The Difference Between Kiln Drying and Heat Treatment

by | Sep 7, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

timber solutions

ITS has a wealth of knowledge and experience and we like to educate people on all the intricacies of the timber industry.  Although Kiln Drying and Heat Treatment  both involve heat, kiln drying and heat treatment have distinct purposes and applications. 

Here is the differences explained:

-Kiln Drying 

Kiln Drying refers to timber that has been dried in a kiln to reduce moisture content. Moisture content in timber can cause a host of problems, including cracking and shrinking. These issues cost millions of pounds in damages each year, kiln drying is used to bring down moisture levels to a working range of 19% or less. It is a long process which sometimes takes multiple days. Kiln drying pallets limit splits and movement associated with wet timber that has air dried. When pallets are kiln dried, the reduction in moisture means the weight is also reduced. This makes them better for export as the transportation cost, which is charged by weight, is reduced. The reduced moisture content also decreases any blue stain or discolouration. 

–Heat Treatment 

‘Heat treated’ refers to wood that has been heated to a specific temperature. Compared to kiln drying, heat treatment is a much shorter process, taking only a few hours. Although less moisture is removed during the heat treatment process than kiln drying, moisture is still removed. This makes the pallets lighter and cheaper to transport. Parasites in the wood are removed, reducing the spread between countries, and decreasing the risk of cross-contaminated goods. Heat treatment is more common than kiln drying. ​​Heat treatment ensures compliance with ISPM 15 regulations. This a rule that ensures all wood packaging materials are sanitized before use in international export or import. 

At ITS Ltd, we manufacture and supply premium heat treated pallets, packaging crates, wooden crates and other timber products for all applications. Our owners have over 25 years’ experience in the timber industry. We have been undertaking bulk orders for existing and new customers over the years. We use only modern machinery and plant, so we have the capacity to manufacture in large quantities. 

If you have any inquiries contact us today!