One of Forintek’s most valued services to the oriented strandboard (OSB) members is our use of computer modeling tools to assist members optimize their manufacturing processes and quantify the potential benefits of new technology developments This project substantially upgraded our hot pressing model and added two new models to Forintek’s suite of modeling tools.
Forintek’s 2-D hot pressing model describes the relationship between hot pressing schedules and panel attributes. In this project the 2-D hot pressing model was upgraded to a 3-D model. The 3-D model improves the prediction accuracy of heat and moisture transfer and vertical density profile during the hot pressing process. The model can be used to quantify the costs of current hot pressing processes and predict the potential cost implications of changes to schedules and equipment. It can also be used to assess the need for, and impacts, of developing new pressing technology.
Two new models were developed: one for continuous pressing and one that predicts the mechanical properties of panels from specific manufacturing options. Continuous pressing is an emerging technology which is increasingly used by the composite board industry. This project marks the completion of our first model for continuous pressing. The model simulates the distributions of temperature, moisture content, gas pressure and density profile along the press during pressing based on input data that describe panel structure, layer structure, flake geometry and pressing schedule. While the modelling tool provides many insights into the continuous pressing operation, some basic laboratory tests and mill trials are still needed to optimize individual members’ pressing operations.
The first model to predict the mechanical properties of OSB end products from manufacturing process attributes has been completed. The model predicts end product panel modulus of elasticity (MOE) from density profile, flake geometry, strand orientation, fines content and layer structure.
The models completed in this project will be used as a guide for research and development of new products and process optimization for existing products. Use of these models results in significant savings in R&D costs and higher efficiency in problem solving for members.