ABSTRACT
This study was undertaken with the objective of evaluating the quality of the sawed wood produced in the Area of the Fourth Colony of Italian Immigration in Rio Grande do Sul. Three plants processing pine wood were investigated with respect to sawing and drying methods and moisture content of the industrial wood. The main method used was air seasoning and the resulting defects observed influenced the quality of the sawed wood negatively, suggesting the need of improving the process. However, the average moisture content was in agreement with the standards recommended for air seasoned wood. About 75% of the sawed wood of the area was classed as first when green. After drying, only 45% were first while 45% were of third grade. The remaining 10% were classed as super, extra or of second quality.
Key words:
wood processing; sawing; air drying; wood quality