Use a desiccator to measure the woods moisture content

Establishing the moisture content of wood without a specialized meter is possible, and a desiccator offers a reliable method.

How a Desiccator Functions

A desiccator is a sealed container that contains a desiccant, a substance that absorbs moisture. When a sample of wood is placed inside the desiccator, the desiccant draws out moisture from the wood.

Determining Moisture Content

The weight of the wood sample is measured both before and after it is placed in the desiccator. The difference in weight represents the moisture that has been absorbed by the desiccant. By calculating the percentage of this moisture relative to the original weight of the wood, the moisture content of the wood can be determined.

Benefits of Using a Desiccator

• Accurate results: Desiccators provide reliable measurements.
• No specialized equipment: This method does not require expensive or complex equipment.
• Simple to use: The process is straightforward and does not require technical expertise.

Limitations

While desiccators are effective for measuring moisture content, they do have some limitations:

• Time-consuming: The process can take several days to complete.
• Not suitable for large samples: Desiccators are not ideal for testing large or irregularly shaped pieces of wood.
• Requires a dry environment: The desiccant in the desiccator must remain dry, so it should be used in a controlled environment.

Conclusion

Using a desiccator is a valuable method for accurately measuring the moisture content of wood. While it may not be as convenient as using a moisture meter, it is a reliable and cost-effective alternative.