Comparative analysis of yield distribution in first and second-class quality fir and spruce sawlogs (Abies alba Mill./Picea abies L.): A case study from North Macedonia
Journal
Wood, design & technology
Date Issued
2024-12
Author(s)
Abstract
The efficient utilisation of sawlogs represents a crucial determinant for the operational success of
sawmill capacities. Sawlogs serve as the primary raw material in sawmill operations, and their rational
use is influenced by several production-related factors. Key determinants impacting sawlog utilisation
include wood species, log quality classification, technological capacity of sawmills, and workforce
proficiency, among others. Of particular importance to sawlog processing methods are wood species
and quality classification. A principal indicator of sawmill performance lies in the quantitative yield of
raw material, defined by the volume of lumber produced from log processing. The economic viability
of sawmills is grounded in this quantitative utilisation, with wood species and quality classification
exerting the most substantial influence.
This paper presents findings from a comparative analysis conducted at a sawmill facility in
Berovo, Republic of North Macedonia. It examines the yield from fir/spruce (Abies alba Mill./Picea
abies L.) sawlogs of both first- and second-quality classes. The analysed logs maintain a consistent
length of 4.0 meters. The average diameter for first-class logs ranges from 27.0 to 57.0 cm, while for
second-class logs, it spans 38.0 to 62.0 cm. The mean yield rate for first-class logs is 68.93%, and for
second-class logs, it is 61.55%. A comparative analysis is provided for the coarse and fine waste
generated from log processing for both quality classes. Sawing was conducted using a horizontal band
saw, and the resulting lumber is designated for construction and structural purposes.
sawmill capacities. Sawlogs serve as the primary raw material in sawmill operations, and their rational
use is influenced by several production-related factors. Key determinants impacting sawlog utilisation
include wood species, log quality classification, technological capacity of sawmills, and workforce
proficiency, among others. Of particular importance to sawlog processing methods are wood species
and quality classification. A principal indicator of sawmill performance lies in the quantitative yield of
raw material, defined by the volume of lumber produced from log processing. The economic viability
of sawmills is grounded in this quantitative utilisation, with wood species and quality classification
exerting the most substantial influence.
This paper presents findings from a comparative analysis conducted at a sawmill facility in
Berovo, Republic of North Macedonia. It examines the yield from fir/spruce (Abies alba Mill./Picea
abies L.) sawlogs of both first- and second-quality classes. The analysed logs maintain a consistent
length of 4.0 meters. The average diameter for first-class logs ranges from 27.0 to 57.0 cm, while for
second-class logs, it spans 38.0 to 62.0 cm. The mean yield rate for first-class logs is 68.93%, and for
second-class logs, it is 61.55%. A comparative analysis is provided for the coarse and fine waste
generated from log processing for both quality classes. Sawing was conducted using a horizontal band
saw, and the resulting lumber is designated for construction and structural purposes.