Three important physical changes take place:

• At high heat, free and bound water is eliminated, reducing the point at which the wood is no longer losing or gaining moisture. Wood exhibiting low Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC) expands and contracts less with changes in relative humidity.

• Organic compounds from the wood are drawn off and reused as a fuel source. Depending on the species of wood , between 50% - 80% of the energy required to thermally transform the wood is derived from the wood itself. The heavier tar-like constituents form an amorphous crystalline matrix around the wood fibers, reducing EMC by upwards of 75%. The stabilized wood is less prone to movement contributing to a significantly longer service life.

• At high heat, the sugars are carbonized, uniformly darkening the wood. The transformed sugars are no longer a microbial food source.

Properties of Cambia Lumber

• Increased dimensional stability- Less susceptible to cupping and warping

• Improved Decay resistance

• Uniform coloration throughout- Visual distinction between sap and heartwood is minimized

Benefits of Cambia Lumber

• Domestic hardwood resources are used to make Cambia lumber. The use domestic species promotes responsible and sustainable forestry practices.

• The thermal modification process and lumber products have a very low Life Cycle Cost and are environmentally responsible from cradle to grave.

• Cambia lumber is a viable substitute for imported hardwoods

• The color is throughout the treated wood.

• Numerous products made with Cambia do not have to be stained, saving substantial labor.

 

The mechanical specifications unique to each species treated remains roughly the same as before thermal transformation. Cambia lumber can be worked with standard woodworking tools, machinery, tooling and techniques. Typical wood glues including PVA Type 1, Type 2 and polyurethane glues work with Cambia. Because of it's low EMC, extra clamp time might be required, otherwise follow the adhesive manufacturers' recommendations. Last Cambia can be dusty. Appropriate safety equipment is strongly advised.

 

Cambia Lumber is the Green Choice

• Cambia adds value and utility to wood species generally considered to be of low value.

• The enhanced performance of Cambia rivals high grade species from the rain forest.

• Cambia is often mistaken for walnut or other highly valued hardwood.

Available species:

• Red Oak
• Yellow Birch
• Ash
• Yellow Poplar
Regardless of the species, thermal modification will improve the performance of the wood.

 

 

Copyright 2008 Ronald Sauve All Rights Reserved