Moisture Mapping How Dry Should Wood Be Before Turning

What is Moisture Mapping?

Moisture mapping is a technique used to accurately measure the moisture content (MC) within wood. It involves strategically inserting probes into the wood and using them to gather data about the moisture distribution.

Wood Moisture Content

The amount of moisture present in wood is known as its moisture content. Wood MC is expressed as a percentage of the wood's oven-dry weight.

How Dry Should Wood Be Before Turning?

When preparing wood for turning, the ideal moisture level depends on several factors, including the wood species and the intended use of the turned object.

Softwoods:

* Generally, softwoods are ready for turning at a moisture content of 10-12%.

Hardwoods:

* Hardwoods require a lower moisture content of 6-8% for optimal turning results.

Turning Projects:

* Objects intended for indoor use, such as bowls and vases, can tolerate slightly higher moisture content (up to 10%). * Objects that will be exposed to outdoor elements (e.g., outdoor furniture) should have a lower moisture content (6-8%).

Prior to turning, wood should be allowed to acclimate to the ambient environment for several days. This allows moisture to evenly distribute, ensuring a uniform drying process and minimizing warping or cracking during turning.

By accurately measuring the moisture content of wood, woodworkers can ensure that it is sufficiently dry for turning and avoid the potential for problems such as warping, checking, or splitting.