Moisture content refers to the amount of water present in wood. It is expressed as a percentage of the oven-dry weight of the wood. Understanding wood moisture content is crucial for various woodworking processes, including drying, machining, and finishing.
When turning wood, the moisture content should be between 6% and 8%. This range ensures that the wood is stable and less likely to warp or crack during the turning process. Wood with higher moisture content can be difficult to work with, and it may not produce a smooth finish.
Several methods can be used to determine the moisture content of wood. One common method is to use a moisture meter. Moisture meters are available in various types, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
If the wood you wish to turn has a moisture content higher than 6-8%, it will need to be seasoned. Seasoning is the process of drying wood to reduce its moisture content. There are two main methods of seasoning wood:
Proper seasoning is essential for ensuring that wood is stable and less likely to warp or crack. It also helps to improve the wood’s strength and durability.