Stochastic Modeling of Lumber Drying in Batch Kilns

A Monte-Carlo simulation model is developed to predict the drying behavior of lumber in batch kilns. The green moisture contents and the drying rates of individual boards are represented by statistical functions reflecting theoretical analyses and experimental observations. The initial moisture contents are characterized by the Weibull distribution function. The drying rates are approximated by a novel combination of high and low moisture asymptotic rates which lend to a simple correction procedure to compensate for the temperature and the humidity variations.