A sawmill employs various techniques to transform raw logs into usable lumber. One common method is live sawing, where the log is cut through and through, producing boards with varying grain patterns. This method is efficient but can result in lower-grade lumber due to inconsistencies in the wood.
Another approach is cant sawing, which involves making initial cuts to square off the log into a center piece called a cant. This cant can then be further processed into lumber or sold as timber. Cant sawing is often used for lower-quality logs to maximize production.
Plain sawing, similar to cant sawing, squares the log into a cant but then proceeds to cut the cant into lumber. This method aims to maximize the yield of usable lumber from the log.
Finally, grade sawing is a more specialized technique that involves strategically cutting the log to optimize the quality and value of the resulting lumber. This method is typically used for higher-quality logs and requires more skill and precision.
Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which method to use depends on factors such as the quality of the log, the desired end product, and the efficiency of the sawmill operation.
