Publisher's Synopsis
For nearly 60 years, Timber: Structure, Properties, Conversion, and Use has been the authoritative text on timber technology. Now in its seventh edition, this book remains a vital resource, providing accurate, comprehensive, and fact-driven information for students and professionals in the field. From basic coverage of timber structure, properties, processing, and utilization, to more in-depth scientific investigations, this book covers all the issues and topics of concern to readers with a wide range of levels of sophistication.
Timber technology has not stood still since the last revision; Timber: Structure, Properties, Conversion, and Use has kept the pace, exploring such high-tech topics as computer-aided wood identification and log conversion, radio frequency drying of wood, enhancement of wood with plastics, application of preservatives with high-pressure vacuum systems, and the development and application of flame-retardant solutions. Other timely updates include enlarging the chapter on mechanical performance to cover elastic behavior, toughness, and the use of structural-sized timber for strength tests. The chapter on board materials has also been extensively updated and enlarged to include information on new boards and structural composites that have emerged since the last edition.
One of the most important strengths of Timber: Structure, Properties, Conversion, and Use is its versatility as a reference for timber professionals while remaining approachable to students in the field. Evidence of the book?s comprehensiveness and versatility becomes clear as it teaches readers about such wide-ranging topics as:
- identification and nomenclature of timbers
- variability in cellular features between species
- principal chemical constituents in timber
- structural variability caused by natural defects such as bark pockets, resin streaks, and brittleheart
- determination of density and moisture content in timber
- thermal and acoustic properties of wood
- conversion equipment such as circular saws, band saws, frame saws, and chipper canters
- health and safety issues in the industry
- adhesives, metal connectors, and joint design
- forest and millyard pests
- application of preservatives and finishes
From basic identification and timber nomenclature to methods of sap displacement and tests of electrical conductivity, Timber: Structure, Properties, Conversion, and Use covers it all. And while it is no longer possible for any one individual to write authoritatively on every aspect of timber technology, embracing as it does structure, properties, conversion, utilization, and behavior in service, J. M. Dinwoodie has gathered expert opinions and expanded on original author H. E. Desch?s approach and vision to continue to provide the authoritative text on timber technology.
