Moisture Mapping is a crucial technique employed to determine the moisture content of wood, particularly significant for woodworkers. It involves measuring moisture levels at various depths within a piece of wood, allowing for precise assessment of its dryness and suitability for turning.
Wood moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present in wood compared to its dry weight. MC is expressed as a percentage. Freshly felled trees typically have high MC, ranging from 50-100%.
The ideal MC for turning wood depends on the desired results. Generally, lower MC is preferred to prevent warping, splitting, or cracking during the turning process. For most woods, an MC of 8-12% is considered optimal for turning.
By using Moisture Mapping techniques, woodworkers can accurately determine wood MC and ensure that it is adequately dry before turning. This approach minimizes the risk of defects and enhances the overall quality and durability of turned projects.