Industrial timber refers to timber products manufactured scientifically in factories, where processes are controlled to produce stronger and more durable materials than conventional timber. Due to their scientific processing, industrial timber products can be made in consistent shapes and sizes, making them highly reliable and versatile for various applications.
Types of Industrial Timber
Industrial timber comes in various forms, each suited to specific needs in construction, furniture, and decor. Here are the primary types:
- Veneers
- Plywood
- Fiber Boards
- Impreg Timbers
- Compreg Timbers
- Hard Boards
- Glulam
- Chip Board
- Block Board
- Flush Door Shutters
Detailed Analysis of Each Type of Industrial Timber
1. Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of wood obtained by cutting logs using a rotary cutter. In this process, the wood log rotates against a sharp blade, creating thin sheets that are then kiln-dried. Veneers serve as a foundational material in making other timber products like plywood and block boards. Due to their versatility, veneers are widely used in furniture and paneling.
2. Plywood
Plywood is a board formed by layering veneers, where each layer (or “ply”) is glued on top of the other with suitable adhesives. This composite board gains additional strength by pressing under heat (150 to 200°C) or at room temperature with hydraulic pressure. Known for its decorative and structural qualities, plywood is frequently used in doors, walls, ceilings, and formwork for concrete. Its aesthetic appeal also makes it ideal for architectural applications in theaters, churches, and restaurants.
3. Fiber Boards
Fiber boards are a type of reconstructed wood made from wood fibers or vegetable fibers. The fibers are boiled, exposed to low-pressure steam, and then subjected to a pressure surge, which causes the wood fibers to release natural adhesives. These fibers are then spread on screens and pressed between steel plates. Fiber boards are used for wall paneling, ceilings, partitions, doors, and flooring. Additionally, they offer sound insulation, making them popular in buildings where noise control is essential.
4. Impreg Timbers
Impreg timber is produced by covering thin wood layers with resin, often phenol formaldehyde. The resin solution fills the wood’s pores, creating a dense, consolidated material. After curing at 150 to 160°C, impreg timber is ready for use. It resists moisture, weathering, and acids and provides an attractive appearance. Commonly found in decorative items, furniture, and molds, this timber type is known for its longevity and strength.
5. Compreg Timbers
Compreg timbers are a variant of impreg timber but are cured under high pressure, resulting in a stronger, denser material with a specific gravity between 1.30 and 1.35. These qualities make compreg timbers suitable for heavy-duty applications where durability is paramount, such as industrial furniture or outdoor fixtures.
6. Hard Boards
Hard boards are generally 3 mm thick, produced by compressing wood pulp under high pressure. Their top surface is smooth and hard, while the bottom is rough. Hard boards are categorized by density:
- Medium: 480 – 800 kg/m³, available in 6 to 12 mm thickness.
- Normal: 800 – 1200 kg/m³, available in 3 to 12 mm thickness.
- Tempered: >1200 kg/m³, available in 3 to 12 mm thickness.
Hard boards are known for their structural robustness and are widely used in flooring, partitions, and other construction applications where strength is necessary.
7. Glulam
Glulam, or glued laminated wood, is produced by gluing solid wood veneers into sheets and laminating them with resins. This material is exceptionally versatile, especially in chemical factories, sports stadiums, and swimming pool constructions. It is also ideal for long-span or curved roof structures due to its flexibility and strength.
8. Chip Board (Particle Board)
Chip board, also known as particle board, is made by combining wood particles, rice husk ash, or bagasse with resins, which are then pressed to form a solid board. Chip boards are economical and used for partitions, paneling, and low-cost furniture. They offer a practical, budget-friendly solution for interior applications.
9. Block Board
Block board consists of a core made from wood strips, typically obtained as byproducts from timber processing. These strips are glued together, forming a solid core, and are then covered with veneers. When the core strips are less than 7 mm in width, the product is termed “lamin board.” Block boards are commonly used in partitions, paneling, marine applications, and railway carriages, thanks to their lightweight yet sturdy structure.
10. Flush Door Shutters
Factory-made flush door shutters are widely used in modern construction. Available in thicknesses of 25, 30, or 35 mm, these doors come with different cores such as cellular, hollow, or block board cores. Flush door shutters offer uniform appearance and durability, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial doors.
Properties and Benefits of Industrial Timber
Industrial timber offers various benefits over traditional wood:
- Strength and Durability: Industrial timber undergoes scientific processing that enhances its durability and structural integrity, making it suitable for demanding applications.
- Consistency in Shape and Size: Manufactured timber products have uniform sizes and shapes, allowing for precise construction and minimal waste.
- Versatility: With products suited for different applications—ranging from paneling and doors to specialized structures—industrial timber can adapt to various needs.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many industrial timber products make use of wood waste or recycled fibers, reducing reliance on raw timber and promoting sustainability.
Conclusion
Industrial timber encompasses a range of scientifically processed wood products, each with unique properties and applications. From the flexibility of plywood to the strength of compreg timber, these materials offer an array of options for builders, architects, and manufacturers. As the construction industry seeks sustainable and cost-effective solutions, industrial timber’s versatility and reliability will likely ensure its continued popularity and innovation in years to come.