As the lumber commodity remains exponentially higher than the previous 5 years, we all question the sanity behind the market. We also ask ourselves: how can we remain competitive within our own markets?
Lumber optimization begins at the forestry level, managing the plantations for 40 years or more and ensuring each tree produces the highest yield. The next stage is optimization at the saw mill, where 3D lumber scanners and other forms of technology are utilized so mills can produce the best yield for their own financial gain. Then, some Component Manufacturers are also managing their return on inventory using lumber optimization software produced by equipment suppliers or other industry suppliers.
Lumber optimization for our industry was originally developed to get the most out of each piece of timber, minimizing the handling process while nesting cuts, thereby diminishing waste and processing time.
In fact, most software still functions in much the same way. But, it is important to keep in mind – there are inherently trade-offs between waste/speed/infeed sorting/outfeed sorting. And, it’s also important to know – Spida’s optimizer will give the CM control over these trade-offs through various settings at the saw.
Our process puts the user in control. Using the “look ahead” feature in the Spida SDN software, the operator will adjust how much of a job is optimized at any given time. This allows full control over the potential trade-offs so you can reach the balance that works for you. Operators can choose to optimize the entire job – knowing that this can make sorting difficult as components from all of the trusses or panels in a job come out in random order. On the other hand, having this number set too low, such as one panel or truss, will limit the ability of the program to optimize effectively. Finding the balance between effective optimization and achievable sorting takes some trial and error, but many tend to set it around 4–5 panels or trusses, depending on existing workflow.
Furthermore, where the CMs can gain a distinct advantage may already exist within their factory but management may be unaware. Machines running Spida’s SDN software incorporate cost into the optimizing matrix: waste/speed/infeed sorting/outfeed sorting/cost.
For example: if you push the cost of 16’ up, the program will use as few of this length as possible when selecting which stock to utilize. The program will optimize based on cost of timber and the weighted cost per cut, thereby lowering the CM’s overall cost of the job. Naturally, the question is by how much. Well, it varies, based on a job’s specifics and other optimizing settings, but the savings will not be negligible in today’s environment.
Empowering the CM to be both flexible and realize their highest potential is just one of the many reasons to consider new equipment from Spida Machinery. Contact Spida Machinery to learn more about how we can help you minimize lumber costs.