Steam's Effect on Wood: A Gedanken Experiment

In summary, the conversation discusses the effects of inserting a piece of wood into a steamer. There are multiple possibilities that could occur, such as steam getting trapped and causing outward expansion, or not being able to penetrate and causing inward compression. The experiment is considered a "gedanken" experiment and the important result is that steamed wood becomes softer and easier to bend. Further discussion is encouraged after conducting the experiment.
  • #1
vin300
603
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I have a piece of wood, I decide to insert it into a steamer to observe what happens, because I'm not sure. There could be multiple possibilities. Wood has conductive tissue, steam may get trapped within pressing it outwards. The temperature dependent expansion definitely happens. But steam not being able to penetrate may press it inwards, causing effective compression. Thus far, this is rather "gedanken" experiment.
 
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  • #2
vin300 said:
not being able to penetrate
Once you've done the experiment, get back to us for some discussion.
 
  • #3
Far more important than any slight temporary change in the size of a piece of wood in a steamer, the wood becomes relatively soft and many woods can be easily bent right after being steamed whereas they cannot when dry.
 
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1. How does steam affect the strength of wood?

Steam has been shown to significantly weaken the strength of wood by softening the cell walls and breaking down the lignin that holds the fibers together. This makes the wood more pliable and less able to bear weight or resist forces.

2. Can steam cause wood to warp or deform?

Yes, steam can cause wood to warp or deform, especially if the wood is exposed to steam for an extended period of time. The moisture from the steam can cause the wood to swell and change shape, leading to warping or deformation.

3. Does steam treatment make wood more resistant to insects or rot?

Steam treatment does not make wood more resistant to insects or rot. In fact, the moisture from the steam can actually make the wood more susceptible to rot and insect infestation by creating a more hospitable environment for these organisms.

4. How long does it take for steam to penetrate wood?

The time it takes for steam to penetrate wood depends on various factors such as the type of wood, its moisture content, and the temperature and pressure of the steam. In general, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days for steam to fully penetrate wood.

5. Can steam treatment improve the dimensional stability of wood?

Steam treatment does not improve the dimensional stability of wood. In fact, it can have the opposite effect by causing the wood to swell and change shape. To improve the dimensional stability of wood, other treatments such as heat treatment or pressure treatment may be more effective.

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