfo (Z)

684

Bruguiera gymnorrhiza

Black mangrove

Cassipourea swaziensis

Swazi onionwood

Catha edulis

Bushman’s tea

Ceriops tagal

Indian mangrove

Cleistanthus schlechteri var. schlechteri

False tamboti

Colubrina nicholsonii

Pondo weeping thorn

Combretum imberbe

Leadwood

Curtisia dentata

Assegai

Elaeodendron transvaalensis

Bushveld saffron

Erythrophysa transvaalensis

Bushveld red balloon

Euclea pseudebenus

Ebony guarri

Ficus trichopoda

Swartwortelboom (A)/isiKhangati (X)/isiHlobane (Z)

527

Swazi-uiehout (A)

531.1

Boesmanstee (A)/Mohlatse (NS)/Igqwaka (X)/Umhlwazi (Z)

404

Indiese wortelboom (A)/isinkaha (Z)

525

Bastertambotie (A)/Umzithi (Z)

320

Pondo-treurdoring (A)

453.8

Hardekool (A)/Mohwelere-tšhipi (NS)/Motswiri (T)/ Impondondlovu (Z)

539

Assegaai (A)/Umgxina (X)/Umagunda (Z)

570

Bosveld-saffraan (A)/Monomane (T)/Ingwavuma (Z)

416

Bosveld-rooiklapperbos (A)/Mofalatsane (T)

436.2

Ebbeboom-ghwarrie (A)

598

Swamp fig

Moerasvy (A)/Umvubu (Z)

54

Leucadendron argenteum

Silver tree

Silwerboom (A)

77

Lumnitzera racemosa var. racemosa

Tonga mangrove

Tonga-wortelboom (A)/isiKhaha-esibomvu (Z)

552

Lydenburgia abbottii

Pondo bushman’s tea

Lydenburgia cassinoides

Sekhukhuni bushman’s tea

Mimusops caffra

Coastal red milkwood

Newtonia hildebrandtii var. hildebrandtii

Lebombo wattle

Ocotea bullata

Stinkwood

Ozoroa namaquensis

Gariep resin tree

Philenoptera violacea

Apple-leaf

Pittosporum viridiflorum

Cheesewood

Podocarpus elongatus

Breede River yellowwood

Podocarpus falcatus (Afrocarpus falcatus)

Outeniqua yellowwood

Podocarpus henkelii

Henkel’s yellowwood

Pondo-boesmanstee (A)

407

Sekhukhuni-boesmanstee (A)

406

Kusrooimelkhout (A)/Umthunzi (X)/Umkhakhayi (Z)

583

Lebombo-wattel (A)/Umfomothi (Z)

191

Stinkhout (A)/Umhlungulu (X)/Umnukane (Z)

118

Gariep-harpuisboom (A)

373.2

Appelblaar (A)/Mphata (NS)/Mohata (T)/isiHomohomo (Z)

238

Kasuur (A)/Kgalagangwe (NS)/ Umkhwenkwe (X)/Umfusamvu (Z)

139

Breëriviergeelhout (A)

15

Outniekwageelhout (A)/Mogôbagôba (NS)/Umkhoba (X)/ Umsonti (Z)

16

Henkel se geelhout (A)/Umsonti (X)/Umsonti (Z)

17

Regte-geelhout (A)/ Mogôbagôba (NS)/Umcheya (X)/ Umkhoba (Z)

18

Podocarpus latifolius

Real yellowwood

Protea comptonii

Saddleback sugarbush

Barberton-suikerbos (A)

88

Protea curvata

Serpentine sugarbush

Serpentynsuikerbos (A)

88.1

Prunus africana

Red stinkwood

Pterocarpus angolensis

Wild teak

Rhizophora mucronata

Red mangrove

Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra

Marula

Securidaca longepedunculata

Voilet tree

Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme

White milkwood

Witmelkhout (A)/Ximafana (X)/Umakhwelafingqane (Z)

579

Tephrosia pondoensis

Pondo poison pea

Pondo-gifertjie (A)

226.1

Warburgia salutaris

Pepper-bark tree

Peperbasboom (A)/Molaka (NS)/Mulanga (V)/ isiBaha (Z)

488

Widdringtonia cedarbergensis

Clanwilliam ceder

Clanwilliamseder (A)

19

Widdringtonia schwarzii

Willowmore ceder

Baviaanskloofseder (A)

21

Rooistinkhout (A)/Umkhakhase (X)/Umdumezulu (Z)

147

Kiaat (A)/Morôtô (NS)/Mokwa (T)/Mutondo (V)/Umvangazi (Z)

236

Rooiwortelboom (A)/isiKhangathi (X)/Umhlume (Z)

526

Maroela (A)/Morula (NS)/Morula (T)/Umganu (Z)

360

Krinkhout (A)/Mmaba (T)

303

// FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

59

TIMBER PROFILE

Wood works

Kiaat/Bloodwood In this issue we get up close and personal with Kiaat, which can without doubt be considered one of the Big 5 of southern African woods! It is one of the best-known, most versatile and valuable woods produced by the woodlands of this area.

Article by: Stephanie Dyer, Timber Information Services

N

ot only is the wood of the Kiaat tree (Pterocarpus angolensis) valuable, but this attractive tree produces additional products such as dyes and medicine. Logs obtained from Kiaat trees are generally straight and sound. When the tree is felled, blood red sap oozes out, hence the common name ‘Bloodwood.’

Trees from Namibia produce wood that is lighter in weight and softer than Kiaat from other areas, and this wood is known as Dolfkiaat or Dolfhout.

The scientific name of the genus ‘Pterocarpus’ means ‘winged fruit’ as the fruit consists of a circular pod containing a round seed case covered in bristles, surrounded by a broad membranous wavy wing. Trees are nitrogen fixing and are planted for soil conservation, dune rehabilitation, live fencing and as ornamentals.

Kiaat is one of the most widely used native timber tree species in southern Africa. Statistics on the demand and production of the wood are difficult to obtain, but these are huge. Export figures of 5,500m3 from Mozambique (in 1996 – the most recent period for which reliable, verifiable data is confirmed) and 5,000m3 annually from Zambia are indications of the extent of trade in this valuable commodity. Most of the timber is exported to China and Thailand.

In the early 1990s already, the annual export of Kiaat from South Africa was estimated at 650,000 US dollars. Data on the current import volumes of Kiaat into South Africa is difficult to come by, but recent trade estimates are that 1,500m3 to 2,000m3 of Kiaat are imported into South Africa annually.

The time for the trees to reach maturity differs per region, but in South Africa it takes about 80 years!

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Bloodwood. Photograph by: Jim Bendon.

TIMBER PROFILE

Over exploitation of this useful multipurpose tree is endangering its natural populations. Current harvesting is not sustainable and has raised serious concerns regarding the long-term viability of the species. This has resulted in the tree being declared ‘Protected’ in South Africa under the National Forests Act No. 84 of 1998.

Since 1998, harvesting of Kiaat in South Africa is only permitted under licence or exemption from the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Kiaat is also listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as ‘Lower Risk/Near Threatened.’

Better optimization of the trees by integrated use of all parts of the tree is being suggested. This will satisfy the needs of the concessionaire for large logs for use as saw timber and veneer, smaller logs for the local carpenter, off cuts or smaller pieces containing heartand sapwood for the wood carver, and bark for the traditional healer.

The wood produced by this important species is very stable in use and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including construction, domestic- and industrial flooring, furniture and cabinet work, panelling, joinery, decorative veneer, turnery, carving, musical instruments, toys, mining mat packs and railway sleepers. It is useful for jigs due to its stability, and its good weathering properties make it suitable for exterior applications. Its flexibility, resistance to the elements and relatively light weight make it suitable for doors and window frames. It is one of the best woods for canoe building and it is also favoured for canoe paddles and game and fish spears among the local people.

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TIMBER PROFILE

SOME ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE PROPERTIES OF KIAAT FOR THE WOOD ENTHUSIAST: KIAAT: HARD FACTS Pterocarpus angolensis Botanical/ Scientific name: (Family: Fabaceae)

Trade name:

Kiaat (Other names: Umbila, Lakboom, Sealingwax tree, Bloodwood, Mulombwa, Transvaal teak (South Africa); Muninga, Mukwa (Zimbabwe); Mutete (Angola); Mtumbati (Tanzania); Dolfhout, Dolfkiaat (Namibia); Ambila, Gulombila, Imbila, Mebila, Muculambira (Mozambique).

Origin:

The species is widespread in southern tropical Africa: From Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania south to north-eastern South Africa and Swaziland. Small-scale plantings have been established in Kenya.

Conservation status:

A protected tree species in South Africa (National Forests Act no. 84 of 1998). It is also classified as ‘Near Threatened’ in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, 2015-3.

Bole characteristics:

A medium-sized tree, reaching 25-35m in height with a straight bole of up to 50-100cm in diameter.

Colour:

The heartwood is reddish-brown to dark brown with golden and darker figuring. The yellowish sapwood is clearly demarcated. Freshly sawn material has a characteristic, pleasant odour.

Grain pattern:

Interlocked and seldom straight. The texture is coarse and uneven.

Density: (at 12% moisture content):

660 (560 to 780) kg/m3 440 (350 to 590) kg/m3 (Namibian material)

Strength/Bending properties:

A wood with average mechanical properties (side hardness, flexibility and stiffness) but lower than average toughness. It is dimensionally stable.

Seasoning:

Seasons well with little degrade. Material of 25mm thickness requires approximately three months to air dry.

Larger dimension material has a tendency to develop a wet core and surface checks between the sap- and heartwood zones.

Kiln-drying schedule 5 is recommended (see below).

Durability and preservative treatment:

Early conversion of logs is recommended to prevent insect attack (Ambrosia and powder-post beetles) in the sapwood. The wood is resistant to fungal attack. Dry heartwood is very durable and resistant to borer. This high natural durability makes the wood suitable for use in exposed positions. The heartwood is resistant to preservative treatment and the sapwood is moderately resistant.

Working and finishing properties:

The wood saws easily by hand or machine with moderate blunting of tools. It planes and moulds to a good finish. Logs peel easily for decorative veneer. The wood nails satisfactorily with thin-gauge nails. It glues well, polishes to a very fine finish and takes paint and varnish well. Kiaat is suitable for steam bending. Small, white spots caused by concentrations of crystalline deposits are sometimes present in the wood. Although troublesome in finishing, these do not affect the technical properties of the wood. Dry sawdust may cause nasal irritation, bronchitis, asthma and dermatitis and protection is essential when processing the wood.

TIMBER DRYING SCHEDULE FOR KIAAT (Pterocarpus angolensis) Supplied by H-P Stöhr, Timber Drying Institute (timberdrying@mweb.co.za) Dry Bulb temperatures (°C) and Relative Humidity (%) at the following Timber Moisture Contents Drying schedule no.

5

Green

40%

30%

18% to final

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

60

59

65

46

65

34

75

38

DB = Dry bulb temperature, RH = Relative Humidity Please note: Drying schedules only serve as a guide to the kiln operator, with the response of the timber to the drying condition being the criterion.

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TIMBER PROFILE

Slim Line Pen - Bloodwood-Black Chrome. Photograph by: photographerwes.

Mukwa fruit. Photograph by: Susan E Adams.

Kiaat, photographed at the Rare Woods branch in Cape Town.

REFERENCES AND SOURCES: Bolza, E. and Keating, W. G. 1972-2000. African Timbers, the properties, uses and characteristics of 700 species.

CSIRO, Australia

Riempie Chair™ - Arms, Designed by Haldane Martin.

Photograph by Jan Verboom.

Geldenhuys, C.J. 2013. ‘The many uses of Pterocarpus angolensis aka ‘Kiaat’. SA Forestry magazine, August 2013.

Prospect Database. 1997-2004. Oxford Forestry Institute, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford.

Coates-Palgrave, M. 2002. Keith Coates-Palgrave Trees of Southern Africa, edn 3, imp. 4, Random House Struik (Pty) Ltd, Cape Town.

Takawira-Nyenya, R. 2005. Pterocarpus angolensis DC. In: Louppe, D., Oteng-Amoako, A. A. & Brink, (Editors). Prota 7(1): Timbers 1. Wageningen, Netherlands.

Dyer, S., James, B. and James, D. (in preparation) Southern African Wood, Briza Publications.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2015-3. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 07 October 2015 and http://www.iucnredlist.org/static/categories_ criteria_2_3

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REFORESTATION

Trees across our country Universally, we are seeing renewed efforts being made by world leaders to try and limit global warming. Locally, in recognizing the crucial role that trees play in absorbing greenhouse gases that fuel this phenomenon, Unilever South Africa has, in partnership with Wildlands, planted 195,770 trees across South Africa. And there are more to come.

A

s part of its brightFuture climate action plan to build a world where everyone lives well and lives sustainably, Unilever plans to plant one million indigenous trees in selected areas of South Africa over the next three years. Launched in September 2015, the campaign is off to a strong start with 195,770 trees already planted. These trees, grown by Wildlands Tree-preneurs, were planted in line with Unilever’s commitment to plant a tree for every pledge or tweet received against deforestation, as part of the brightFuture climate action plan. Since the campaign launch, more than 170,000 pledges and tweets have been received.

Peter Cowan, Senior Vice President and Chairperson of Unilever South Africa, says: “We launched this tree planting campaign at the same time as the Global Goals for Sustainable Development were agreed. The Unilever Sustainable Living Campaign and this particular campaign on reforestation continue to support the Global Goals, particularly the need to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.”

Cowan says the trees, planted with the assistance of Wildlands, promote sustainable forest management while fighting climate change by taking carbon out of the atmosphere. “Our commitment to plant one million trees over three years is one small step out of many taken by Unilever against climate change, along with our recent commitment communicated at the Paris climate conference for Unilever to be carbon positive by 2030,” he continues.

Unilever has been a vocal supporter of strong and ambitious action on climate change by businesses as well as governments, reflecting the conviction that the cost of inaction on climate change now exceeds the cost of action.

According to Dr Andrew Venter from Wildlands, this project has the power to change the world – and its climate. “Trees have often been cited as the best technology to fight climate change. However, it is essential to remember that preventing deforestation is only one part of the solution – reforestation must occur too. This is the goal of this tree planting campaign,” he states.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 //

Given the campaign’s promising start, Unilever and Wildlands hope that others will follow suit, playing their role in making a brighter future for all a reality. Taking action against climate change is essential and achievable, and if the number of pledges received to date is any indication, it is a problem that society believes can and should be solved.

“We urge everyone to join us in making pledges on reforestation as we combat climate change. The one million trees we are planting in the next three years will help to reduce deforestation, alleviate flash flooding caused by forest degradation, and remove carbon from the atmosphere,” concludes Cowan.

For more information, visit www.brightfuture.unilever.co.za.

South African Wood Preservers Association

Promoting timber treatment and treated timber products Tel: 011 974 1061 or E-mail: sawpa@global.co.za Website: www.sawpa.co.za

IN SOUTH AFRICA TREATED TIMBER IS BY LAW REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH NATIONAL AND COMPULSORY SPECIFICATIONS AND MUST BEAR MARKING CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION

BUYING AND USING PRESERVATIVE TREATED TIMBER

?

HOW TO PLANT A POLE

POLES (Metal marker) ABCTT

SAWN TIMBER (Ink stamp)

457 H5 10

ABC TIMBER

H3

ABCTT

ABC TIMBER

H2

457 H4 10

CHOOSE THE CORRECT HAZARD (H) CLASS

H6 - High Hazard: Prolonged immersion in sea water (Marine piling, jetty cross-bracing, landing steps, retaining walls etc.)

H5 - High Hazard: Outside in contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water (piling, substructure for walkways & jetties, vineyards etc.)

The detail in these diagrams assists proper drainage of moisture that may be absorbed by a wooden pole.

A structural engineer must be consulted for detailed structural requirements.

Poles intended for planting in the ground must be purchased at required lengths. Never plant a cross-cut end of a treated pole or post into the ground as this will expose the untreated heartwood to fungal and termite attack resulting in premature failure.

CROSS CUT ENDS

H4 - High Hazard: Outside in ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (fencing and structural posts, landscaping, stakes, pergolas, etc).

H3 - Moderate Hazard: Outside above ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (cladding, decking, stairs, balustrades, log homes, etc).

H2 - Low Hazard: Inside above ground, protected from wetting and leaching (roof trusses, framing, panelling, laminated .

All machining, cutting or drilling of preservative treated timber should be done prior to preservative impregnation. Areas exposed after impregnation due to cross cutting etc., must be treated by liberally applying a suitable paint-on or brush-on remedial or supplemental preservative (excluding ground contact).