INSIDERMillwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 4 - 2012
LOG MERCHANDIZING FLEXIBILITY
NEW 4-SIDED CANTER DESIGN
A NEW WAY TO WORK
Jordan Lumber recoups after a fire ravages its merchandizing line
A new concept in 4-sided canting will be installed in Russia
Introducing MyMill mobility tools for the sorter
Millwide
Redefining the process and the way we work
USNR is not letting any grass grow under its feet when it comes to improving on its designs or creating new ones In this issue we introduce you to new designs and tools that are not only changing the process but also changing the way we work
Jordan Lumber suffered the loss of its merchandizing line in a fire late in 2011 With quick action by the mill and suppliers a new line is in place and far outper forming its predecessor
USNR was successful in its bid to supply a new greenfield mill in Russia to be delivered late this year A new primary breakdown design is a major element of the layout and one we believe will appeal to a wide range of lumber processors
A revolutionary concept recently introduced at West Fraser Joyce LA is the use of new mobility tools that free mill personnel to per form their tasks more efficiently and effectively The implementation of these tools has resulted in a whole new way to work
As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in order to optimize the dryer process
When you plan your next investment USNR will be more than pleased to discuss your challenges and work with you to create the solutions that will achieve your goals
Sincerely Colleen Schonheiter Editor
INSIDER ISSUE 4 - 2012
SubScRiptionS
Tel 2508333028
subscriptionsusnrcom
EditoR
Colleen Schonheiter
colleenschonheiterusnrcom
contRibutinG EditoR
Sonia Perrine
soniaperrineusnrcom
uSnR paRtS amp SERvicE
724 Service 800BUYUSNR
Tel 3602258267
Fax 3602257146
Mon - Fri 500 am - 500 pm PT
wwwusnrcom
uSnR LocationS
Woodland Wa
Headquarters
3602258267
parksville bc Eugene oR
2509541566 5414857127
plessisville Qc Jacksonville FL
8193628768 9043542301
Salmon arm bc painesville oH
2508327116 4403529381
copy 2012 US Natural Resources Inc
All rights reserved
POSTMASTER Send address changes to
1981 Schurman Way Woodland WA 98674
Canada Post Return Undeliverable Canadian
Addresses to USNR co Colleen Schonheiter
3550 - 45th Street Southeast
Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2
Process flexibility Jordan Lumber
New Log MerchaNdiziNg LiNe deLivers greater quaLity productioN aNd fLexibiLity In November 2011 when fire took out the debarker
merchandizing system and various conveyances
at Jordan Lumber Mt Gilead NC it left the mill
scrambling to devise an interim solution Next
was to source a vendor that could offer a speedy
turnaround in delivering and commissioning
replacement systems The mill chose USNR to
supply the scanning optimization and controls for
the log merchandizing component and the scanning
and optimization system for the log sorter that was
damaged as well
The Jordan operation at Mt Gilead comprises
two green mills an older large log sawmill with
two carriage lines and a small log mill that
was modernized in 2010 As well the company
has several dry kilns and two planer lines at
this site The old merchandizer was a Bowlin
system with USNRrsquos LASAR scanning For the
new merchandizing line Jordan chose a USNR
lineal Smart TriCam triple zone scanning system
combined with USNR Bucking optimization and the
mechanical portion was supplied by Price LogPro
Tom Van Horn is Jordanrsquos production manager for
the green end and he commented ldquoWe feel that
USNR does a very good job of scanningrdquo The other
reason Jordan chose the Smart TriCam system was
that it made the merchandizing system compatible
with the small log mill The merchandizing project
came on the heels of a recent carriage optimization
controls upgrade of which Tom related ldquoWe were
very pleased with that which gave USNR a leg up for
the next projectrdquo The new merchandizing line feeds
Jordanrsquos small log mill and supplements logs to the
large log mill
As an interim solution while the mill was waiting
for the new systems that would replace what was
ravaged in the fire Tom said ldquoWe have a 30rdquo
Cambio debarker that we keep as a spare and we
retrofitted the Cambio to replace the Nicholson
(debarker) We bypassed the merchandizing
area and sent logs to the sorting line and cut
them up with the manual trouble saw in front of
the debarkerrdquo The mill adjusted its operation
by scaling back the small log line because they
After fire forced an investment in
a new log merchandizer Jordan
Lumber is pleased with the new
technology that offers much
improved log quality production
and flexibility
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 3
Each scan zone consists of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo configuration
The new system has a tipple underneath
the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away
couldnrsquot get enough logs to it and double-shifted
the large log mill 6 daysweek to achieve the
necessary production levels Tom explained ldquoThe
insurance company would have paid us for most of
the lost production anyway but we felt it was better
to keep our employees working and also to keep a
steady flow of lumber to our customersrdquo
New technology The new merchandizing system at Jordan uses
USNRrsquos first triple-zone scanner configuration for
this type of application This layout was dictated
by the allowable space that existed between the
debarker and the bucking saws
Glen Untereiner USNRrsquos project manager in
charge of the optimization component for this
project explains the reasoning behind the layout of
the optimization portion ldquoMultiple scan zones allow
us to shorten up the conveyance that is required to
complete a full scan of each stem As stems exit
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20124
Multiple scan zones (3 here) allow for a shorter conveyance to complete a full scan of each stem
1 2
3
the debarker they travel lineally along a conveyor
through three scan zones Each scan zone consists
of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo
configuration The downstream scan zone collects
data from the lead end of the stems the middle scan
zone from the middle of the stems and the upstream
zone from the trailing end of the stemsrdquo With this
configuration the scanning system can handle stems
up to 65rsquo long and the scan is complete before each
stem is swept toward the bucking saws
Glen further explained ldquoThe scanning system
operates at 60 Hz which means that 60 times a
second the system captures a cross section of the
piece That scan data is used along with encoder
data to build a 3D model of the stem and the
optimizer uses that model to fit log products that
can be bucked from the stem that are based on
the highest log valuerdquo For example the optimizer
determines whether it recovers more value to keep a
20rsquo long log with some sweep or cut it into two 10rsquo
long logs that are straighter Glen continued ldquoWe
also use the scanning and optimization to identify
defective sections within the stem such as sharp
kinks and large diameter variations The PLC will
control the machine to chop out the defective section
and drop the piece out to the chipper for immediate
disposal This allows the system to send only useful
sawlogs on to the log sorting systemrdquo
quality production and flexibility The Jordan mill buys some logs that are pre-cut to
length in the bush and the new optimization and
controls systems allow for those pieces to be run
along the conveyor through to the log sorter area
bypassing the bucking saws Downstream of the log
merchandizer area larger logs of the right quality for
the carriage are directed to the large log mill while
smaller more uniform logs go to the small log mill
The USNR Bucking optimization Smart TriCam
system combined with the new mechanical supply
offers more capability than the old merchandizer The
new merchandizing line is designed to automatically
remove flared butts center defects and end pulp
(stem that gets too small)
Tom explains ldquoThe old system always did a
lilypad or butt flare cut off The optimization system
wasnrsquot capable of doing it automatically so it
required a manual override This system can detect it
and make decisions on how much it needs to cut to
remove the flare at the buttrdquo
ldquoThe way USNR has laid out the system
those decisions are made automatically and
it was integrated right into the handlingrdquo
He went on to say that the new system has a tipple
underneath the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away directly to the vibrating conveyor
that goes to the chipper Tom said ldquoSo if we get a
really sweepy area where there was some type of
abnormality in the tree the merchandizer can drop
that defect outrdquo This was something the old system
was not capable of doing
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to remove end
pulp off the top of the stemrdquo Tom explained further
that the mill can now bring in a range of smaller
diameter stems If Jordan wants to allow down to
only a 5-12rdquo diameter log into the small log mill
they can take off the smaller diameter top and drop
it out to go to the chipper With the old system they
had to run it through the bucking system to cut it into
8rsquo or 10rsquo logs convey it out with the good logs run
it through the sorting system have the sorter drop
it out and the loaders bring it back around to the
chipper deck It created a lot of extra handling ldquoThe
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to
remove end pulp off the top of the stemrdquo
way USNR has laid out the system those decisions
are made automatically and it was integrated right
into the handling with the automatic tippling system
underneath the sawsrdquo
The USNR log merchandizing system is set up to
optimize for the downstream equipment in the mill
For example it takes into account the capability of
downstream equipment to curve saw or cut side boards
and if the mill is looking for timbers or certain cant
sizes The database is set up based on what the mill
is trying to produce with the equipment configurations
that are downstream of the merchandizing system
results Tom further described the capability of the new
system compared with the old ldquoWe are running at
about 70 of its capacity At that level it will provide
100 of the logs we need for the small log mill
and we can supplement 20-30 of the logs that we
need for our large log mill running the same hours
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer we
have probably improved throughput from
five to ten percentrdquo
With this configuration the scanning system can handle stems up to 65rsquo long and the scan is
complete before each stem is swept toward the bucking saws
that the small log mill runs In a 10 hour shift at the
merchandizer it will supply a 10 hour shift at the
small log mill and it will also provide 2-3 hours of
production for the old large log sawmillrdquo He also
said that the old system would supply enough logs
to keep the small log mill running so that extra
20-30 for the large log mill is over and above
what the old merchandizing system would do Tom
commented ldquoBut I do feel this system has more
capacity than that 70 of the merchandizerrsquos output
is all that the log sorting line and downstream
equipment can handle to take away The bottleneck
now is the log sorting linerdquo
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer I would say
we have probably improved throughput 5-10 The
recovery is probably a little better By improving the
log quality it improves the production through the
small log mill Wersquore doing a better job of getting
rid of flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is better Helps recovery a little bit but it greatly
improves the uptime of the small log millrdquo
strong company strong team The Jordan team consisted of Tom Van Horn who
acted as the millrsquos project manager and process
control manager along with his role as greenside
production manager Mark Overcash is the
electrical manager who oversaw the installation
and connection of all the electrical systems Justin
Davey is a senior technician and he handled
the controls system for the log sorting line and
interfaced it with the USNR-supplied optimization
component Mark King as mechanical manager
assisted in overseeing the mechanical installation
and start-up Also on the team was James Hallstead
the Mt Gilead mill manager
Tom describes Jordan Lumber as being a
progressive operation that has invested in a number
of upgrades and new capital projects over the past
ldquoBy improving the log quality it improves
the production through the small log mill
Wersquore doing a better job of getting rid of
flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is betterrdquo
several years He explained that the Jordan family
has a firm commitment to the Mt Gilead region
the company has been on the same site for over
70 years and is run by the third generation of the
Jordan family With so much invested Jordan Lumber
aims to be a leader among its wood processing
counterparts in the country and in the world Jordan
Lumber has acquired a solid base of technologically
advanced high yield equipment and is now planning
its next project to add further versatility to its range
of products
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 5
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Millwide
Redefining the process and the way we work
USNR is not letting any grass grow under its feet when it comes to improving on its designs or creating new ones In this issue we introduce you to new designs and tools that are not only changing the process but also changing the way we work
Jordan Lumber suffered the loss of its merchandizing line in a fire late in 2011 With quick action by the mill and suppliers a new line is in place and far outper forming its predecessor
USNR was successful in its bid to supply a new greenfield mill in Russia to be delivered late this year A new primary breakdown design is a major element of the layout and one we believe will appeal to a wide range of lumber processors
A revolutionary concept recently introduced at West Fraser Joyce LA is the use of new mobility tools that free mill personnel to per form their tasks more efficiently and effectively The implementation of these tools has resulted in a whole new way to work
As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in order to optimize the dryer process
When you plan your next investment USNR will be more than pleased to discuss your challenges and work with you to create the solutions that will achieve your goals
Sincerely Colleen Schonheiter Editor
INSIDER ISSUE 4 - 2012
SubScRiptionS
Tel 2508333028
subscriptionsusnrcom
EditoR
Colleen Schonheiter
colleenschonheiterusnrcom
contRibutinG EditoR
Sonia Perrine
soniaperrineusnrcom
uSnR paRtS amp SERvicE
724 Service 800BUYUSNR
Tel 3602258267
Fax 3602257146
Mon - Fri 500 am - 500 pm PT
wwwusnrcom
uSnR LocationS
Woodland Wa
Headquarters
3602258267
parksville bc Eugene oR
2509541566 5414857127
plessisville Qc Jacksonville FL
8193628768 9043542301
Salmon arm bc painesville oH
2508327116 4403529381
copy 2012 US Natural Resources Inc
All rights reserved
POSTMASTER Send address changes to
1981 Schurman Way Woodland WA 98674
Canada Post Return Undeliverable Canadian
Addresses to USNR co Colleen Schonheiter
3550 - 45th Street Southeast
Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2
Process flexibility Jordan Lumber
New Log MerchaNdiziNg LiNe deLivers greater quaLity productioN aNd fLexibiLity In November 2011 when fire took out the debarker
merchandizing system and various conveyances
at Jordan Lumber Mt Gilead NC it left the mill
scrambling to devise an interim solution Next
was to source a vendor that could offer a speedy
turnaround in delivering and commissioning
replacement systems The mill chose USNR to
supply the scanning optimization and controls for
the log merchandizing component and the scanning
and optimization system for the log sorter that was
damaged as well
The Jordan operation at Mt Gilead comprises
two green mills an older large log sawmill with
two carriage lines and a small log mill that
was modernized in 2010 As well the company
has several dry kilns and two planer lines at
this site The old merchandizer was a Bowlin
system with USNRrsquos LASAR scanning For the
new merchandizing line Jordan chose a USNR
lineal Smart TriCam triple zone scanning system
combined with USNR Bucking optimization and the
mechanical portion was supplied by Price LogPro
Tom Van Horn is Jordanrsquos production manager for
the green end and he commented ldquoWe feel that
USNR does a very good job of scanningrdquo The other
reason Jordan chose the Smart TriCam system was
that it made the merchandizing system compatible
with the small log mill The merchandizing project
came on the heels of a recent carriage optimization
controls upgrade of which Tom related ldquoWe were
very pleased with that which gave USNR a leg up for
the next projectrdquo The new merchandizing line feeds
Jordanrsquos small log mill and supplements logs to the
large log mill
As an interim solution while the mill was waiting
for the new systems that would replace what was
ravaged in the fire Tom said ldquoWe have a 30rdquo
Cambio debarker that we keep as a spare and we
retrofitted the Cambio to replace the Nicholson
(debarker) We bypassed the merchandizing
area and sent logs to the sorting line and cut
them up with the manual trouble saw in front of
the debarkerrdquo The mill adjusted its operation
by scaling back the small log line because they
After fire forced an investment in
a new log merchandizer Jordan
Lumber is pleased with the new
technology that offers much
improved log quality production
and flexibility
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 3
Each scan zone consists of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo configuration
The new system has a tipple underneath
the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away
couldnrsquot get enough logs to it and double-shifted
the large log mill 6 daysweek to achieve the
necessary production levels Tom explained ldquoThe
insurance company would have paid us for most of
the lost production anyway but we felt it was better
to keep our employees working and also to keep a
steady flow of lumber to our customersrdquo
New technology The new merchandizing system at Jordan uses
USNRrsquos first triple-zone scanner configuration for
this type of application This layout was dictated
by the allowable space that existed between the
debarker and the bucking saws
Glen Untereiner USNRrsquos project manager in
charge of the optimization component for this
project explains the reasoning behind the layout of
the optimization portion ldquoMultiple scan zones allow
us to shorten up the conveyance that is required to
complete a full scan of each stem As stems exit
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20124
Multiple scan zones (3 here) allow for a shorter conveyance to complete a full scan of each stem
1 2
3
the debarker they travel lineally along a conveyor
through three scan zones Each scan zone consists
of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo
configuration The downstream scan zone collects
data from the lead end of the stems the middle scan
zone from the middle of the stems and the upstream
zone from the trailing end of the stemsrdquo With this
configuration the scanning system can handle stems
up to 65rsquo long and the scan is complete before each
stem is swept toward the bucking saws
Glen further explained ldquoThe scanning system
operates at 60 Hz which means that 60 times a
second the system captures a cross section of the
piece That scan data is used along with encoder
data to build a 3D model of the stem and the
optimizer uses that model to fit log products that
can be bucked from the stem that are based on
the highest log valuerdquo For example the optimizer
determines whether it recovers more value to keep a
20rsquo long log with some sweep or cut it into two 10rsquo
long logs that are straighter Glen continued ldquoWe
also use the scanning and optimization to identify
defective sections within the stem such as sharp
kinks and large diameter variations The PLC will
control the machine to chop out the defective section
and drop the piece out to the chipper for immediate
disposal This allows the system to send only useful
sawlogs on to the log sorting systemrdquo
quality production and flexibility The Jordan mill buys some logs that are pre-cut to
length in the bush and the new optimization and
controls systems allow for those pieces to be run
along the conveyor through to the log sorter area
bypassing the bucking saws Downstream of the log
merchandizer area larger logs of the right quality for
the carriage are directed to the large log mill while
smaller more uniform logs go to the small log mill
The USNR Bucking optimization Smart TriCam
system combined with the new mechanical supply
offers more capability than the old merchandizer The
new merchandizing line is designed to automatically
remove flared butts center defects and end pulp
(stem that gets too small)
Tom explains ldquoThe old system always did a
lilypad or butt flare cut off The optimization system
wasnrsquot capable of doing it automatically so it
required a manual override This system can detect it
and make decisions on how much it needs to cut to
remove the flare at the buttrdquo
ldquoThe way USNR has laid out the system
those decisions are made automatically and
it was integrated right into the handlingrdquo
He went on to say that the new system has a tipple
underneath the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away directly to the vibrating conveyor
that goes to the chipper Tom said ldquoSo if we get a
really sweepy area where there was some type of
abnormality in the tree the merchandizer can drop
that defect outrdquo This was something the old system
was not capable of doing
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to remove end
pulp off the top of the stemrdquo Tom explained further
that the mill can now bring in a range of smaller
diameter stems If Jordan wants to allow down to
only a 5-12rdquo diameter log into the small log mill
they can take off the smaller diameter top and drop
it out to go to the chipper With the old system they
had to run it through the bucking system to cut it into
8rsquo or 10rsquo logs convey it out with the good logs run
it through the sorting system have the sorter drop
it out and the loaders bring it back around to the
chipper deck It created a lot of extra handling ldquoThe
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to
remove end pulp off the top of the stemrdquo
way USNR has laid out the system those decisions
are made automatically and it was integrated right
into the handling with the automatic tippling system
underneath the sawsrdquo
The USNR log merchandizing system is set up to
optimize for the downstream equipment in the mill
For example it takes into account the capability of
downstream equipment to curve saw or cut side boards
and if the mill is looking for timbers or certain cant
sizes The database is set up based on what the mill
is trying to produce with the equipment configurations
that are downstream of the merchandizing system
results Tom further described the capability of the new
system compared with the old ldquoWe are running at
about 70 of its capacity At that level it will provide
100 of the logs we need for the small log mill
and we can supplement 20-30 of the logs that we
need for our large log mill running the same hours
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer we
have probably improved throughput from
five to ten percentrdquo
With this configuration the scanning system can handle stems up to 65rsquo long and the scan is
complete before each stem is swept toward the bucking saws
that the small log mill runs In a 10 hour shift at the
merchandizer it will supply a 10 hour shift at the
small log mill and it will also provide 2-3 hours of
production for the old large log sawmillrdquo He also
said that the old system would supply enough logs
to keep the small log mill running so that extra
20-30 for the large log mill is over and above
what the old merchandizing system would do Tom
commented ldquoBut I do feel this system has more
capacity than that 70 of the merchandizerrsquos output
is all that the log sorting line and downstream
equipment can handle to take away The bottleneck
now is the log sorting linerdquo
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer I would say
we have probably improved throughput 5-10 The
recovery is probably a little better By improving the
log quality it improves the production through the
small log mill Wersquore doing a better job of getting
rid of flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is better Helps recovery a little bit but it greatly
improves the uptime of the small log millrdquo
strong company strong team The Jordan team consisted of Tom Van Horn who
acted as the millrsquos project manager and process
control manager along with his role as greenside
production manager Mark Overcash is the
electrical manager who oversaw the installation
and connection of all the electrical systems Justin
Davey is a senior technician and he handled
the controls system for the log sorting line and
interfaced it with the USNR-supplied optimization
component Mark King as mechanical manager
assisted in overseeing the mechanical installation
and start-up Also on the team was James Hallstead
the Mt Gilead mill manager
Tom describes Jordan Lumber as being a
progressive operation that has invested in a number
of upgrades and new capital projects over the past
ldquoBy improving the log quality it improves
the production through the small log mill
Wersquore doing a better job of getting rid of
flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is betterrdquo
several years He explained that the Jordan family
has a firm commitment to the Mt Gilead region
the company has been on the same site for over
70 years and is run by the third generation of the
Jordan family With so much invested Jordan Lumber
aims to be a leader among its wood processing
counterparts in the country and in the world Jordan
Lumber has acquired a solid base of technologically
advanced high yield equipment and is now planning
its next project to add further versatility to its range
of products
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 5
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Process flexibility Jordan Lumber
New Log MerchaNdiziNg LiNe deLivers greater quaLity productioN aNd fLexibiLity In November 2011 when fire took out the debarker
merchandizing system and various conveyances
at Jordan Lumber Mt Gilead NC it left the mill
scrambling to devise an interim solution Next
was to source a vendor that could offer a speedy
turnaround in delivering and commissioning
replacement systems The mill chose USNR to
supply the scanning optimization and controls for
the log merchandizing component and the scanning
and optimization system for the log sorter that was
damaged as well
The Jordan operation at Mt Gilead comprises
two green mills an older large log sawmill with
two carriage lines and a small log mill that
was modernized in 2010 As well the company
has several dry kilns and two planer lines at
this site The old merchandizer was a Bowlin
system with USNRrsquos LASAR scanning For the
new merchandizing line Jordan chose a USNR
lineal Smart TriCam triple zone scanning system
combined with USNR Bucking optimization and the
mechanical portion was supplied by Price LogPro
Tom Van Horn is Jordanrsquos production manager for
the green end and he commented ldquoWe feel that
USNR does a very good job of scanningrdquo The other
reason Jordan chose the Smart TriCam system was
that it made the merchandizing system compatible
with the small log mill The merchandizing project
came on the heels of a recent carriage optimization
controls upgrade of which Tom related ldquoWe were
very pleased with that which gave USNR a leg up for
the next projectrdquo The new merchandizing line feeds
Jordanrsquos small log mill and supplements logs to the
large log mill
As an interim solution while the mill was waiting
for the new systems that would replace what was
ravaged in the fire Tom said ldquoWe have a 30rdquo
Cambio debarker that we keep as a spare and we
retrofitted the Cambio to replace the Nicholson
(debarker) We bypassed the merchandizing
area and sent logs to the sorting line and cut
them up with the manual trouble saw in front of
the debarkerrdquo The mill adjusted its operation
by scaling back the small log line because they
After fire forced an investment in
a new log merchandizer Jordan
Lumber is pleased with the new
technology that offers much
improved log quality production
and flexibility
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 3
Each scan zone consists of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo configuration
The new system has a tipple underneath
the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away
couldnrsquot get enough logs to it and double-shifted
the large log mill 6 daysweek to achieve the
necessary production levels Tom explained ldquoThe
insurance company would have paid us for most of
the lost production anyway but we felt it was better
to keep our employees working and also to keep a
steady flow of lumber to our customersrdquo
New technology The new merchandizing system at Jordan uses
USNRrsquos first triple-zone scanner configuration for
this type of application This layout was dictated
by the allowable space that existed between the
debarker and the bucking saws
Glen Untereiner USNRrsquos project manager in
charge of the optimization component for this
project explains the reasoning behind the layout of
the optimization portion ldquoMultiple scan zones allow
us to shorten up the conveyance that is required to
complete a full scan of each stem As stems exit
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20124
Multiple scan zones (3 here) allow for a shorter conveyance to complete a full scan of each stem
1 2
3
the debarker they travel lineally along a conveyor
through three scan zones Each scan zone consists
of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo
configuration The downstream scan zone collects
data from the lead end of the stems the middle scan
zone from the middle of the stems and the upstream
zone from the trailing end of the stemsrdquo With this
configuration the scanning system can handle stems
up to 65rsquo long and the scan is complete before each
stem is swept toward the bucking saws
Glen further explained ldquoThe scanning system
operates at 60 Hz which means that 60 times a
second the system captures a cross section of the
piece That scan data is used along with encoder
data to build a 3D model of the stem and the
optimizer uses that model to fit log products that
can be bucked from the stem that are based on
the highest log valuerdquo For example the optimizer
determines whether it recovers more value to keep a
20rsquo long log with some sweep or cut it into two 10rsquo
long logs that are straighter Glen continued ldquoWe
also use the scanning and optimization to identify
defective sections within the stem such as sharp
kinks and large diameter variations The PLC will
control the machine to chop out the defective section
and drop the piece out to the chipper for immediate
disposal This allows the system to send only useful
sawlogs on to the log sorting systemrdquo
quality production and flexibility The Jordan mill buys some logs that are pre-cut to
length in the bush and the new optimization and
controls systems allow for those pieces to be run
along the conveyor through to the log sorter area
bypassing the bucking saws Downstream of the log
merchandizer area larger logs of the right quality for
the carriage are directed to the large log mill while
smaller more uniform logs go to the small log mill
The USNR Bucking optimization Smart TriCam
system combined with the new mechanical supply
offers more capability than the old merchandizer The
new merchandizing line is designed to automatically
remove flared butts center defects and end pulp
(stem that gets too small)
Tom explains ldquoThe old system always did a
lilypad or butt flare cut off The optimization system
wasnrsquot capable of doing it automatically so it
required a manual override This system can detect it
and make decisions on how much it needs to cut to
remove the flare at the buttrdquo
ldquoThe way USNR has laid out the system
those decisions are made automatically and
it was integrated right into the handlingrdquo
He went on to say that the new system has a tipple
underneath the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away directly to the vibrating conveyor
that goes to the chipper Tom said ldquoSo if we get a
really sweepy area where there was some type of
abnormality in the tree the merchandizer can drop
that defect outrdquo This was something the old system
was not capable of doing
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to remove end
pulp off the top of the stemrdquo Tom explained further
that the mill can now bring in a range of smaller
diameter stems If Jordan wants to allow down to
only a 5-12rdquo diameter log into the small log mill
they can take off the smaller diameter top and drop
it out to go to the chipper With the old system they
had to run it through the bucking system to cut it into
8rsquo or 10rsquo logs convey it out with the good logs run
it through the sorting system have the sorter drop
it out and the loaders bring it back around to the
chipper deck It created a lot of extra handling ldquoThe
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to
remove end pulp off the top of the stemrdquo
way USNR has laid out the system those decisions
are made automatically and it was integrated right
into the handling with the automatic tippling system
underneath the sawsrdquo
The USNR log merchandizing system is set up to
optimize for the downstream equipment in the mill
For example it takes into account the capability of
downstream equipment to curve saw or cut side boards
and if the mill is looking for timbers or certain cant
sizes The database is set up based on what the mill
is trying to produce with the equipment configurations
that are downstream of the merchandizing system
results Tom further described the capability of the new
system compared with the old ldquoWe are running at
about 70 of its capacity At that level it will provide
100 of the logs we need for the small log mill
and we can supplement 20-30 of the logs that we
need for our large log mill running the same hours
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer we
have probably improved throughput from
five to ten percentrdquo
With this configuration the scanning system can handle stems up to 65rsquo long and the scan is
complete before each stem is swept toward the bucking saws
that the small log mill runs In a 10 hour shift at the
merchandizer it will supply a 10 hour shift at the
small log mill and it will also provide 2-3 hours of
production for the old large log sawmillrdquo He also
said that the old system would supply enough logs
to keep the small log mill running so that extra
20-30 for the large log mill is over and above
what the old merchandizing system would do Tom
commented ldquoBut I do feel this system has more
capacity than that 70 of the merchandizerrsquos output
is all that the log sorting line and downstream
equipment can handle to take away The bottleneck
now is the log sorting linerdquo
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer I would say
we have probably improved throughput 5-10 The
recovery is probably a little better By improving the
log quality it improves the production through the
small log mill Wersquore doing a better job of getting
rid of flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is better Helps recovery a little bit but it greatly
improves the uptime of the small log millrdquo
strong company strong team The Jordan team consisted of Tom Van Horn who
acted as the millrsquos project manager and process
control manager along with his role as greenside
production manager Mark Overcash is the
electrical manager who oversaw the installation
and connection of all the electrical systems Justin
Davey is a senior technician and he handled
the controls system for the log sorting line and
interfaced it with the USNR-supplied optimization
component Mark King as mechanical manager
assisted in overseeing the mechanical installation
and start-up Also on the team was James Hallstead
the Mt Gilead mill manager
Tom describes Jordan Lumber as being a
progressive operation that has invested in a number
of upgrades and new capital projects over the past
ldquoBy improving the log quality it improves
the production through the small log mill
Wersquore doing a better job of getting rid of
flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is betterrdquo
several years He explained that the Jordan family
has a firm commitment to the Mt Gilead region
the company has been on the same site for over
70 years and is run by the third generation of the
Jordan family With so much invested Jordan Lumber
aims to be a leader among its wood processing
counterparts in the country and in the world Jordan
Lumber has acquired a solid base of technologically
advanced high yield equipment and is now planning
its next project to add further versatility to its range
of products
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 5
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Each scan zone consists of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo configuration
The new system has a tipple underneath
the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away
couldnrsquot get enough logs to it and double-shifted
the large log mill 6 daysweek to achieve the
necessary production levels Tom explained ldquoThe
insurance company would have paid us for most of
the lost production anyway but we felt it was better
to keep our employees working and also to keep a
steady flow of lumber to our customersrdquo
New technology The new merchandizing system at Jordan uses
USNRrsquos first triple-zone scanner configuration for
this type of application This layout was dictated
by the allowable space that existed between the
debarker and the bucking saws
Glen Untereiner USNRrsquos project manager in
charge of the optimization component for this
project explains the reasoning behind the layout of
the optimization portion ldquoMultiple scan zones allow
us to shorten up the conveyance that is required to
complete a full scan of each stem As stems exit
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20124
Multiple scan zones (3 here) allow for a shorter conveyance to complete a full scan of each stem
1 2
3
the debarker they travel lineally along a conveyor
through three scan zones Each scan zone consists
of three Smart TriCam sensors situated in a ldquoCrdquo
configuration The downstream scan zone collects
data from the lead end of the stems the middle scan
zone from the middle of the stems and the upstream
zone from the trailing end of the stemsrdquo With this
configuration the scanning system can handle stems
up to 65rsquo long and the scan is complete before each
stem is swept toward the bucking saws
Glen further explained ldquoThe scanning system
operates at 60 Hz which means that 60 times a
second the system captures a cross section of the
piece That scan data is used along with encoder
data to build a 3D model of the stem and the
optimizer uses that model to fit log products that
can be bucked from the stem that are based on
the highest log valuerdquo For example the optimizer
determines whether it recovers more value to keep a
20rsquo long log with some sweep or cut it into two 10rsquo
long logs that are straighter Glen continued ldquoWe
also use the scanning and optimization to identify
defective sections within the stem such as sharp
kinks and large diameter variations The PLC will
control the machine to chop out the defective section
and drop the piece out to the chipper for immediate
disposal This allows the system to send only useful
sawlogs on to the log sorting systemrdquo
quality production and flexibility The Jordan mill buys some logs that are pre-cut to
length in the bush and the new optimization and
controls systems allow for those pieces to be run
along the conveyor through to the log sorter area
bypassing the bucking saws Downstream of the log
merchandizer area larger logs of the right quality for
the carriage are directed to the large log mill while
smaller more uniform logs go to the small log mill
The USNR Bucking optimization Smart TriCam
system combined with the new mechanical supply
offers more capability than the old merchandizer The
new merchandizing line is designed to automatically
remove flared butts center defects and end pulp
(stem that gets too small)
Tom explains ldquoThe old system always did a
lilypad or butt flare cut off The optimization system
wasnrsquot capable of doing it automatically so it
required a manual override This system can detect it
and make decisions on how much it needs to cut to
remove the flare at the buttrdquo
ldquoThe way USNR has laid out the system
those decisions are made automatically and
it was integrated right into the handlingrdquo
He went on to say that the new system has a tipple
underneath the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away directly to the vibrating conveyor
that goes to the chipper Tom said ldquoSo if we get a
really sweepy area where there was some type of
abnormality in the tree the merchandizer can drop
that defect outrdquo This was something the old system
was not capable of doing
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to remove end
pulp off the top of the stemrdquo Tom explained further
that the mill can now bring in a range of smaller
diameter stems If Jordan wants to allow down to
only a 5-12rdquo diameter log into the small log mill
they can take off the smaller diameter top and drop
it out to go to the chipper With the old system they
had to run it through the bucking system to cut it into
8rsquo or 10rsquo logs convey it out with the good logs run
it through the sorting system have the sorter drop
it out and the loaders bring it back around to the
chipper deck It created a lot of extra handling ldquoThe
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to
remove end pulp off the top of the stemrdquo
way USNR has laid out the system those decisions
are made automatically and it was integrated right
into the handling with the automatic tippling system
underneath the sawsrdquo
The USNR log merchandizing system is set up to
optimize for the downstream equipment in the mill
For example it takes into account the capability of
downstream equipment to curve saw or cut side boards
and if the mill is looking for timbers or certain cant
sizes The database is set up based on what the mill
is trying to produce with the equipment configurations
that are downstream of the merchandizing system
results Tom further described the capability of the new
system compared with the old ldquoWe are running at
about 70 of its capacity At that level it will provide
100 of the logs we need for the small log mill
and we can supplement 20-30 of the logs that we
need for our large log mill running the same hours
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer we
have probably improved throughput from
five to ten percentrdquo
With this configuration the scanning system can handle stems up to 65rsquo long and the scan is
complete before each stem is swept toward the bucking saws
that the small log mill runs In a 10 hour shift at the
merchandizer it will supply a 10 hour shift at the
small log mill and it will also provide 2-3 hours of
production for the old large log sawmillrdquo He also
said that the old system would supply enough logs
to keep the small log mill running so that extra
20-30 for the large log mill is over and above
what the old merchandizing system would do Tom
commented ldquoBut I do feel this system has more
capacity than that 70 of the merchandizerrsquos output
is all that the log sorting line and downstream
equipment can handle to take away The bottleneck
now is the log sorting linerdquo
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer I would say
we have probably improved throughput 5-10 The
recovery is probably a little better By improving the
log quality it improves the production through the
small log mill Wersquore doing a better job of getting
rid of flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is better Helps recovery a little bit but it greatly
improves the uptime of the small log millrdquo
strong company strong team The Jordan team consisted of Tom Van Horn who
acted as the millrsquos project manager and process
control manager along with his role as greenside
production manager Mark Overcash is the
electrical manager who oversaw the installation
and connection of all the electrical systems Justin
Davey is a senior technician and he handled
the controls system for the log sorting line and
interfaced it with the USNR-supplied optimization
component Mark King as mechanical manager
assisted in overseeing the mechanical installation
and start-up Also on the team was James Hallstead
the Mt Gilead mill manager
Tom describes Jordan Lumber as being a
progressive operation that has invested in a number
of upgrades and new capital projects over the past
ldquoBy improving the log quality it improves
the production through the small log mill
Wersquore doing a better job of getting rid of
flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is betterrdquo
several years He explained that the Jordan family
has a firm commitment to the Mt Gilead region
the company has been on the same site for over
70 years and is run by the third generation of the
Jordan family With so much invested Jordan Lumber
aims to be a leader among its wood processing
counterparts in the country and in the world Jordan
Lumber has acquired a solid base of technologically
advanced high yield equipment and is now planning
its next project to add further versatility to its range
of products
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 5
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
He went on to say that the new system has a tipple
underneath the saws that allows the operator to drop
center defect away directly to the vibrating conveyor
that goes to the chipper Tom said ldquoSo if we get a
really sweepy area where there was some type of
abnormality in the tree the merchandizer can drop
that defect outrdquo This was something the old system
was not capable of doing
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to remove end
pulp off the top of the stemrdquo Tom explained further
that the mill can now bring in a range of smaller
diameter stems If Jordan wants to allow down to
only a 5-12rdquo diameter log into the small log mill
they can take off the smaller diameter top and drop
it out to go to the chipper With the old system they
had to run it through the bucking system to cut it into
8rsquo or 10rsquo logs convey it out with the good logs run
it through the sorting system have the sorter drop
it out and the loaders bring it back around to the
chipper deck It created a lot of extra handling ldquoThe
ldquoThat tipple system also allows us to
remove end pulp off the top of the stemrdquo
way USNR has laid out the system those decisions
are made automatically and it was integrated right
into the handling with the automatic tippling system
underneath the sawsrdquo
The USNR log merchandizing system is set up to
optimize for the downstream equipment in the mill
For example it takes into account the capability of
downstream equipment to curve saw or cut side boards
and if the mill is looking for timbers or certain cant
sizes The database is set up based on what the mill
is trying to produce with the equipment configurations
that are downstream of the merchandizing system
results Tom further described the capability of the new
system compared with the old ldquoWe are running at
about 70 of its capacity At that level it will provide
100 of the logs we need for the small log mill
and we can supplement 20-30 of the logs that we
need for our large log mill running the same hours
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer we
have probably improved throughput from
five to ten percentrdquo
With this configuration the scanning system can handle stems up to 65rsquo long and the scan is
complete before each stem is swept toward the bucking saws
that the small log mill runs In a 10 hour shift at the
merchandizer it will supply a 10 hour shift at the
small log mill and it will also provide 2-3 hours of
production for the old large log sawmillrdquo He also
said that the old system would supply enough logs
to keep the small log mill running so that extra
20-30 for the large log mill is over and above
what the old merchandizing system would do Tom
commented ldquoBut I do feel this system has more
capacity than that 70 of the merchandizerrsquos output
is all that the log sorting line and downstream
equipment can handle to take away The bottleneck
now is the log sorting linerdquo
ldquoCompared with the old merchandizer I would say
we have probably improved throughput 5-10 The
recovery is probably a little better By improving the
log quality it improves the production through the
small log mill Wersquore doing a better job of getting
rid of flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is better Helps recovery a little bit but it greatly
improves the uptime of the small log millrdquo
strong company strong team The Jordan team consisted of Tom Van Horn who
acted as the millrsquos project manager and process
control manager along with his role as greenside
production manager Mark Overcash is the
electrical manager who oversaw the installation
and connection of all the electrical systems Justin
Davey is a senior technician and he handled
the controls system for the log sorting line and
interfaced it with the USNR-supplied optimization
component Mark King as mechanical manager
assisted in overseeing the mechanical installation
and start-up Also on the team was James Hallstead
the Mt Gilead mill manager
Tom describes Jordan Lumber as being a
progressive operation that has invested in a number
of upgrades and new capital projects over the past
ldquoBy improving the log quality it improves
the production through the small log mill
Wersquore doing a better job of getting rid of
flares and crooks so the quality of the log
is betterrdquo
several years He explained that the Jordan family
has a firm commitment to the Mt Gilead region
the company has been on the same site for over
70 years and is run by the third generation of the
Jordan family With so much invested Jordan Lumber
aims to be a leader among its wood processing
counterparts in the country and in the world Jordan
Lumber has acquired a solid base of technologically
advanced high yield equipment and is now planning
its next project to add further versatility to its range
of products
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 5
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
USNR log line innovations cHEcK out tHE LatESt LoG LinE dESiGnS FRom uSnR USNR has been in the business of offering primary Extended Length infeed (ELi) With over 20 years of production and more than
log breakdown lines for many decades From 100 installations worldwide USNRrsquos ELI system has
simple to complex our designs have run the gamut Proven piece counts of 18+ logsmin proven appeal and reliability Our patented slew
and wersquove installed primary lines in most wood Feed speeds up to 650 fpm skew and tilt (SST) technology delivers unparalleled
processing regions worldwide Following are three Skew slew and tilt capability for ultimate positioning accuracy for four-sided cant applications
of our recent layout offerings that meet todayrsquos positioning accuracy on large or small log lines or is also available
requirements for high speed log breakdown Small log and large log applications without the tilt option for two-sided canting
SL3000 LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
ScannER
ScanninG convEyoR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
EXtEndEd LEnGtH inFEEd
bottom HEad SidE HEadS FEEdRoLL
moduLE top HEad moduLE
cant tRanSFER convEyoR
cantER
pGLR ScannER (optional)
This layout is installed at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR
ScannER ScannER LoG tuRnER
LoG LoadinG convEyoR auto-Rotation ScanninG convEyoR poSitioninG inFEEd
cantER cant tuRnER
anGLE RoLLcaSE
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
With the ELI layout shown below the logs are
scanned for the best orientation to achieve
the highest recovery This mill chose to have
a Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR)
system installed to monitor and correct the log
rotation in real time (Read more on scanning and
optimization on the next page) Once turned the
logs are positioned via the skew slew and tilt (SST)
capability of the infeed section that can move the
log in both vertical and horizontal planes Then
two more scanners verify the logrsquos position as
the infeed orients it prior to breakdown the first
scanner measures the latter half of the log while
the second scanner measures the first half before
any actual processing takes place
This line is a 4-sided canter configuration The
log is fed through the profiling canter section where
it is first chipped with profiling bottom heads then
chipped on both sides and finally chipped with
profiling top heads Four-sided canting is used
where the mill chooses to straight saw their logs as
opposed to curve sawing Mills that choose 4-sided
canting have logs that tend to be straighter with
less sweep so curve sawing is not deemed to be a
requirement for any appreciable uplift in recovery
The ELI layout shown below is somewhat unique
in that the mill wanted two quad arbor sawboxes with
circular saws to take off sideboards ahead of the VDA
gang A common practice of many mills is to utilize
bandmills for this purpose
The sawboxes each have a pivoting top arbor saw
that swings down in front of the bottom saw and cuts
the top part of the log while the bottom saw cuts the
remainder Speed is the advantage with this type of
breakdown as it can cut faster than a bandmill
The pivoting top arbor design balances the cut
between the two saws so each saw is required to cut
less thus allowing the machine to cut faster For
example an 8rdquo log can be cut at the same speed as
a single arbor saw cutting a 4rdquo log Balancing the cut
This large log ELI line (above and below) is installed at Carrier Lumber in Prince George BC
also fills the gullets therefore minimizing the saw step Logs that are smaller than 14rdquo are processed through
or match line This style of breakdown is typically the first sawbox with the capability to take off four
used for smaller logs but the Carrier mill also thought sideboards using thinner kerf saws and larger logs go
it was a good design for its large log line on through to the second sawbox with the capability
nEW 4-SidEd cantinG LoG bREaKdoWn SyStEm
boaRd SEpaRatoR boaRd SEpaRatoR SaWboX SaWboX
This layout is installed at Carrier Lumber Prince George BC
vda GanG
ScannER
tuRninG RoLLS cEntERinG RoLLS
SidE cHippER
top amp bottom cHippER
vERticaL FEEd RoLLS
pRoFiLER
SaWboX
SidE boaRd SEpaRatoR
pRoFiLER vSa GanG This layout will be installed at a new greenfield mill in Russia in late 2012
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 7
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
The SL3000 Log Breakdown line is installed
at Stimson Lumber Tillamook OR (above and
below) Below shows the log being rescanned
after it was turned and positioned
to take off six sideboards using thicker kerf saws
After each sawbox sideboards are separated off and
routed to an optimized edger The remaining 4-sided
cant is processed through the double arbor gang with
resulting lumber directed to the optimized trim line
SL3000 Log Breakdown System
Compact fast amp accurate simpler than an ELI
Scans first for the turn then rescans for final chip
head positioning
Integrated reciprocating quad roll log turning
Slew and skew technology and chip head
positioning ensures optimal recovery
Can operate at 600 fpm 24 pieces per minute
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR recently redesigned the SL3000 Log Breakdown
system creating a hybrid system that combines
some of the best features of related designs (See
the layout on the previous page) This machine is
compact fast and accurate it is capable of operating
at 600 fpm and processing 24 pieces per minute
The attributes that make this design unique are
that it is shorter and simpler than an extended length
infeed it operates at high speeds and is extremely
accurate This configuration was chosen at Stimson
Lumber because of its proven design for positioning
accuracy and to maintain control of the log through
the cutting tools there is no transition into the
canter so there is limited opportunity for the log to
lose position prior to processing This design will
handle small to medium sized logs ranging up to
30rdquo diameter The resulting 2-sided cants can be
processed by a curve sawing gang downstream
At the Stimson mill the USNR supply includes
the log feeder positioned at the last step of the
log loader to facilitate precise gap management
between logs Once loaded on the vee-flight chain
each log is scanned for defects turned skewed to
position thumped on a sharp chain and a final scan
is performed before processing minus all within a very
short distance After the first scan a reciprocating
quad roll log turner actuates the turn solution
Then the positioning infeed takes over the final log
position adjustments by skewing the log end to
end This feature offers a big advantage allowing the
line to position for specific log defects to achieve
maximum recovery
The skew is accomplished with two sets of
centering rolls fitted with linear positioning
cylinders One moves the front end of the log left
or right the other moves the back end left or right
Once the log is in position the overhead pressrolls
come down and thump the log onto the sharp chain
Then it is scanned again and the system has the
capability to move the chipping heads to make
further adjustments before processing
Currently there are two installations of this new
design operating in the Pacific Northwest US
New 4-Sided Canting Log Breakdown
Designed for compact fast and accurate straight
sawing applications
Feed speeds up to 700 fpm
Accommodates logs up to 30rdquo diameter
USNR has a major new development in the works
for primary breakdown in a compact 4-sided canter
it produces cants that are straight sawn (See the
layout on the previous page) A benefit of this design
is that it will minimize snipe that is inherent in chip-
n-saw style 4-sided canters The first installation will
be at a Russian mill later this year
Once scanned and turned the infeed section has
the capability to tilt the log for improved recovery It
does not skew or slew so is simpler and shorter than
the infeed of an ELI
With this new design the sides are chipped off
while the log is impaled on the sharp chain The
sides are then held by guided vertical feedroll
modules and the top and bottom are chipped off
upstream of profiling heads and a horizontal single-
arbor sawbox that removes finished side boards
The side boards are separated off of the center cant
and it is profiled once again upstream of the vertical
single-arbor gang that produces the finished boards
ready for trimming
Unique to this design is its conical chipping
heads (see image right) Conical heads allow the
mill to use finishing knives for a smoother finish
which is typical European styling as the majority of
lumber is sold rough sawn and dried
This new design is applicable for any mill where
curve sawing is not required It will handle up to 30rdquo
diameter logs is similar in length to the SL3000
system and offers speeds up to 700 fpm
Log line alternatives Log size Space required Rescan 4-2-sided
canting Curve
sawing Edging
required
ELI medlrg moderate yes 42 optional optional
SL3000 smlmed smallest yes 2 yes optional
4-Sided Canting smllrg moderate optional 4 no optional
Some differentiators may vary depending on the application and the millrsquos preferences
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 20128
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Making it all work USNRrsquos primary breakdown machines use the
MillExpert optimization platform with Smart
TriCamtrade lineal scanning as the base offering An
alternative scanning solution uses LPL-E sensors
for maximum data density on log breakdown
applications This system utilizes the precise
scan data collected during the first scan to create
a dense 3D model of each log MillExpertrsquos Log
Turner Optimizer and Log Optimizer work together
for optimal turning and positioning to achieve the
most valuable breakdown solution
USNR offers a valuable option in the Precision Geometric Log Rotation (PGLR) system The PGLR
scanning system is located at the log turner machine
section It monitors and corrects the log rotation
process in real time to increase recovery by reducing
log rotation error typically reduced by 50 or more
The PGLR system utilizes the same high-resolution
Smart TriCam 3D sensors as is used at the primary
breakdown log scanner PGLR can be installed with a
new MillExpert optimized primary breakdown system
or as an addition to an existing system
For real-time process monitoring and trending
USNR offers the Turn Detector and System Quality Inspector (SQI) The Turn Detector
compares images of the log before and after the
turner to measure the actual turn error on every
log The SQI provides trending reports comparing
the predicted and actual positioning and cutting of
the log SQI receives the optimized log image and
solution from the optimizer as well as log scan
data from just upstream of the chippers or cant
scan data from the cant outfeed The SQI program
compares the predicted data to the actual log or cant
characteristics then calculates and reports
any detectable positioning or cutting errors in
the system
Turn Detector and SQI allow for faster initial
system tuning feedback on overall system
performance and are long-term tools to predict
Conical chipping heads
maintenance requirements Depending on the
application and configuration of the system the Turn
Detector and SQI software can often use data from
existing scanning systems so additional scanners
may not be required
Associated products USNR offers a comprehensive list of related products
for primary breakdown lines that runs the gamut from
end to end Following is a list of related products
step feeders
bandmill headrigs
carriages
infeed systems
sharp chains
small log systems
log turners
cant turners
slabbers
canters
Check out the next issue of Millwide Insider where
we will describe the log line sections and options in
more detail
When you are planning the next investment for
your millrsquos primary end please contact us for an
evaluation of what our designs can offer Contact us
today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258767
or infousnrcom
SIDE CHIPPERS TOP amp BOTTOM CHIPPERS
PROFILER
QUAD ARBOR SAWBOX
SIDE BOARD SEPARATOR
PROFILER
VSA GANG
NEW 4-SIDED CANTING LOG BREAKDOWN SYSTEM minus BREAKDOWN SECTIONS
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 9
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
NEW TOOLS
Bin 61rsquos boards are dispersed
Bin 61 lowers and live bin walls release
mobile control MyMill
USNR iNtRodUceS NeW mobility toolS FoR yoUR mill West Fraserrsquos Joyce LA mill is
the first to implement a radical
new concept for machine control
that puts the tools into the hands
of personnel via mobile devices
running USNRrsquos new software
application MyMill HMI We believe
this is the wave of the future for
our industry
MyMilltrade is a new software suite developed by
USNR that enables mill personnel to interact with
mill equipment using mobile devices MyMill
HMI is an application within the MyMill suite
that replicates in a mobile device all of the
functionality that is typically available through a
stationary HMI touchscreen
USNR recently deployed the MyMill HMI
application on a small fleet of iPads and iPods
as part of the installation of a new 70-bin sorter
at West Fraserrsquos mill in Joyce LA The mill was
initially reluctant to invest in a product that seemed
so beyond the norm for their environment but they
ultimately agreed to give the technology a try The
rest as they say is history mill personnel are
routinely finding new ways to use MyMill HMI to
perform their job functions more efficiently and
safely often for tasks never anticipated by USNRrsquos
development team
When you think of people working in a wood
processing plant you likely donrsquot think of them
using iPads to do their job USNR believes that
mobile control devices like iPads and iPods will
soon become tools of the trade The new reality
is that these devices have found their way into
other industrial environments recently with many
benefits and that is why USNR was eager to
introduce this mobile technology into the wood
processing realm
Imagine having the freedom to move about the
mill carrying with you the tools and information you
need to do your job from wherever you happen to be
Not only can you be more productive but you will
also be more efficient Processing corrections are
much faster resulting in improvements to recovery
and value of the final product
First installation Gary Milhollen mill manager at the West Fraser
Joyce operation is a believer in the benefits of the
MyMill mobile interface to control the millrsquos new 70-
bin pusher lug sorter He commented ldquoItrsquos reliable
and we donrsquot have to have someone up there on the
sorter letting down the bays conventionallyrdquo He has
an iPad in his office that he uses to monitor what is
happening at the sorter while the millrsquos planer mill
superintendent James Austin chose to have an iPod
for the same purpose
10 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
To meet the Joyce millrsquos requirements USNR
supplied 5 mobile devices 2 iPads and 3 iPods that
are loaded with the MyMill interface software These
devices completely replace the 11 consoles that
would have been needed in a conventional supply
Also included is a full-size HMI screen located at the
stacker operatorrsquos area and another in the control
room The sorter operator carries an iPad and is able
to control all of the sorter functionality remotely
The sorter operator can choose which bins to
dump in several modes
Full auto ndash the system selects bins in ascending
or descending order
Selectable auto ndash operator selects bins to dump
and sets dump order
Manual ndash operator controls bin equipment and
floor chains directly
To perform a function such as jogging the discharge
deck the operator must hold his finger on a button
on the screen until the desired jog is accomplished
If he removes his finger the deck stops
The sorter operator often finds it is more
convenient to dump a bin while he is at the floor
chain level where he can also manage the discharge
decks He has the ability to discharge any number
of bins while standing adjacent to the floor chains
rather than having to be at one of the consoles on
the walkway above This also improves package
staging to the stacker The system can be monitored
by the stacker operator the QC technician the
sorter supervisor and anyone else who carries one
of the MyMill interface devices
Safety For West Fraser safety was a concern with the use of
the devices Using a mobile device with the MyMill
interface is actually much safer for sorter operation
than the use of a stationary console that is typically
mounted at the top of the bins Mobility allows
the operator maintenance or service personnel
the capability to actuate any aspects of the sorter
operation from the location that is most convenient
for dumping a bin clearing a jam changing out a
valve etc They do not need to rely on the exchange
of messages with another worker who is at the
console or HMI and controlling the operation
With MyMill you can be in the optimum location
for what you need to do and if lock-outs are
required you can verify that they are in place before
proceeding Some personnel may be tempted
to skip locking out a machine for a ldquosimplerdquo fix
because of the extra trips back and forth to the
console but putting the console in his hands
eliminates that danger
If communications from a device are lost even
momentarily the PLC immediately disregards all
inputs from that device That way if there should be
a drop in the signal that device cannot inadvertently
control the sorterrsquos functions
The MyMill interface offers an abundance of
real time data in the palm of the hand
troubleshooting made easy John Jacques USNR project manager for the
West Fraser project commented on the ease of
troubleshooting with the mobile functionality
ldquoDuring commissioning (of the sorter) all our field
service personnel loved the mobile functionality
because they could take an iPad or iPod and actuate
the bins diverters and the live bin walls without
having to go to an electrician or get someone else
to actuate them at the console So it really made
troubleshooting a lot easierrdquo
message center The mobile devices offer an abundance of real time
data in the palm of the hand Not only do they provide
mobile machine control they also provide a powerful
communications tool so that anyone with a device can
tell at a glance the status of any of the functions of the
sorter and of its components One aspect that the West
Fraser personnel appreciate is that from one worker
to another the devices provide reliable information
and messages through the message center Personnel
can create and view messages and from one shift to
another communication about current issues is easily
accessed without having to leave handwritten notes
Wireless access range The MyMill system operates on a dedicated wireless
infrastructure on a secure in-plant network The
wireless access point allows a range of up to 700
feet so a whole mill could be networked with a single
wireless access point and several repeaters
The stationary HMI screens and PDAs running the
MyMill interface access the PLC independently and
provide the same machine control functionality The
difference is the mobility of the PDAs and the mill
wide accessibility to actuate or monitor any number
of machine centers
the future USNRrsquos Larry Chudyk senior controls engineer
led the development team for the MyMill interface
system He sums up where USNR sees the future
of this new tool ldquoWersquove really just scratched the
surface of what is possible with the installation of
the MyMill HMI at the Joyce mill This application
will change the way we control processing operations
in the futurerdquo
The usefulness of the MyMill suite in the
mill environment is nearly as boundless as the
imagination USNR is pleased to bring these new
tools of the trade to the wood processing industry
and we sincerely appreciate the trust our customers
place in us to take on new concepts
For more information about the use of MyMill
mobile interface software in your mill please
contact us at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267 or
infousnrcom
Scan this QR code
with your smart
phone to view a video
of sorter operation
with MyMill HMI
running on an iPad
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 11
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201212
Millwide Worldwide
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Kiln Boss control system EXPERT CONTROL FOR YOUR LUMBER DRYING PROCESS When it comes to quality drying you have to be able to depend on your kiln to
work properly For over 100 years USNR has worked with companies just like
yours to help you get the most out of your investment The Kiln Boss computer
control system is one way you can easily improve the efficiency and production
of your lumber drying process
Kiln Boss systems offer you the capabilities and functions of a much larger
and more complex control system but at a fraction of the cost Most mills
achieve payback in less than one year Kiln Boss tracks your custom drying
schedules alerts you to trouble or system changes and reports batch and
historical statistics for your review
The Kiln Boss system is proven to reduce energy usage by more precisely
controlling the process and drying schedule time It accepts any drying schedule
and works equally well with any kiln configuration You can choose to run on
full automatic mode to let Kiln Boss optimize the fan control or set it to manual
mode You or your operator can examine and change the parameters for each
kiln that is controlled by Kiln Boss with the click of a mouse The system is
menu-driven so no special computer skills are required The Kiln Boss monitor
provides a simple graphical view of kiln operation so you can see at a glance
whatrsquos going on in your kiln
Call us at 1800BUYUSNR to discuss your kiln control needs Let us provide
you with an evaluation of how Kiln Boss can improve the performance of your
lumber drying process
Softwood application
Track in-kiln conditions over time to optimize your drying schedules
Hardwood application
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 13
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
ERINSID
Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 201214
The International Woodworking Fairreg (IWF) is one
of North Americarsquos largest woodworking shows It is
the bi-annual event where furniture manufacturing
cabinetry architectural woodworking material
processing and other industry professionals from
all over the globe come to find products they didnrsquot
know existed that will help their company succeed
You can learn more online at the IWF website
wwwiwfatlantacom and see it all live August 22 to 25 2012 in Atlanta Georgia
USNR is exhibiting in Building B of the Georgia
World Congress Center Visit us to learn more about
veneer and panel processing machinery (B-4653)
lumber scanning and optimization systems (B-4349)
and lumber dry kilns (B-4427) Contact us today for
more information at 800-BUY-USNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
Complimentary Subscription
Sign up today
Name
Title
Company
Mailing Address
City StateProv
Country ZipPost code
Tel Fax
Please (continue to) send me the Millwide Insider magazine by USNR
Date
Signature
Fax to 2508044028 or mail to Colleen Schonheiter USNR PO Box 8 Salmon Arm BC V1E 4N2 To unsubscribe or to subscribe by e-mail please send your request to subscriptionsusnrcom
Millwide
THE MAGAZINE FROM USNR | ISSUE 5 - 2011
SEEING BOTH SIDES
REDESIGNING THE PROCESS
USNR SORTS IT OUT FOR YOUAllegheny Wood Products puts dual-side LASAR scanning to the test
Louisiana Hardwoods takes its edger line to a whole new level
USNR outlines sorting features designed to make the job easy
usnr exhibits At north AmericArsquos lArGest woodworkinG show
AddVantage chop saw optimizer
Veneer lathe
Hardwood package dry kiln
Visit us at IWF 2012
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
Batch beam press
Mann-Russell RF gluing line is AliVe AnD thRiVing With usnR USNR produces a complete line of Mann-Russell
finger joint gluing systems that use radio frequency
curing and a vertical finger joint shaper is also
available The following lines are manufactured and
supported by USNR
GluLam beam lines
Finger jointing lines
Lumber edge gluing lines
Panel scarf joint lines
Radio frequency (RF) curing is commonly used
in structural finger jointing to enable increased
production ease of handling immediate proof
loading and planing While the Mann-Russell RF
finger joint line has served the industry for over
60 years the demand continues to grow as more
primary and secondary manufacturers utilize
finger jointing to increase recovery and enter the
engineered wood products market To complement
the finger jointing product line USNR also produces
lumber edge gluers and beam laminators
Following are benefits of USNRrsquos product evolution
and support for your Mann-Russell equipment
Unique and innovative solutions
A partner with proven longevity and stability
Broad product line with nearly every type of
machine in a modern mill
Established network of global industry professionals
Besides manufacturing USNR also supports the
Mann-Russell line with spare parts and full service
repairs Parts are manufactured stored and shipped
from our headquarters at Woodland WA Original
engineering drawings are kept on file for every part
on your Mann-Russell equipment so you know your
parts will be manufactured to OEM specifications
every time Contact us for support for the following
GluLam beam lines
Radio Frequency (RF) generators
Onsite tuning of presses and tunnels
Proof loader calibrations
Overload panel upgrades for RF generators
Replacement RF tubes
Spare parts
With decades of knowledge and expertise in RF
gluing systems we know that maintenance parts and
service are critical to ensuring a smooth operation
day in and day out
Your contact for Mann-Russell parts is Cliff Banta
located at our Woodland WA facility For over 20
years Cliff has helped Mann-Russell customers
get the parts you need when you need them He
continues in that capacity at USNR To contact Cliff
for parts or for more information on Mann-Russell
equipment contact us at infousnrcom
+360-225-8267 or 800-BUY-USNR
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 15
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
Optimized performance USNR vENEER DRyERS thE SCiENCE BEhiND thE DESigN As the cost of energy continues to increase USNR
veneer dryers are becoming more energy-efficient By
using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations
to evaluate the thermal flow in our jet veneer dryers
USNR engineers have been able to refine the design in
order to optimize the dryer process
With this tool wersquove been able to better control
the thermal air mass in the dryer and increase the
production of quality veneer in a cost effective
and environmentally friendly manner Subsequent
design refinements have also resulted in a smaller
overall size (foot print) of the dryer which reduces
the required size of the production floor as well as
energy costs Energy efficiency is achieved with
automatic exhaust controls that result in a more
uniform application of thermal mass flow a lower
thermal energy requirement and reduced volume of
dryer exhaust
Air velocities modeled in a cross section of the dryer show dramatic changes near the fan and
uniformity in the drying chamber
Automatic Dryer Efficiency Control (ADEC) The ADEC system automatically controls the
total volume of dryer exhaust under all operating
conditions It ensures effective control of moisture
venting and the vir tual elimination of tramp
unheated air from entering the hot sections of the
dryer (Tramp air is unheated air that may leak
into the heated sections of the dryer adversely
impacting the moisture and temperature balance
and slowing down the drying process)
Automatic Cooler Pressure Balance System This system automatically controls the cooler
exhaust volume under all operating conditions
minimizing the flow of heated process air from the
dryer into the cooler or cooler air into the hot dryer
The system minimizes pitch buildup which reduces
maintenance and cleaning and allows for automatic
veneer temperature control into the dry stacking
process The benefits associated with these controls
include the following
Minimizes oxygen within the dryer for the best
veneer color
Maximizes humidity ratio within the dryer
16 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
CFD air velocity vectors
(lef t) are modeled around
the dryer fans
The USNR jet tube design
(right) offers up to a 15
production advantage over
competitive designs
Maximizes productivity per unit of dryer length
Eliminates in-plant dryer fugitives
Eliminates cooler discharge fugitives
Minimizes exhaust volume per unit of production
Provides superior thermal efficiency per unit
of production
Provides a single exhaust discharge point for ease
in piping to further processors
New Plenum Design The veneer dryer plenums are designed for maximum
airflow strength and safe access to jet tubes for
easy cleanout and handling The stainless steel
construction ensures durability Maximum thermal
efficiency is achieved through refined insulation
system design
Jet tubes This is one of the most important aspects of the
veneer drying process The heat speed even-
distribution and controllability of the jet tubesrsquo
ldquoimpingingrdquo air flow defines the efficiency of the
drying process and the quality of the veneer that
is produced
USNRrsquos jet tubes have been produced and refined
for over 40 years and the latest designs have
evolved from over 20000 hours of
laboratory research The nozzle design offers up to
a 15 production advantage over other jet tubes in
the industry
Our jet tube design is based on the strict
management and sealing of the airflow that goes into
the nozzle and a very well tested and researched
hole configuration that not only speeds up the airflow
but ensures a truly perpendicular impingement of
the heated airflow onto the top and bottom surfaces
of the veneer Customers have reported significant
improvement in all cases where older jet tubes were
replaced with this new jet tube technology
For more information about our veneer dryers
contact us today at 800BUYUSNR +3602258267
or infousnrcom
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 17
800BUYUSNR infousnrcom wwwusnrcom
Millwide Worldwide
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
NEW
PR
OJE
CTS
Aserraderos Arauco ndash MillExpert Trimmer upgrade WinTally upgrade Dual GMR The Arauco Horcones II mill in Chile is upgrading
its Trimmer optimizer to the latest MillExpert
software while retaining its existing Newnes
LPS2 scanning system The WinTally sorter
management system will be upgraded to the V7
platform and a dual True-Read GL grade mark
recognition system will be installed
Boise Cascade ndash MillExpert M6 Trimmer upgrade GMR The Boise Cascade Kinzua Lumber mill at Pilot
Rock Oregon is upgrading its MillExpert M6
Trimmer optimizer system New software and
computer hardware is included while the mill will
retain its existing M6 scanning system
The mill has also ordered a USNR True-Readtrade
GL Grade Mark Reader This unit is a full-featured
recognition system that reads and interprets
hand-written grade and trim marks
Canfor ndash Edger line upgrade The Canfor mill at Radium BC is upgrading its
edger line with a new scanner transfer Edger
Maximizer positioning table updated controls
system and the latest Newnes Sawmill Suite
software version release
Cersosimo Lumber ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR carriage optimizer The Cersosimo Lumber Company headquartered
in Brattleboro Vermont processes both softwood
and hardwood lumber They have ordered the
MillExpert G3LASAR carriage optimization
system for a Cleereman carriage along with a
valve upgrade to the carriage hydraulic system
Hampton ndash CS Gang Optimization upgrade The Hampton Affiliates mill at Morton
Washington is upgrading its Newnes-McGehee
curve saw gang system to the latest software
release V72 At the same time the lineal scan
frame will be retrofitted to replace the outdated
Hydra sensors with new LPL sensors
The LPL sensor is designed to operate at a
high sample rate and data point density The
result is a very precise 3D model of the piece and
highly accurate optimization solution
Idaho Forest ndash Lineal Gang Controls upgrade An upgrade to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC
is ordered for the Idaho Forest Group operation at
Laclede Idaho The new system will replace the
existing PLC5 system and the obsolete A-B IMC
motion control will also be replaced
Limington Lumber ndash MillExpert M6 Edger upgrade Limington Lumber at East Baldwin Maine
produces high quality Eastern White Pine lumber
The mill is converting an older obsolete system
to the MillExpert M6 Edger optimizer system
New software and computer hardware are included
with the upgrade and the mill will retain its
existing transverse M6 scanning heads
At the same time the control system will
be upgraded to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
platform with Delta RMC motion control With
these upgrades the edger optimization and
control systems will be fully supportable
18 Millwide INSIDER | ISSUE 4 - 2012
Maltat Group ndash Complete Sawmill The Maltat Group has contracted with USNR to
design and manufacture a complete new sawmill
for its site at Yeniseisky Krasnoyarskiy Krai
Russia The sawmill will operate one shift with a
processing capacity of 300000 m3 of logs
The supply will consist of a debarking line
primary breakdown line with canter quad arbor
sawbox and vertical arbor gang green and dry
trimsortstack lines and residual processing
equipment The mill is due to be commissioned
in early 2013
Materiaux Blanchet ndash Trimmer Optimizer Multi-Track Fence Materiaux Blanchet located at St Pampxhile
Quebec has ordered a new Trimmer optimizer
and Multi-Track Fence The Trimmer optimizer
is based on the Newnes Sawmill Suite platform
with the latest software release and will utilize
BioLuma 2900L sensors in the scan frame
Superior Hardwoods ndash MillExpert G3 LASAR Carriage Optimization The hardwood mill Superior Hardwoods located
at Wellston Ohio will install a MillExpert G3
Carriage Optimization system for its 3-knee
Cleereman carriage The optimizer will utilize data
from a LASAR scanning system This powerful
combination offers over 10 times the scan data of
other systems with a multitude of installations in
softwood and hardwood applications worldwide
Suwannee Lumber ndash Counter-Flow Dry Kiln Suwannee Lumber at Cross City Florida has
ordered a new USNR high temperature direct
fired Counter-Flow dry kiln A new Kiln Boss
control system has also been ordered and an
existing USNR Green Fuel Burner will be reused
West Fraser ndash Lineal High Grader (LHG) The West Fraser operation at Henderson Texas
has ordered a full-featured Lineal High Grader
automated planer mill grading system
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
ISSUE 4 - 2012 | Millwide INSIDER 19
Millwide Worldwide
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1
PO Box 310 Woodland WA 98674
Millwide INSIDER is printed on recycled paper
AUG 25ndash28 IWF Atlanta Georgia
SEPT 11ndash14 Technodrev Siberia Krasnoyarsk Russia
OCT 2ndash4 TechniBois Quebec Canada
OCT 17ndash19 TP amp Energy Expo Portland Oregon
OCT 22ndash26 Lesdrevmash Moscow Russia
NOV 10ndash12 EWTA Amelia Island Florida
Jimrsquos sojourn into this industry began
with Moore Dry Kilns at Memphis
TN in 1970 In 1995 he joined the
Newnes team and subsequently
joined USNR in 2008
Over the years Jim has helped
many customers improve their
operations A few of the many
notable projects Jim was involved
with include a complete new planer
mill at Hankins Lumber at Grenada
MS in 1997 a major sawmill
retrofit at the same site in 2000 a
new greenfield sawmill and planer
mill at Temple Inland at Pineland
TX and a recent major planer mill
upgrade project at West Fraser
Joyce LA
Jim enjoys the diversity that
keeps his job interesting and
rewarding He particularly enjoys
helping to solve processing
issues and seeing those designs
implemented attributing much
success to the teams he has
worked with He also says ldquoI
have developed a lot of customer
relationships and I consider many
customers as close friendsrdquo
Jim and wife Caroline enjoy
time with their 4 grandchildren And
in the fall yoursquoll often find Jim out in
the woods hunting
UPCOMING EVENTS
PR
OFI
LE
Jim Huffstatler is a Senior
Account Manager for USNR
based in Louisiana
- Button1