The requirement:
Annandale Timber Products Ltd are fencing manufactures based in Scotland, specialising in UC4 fence posts. Managing Director, James Long, approached GlenFarrow looking for a way of drying his timber down to the correct moisture content before treating. There was also a need to decrease drying times and increase capacity due to high customer demand. We opted to develop a system that utilises the existing shed space at the site to create a bespoke kiln for the customer’s drying needs. A GlenFarrow biomass boiler was also chosen for the kilns heat supply, allowing the customer to utilise their waste wood for free fuel.
Our solution:
The heating, insulation and ventilation requirements were calculated to design a bespoke kiln. This included specialist high-temperature fans with moisture protection to allow for optimum airflow to the timber. High-output linear heat exchangers were also fitted, along with stainless steel pipework and fittings for a long service life. A bespoke inlet and forced extraction ventilation system allowed for full temperature and humidity control, with highly accurate PID control to keep the temperature in the kiln consistent. For enhanced control over the kiln and the biomass boiler, our engineers installed a bespoke GlenFarrow touch screen control panel – designed specifically for fence post drying requirements. This included full recipe controls for different wood species and their varying moisture contents. GlenFarrow Connected (our new remote access software) was also installed to monitor the system. This meant our engineers have been able to remotely support and ensure uninterrupted operation of the system from our office base in Lincolnshire.
What the client had to say:
“The reason for choosing GlenFarrow was quite simple – they had a very good reputation. The customer service from the start of putting prices together, initial enquiries right through to technical advice and changing programs on the kiln, there is always someone at the end of the phone. Mike and his team are behind it the whole time, I couldn’t recommend them enough really.”
James Long, Managing Director, Annandale Timber Products Ltd
