Effects of moisture of wood in the sanding process

• Grant number: 12/08937-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2012
• End date: July 31, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Manufacturing Processes
• Principal Investigator: Manoel Cleber de Sampaio Alves
• Grantee: Larissa Ribas de Lima Soares
• Host Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus Experimental de Itapeva. Itapeva , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In the present project the effects of moisture content of wood in sanding process will be analyzed, by studying, in two different ways, its effects upon the quality of the (sanded) parts. The first analysis will consist in applying different percentages of humidity to the workpieces before the process of sanding; therefore, it will be observed the changes that occur on the finished parts depending on the humidity. The second analysis consist in applying different percentages of humidity to parts already sanded to observe the changes that occur in the final product due to post-sanding treatments. This project will be done by sanding the pieces cut parallel to the fibers using: two different species (Pinus Elliotii and Corymbia Citriodora), an abrasive material (aluminum oxide), three different granulometries of sandpaper (P80, P100 and P120), five different moisture contents (7%, 9%, 11%, 13% and 15%); a cutting speed and a specific pressure. For each condition shall be held six repetitions totalizing 360 trials. We will analyze the effects of moisture content of wood by capturing sand strength and power, roughness, vibration analysis, heating, acoustic emission, dimensional variation and integrity and surface quality analysis with images. The objectives of this research proposal are absolutely feasible, for at the Campus of UNESP in Itapeva, all the necessary equipment for wood processing as well as all materials and resources needed for the project are already available not demanding further investments. In addition, the candidate for the scholarship aid is an excellent student. (AU)