Timber Trader UK Issue 21 (Summer 2023)

21

SUMMER 2023 www.timbermedia.co.uk

TRADER UK

ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)

MATERIALS & FINISHES SHOW  20 Get ready for 2024’s freshly relaunched event for the furniture manufacturing and joinery industries CONVEYOR BELT TECHNOLOGY?  22

TIMBER TREATMENTS  34

Panel production and safely streamlining your manufacturing process

How the correct wood preservation can help you be an industry-leading carbon enabler

Integrated eCommerce and PIM platform

Business management software.

TIMBER TRADER UK  ISSUE 21 CONTENTS 02  News A range of news and views from across the timber industry.

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14  Maximise Your Timber Sales A new comprehensive TDUK resource ‘The Merchant Guide to Selling Timber’ will help merchants make the most of their sales of timber and timber products.

16  Electric Moves As all aspects of the timber supply chain attempt to reduce carbon emissions, a new trial project using electric vehicles will provide a glimpse of the future for the movement of timber.

18  Using Our Own Resources If we are to create a healthier and less import-led supply chain, homegrown timber needs to be prioritised, says James Brennan, head of marketing for the BSW Group.

20  Cover Story: Crafted for Business The W Exhibition has relaunched as the Materials & Finishes Show and will run at the Birmingham NEC in May 2024, showcasing the furniture manufacturing and joinery industries.

22  Timber in Motion Choosing the right conveyor belt for your panel processing is not as simple as you think, as Damian Marczak and Mario Buchs at conveyor belt specialist Habasit point out.

24  Dust Devils: Keep it Clean Simon Liddell, managing director of Leitz UK talks through recent developments surrounding the improper management of wood dust in the manufacturing environment.

28  All Angles Visibility The safe movement of timber products is essential with one home developer looking to a trusted and familiar name to help with its new Bicester facility.

Consultant Editor: Gary Ramsay

Registered address:

 hannah.jones@timbermedia.co.uk

Structural Timber Media Ltd,



01743 290 001

101 Longden Road, Shrewsbury,

34  The Modern Era of Wood Preservation

 www.timbermedia.co.uk

SY3 9PS

Andy Hodge, marketing director for Arxada’s Wood Protection Business Unit and WTTA president, explains how treated timber can become a carbon enabler in the modern era of wood preservation.

Follow Timber Media:

Company registered in England and

 @Timber_Media

Wales. Company Number 14537283

25 Introducing The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz 2023 june.indd 1

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Terry Hanlon 1957-2023 Anyone having anything to do with this

Terry was a passionate advocate for

magazine either as a reader, contributor

timber and for the people that worked

or as an advertiser will have known

within the timber industry. With his

Timber Media’s founder Terry Hanlon

trademark style of directness and warmth,

well.

he was always willing to offer advice for

It is with true sadness to report that

those making their way in what he felt

this certified ‘larger than life’ character

was the best material to use for nearly

passed away on 1 July aged 65 after

anything – even a timber car – and was a

suffering a long period of ill-health. Even

familiar face and friend to many on the

though he was very unwell in recent

circuit.

months, Terry continued his relentless

Terry came a long way from his

positive approach to work and life and

birthplace on the Isle of Arran (he was a

pursued his love of publishing. That

fervent Celtic F.C supporter and a proud

love of publishing and sales lasted for

Scotsman) to his home in Newton-le-

over 25 years from the early days of

Willows, that he shared with his wife Carol

Excel Publishing based in Manchester

and sons Liam and Michael. Terry was a

– launching Timber in Construction

champion of everything timber and his

Magazine in 2002 – to his own business

eccentric charm will be sorely missed by

that he began in 2017.

all that knew and worked with him.

TDUK University Design Challenge another triumph The winners of #TDChallenge23 have been announced.

The ‘competition’ enables students to learn how to design and build with timber while providing skills they can take into their careers by simulating real challenges the students will face.

Fiercely competitive, from the 150+ who first registered, 34 students from 22 universities were selected from across the UK for the competition’s finals at NMITE’s Centre for Advanced Timber Technology to face a judging panel comprised of professional, academic and industry experts.

The mixed-discipline student teams came together and worked online for five months to produce their entries.

(L-R) Tabitha Binding, Head of Education, Timber Development UK. Dafyn Richards, Plymouth University. Deepak Sadhwani, Cardiff University. Daniel Green, London Metropolitan University. Beverley Gibbs, CAO NMITE. Absent: Shweta Salvankar, Cardiff University. Irene Dumitrascu-Podogrocki, Newcastle University. Martin Juricek. Heriot-Watt University.

They were given the task of reimagining Widemarsh Cricket Pavilion in Hereford, a timber-framed pavilion currently only used for

carbon structural material – timber. The TDChallenge is unique, offering

storage.

students the opportunity to get beyond their course work and apply

The local community wanted a multifunctional space that is

their learnings in a pragmatic way by working together as professionals

welcoming, warm, easy to maintain, produces more energy than it

do, and on a real-world project. Timber is often not taught sufficiently

consumes and costs little to run. Teams had to retrofit and extend the

at UK universities, so this challenge has become an important way for

building, and the triangle of ground bordered by roads and paths. The

the industry to ‘plug the gaps’ and ensure that incoming professionals

winners – who named their team ‘Hemphasise’ – proposed to transform

have the skills they need to thrive and build – or retrofit - the

Widemarsh Pavilion into a flexible learning facility and community hub

sustainable, low-carbon buildings we need today. Specifying the right

which would offer opportunities for skills development, enhanced

products and detailing for longevity and reuse is essential.”

social mobility, and community cohesion. The winning design adopted a whole-building approach to meet the EnerPhit retrofit standard. Their

The challenge is brought together by Timber Development UK in

proposed building fabric provides a medium-weight construction with

a collaborative partnership with AECB, BE-ST, NMITE, Edinburgh

thermal mass to store heat. Many of the materials are hygroscopic

Napier University and Passivhaus Trust, with software from Trimble,

(breathable) and thus able to support the management of moisture.

the Passive House Institute and AECB PHribbon. Are you a student

Tabitha Binding, head of education and engagement at TDUK,

or recent graduate? Sign up to participate in our University Design

said: “To have any hope of addressing the climate crisis, our future

Challenge 2024 – which is focused on affordable, sustainable timber

professionals need to know how to build and retrofit using the lowest

housing at  www.timberdevelopment.uk

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Trades warned of equipment crimewave Tradespeople are being warned to step up security as a crime wave sweeps through construction sites in the UK. Commercial insurer NFU Mutual’s new research reveals almost nine in 10 (89%) tradespeople have experienced theft and crime specialists are warning that the world events, including the conflict in Ukraine, is driving up demand for stolen goods.

NFU Mutual is warning people not to be complacent as its study finds over three quarters (78%) of tradespeople and contractors admit they have left machinery and tools in a vehicle overnight. Vans are a key target for criminals, with nearly six in ten experiencing thefts from their vehicle (58%). And over half (55%) have experienced theft of their items from a building site, as 83% say they have left portable tools and equipment on-site overnight. Tradespeople say the main impacts of these thefts include loss of income (55%) and extra

if stolen, making it harder for thieves to sell stolen tools, and help re-

costs to replace or hire new kit (43%), and worryingly over a third reveal

unite them with their owners. NFU Mutual has been a key contributor in

theft has an impact on their mental health (34%).

helping shape the Bill and in offering insight at the consultation stage

Zoe Knight, commercial specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “In the

– highlighting the impact of theft, as well as the importance of security,

current climate as supply is low and demand for stolen equipment

marking tools and keeping an inventory of items.

is high, we are urging people to step up security. Tradespeople rely

Detective Constable Chris Piggott, field intelligence officer for

on their tools for their income and to keep the chain of a project on

the National Construction and Agri Thefts Team (NCATT), added: “We

schedule. As our report findings show, the theft of equipment can have

welcome NFU Mutual’s study and their support for our work and are

a devastating impact, professionally, financially and mentally.

urging people to secure their property by using marking, tracking and

“It is crucial that tradespersons are fully supported should the

immobilisation as well recording all serial numbers to aid the police to

worst happen. The cost of replacing kit and machinery has increased

detect and prosecute criminals.

significantly due to supply chain issues in recent times. We are advising

“We often end up on warrants and searches where numerous

tradespeople to know what they own by recording serial numbers and

high value power tools are located, if serial numbers are not recorded

keeping up to date with current market values.”

these will be untraceable and cannot returned to their rightful owners.

Only 57% of respondents said they would be able to produce a

There is nothing more frustrating than having to hand suspected stolen

complete list of their tools and value, leaving 43% without a recorded

property back to a known offender, because the person who has lost

inventory. Only 41% keep photographic evidence of their tools and just 17%

them didn’t take the time to accurately record the information when

video their equipment – yet these are quick and easy ways to keep a record.

they purchase them. This ultimately means that we also can’t prosecute

The study by NFU Mutual comes as the Equipment Theft

and bring offenders to justice, meaning they can carry on stealing tools

(Prevention) Bill has passed through the House of Commons and is

without fear of retribution.”

expected to be signed into law later this summer. It aims to ensure More at  www.nfumutual.co.uk/trades-insurance

high value tools and machinery are marked, registered, and traceable

inkjet printers for all your timber marking needs

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

GMG Energy plants another 10,000 trees In keeping with its commitment to a minimal impact on the environment and the natural world, timber products specialist GMG Energy has announced that is planting another 10,000 trees in a swathe of forest it owns in the far north-east of Scotland. The latest enhancement of its strategic reserve of timber is part of an ongoing resource replenishment programme which is based on the industry standard of one-for-one, but the company has substantially exceeded that target in most recent years..

The new planting will take place on 400 acres of softwood-planted land at Quintfall Forest, towards the east coast south of John O’Groats, which GMG Energy purchased early last year to protect future supply and increase its resilience to market shocks. It will be overseen by forestry consultant Donald McClelland, from Caithness, who will assemble a team to undertake the planting and will then manage the growth and wellbeing of the crop until maturity after 35 years.

Malcolm Morrison, Director of GMG Energy, said: “We are committed to replacing every log of timber that we use in our sawmill, biomass and timber products facility in the Strath of Halladale in Sutherland

The six-figure initiative means that biomass supplier GMG Energy

and this latest tranche of planting maintains that momentum. We are

can now move away from the use of expensive and polluting diesel

also dramatically reducing our reliance on diesel fuels with the recent

generators for its energy-intensive activities and rely instead on

installation of a solar array of more than 100 photovoltaic panels on the

electricity created from the long daylight hours of the north-east

roof of the main production facility at the plant. Quintfall is just over 20

of Scotland. The £100,000 installation and commissioning of the

miles from our base of operation at Bighouse Farm, so it will not add to

new power system has been supported by a £70,000 loan from the

the road miles burden and planting there will chime with our wish to

Energy Saving Trust, repayable over nine years, and will allow GMG to

invest locally and provide a reliable resource for other local companies.”

substantially mitigate its heaviest fixed cost. In addition, the £34,000

The company, which has a turnover in the region of £2million, has

introduction of three-phase power for GMG’s electric motors and other

also installed a high-tech preservation tank which will provide treated

heavy loads has been supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise

and stress-tested timber products for local concerns which previously

with a 50% grant and will allow the firm to provide surplus energy to

had to source supply from much further afield. They have also become

the National Grid.

even more energy efficient after putting a massive solar array on the More at  www.gmgenergy.co.uk

roof of its production facility into operation.

Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants wins Prestige Award Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants have announced they have won

“We’re extremely proud and humbled to win this award. It is a testament

the Building Merchants of the Year award for London/South East

to the fantastic level of effort exhibited by every colleague within the

2023/2024, as part of the Prestige Awards. .

business, our ethos of providing unrivalled customer service and our

The judges were impressed by the range of materials available at

culture of maintaining high standards in everything that we do.”

Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants, who have developed longstanding

Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants is a family-run business offering

relationships with suppliers to ensure consistency and excellence, saying:

tools and building supplies required for construction projects at low prices.

“From softwoods, MDF, hardwoods,

The company initially began trading as

skirtings and architraves, to aggregates,

Alloway Timber Southern Ltd back in 1971

blocks, bricks and lintels — the building

and has since expanded to include a building

merchant stocks every material customers

merchant wing to help support customers in

require for construction projects at a price

completing their projects from conception

that suits all budgets. Their extensive fleet

to completion. Today, it is a one-stop shop

includes multiple vehicle types: from transit

that offers a comprehensive selection of

vans and lorry mounted cranes, all the

construction materials. It trades from five

way to their specialist loft loader vehicles,

sites – Kingston-upon-Thames, Byfleet,

allowing versatile, same and next-day

Cheam, Mitcham and Putney.

delivery to suit customers’ needs.”

More at  www.allowaytimber.com

Jez Avens, managing director, said: Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

MKM founder David Kilburn honoured with CBE The co-founder of MKM, David Kilburn,

the people who have contributed to what has

has been awarded a CBE for services to

been achieved. It is very humbling, that’s how

the construction industry and to charity in

I feel about it, and I’m very happy to receive

the King’s inaugural Birthday Honours list.

it. This sort of recognition does not happen

David, who is celebrating his 60th year in

without the great people who have worked

the construction sector this year, founded

with us, the talent. I have been very lucky as

MKM with close friend Peter Murray in 1995.

without the support from lots of people, my

Starting at a single site in Hull, the business

wife Linda, and lots of others, it wouldn’t have

has now grown to become the UK’s leading

been possible. It has been a very interesting

independent builders’ merchant, operating

journey and it is a very humbling experience.”

more than 100 branches nationwide with a turnover of £818million.

MKM’s central support is still located

Kate Tinsley, CEO at MKM, added: “The whole business is so thrilled for David. His service to the construction industry, which

in Hull, with the business playing a hugely

now spans 60 years, is truly remarkable. That,

important role in shaping the city’s business

alongside his notable charity work, makes him a

celebrated opening its 100th branch, with

landscape. David now uses his platform to

very, very worthy recipient for this honour and it

a network that now spans the entire length

help influence and nurture other enterprises,

is fantastic to see him recognised at such a high

and breadth of the UK. The merchant is also

which includes the formation of local mentor

level. David’s contribution to the construction

marking the first anniversary for its MKM

organisation For Entrepreneurs Only, which

sector and his ongoing work to promote

Home offering, a state-of-the-art retail

itself earned royal recognition via a prestigious

businesses and entrepreneurship in Hull is

showroom located close to the business’s

Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021.

something everyone at MKM is very proud of.”

central support in Hull.

Speaking of his investiture, David said: “It

David’s recognition comes at an exciting

is a very moving experience, and I think of all

Timber Trader UK Magazine

time for MKM. Last year, the business

Summer 2023

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Made Smarter Awards recognises wood manufacturers A trio of wood manufacturers pursuing digital transformation are

Sarah Woodhams, Made Smarter, and Stephen Talbot, Logs Direct

among the first recipients of the Made Smarter Awards, celebrating excellence in manufacturing. The scheme has been launched to mark the fourth anniversary of the pioneering Made Smarter adoption

greener, more efficient and cost-effective drying process, and given us the

programme, a government-funded and industry-led initiative helping

confidence to look at the next steps of improvement.”

SME manufacturers digitalise, decarbonise and drive growth.

Playdale Playgrounds invested in a state-of-the-art Smart CNC

Logs Direct, kiln-dried wood manufacturers based in Lancaster,

routing machine which links with CAD and nesting software, and their

Playdale Playgrounds, a playground equipment manufacturer based in

ERP system. The integration of the design and manufacture processes

Ulverston and Crystal Doors, a manufacturer of bespoke vinyl wrapped

has allowed them to achieve significant improvements in efficiency,

furniture, based in Rochdale are among the first 19 Gold award winners.

output, productivity, reduce material use, tooling and downtime,

Commenting on the awards, Donna Edwards, director of Made

and improve quality. Paul Mallinson, technical & operations director

Smarter’s North West adoption programme, said: “The Made Smarter

for Playdale Playgrounds, said: “We are extremely grateful to the

adoption programme is a huge success story for UK manufacturing. It

Made Smarter programme. Adopting technology is an essential part

has inspired leadership and evoked change in hundreds of businesses

of our digital strategy. Their expertise and support have accelerated

through technology and new skills. Digital transformation can be hard,

our future state and ambitions to become an entirely digitally

particularly in the current climate and given the challenges the sector

integrated factory. In such a competitive market we need to be able to

has faced in recent years, so it is right we recognise the hard work,

manufacture faster and more efficiently.”

dedication and forward-thinking nature of these businesses and their

To date, the North West programme has provided specialised

employees. They have embraced digitalisation to become a leading

support to over 2,500 businesses. Its advisors have imparted expert,

example of UK manufacturing excellence.”

impartial technology advice and digital transformation workshops to

Logs Direct, a manufacturer of winter fuel products based in Lancaster,

help create a digital roadmap, skills support and leadership training, and

worked with Made Smarter to invest in a real-time kiln monitoring and

grants towards technology projects. Some businesses have adopted

heat-recovery system, which will improve productivity, efficiency and

technologies that enable them to integrate systems, capture and

product quality. The solution is forecast to increase growth by 15%, create

analyse data, and even create simulations of their plants and processes.

five new jobs, significantly reduce energy use and introduce new eco-

Others have adopted 3D-printing, automation, and robotics to solve

friendly products. Liz Foulds, finance director at Logs Direct, said: “We are

business challenges and meet increased demand.

truly honoured and surprised to receive our Made Smarter award. Made More at  madesmarter.uk

Smarter has been instrumental in allowing us to move forward with a

Customer loyalty rewarded with brand-new Mercedes Following the popularity of the West Fraser

always reliable and easy to work with. I’m really

Rewards promotion during 2022, this year’s

pleased to have won the van. Jamie at Jewson

programme saw the UK’s largest wood panel

suggested I have a go at entering the competition

manufacturer give away not one – but two –

– it was easy to log on to the website and enter.”

Mercedes vans. The lucky winner of the first

The West Fraser Rewards promotion also

of the vans has been presented with the keys

benefited the participating builders’ merchants.

to his brand-new vehicle. Neil Harding of Neil

James Westbrook, Jewson sales manager

Harding Loft Ladders entered the promotion

explained: “The promotion was a success for our

after buying West Fraser boards at the

business unit. We had great customer uptake

Horsham branch of Jewson.

which allowed us to interact even more with our

Neil Harding and his colleagues with the new Mercedes van

customers. We have a good relationship with

customer service supervisor at Jewson, Horsham,

supplying and fitting loft ladders and insulating

the West Fraser team and receive great support

added: “Every time one of our customers won,

and boarding attics for over 20 years in the

from them, so we were pleased to be able to

the branch received a £100 Just Eat voucher

Surrey, Kent and Sussex areas. “We always use

participate in the promotion.”

which enabled us to get the team together.”

Neil Harding Loft Ladders has been

West Fraser’s P5 when boarding out lofts and

It wasn’t just Jewson’s customers that were

CaberMDF to create hatches. The products are

rewarded by the promotion. As Jamie Woolford,

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Donaldson Group announces new CFO Donaldson Group, has appointed Alyson

in Leadership, Strategy and Innovation with

Donaldson as Group chief financial officer

Napier University.

(CFO). Alyson joins the Group from leading

Commenting on the appointment, Andrew

global veterinary care provider, IVC

Donaldson, CEO of Donaldson Group, said:

Evidensia, where she was UK & ROI chief

“The board and I are thrilled to have Alyson

financial officer. Here she was responsible

joining us as Group CFO. She has an impressive

for the UK-wide finance operations for

track record of demonstrative success,

the billion-pound business, with a focus

leading finance functions and driving strategic

on transformation and performance

transformational change and improvements

improvement.

in industry-leading organisations. She will be

Alyson was promoted to the post at

a fantastic addition to our senior leadership

IVC Evidensia after working as CFO for its

team and we’re all very much looking forward

major subsidiary, Vets Now. Prior to this

to working with her. This is also a very proud

she spent eight years in senior finance and

milestone for us as a family business, as we

strategy roles at Diageo, latterly as finance

welcome another Donaldson into the Group.”

director, international supply, where she was

Alyson is the first female Donaldson family

responsible for managing a large global finance

member to join the Group in an executive role,

community and performance of a multi-billion-

in its 163-year history. She succeeds Arlene

pound cost base. A chartered accountant,

Cairns who took on the role of CFO in 2020.

the business as it continues to pioneer in its

Alyson started her career at KPMG LLP on their

Alyson said: “As a family business, this is so

market, and I’m excited to be contributing to

graduate training programme. She graduated

much more than a career move for me: it’s

the success of the business for now and for

from Stirling University with a first-class

something I feel incredibly passionate about.

generations to come.”

degree in accounting and economics, and in

I’m looking forward to working with the

2020 she completed a post-graduate course

Group Executive and finance team, supporting

More at  www.donaldson-group.co.uk

Premier Forest Products makes major moulding equipment investment Premier Forest Products has made a major investment in machinery to increase production and extend its product range for customers.

Premier Forest Products has invested over £1million in equipment across the business, including its Duchy Timber and Merlwood Timber branches. The state-of-the-art, market-leading machinery, which was installed earlier this year, has already doubled the

Terry Edgell, co-founder & CEO of Premier Forest Products said:

production capacity at the company’s sites in Cornwall and

“Recent investment in additional state-of-the-art milling machinery is

Pembrokeshire.

enabling Premier to increase productivity and improve efficiency at two

The new machinery, supplied by global specialists Weinig, includes a

of our key manufacturing sites. Our in-house manufacturing facilities

Powermat 1500 moulding machine which can cut widths up to 300mm,

mean that we have complete quality control and the capacity to ‘turn

and a Powermat 700 moulding machine. The machines are entirely

up’ production to meet volume orders for our customers. Together with

flexible and can be used to make most timber mouldings including,

our nationwide-wide distribution network, we can quickly turn-around

cladding profiles, skirtings, architraves, door frames, stair components,

orders and deliver in volume, across the UK.

and door liners in both hardwood and soft wood.

“We’re now in the position that we can work with customers to

The company has purchased the Rondamat 960 grinder/profiling

support anything from bespoke, specialist renovation jobs to full-scale

machine which makes templates for profiles so they can create

construction projects such as hotels, schools, apartments and housing

bespoke profiles for customers. Once the template is made, it can be

sites. Our timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests, so we

used repeatedly to make precisely the same profile which is ideal for

meet the stringent environmental requirements of modern building

continuity in large projects, where the same product is to be supplied

projects.” Premier Forest Products is engaged in the importation,

frequently over time. Premier Forest has also invested in an Opticontrol

processing, merchanting and wholesale distribution of timber and

measuring stand which is used to accurately measure the tool cutters

timber products from multiple sites across the UK.

and a Unicut P3 crosscut saw which has more than doubled Premier’s More at  www.premierforest.co.uk/service/premier-mouldings

capacity to accurately crosscut timbers to length.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

James Latham introduces FERRO the market is that each one contains two

a customisable finish for unrivalled visual

thermally isolated solid steel stabilising bars

appeal. This guarantees long-term value

in its core, helping to prevent bowing and

on every level. All blanks in the range meet

warping.

the UK’s newly introduced sustainability

Such is the degree of anti-bowing and

requirements for residential properties,

warping strength achieved through the

ensuring developers and asset owners remain

incorporation of the steel stabilisers every

compliant with regulation.

FERRO blank comes with a 10-year anti-

Responding to UK and Ireland specifier calls

Commenting on the introduction of

bowing guarantee. Going even further, Moralt

FERRO, James Latham’s group door manager,

is committed to replace any FERRO door, free-

Steve Williams, said: “FERRO is one of the

of-charge, which warps more than 4mm over

most exciting architectural products currently

this period, including fitting costs.

available in the UK and Irish market, the

The FERRO range is CE-certified and

perfect balance of style and substance. Its

for high-performance door components,

has been developed to meet contemporary

steel stabiliser gives it unrivalled durability,

James Latham have introduced FERRO,

specification requirements, particularly in line

particularly from a structural and security

a premium range of highly durable and

with evolving UK and Ireland regulations around

perspective, giving residents and asset owners

weather resistant external door blanks from

energy efficiency and fire safety. Starting with

extra peace of mind the external doors on

leading brand Moralt.

the standard Klassikplus, specifiers can choose

their properties will provide extra protection

from a wider range of enhanced blanks with

from the elements and intruders. Furthermore,

external blanks currently available on the

increased thermal performance, soundproofing

developers will feel reassured that the thermal

market, FERRO blanks are made from top-

and fire-resistant properties.

performance of the FERRO range will help

Comprising some of the most robust

quality natural and engineered timbers, with

Unlike many competing products it can be

either paintable plywood, exterior MDF or

used to manufacture doors which are strong

decorative veneered plywood faces. What

and robust and deliver maximum interior

sets the FERRO blanks apart from others on

comfort through optimum airtightness, with

them meet the revised Part L requirements, which became compulsory in June 2023.”

More at  www.lathamtimber.co.uk

‘Revolutionary’ new wood website launched Woodshop Direct, a leading wood supplier in the UK, has launched its new website. With the implementation of cutting-edge technology, the company has positioned itself as the first wood supplier in the UK to offer customers the convenience of having wood cut to their specified dimensions with unparalleled speed and precision. This achievement is made possible by seamlessly linking the website and ordering system with the shop floor, providing an exceptional customer experience.

Warren Bennett, managing director of Woodshop Direct said: “At Woodshop Direct, by putting the customer first and being able to offer this first-in-class service, it will move Woodshop Direct to the forefront of the industry.”

Woodshop Direct aims to redefine the wood supply landscape by combining cutting-edge technology with superior service. The development of the new website took an entire year, during which Woodshop Direct

allows customers to shop by use, such as internal wood, external wood

underwent a complete overhaul of their stock management systems, as well

or repairs, as well as by tree species, including Ash, Beech, Redwood

as their ordering and dispatch systems. This comprehensive transformation

Pine and Walnut. The new Woodshop Direct website also boasts an

ensures streamlined operations, reducing processing times and expediting

informative blog, packed with timber knowledge and woodworking tips.

deliveries to customers. With a user-friendly interface, the website allows

Woodshop Direct caters to both DIY and professional woodworkers.

users to specify their required wood dimensions precisely. Upon submission

Whether customers require hardwoods, softwoods, or specialist timber,

of an order, the website’s advanced integration with the shop floor enables

Woodshop Direct offers an extensive selection, ensuring that every

immediate processing, resulting in shorter lead times and faster deliveries.

project can be accomplished with the finest materials.

Visitors to the site can easily shop for timber, sheet materials, More at  www.woodshopdirect.co.uk

tools and accessories, wood finishes and doors. The new website also Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

ADVERTORIAL  STAKAPAL

UK manufactured Racking Systems engineered to last

With over 55-years manufacturing expertise behind them, Stakapal have been supplying the timber industry with a full range of bespoke racking solutions that stand the test of time.

O

ne of their established customers – specialist timber merchants Thorogood Timber – first had some of Stakapal’s cantilever racking installed back in the 1990s which is still in perfect working order.

Based in Ardleigh, Colchester Thorogood’s take their timber very seriously, promising customers that they will source only the best possible range of timber products. With four dedicated storage buildings on-site, they are also committed to ensuring their complete range is stored correctly to guarantee it remains in top quality condition.

As part of their ongoing development programme, Thorogood’s recently established they needed to improve the storage capacity of their finishing and softwood warehouse. This initially involved the reorganisation of their existing racks to accommodate some new handling equipment as

this period. As designers, manufacturers and installers of racking systems,

well as enabling them to expand the overall storage area.

we know they always deliver on their promises. Despite the amount of

Some additional cantilever racking was also required in an area

work involved everything ran very smoothly and was completed within a

where they were currently bulk-stacking multiple lengths of product.

one-week deadline.”

Using this traditional method meant they were moving smaller lengths

Stakapal’s in-house Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme

of stock around in order to be able to gain access to longer lengths at the

(SEIRS) team, installed the new racking during Thorogood’s normal working

bottom. This was ultimately affecting the company’s overall bottom line

week with minimal disruption to their operation. Their staff were able to

due to increasing levels of handling resulting in damage to their valuable

move timber around the warehouse creating enough space for the new

stockholding. Investing in new racking as well as altering the lay-out of their

runs of cantilever racking to be installed in sections. Once the first area was

warehouse wasn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Having dealt with Stakapal

finished, they could then load their timber on to the new racks creating

previously, Thorogood’s were confident that they would again come up

enough space for the next area to be installed and loaded.

with a design solution that would meet their exacting standards.

As full manufacturing members of Storage Equipment Manufacturers

Peter Thorogood, owner of Thorogood Timber stated: “There are

Association (SEMA), Stakapal offer a complete range of timber storage

many companies offering cantilever racking, but we know through

options including cantilever racking, A-frame/vertical storage and pigeon

experience that Stakapal’s quality is very high. Their equipment that was

hole racks.

first installed in the 1990s is still working as it should, remains in excellent More at  www.stakapal.co.uk

condition despite its age, and has required very little maintenance during Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TDUK

Maximise Your Timber Sales Timber Development UK (TDUK) has created ‘The Merchant Guide to Selling Timber’, a comprehensive new resource to help merchants make the most of their sales of timber and timber products.

T

he aim of the Guide is to be

so you know you’ll always give them the best

Waugh Thistleton Architects. Aimed at

an introduction to timber

advice and stock the right products. The Guide

developers, investors and policy makers,

and timber products written

also includes key information that merchants

Timber Typologies outlines the variety of build

specifically for timber and

should always ask their timber suppliers, to

options and methodologies available for low-

builders’ merchants, which staff can use to

make sure that they are receiving the highest-

carbon timber construction and details the

learn more about the different types of timber

possible quality product to sell on to their

building types each method is suitable for.

available on the UK market. Thanks to the

customers.

information in the guide, merchants should be

Written with Waugh Thistleton Architects,

Crucially for merchants, each section

one of the leading ‘timber first’ architects’

better able to understand the different timber

also includes suggestions on how to

practices in the UK, the book is intended to

types and species and what they are best used

upsell different timber products, as well

be a beginners’ guide to the variety of timber

for, and to answer any timber questions they

as complementary products you may wish

solutions available. It will help decision makers

may be asked by their customers.

to consider stocking, such as the fixings,

understand the options open to them and

adhesives, paints and PPE that could add

make the right choices to deliver the best

significant value to any timber sale.

outcomes. Timber Typologies is the first

The Guide includes an overview of the benefits of timber as a construction material, as well as separate sections dedicated to

David Hopkins, chief executive of Timber

all the different types of timber, such as

Development UK, said: “Timber and wood

plywood, hardwoods, panel and sheet

products are recognised as among the most

products, structural and framing timbers,

profitable product categories for many

machined softwoods, MDF mouldings,

builders’ merchants. Representing up to a

modified woods and decking, fencing and

quarter of a general merchant’s turnover,

landscaping products.

wood products now offer a huge range of

“We wanted to create a useful resource that would help merchants better understand these differences and how timber can be best used as a construction material, giving you all the information, you need to support your customers and maximise timber sales.”

David Hopkins, Timber Development UK Within each section, you’ll find an outline of timber’s main product types and uses, as well

both standard and special use materials, designed for more specific applications.

as details of the common timber species used

“We wanted to create a useful resource

for different applications. Key facts around

that would help merchants better understand

sustainability, safety and quality are included

these differences and how timber can be best

in a trio of books that will be produced to

for each product type, along with details of the

used as a construction material, giving you all

increase understanding among construction

relevant certifications and British and European

the information, you need to support your

decision makers. It will be accompanied by

standards that apply to each. There are technical

customers and maximise timber sales. ‘The

Timber Policy – a guide to the different ways

tables allowing merchants to compare the

Merchant Guide to Selling Timber’ is designed

countries and city authorities are encouraging

different timber species, as well as pictorial

to be an introduction to the world of timber

timber construction around the world, and

examples of the different timbers in-situ. There

– we would always recommend that you seek

Timber LCA, which will compare lifecycle

is also information on any timber treatments

additional advice from your TDUK supplier if

analysis between buildings constructed of

that may be required, and the due diligence you

you have any questions.”

different materials.

should carry out on any timber stocks you order.

TDUK also recently published ‘Timber

You will also find top tips around

Typologies: Understanding options for

Both publications are available to

availability and lead times, as well as key

timber construction’ – a ground-breaking

download from TDUK at

questions you may wish to ask your customers,

new book created in collaboration with

 www.timberdevelopment.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

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Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

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FEATURE  MERCHANT FOCUS

Electric Moves

As all aspects of the timber supply chain attempt to reduce carbon emissions, a new trial project using electric vehicles will provide a glimpse of the future for the movement of timber.

S

cottish Forestry has awarded £452,000 towards a

of the atmosphere from Scotland’s trees each year and the timber

three-year trial which will test the use of state-of-the-

used in houses and other wooden products lock away carbon for its

art electric timber wagons to transport timber. As part

lifetime. The forestry sector is innovative and continues to adopt new

of the project, which is the first of its kind in the UK,

technology to increase its business efficiencies. I welcome this new trial

two Scottish timber companies, James Jones & Sons Ltd and Scotlog

and look forward to hearing more about the findings as we drive closer

Haulage, are partnering with the Volvo Group and Cleaner EV to

to net zero.”

undertake the demonstrator project.

James Jones & Sons new electric truck made its first appearance at the Royal Highland Show with Lorna Slater, minister for green skills,

Around seven million tonnes of wood are harvested from Scotland’s forests each year and transported to sawmills, board manufacturers

circular economy and biodiversity, stopping by to find out more about

and other processors, mostly on 44 tonne diesel lorries. The forestry

the project and to see the new electric truck.

James Jones & Sons will trial a 40-tonne articulated lorry from its

sector, whilst inherently green, is keen to use modern technology to tackle timber transport issues as part of its overall efforts to

sawmill in Lockerbie to transport timber to its Hangingshaw national

decarbonise and reach net zero.

distribution centre as well as trialling this vehicle in moving logs, co-

Announcing the funding package, rural affairs secretary Mairi

products and sawn goods to its customers. The company harvests and

Gougeon said: “Forestry is vital to helping Scotland achieve its net zero

processes more than 1.4 million tonnes of roundwood per annum. Its

target by 2045. Around 7.6 million tonnes of harmful CO2 is taken out

co-products are supplied to the UK’s principle board manufacturers and

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FEATURE  MERCHANT FOCUS

 TP Commit to Decarbonisation The UK’s largest distributor of building materials, Travis Perkins recently announced that the Group has continued to make good progress against its Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) accredited, 1.5 degreealigned carbon reduction targets.

In July, Travis Perkins started to take delivery of its new electric forklift trucks as part of Project Switch – the largest programme of its kind – which will see up to 1,100 diesel powered forklift trucks across the Group being replaced with electric alternatives by mid-2024 (eight years ahead of schedule); saving 6,600 tonnes of carbon a year.

biomass power generators. Homegrown sawn timber is used for the

Creel Maritime consultants will monitor the use of the lorries and

construction, pallet, packaging, fencing and agricultural sectors and

arrange knowledge exchange opportunities over the course of the

pallets and packaging for blue chip, domestic and exporting businesses.

following three years. Neil Stoddart, director of Creel Maritime, who

“Whilst James Jones & Sons is prioritising reducing timber miles

are managing the project, added: “In terms of road haulage, the timber

through local round wood purchasing and selling sawn goods to

industry is pretty advanced in looking for solutions to decarbonise.

markets close to the Group’s sawmills,” said joint managing director,

For example, we are reducing diesel lorry miles on many projects and

David Leslie. “The trial will give the industry a valuable insight into

opting for transport by sea.

the suitability of such vehicles in the timber sector over the next

“Additionally, we are reviewing using an alternative fuelled barge

three years. Timber is our only natural renewable resource and whilst

to transport logs across a remote Loch in the Highlands. This is a very

transport is a major factor in the country’s CO2 emissions, growing

exciting project but there are big challenges in running articulated

commercial trees is the most effective way of capturing the CO2 and

lorries on electric power, mainly on cost grounds and infrastructure.

storing embodied carbon in timber products, such as construction

This three-year trial will look into all these aspects and I’m keen to share

timber and pallets, for the future.”

as much detail on this with the industry.” During the trial, the vehicles will be evaluated for their achievable mileage vs battery consumption,

A key element of the three-year trial is that all the partners involved

durability, viability and total cost of ownership.

are committed to sharing their experiences of running the electric lorries with others in the timber and rural haulage sectors. Scotlog Haulage will trial a 44-tonne truck in the Highlands, moving roundwood

More at  www.jamesjones.co.uk  www.forestry.gov.scot

timber from Inverness Harbour to West Fraser and other local mills.

 www.travisperkinsplc.co.uk

 Zero Carbon Journeys Last year CFF launched the UK’s first 27 tonne curtainside Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), with 287kwh traction batteries.

The new vehicle represents CCF’s commitment to drive innovation across its customer operations in support of a low-carbon future. The brand-new 27 tonne BEV, which is the first of its size and type in the UK, is the product of three years of development driven forward by CCF. The BEV has been manufactured and supplied through Electra, to complete zero emission customer deliveries.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  HOMEGROWN TIMBER

Using Our Own Resources

Homegrown timber needs to be prioritised, says James Brennan, head of marketing for the BSW Group, if we are to create a healthier and less import-led supply chain.

B

Housing demand

uilding homes for the future, and with a focus on net zero, will demand a shift in mindset from a

Timber is an essential tool for building sustainable, affordable

nation hooked on steel and concrete. It will also take

homes in a cost and time-effective manner. It allows us to build heat

industries, such as ours in forestry and timber, to push

efficient, carbon reducing homes, which ultimately helps to reduce fuel

forward with an array of materials that have taken second place to

poverty. In fact, in some cases building homes with timber can reduce

others, up until now.

energy bills by 90%.

As a nation, we are the world’s second highest importer of timber

Furthermore, timber build times are up to 30% faster compared

according to a 2022 report from the Environmental Audit Committee,

to other materials, which will help the construction industry to quickly

with a huge 82% of our wood coming from overseas in 2020. This puts

meet the growing demand for new, high-quality homes in the UK. The

us in second place behind China – known the world over for burning

faster build times also reduces time on-site and disruption to the local

through natural resources at a rate of knots. With such a stark statistic,

area and research even shows that waste is reduced by up to 90% for

along with 25% of global emissions coming from the built environment,

timber constructions compared to other materials.

isn’t it about time that we considered the benefits of homegrown timber and what it can offer the construction industry. UK-grown timber can offer several benefits.

Perfectly suited to construction Using homegrown timber should be a point of pride for construction in this country – something that brands boast about on their marketing materials. But it is often overlooked by the construction industry in favour of imported wood, or even for other materials such as concrete. But as the COP26 house (built with BSW Group homegrown timber) demonstrated, it’s an excellent raw material for sustainable, modern and beautiful homes. Homegrown timber can have more knots than some imported varieties, which is a reason why some don’t take advantage of UK-grown wood, but this makes no difference to the product. In fact, UK timber is well-suited for all sorts of needs from timber frames to landscaping to stud walls.

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FEATURE  HOMEGROWN TIMBER

The road to net zero The UK is facing a high demand for affordable homes. Councils face a difficult battle to prioritise this need whilst also reckoning with environmental targets. Homegrown timber has the benefit of being a much more environmentally friendly option for construction. Timber is a fully renewable resource but it also provides benefits long before it reaches a building site. During their lifecycle, trees absorb carbon from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the impact of climate change – while using timber as a building material then locks away that carbon. A 2019 study by Bangor University, on behalf of the committee on climate change, suggested using timber products as opposed to masonry could lead to a 20% reduction in emissions and 50% increase in carbon storage. to increase mass production of timber domestically. Timber has the

Lower reliance on imports

added benefit of requiring less energy to produce than other materials, further boosting its green credentials.

82% of wood overall in the UK is imported, and the figure is around two thirds when looking at sawn timber. Importing the vast majority

As a nation we need to come together and invest in homegrown

of our wood adds a huge carbon footprint to construction due to the

timber. Of course, as the UK’s largest integrated timber and forestry

impact of transporting the raw material from other countries. Another

business, BSW Group has a role to play, but this is bigger than any

effect is the threat to our ecosystem. According to the Woodland

one company. We need the buy-in of stakeholders across the industry

Trust, at least 20 serious tree pests and diseases have been unwittingly

from architects and suppliers to construction companies – to specify

brought to the UK since 1990 as imports have skyrocketed, leading to

homegrown timber on suitable projects moving forward. We see a

the loss of tens of millions of trees. With consequences like this, the

future where UK timber is the go-to material for creating sustainable,

short-sighted focus on importing is ironically making it even harder to

affordable and beautiful homes. We see homegrown materials being a

produce timber locally.

priority for the construction industry. We see net zero targets hit, and the nation enjoying millions of affordable and energy efficient homes.

Demonstrating the scale of the opportunity at hand, estimates

What future do you see?

show that just 0.5% of new buildings in the UK will be constructed with timber by 2050. However, research suggests it’s conceivable that this

More at  www.bsw.co.uk

figure could reach as high as 90% if the UK puts in a concerted effort Timber Trader UK Magazine

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COVER STORY  MATERIALS & FINISHES SHOW

Crafted for Business The UK’s flagship trade show for the furniture manufacturing and joinery industries, formerly know as W Exhibition, has relaunched as the Materials & Finishes Show and will run at the Birmingham NEC from 19-22 May 2024.

T

he Materials & Finishes Show will attract buyers from

a huge appetite, and indeed need, for a platform for the industry,

every corner of the industry, and with over 50 years of

specifically across the UK and Ireland. A lot has changed since the

heritage to draw on, the new and reinvigorated format

last edition of W Exhibition in 2018 and we have adapted the show’s

will continue to provide a platform for manufacturers,

proposition to reflect the evolving needs of the market both now, and

processors and installers working in a wide range of disciplines.

in line with our anticipations for the future.

“Wood and stone are two of the most widely used natural materials

All areas of the material journey, from the initial stages of raw processing through to finishing and component supply for completed

in construction and design, often used together in various ways. Whilst

products, will be represented and visitors will have the opportunity to

timber will remain a core focus for Materials & Finishes Show, it was

see running machinery together with components, materials, technology

a natural progression for us to incorporate stone and broaden the

and services for the manufacturing and processing phases of materials,

delivery for our community. This more holistic view of the industry

alongside the latest products and developments for finishes.

paves the way for other products such as stone kitchen countertops and natural stone flooring. The show will deliver a true end-to-end

Event director, David Todd says: “The Materials & Finishes Show

proposition for our visitors.”

aims to build on the success of the W Exhibition. Since the show’s conception in 1974 it has passed from being a woodworking machinery

“As an organisation, Montgomery Group is fully committed

exhibition to covering the full range of technology and materials for

to protecting and building on the legacy of W Exhibition and the

industrial woodworking. We aim to take this further providing a more

communities we serve. It’s our responsibility to preserve the long-term

valuable, time and resource effective solution for both our exhibitors

success of our platform for the sector, which is why we have been

and visitors from a more diverse community.

through this extensive period of consultation to reimagine and develop the show to meet the changing needs of the market, culminating in the

“We conducted an extensive market research exercise and worked

relaunch with Materials & Finishes Show.”

closely with our stakeholders which has concluded that there is still

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COVER STORY  MATERIALS & FINISHES SHOW

Hanex® UK joins show lineup

presence in over 60 countries, Hranipex have established themselves as

Hanex® UK, the exclusive distributor for Hanex® Solid Surfaces

a key player in the furniture industry. The extensive product portfolio

in the UK, has joined the lineup for Materials & Finishes Show 2024.

encompasses a diverse range of offerings, including furniture fittings,

The company, which is headquartered in Southampton, will utilise the

edge banding, adhesives, cleaners, and various components essential

show as a platform to raise brand awareness to the UK market, with a

for furniture production.

key objective being to meet customers face-to-face and showcase the

This wide array of high-quality products showcases Hranipex

plethora of applications and colour options available for domestic and

commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions to meet the needs

commercial application. The brand will also seek to build on its network

of furniture manufacturers worldwide. The comprehensive collection

of approved UK installers who can benefit from a range of support

encompasses a wide array of fittings designed for kitchens, offices, and

benefits including specialist training, marketing and technical support,

diverse commercial and domestic spaces. In addition to locks, handles,

and a ten-year warranty once approved for the scheme.

lights, and electrical equipment, Hranipex takes pride in offering a diverse selection of top-quality products that cater to a broad range of needs.

Speaking about the announcement, Hanex® UK Ltd marketing manager, Emma Naylor said: “Whilst people may be familiar with the Hanex brand, we want to

“The Materials & Finishes Show aims to build on the success of the W Exhibition. Since the show’s conception in 1974 it has passed from being a woodworking machinery exhibition to covering the full range of technology and materials for industrial woodworking.”

demonstrate the benefits of partnering with us in the UK. We stock a larger range of Hanex sheets than ever before in the UK in our custom-designed distribution and support centre, which we’ll be showcasing at Materials & Finishes Show, along with a full range of adhesives, sink, basins and ancillary accessories ready for nationwide delivery. We’re

David Todd, event director

experts in solid surface, with diverse experience ranging across fabrication, installation, distribution, specification and logistics. Materials & Finishes Show

will be the perfect platform for us to demonstrate this next May.”

“We’re excited to announce Hranipex as a relaunch partner for

David Todd added: “We’re delighted to announce that Hanex UK

Materials & Finishes Show, says David Todd. “To have secured the

will be debuting at Materials & Finishes Show, when we relaunch next

support of such a forward thinking and ambitious elements company is

May. The KBB market is a key growth area for the show and Hanex will

a real coup for the show and will perfectly complement the machinery

are a very welcome addition to the lineup, which already includes a

and materials brands who are already part of the exhibitor lineup.

broad mix of machinery, materials and finishes brands.”

Materials & Finishes Show is the UK’s leading trade show for

Hranipex announced as relaunch partner

machinery, manufacturers, processors and installers of wood and associated materials. It is free to attend and is set to attract 8,000

Hranipex, one of the leading European manufacturers and suppliers of products and expert consulting for the furniture industry, has been

visitors from across the entire industry. You can stay up to date

announced as an official partner for the Materials & Finishes Show 2024.

with the latest news and product launches by visiting

The group, which is headquartered in the Czech Republic, has a global

 www.materialsandfinishesshow.com

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FEATURE  MACHINERY

Timber in Motion

Choosing the right conveyor belt for your wood-based panels processing is not as simple as you think, as Damian Marczak, industry segment manager and Mario Buchs, global application engineer at conveyor belt specialist Habasit point out.

W

ood-based panels are an important starting material

slow and straightforward selection of chips, these conveyor belts can

for the building, packaging, furniture and flooring

last for several years, without the need for repeated maintenance.

industries globally. Their processing involves

Forming

turning chipping wood and recycled materials into

high-quality final products. To achieve that, manufacturers need

The selected high-quality wood fibres are sent to the forming and

efficient conveyor belts. So how do you choose the right conveyor

pre-pressing stages, where they are shaped into panels. The forming

belts for each stage of wood panel processing? While fabric belts

belts used here are one of the longest inside the plant, up to 220 metres

are the preferred choice for wood-based panels processing, the

long and over three metres wide. These are designed to run over live

type, material and strength of the belts can influence the process

nosebars with high loads and long conveying distances. Their special

efficiency and the final quality of the panel.

design, specific material types, resistance to certain chemicals and ability to handle various environmental conditions enable manufacturers to

Chip preparation

produce all types of panels, including very thin ones at varying speeds.

The first step in processing wood panels is preparing the chips.

The most popular belt for manufacturers is the TPU-covered

Once the logs and recycled materials have been unloaded from trucks

fabric belt, due to its high chemical resistance and ability to cope with

and scanned for unwanted materials like stone, metal, steel and sand particles, the chipper process begins. For this application, manufacturers use power transmission belts, which transmit power from the motor to the blade to cut the chips uniformly. Belts made from polyamide are the most suitable due to their high resistance to overloads as they absorb shock loads.

Bunker After the chips are prepared, they are transported to the chip storage area, or the bunker. This process divides the chips into high quality material used for producing panels and rejected chips that will be used elsewhere. The most suitable belts for this application are fabric belts covered by either polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Due to the Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

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FEATURE  MACHINERY

harsh processing requirements. However, TPU belts are made using

 About Habasit

chemically processed adhesives that release harmful emissions. At Habasit, we already have belts in our portfolio that use bio-based glues, which will help manufacturers increase their plant’s sustainability.

Prepressing The raw panel-shaped matt is then compressed before being thermally processed. Pre-pressing uses a minimum of two belts arranged on top of each other. The belts need to be extremely wearresistant and capable of sustaining a high level of pressure and force, which is why belt manufacturers use aramid as a traction layer. The innovative belts from Habasit use a unique crosslink polyurethane material, which increases the abrasion resistivity of belts.

Deaeration While the panels are compressed, this step includes removing the air from the woodfibres and creating uniform and homogenous surfaces.

This stage requires wire mesh belts to allow the air to be removed from the panels. The most common type is the polyester wire mesh belt,

Established in 1946 in Basel, Switzerland, Habasit is a family-

whose weaving pattern allows for high and controlled air flow rates.

owned company present in over 70 countries, with 3,500+

Lastly, the panels are processed and transferred to the pre-heater

employees in affiliated companies and service centers

and the main press. To ensure the end products meet quality standards,

worldwide. They help customers improve the reliability,

manufacturers need to use the most suitable belts and materials.

quality and productivity of their equipment and processes

At Habasit, we provide end-to-end belting solutions for wood-based

through comprehensive, tailor-made solutions based on

panels processing, designed with the customer’s needs in mind and

its extensive range of fabric-based conveyor belts, plastic

meeting the highest industry standards.

modular belts and chains, power transmission belts, and monolithic and timing belts.

More at  www.habasit.com

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FEATURE  HEALTH & SAFETY

Dust Devils: Keep it Clean

Simon Liddell, managing director of Leitz UK talks through the recent fine levied at a London joinery firm for the improper management of wood dust in the manufacturing environment, and how companies can create safe workplaces of the future.

W

ith the news of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

•

handing out a £20,000 fine to a London-based joinery firm

when preventing dust exposure is not feasible, a combination of engineering and process controls may be suitable

for failing to adequately manage its employee’s exposure

•

to wood dust, there’s been an awful lot of discussion

local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems should be integrated into the machines or processes generating dust. It’s important to

about how firms can keep themselves compliant and avoid the fines.

consider the impact of cross draughts and general air movements

From adjusting your processes to installing new machinery to help

on their efficiency

tackle the problem, there are a few different ways to help reduce the

•

for on-tool extraction, choosing compatible parts is crucial.

risk posed by wood dust, but what are the risks posed to employees in the joinery sector?

These broad principles make it challenging for factories to find integrated solutions and avoid health and safety violations.

Eliminating the risk

Tackling dust directly

When it comes to wood dust, the risks really can’t be overstated.

Particles of wood, when cut, shaped, or sanded, become airborne,

Leitz UK’s approach to this is to reduce the amount of dust

permeating the workshop atmosphere. This airborne dust can be inhaled

generated in the first place through an end-to-end system that

by workers, leading to a host of respiratory ailments, including asthma,

controls both dust and noise throughout the manufacturing process.

bronchitis, and even more severe conditions over prolonged exposure.

By improving process production, there’s an opportunity to increase

The potential long-term consequences outlined by recent research,

productivity as part of the solution, leading to ongoing cost-saving

such as nasal cancer, further underline the urgent need for preventive

benefits and a safer work environment.

measures. Of course, we need to see companies take responsibility

Leitz tooling design and management system provides high-

for the health of their employees. We often hear dust referred to as a

quality cutting without the need for secondary finishing and sanding

silent killer, as its harmful effects can take years to develop. Excessive

in many cases, which reduces tooling wear and lowers costs overall. As

dust can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, and new research

well as this, it can mean there are lower levels of atmospheric dust in

indicates the potential to develop lung cancer.

manufacturing facilities.

The HSE provides general principles for protecting you and your

Leitz UK’s Dust Flow Control® (DFC) technology is a tooling-to-

workers from wood dust in the workplace: Timber Trader UK Magazine

extraction system that reduces dust and noise. Our DFC extraction Summer 2023

24

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FEATURE  HEALTH & SAFETY

hoods are optimised to collect up to 98% of debris and residual dust.

As the HSE intensifies its focus on dust levels in the workplace, our

They are suitable for double-end tenoners and edge banders. As well as

industry must address these issues through end-to-end solutions that not

vastly reducing the amount of dust in the atmosphere of manufacturing

only save money but also boost productivity. Prioritising health and safety

facilities, our DFC Hoods are able to help reduce the amount of wear

is essential for the well-being of employees and the success of joinery firms

that your tooling sustains due to the prevention of double cutting,

across the country. When we act in the best interest of all our employees,

through specialised chip flow guidance. This will ultimately help to

we’ll have a safer, more secure future, and a better industry overall.

lower your set-up and energy costs as well.

More at  www.leitz.org/en-gb

 LEV: Critical Part of Employee Protection According to the HSE, F&E Joinery Limited was inspected in May 2022 as part of a HSE campaign targeting woodworking businesses.

The HSE inspection found some of the company’s machines had been disconnected from the local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system, which is used to extract wood dust at source during machining of wood. There was no way to connect other machines to the system. LEV significantly reduces the amount of wood dust that becomes airborne and inhaled when machined. There was also

Kevin Simmonds, managing director of Compliance LEV

no evidence that settled wood dust was being cleaned up.

HSE inspector Marcus Pope said: “This case sends out a clear message to the industry that HSE will prosecute when inspectors

contaminants. Furthermore, says the ILEVE, 60% of LEV systems

find serious health and safety failings, particularly when previous

are not thoroughly examined or tested, and 60% of those that are

enforcement and advice has been provided.

tested are not tested competently.

“Exposure to wood dust causes various occupational lung

“These figures make clear that all too many businesses are

diseases which can significantly affect the quality of people’s lives,

seriously failing to understand their obligations to install and

and in some cases result in premature death. HSE continues to

maintain effective LEV systems. And the consequence is widespread

target the woodworking industry and strongly urges businesses to

illness and death. Harmful substances in manufacturing industry are

consult its website for further information to ensure that control of

still causing preventable health problems for workers, which could

exposure is managed, and their statutory duties are complied with.”

be avoided by the installation and maintenance of effective local

Commenting on the case Kevin Simmonds, managing director of

exhaust ventilation systems.

Compliance LEV, said: “Tellingly, HSE data show that many workers in

The HSE has certainly picked up on this and is currently displaying

the UK continue to be affected by poor or non-existent local exhaust

an increasingly pro-active, hands-on approach to health and safety in

ventilation (LEV). Shockingly, there are estimated to be around

the manufacturing industry. It has launched a nationwide programme

13,000 UK deaths each year linked to past exposure at work.

of targeted and comprehensive inspections to ensure that those who

“Moreover, statistics from the Institute of Local Exhaust

are non-compliant with the regulations take responsibility and be

Ventilation Engineers (ILEVE) disclose that while 65% of workplaces

held accountable with financially significant fines.”

have local exhaust ventilation installations, only 24% of those More at  www.compliancelev.co.uk

incorporate adequate control of potentially health-damaging

 Hat 35 Compliance LEV has developed baseball cap-style headwear which filters out harmful toxins and directs a flow of clean, fresh air over the user’s nose and mouth. In early tests, the product – known as Hat 35, because its airflow is at a 35-degree angle – was shown to be 95% efficient at filtering pollutants such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, and 99% effective on particulates. Hat 35 wearers are, in fact, air quality monitors, as well as providing the protection wearers need from toxic fumes and particulates.

Like Fitbit, which records personal data, Hat 35 is designed to continually acquire data on pollution and contaminant levels around the world, providing invaluable information to policymakers on

the Hat 35 technology has qualified through successful mission

air quality. Compliance LEV will embark on a third funding round,

operations, will seek to license the product and possibly consider a

aimed at raising a further £500,000 to £600,000 in 2024 and, once

trade sale in 2026.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

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Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

SRGBA0323 V1 | © SIG Trading Ltd 2023. All rights reserved. *See product datasheet for more information at: sr-timber.co.uk/Product/sr-timber-premium-gold-roofing-batten.

Vacsol Aqua Preservative, treated to BS 8417:2011* Impregnated to Use Class 2 by double vacuum/low pressure water based preservative. Protection with our standard 60 service life against insect attack and wood rotting fungi. (When used correctly and installed above dpc level in buildings).

Product stamped, (each piece), showing: Producer, Imported and/or species code, Graded BS5534, Size, Independent 3rd Party Accreditation*. *As recommended by the NFRC & TDUK, using an independent certification company being UKAS accredited, of which audits both material and processes verifying conformity

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FEATURE  MATERIALS HANDLING

All Angle Visibility The safe movement of timber products is essential with one home developer looking to a trusted and familiar name to help with its new facility in Bicester.

A

s part of Combilift’s drive to help customers achieve their aims of more sustainable operations, over 60% of the

company’s output is now electric. Recent models such as the Combi-XLE and now the Combi-FSE focus on heavier duty application for industry sectors including timber, steel, tubes and pipes and builders’ merchants.

The company has big ambitions for the future, aiming to deliver over 10,000 ‘climate positive’ homes across the south of England by 2035. The offsite manufacturing process enables the timber frame superstructure to be erected quickly and safely, and a home is airtight and watertight just two weeks after the first panel arrives on-site.

One of factory manager Rob Bresnahan’s early tasks for the new premises was to find a forklift that was suitable for handling the diverse mix of incoming raw materials, as well as ideally being able to lift and move the sizeable and bulky finished panels around the

influenced our decision to replace an old LPG

generous glazing for excellent all-round visibility,

factory and yard areas. Using just one truck

counterbalance truck with the Combilift,”

the tilting steering column, hydraulic steering and

for multiple tasks, in the storage, production

says Rob. “I’d had previous dealings with the

the Grammer MSG65 seat.

and outside areas was obviously going to be a

manufacturer and was impressed with the

Combilift’s newly developed Auto Swivel

more efficient and cost-effective investment.

quality of products, their reputation in the

Seat – premiered at Ligna 2023 – is an optional

And given the nature of the company’s homes

industry and the level of customer service.

feature that automatically engages and swivels

– which are targeted to be better than net

The CB’s size, lift capacity, manoeuvrability,

the seat and armrest 15° to the right or left

zero in terms of whole life embodied carbon –

and emission -free operation is perfect for our

to accord with the direction of travel selected

electric power was a further prerequisite.

handling requirements.”

by the operator – reducing driver strain,

An evaluation of several truck brands on the market eventually led to the Irish forklift

particularly when travelling in reverse. The

New cab on the rank

truck also features Combilift’s internationally

manufacturer Combilift, which has focused

As Combilift continues its 25 years in

patented and Red Dot awarded independent

on expanding its electric range. With a wide

business celebrations, the new Combi-CB70E

electric traction which provides all front and

choice of models, Rob went for the Combi-

is now part of the range and a further addition

rear drive wheels with 100% traction control.

CB4E – a 4t capacity compact counterbalance

to Combilift’s range of electric models helping

design truck. Its versatility enables it to handle

reduce carbon emissions and provide safer

McVicar said: “The increased capacities that we

pallets of the insulation materials, packs of

working practices. Occupational health and

are offering in our electric range will answer

timber which can be 5m long and weigh up to

safety requirements mean that the welfare of

the demand for ever more powerful products

3000kg, and the sizeable, finished wall, floor

the workforce has become ever more important.

which at the same time help companies

Drivers of industrial vehicles, who are often

to achieve their aims for more sustainable

and roof panels.

Its multidirectional capability, which was

Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin

required to spend extensive periods in their

operations. The Combi-CB70E has an innate

one of the selling points for Rob, also allows

workstations, quite rightly expect the highest

suitability for customers in the timber sector,

for safe, low level sideways transportation of

levels of comfort and safety. Combilift’s designers

but we are confident that this model will be

the largest loads, enabling widths between

have therefore gone to great lengths to ensure

a popular addition to our portfolio for many

stacked products to be kept at a minimum.

that the latest generation of models are kitted

other industry applications.”

As production volumes increase, this space

out with top quality components that ensure

saving handling will become even more

sophisticated ergonomics for a stress-free in-cab

More at  www.combilift.com

of an advantage. “A number of factors

environment. Features in the spacious cab include

 www.greencorehomes.co.uk

28

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FEATURE  PANEL PRODUCTS

Panel Products & Alternative Supply The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has focused minds – and supply chains – about the differing timber choices available but there are many safe and sustainable alternatives to ‘conflict timber’ on the market.

D

ue to its ongoing support for

from Vietnam to the United States in fact originate

resistance properties. For environmentally

the Russian war of aggression

in Russia. According to Vietnam customs data,

sensitive interior applications, such as nurseries

against Ukraine, the UK recently

roughly 40,000m3 of birch plywood is transported

and museums where formaldehyde emissions

announced a new package

every month from Russia and China into Vietnam,

need to be kept to the minimum, there is

of additional sanctions on Belarus. The

where it is assembled into furniture and plywood

MEDITE CLEAR, an MDF panel manufactured

announcement made on 8 June 2023, states

and repackaged, with these countries then listed

with no added formaldehyde.

that any imports of wood, gold, cement, and

as the country of origin.

As the TDUK’s Nick Boulton says: “We

rubber from the country is prohibited. This is in

For merchants and suppliers in the UK

addition to the £60 million package of sanctions

and Ireland, MEDITE SMARTPLY offers a well-

remaining vigilant against any organisations

the UK already has against Belarus – so what

known alternative, thanks to its extensive

offering to supply birch plywood to the UK

does this mean for the timber industry?

range of products. MEDITE SMARTPLY and

from the Far East or countries like Turkey,

its MDF and OSB ranges are not only locally

Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan. Should Russian

top of the current sanctions still in place,

sourced but are also fully FSC certified.

timber products be found in the UK/EU

importing wood – especially birch plywood

It’s important to remember that the FSC

market, the importer and all customers

– remains a challenge for the UK. This means

International Board of Directors has agreed to

who have purchased these products may be

merchants and manufacturers face supply

suspend all trading certificates in Russia and

subject to legal action, fines and reputational

issues and are looking to import wood from

Belarus until the invasion ends. SMARTPLY

damage, which would also impact their

elsewhere. However, this can lead to a risk of

OSB and MEDITE MDF are made from

trading partners in the manufacturing

illegally importing wood into the UK.

sustainable wood products from Coillte’s own

country. Always do your due diligence with

forests in Ireland.

any potential new suppliers, especially when

With a new package being imposed on

TDUK has warned members to remain on

would ask all our members to continue

high alert for illegal imports of conflict timber

For those looking for alternatives to using

from Russia and Belarus, amid reports that

birch plywood or similar wood types in furniture

Russian birch plywood is still being exported

or interior fit-out applications, will find solutions

to the market via third-party countries. New

in the versatile MEDITE MDF range. For example,

More at  www.vastern.co.uk

reports suggest that Russian birch plywood and

those working on kitchen or bathroom projects

 www.timberdevelopment.uk

other conflict timbers are being exported into

will find MEDITE MR and MEDITE OPTIMA

 https://mdfosb.com/en/the-alternative-

America and other countries, including the UK,

suitable products thanks to its moisture

to-plywood

dealing with products that could potentially be considered conflict timber.”

disguised as having originated in areas such as Vietnam, Asia and China.

Importing any timber originating from

 British Larch

Russia, Belarus, and certain parts of Ukraine to the EU and UK is considered illegal under the

“British larch cladding is a great alternative to the

EU/UK Timber Regulations. This also includes

Siberian larch, originating in Russia,” says Tom Barnes,

timber products indirectly imported to the

managing director of Vastern Timber. “Not only is it

EU/UK via third-party countries. However,

free of any sanctions or trade bans, but it also has a

this ban is being evaded by some, who are

lighter environmental impact and will cost you less.

transporting their products from Russia and

When you buy British wood, you’ll also be supporting the

Belarus into a third-party country, where it is

management and upkeep of local woodlands too.

then repackaged and reported as originating from that country instead.

Since the war in Ukraine, I’ve been able to make an even stronger case for homegrown larch. The thing is, we have beautiful wood growing right here on our

The Environmental Investigation Agency

doorstep – and there are so many reasons for choosing it. To start with, British larch is

(EIA) says Russian birch plywood is being routed

durable, affordable, and obtainable. What’s more, when you choose wood that’s grown

through Asia before being shipped to America, and

in British woodlands, there’s no risk of conflict timber entering your supply chain.”

that most birch products currently being exported Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

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THE TIMBER SPECIES OF THE FUTURE.

PIVETEAUBOIS

Technical centre LAMWOOD total engineered timber production: 100,000 m3/year.

RICH RESERVES OF DOUGLAS FIR: France is the number

one producer of Douglas Fir in Europe. Second in the world!

Great mechanical properties so the ideal construction material as glulam, finger-jointed or CLT.

PERMANENT STOCK OF 3,000M3 of GL24h Douglas Fir, Spruce and treated Pine in 13m lengths.

STATE OF THE ART MACHINING AND CUT TO LENGTH SERVICE available for all your projects.

Naturally durable heartwood to Use Class 3.2 so

can be used outdoors without treatment.

Sap can be pressure treated grey or brown

up to Use Class 3.2.

Versatile: perfect for use as cladding or decking.

N E E D M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N ? C O N TA C T YO U R E X P E R T : Elisabeth PIVETEAU |

Timber Trader UK Magazine

+44 (0) 7821 807 788 |

Summer 2023

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 @Timber_Media

Douglas fir glulam, Bristol Old Vic by Constructional Timber. © Fred Howarth.

DOUGLAS FIR

FEATURE  TIMBER EXPO 2023

Show Time Approaches

Timber Expo – the UK’s only dedicated timber exhibition – returns this autumn to the NEC, where it will be co-located alongside UK Construction Week Birmingham, the UK’s largest event for the built environment.

R

unning from 3-5 October 2023, Timber Expo will bring together award-winning architects, clients, and contractors to showcase all that timber has to offer.

It’s the UK’s largest showcase event for wood and

timber in construction, covering structural timber frames, sawmills, merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding, doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings, and flooring products.

This year’s exhibitors include: •

Aagaard A/S (UK) – Aagaard A/S develops, produces, markets and mounts turnkey systems for wood-working and furniture industry all over the world

•

Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) – a non-profit, mission driven organisation, of forward-thinking companies and institutions from across the built environment sector.

•

•

Element – a leading global provider of testing, inspection, and

of wider measures to reduce carbon in the built environment and

certification (TIC) services on a wide range of products, materials,

stimulate demand for tree planting. This is followed by a case study of

processes and services and products

Stockholm Wood City, an entire mass timber development, the largest

Ghana Forestry Commission – an organisation committed to the

wood-building project in the world which is now in progress.

sustainable management of Ghana’s forest and promotion of legal • •

Visitors will also find relevant timber talks in the CPD Hub – a

timber products onto the global market

mix of industry-relevant CPD talks delivered by industry experts. For

Hanson Plywood Ltd – specialists in the import, storage and

instance, Jacqui Hughes, product specification advisor at Hanson

distribution of wood-based panel products throughout the UK

Plywood, will talk about the specification of plywood as either ‘Marine’

Swiss Krono Tec AG – one of the world’s leading manufacturers of

plywood or ‘WBP’ plywood, where high quality plywood is required for

wood-based materials.

a construction project. This seminar addresses the potential failings of this outdated, habitual approach and makes recommendations

Nathan Garnett, UKCW show director, says: “At UK Construction

regarding the robust specification of plywood in line with current

Week, we have always put timber at the centre of our event. The drive

European Standards.

to net zero and the increasing need to improve quality in construction

The show will feature sessions and seminars led by industry experts

mean we need to enable a culture change in the way we build.”

across four other stages and includes other key features such as the

The Sustainability Hub is the heart of Timber Expo. The hub

ever popular: Future Lab, Culture Change Hub and Robotics Theatre.

programme will tackle the issues, layout strategies and case studies to help the sector reach its net zero targets. Andrew Carpenter, chief

To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, go to

executive officer of the Structural Timber Association (STA) will be

 https://ukcw-birmingham-2023.reg.buzz

speaking on 3 October about the net zero strategy and England Trees

Follow UKCW on social media  @uk_cw  #UKCW2023

Action Plan to increase the safe use of timber in construction as part

More at  www.ukconstructionweek.com/birmingham

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Summer 2023

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“The must-attend event for anyone working with timber products”

CO-LOCATED WITH

REGISTER FREE Timber Trader UK Magazine timberexpo.co.uk

Summer 2023

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FEATURE  TIMBER TREATMENT

The Modern Era of Wood Preservation Andy Hodge, marketing director for Arxada’s Wood Protection Business Unit (EIMEA) and WTTA president, explains how treated timber can become a carbon enabler in the modern era of wood preservation.

W

ood preservatives are used to enhance the natural durability of certain timber species, helping to provide protection from decay fungi and insect attack so that the timber can be used in commercial applications. Having

worked in the timber industry for 40 years, I have witnessed how treated timber has sometimes been viewed as not being as environmentally friendly as other materials because it contains chemicals.

A closer look at preserved timber Without adequate protection through industrially applied wood preservation, some commercially important timber species wouldn’t be able to be used. For example, European homegrown softwoods that play such an integral role in capturing and storing CO2 from the air, such as spruce and pine, have little natural durability. This means that unless

protection industry has certainly evolved. Treated timber used in Use

treated, they are unsuitable for applications exposed to weathering

Classes 1 and 2 is transitioning across Europe to non-metal preservatives

(rain, moisture), or near ground level and in the ground.

that are based on organic actives. These wood preservatives provide an envelope of protection around the timber. An example of this is Vacsol®

Across Europe there are several water-based wood preservatives

6118 from Arxada, which we brought to market in 2020.

available, and a handful of oil-based. All are regulated under the Biocidal Products Regulation No 528/2012 (BPR). This regulation

An updated formulation of its traditional Vacsol® Aqua low-

aims to improve the functioning of the biocidal products market in

pressure treatment, Vacsol® 6118 is both metal-free and VOC-free.

the EU, whilst ensuring a high level of protection for humans, animals

This means timber treated with Vacsol® 6118 can be recycled or reused

and the environment. In the UK and Northern Ireland, following the

at end of life (subject to local waste regulations). In addition, when

UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, GB BPR is in place. GB BPR

working on the revised formulation we challenged ourselves to reduce

mirrors much of the EU regulations but is an independent regulation

the carbon footprint of transportation by designing Vacsol® 6118 as a

overseen by the UK Health & Safety Executive.

concentrate eradicating the need for bulk tanker delivery.

The evolution of wood preservation

based wood protection technologies are being developed that can be

For Use Classes 3(c) and 3(u) – coated and uncoated – non-metalapplied through high-pressure impregnation. Whilst these new metal-

With the availability of VOC-free and metal-free wood preservatives and with some copper-based preservatives optimising quantities of

free technologies provide a slightly lower service life than the more

copper due to being paired with powerful organic co-biocides, the wood

traditional copper-based wood preservatives, they do come with many

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Summer 2023

34

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TIMBER TREATMENT

benefits including recyclability and/or reuse at end of life and being

and requires minimal maintenance, then this has a positive impact on

VOC free. In 2021 Arxada launched a metal-free version of Tanalith®

the whole carbon footprint.

E high-pressure treatment – Tanalith® MF. To date, Tanalith® MF has

In the UK, the development of treated timber EPDs is gathering

predominantly been used across Europe for the treatment of cladding

pace but is still not as advanced as other regions across Europe. For

to help with the sustainability credentials of projects.

example, in the Netherlands there is a carbon levy on sectors, including the built environment, and treaters and manufacturers of treated wood

Assessing the whole carbon impact of treated timber

products are utilising Arxada’s Tanalith® E cradle-to-gate assessment to formulate a full cradle-to-grave EPD. We are hoping that treaters

To help built environment professionals evaluate the overall carbon footprint of their projects, the wood preservation industry is investing

in the rest of Europe will soon be undertaking their own EPDs and

in Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and Environmental Product Declarations

using the data provided on wood preservatives to help educate on the

(EPDs). At Arxada we are investing in both EPDs and LCAs for our

specification of treated timber compared with alternative materials,

wood protection technologies. Not only is this critical when comparing

including modified wood, hardwood and untreated wood.

treated wood with alternative materials, but also helps evaluate More at  www.arxada.com

untreated v treated wood. If treated provides longevity and durability,

 LCA results Looking specifically at utility poles, the LCA results show that Tanasote® treated wooden poles were the lowest impact pole type when compared against a cast concrete pole, fiberglass polyester pole, steel pole, spun concrete pole and fiberglass epoxy pole. The Tanasote® treated wooden pole had the lowest impact in damage to ecosystems, damage to human health and damage to resource and several sensitivity analyses also showed that the Tanasote® treated wooded pole was the lowest impact option.

NB: Use wood preservatives safely. Always read the label and product information before use.

Proven

performance

in wood protection Tanalith® E high pressure water-based wood preservative has over three decades of real-word performance. With BARamine® application technology for: - improved penetration; - enhanced preservative distribution. w: trusttreatedtimber.com e: timberprotectionadvice.ukca@arxada.com

Use wood preservatives safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Tanalith® E 8000 and 9000 are BPR authorised products. Cladding photo courtesy of Foreco.

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FEATURE  CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Routes to Wood Cascading A ‘first-of-its-kind’ report calls for greater circularity and higher-value applications for Scottish timber and the better use of the UK’s precious homegrown resource.

B

uilt Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST),

associated manufacturing emissions to be reduced, whilst increasing

Scottish Forestry and Zero Waste Scotland have

the availability of woodfibre for future applications. However,

published a new report exploring timber cascading

challenges such as a lack of detailed data, sector understanding and

in Scotland. ‘Wood Cascading in Scotland’ – considers

infrastructure, and limited market appetite will need to be overcome

the timber supply chain and looks at how the sector can encourage

through further research, innovation, and regulation, if these gains are

greater reuse of timber and wood fibre to get the most from the

to be capitalised upon.

timber we grow.

Stephen Boyle, programme manager for Construction at Zero

As a concept, timber cascading aligns closely with the aims of a

Waste Scotland, says: “The circular economy is all about making what

circular economy: to eliminate waste, optimise resource use and reduce

we have last longer, and that’s why it’s fantastic to see this thinking

the environmental impacts of products by keeping them in use as long as

being applied to one of our most essential building materials in this

possible, at the highest value possible. This means that homegrown wood

report. Keeping our timber in high value use for longer can really help

can be used across several lifecycles in high-value applications within the

reduce the carbon impacts of construction projects, and this is a vital

built environment before it is eventually recycled to create secondary

part of the efforts needed to tackle the climate crisis.”

products such as furniture and/or panel boards, before it is ultimately

‘Wood Cascading in Scotland’ concludes by calling for further

recovered as energy. By taking this approach, the sector can ensure

research to deepen knowledge and understanding of timber cascading

maximum economic, ecological, environmental and social value for the

and to enable the sector to fully exploit the benefits, reduce waste

forest and timber industries, and the people and nature of Scotland.

and increase supply of timber for highest value uses. Louise Rogers,

“The sector is already making use of the whole forest harvest

impact manager at BE-ST, said: “By producing this report, BE-ST has

from sawlogs to sawdust and the majority of wood products are

been able to leverage its ecosystem and network to ensure its reach

recycled for re-manufacturing or biomass fuel,” says Roland Stiven,

across sectors, while the collaboration with Zero Waste Scotland and

business development advisor at Scottish Forestry. “However, there

Scottish Forestry has ensured the outcomes of the project are as robust

are opportunities to optimise the use of wood within a more circular

as possible and in line with the complementary objectives of the three

economy to extract greater value from every tree and store more

organisations. And we hope to not stop here.

carbon within the built and manufactured environment. The report

“Together, we are poised to undertake the next stage of research

gives timber businesses an introduction to the idea of cascading and

including a material flow and life cycle analysis of the most optimum

suggests some opportunities to encourage reuse and recycling.”

cascading streams to utilise our natural resources most efficiently.

The ‘Wood Cascading in Scotland’ report reviews the current level

We hope to develop a Scotland-specific roadmap of how to tackle

of timber cascading, both nationally and internationally, and looks at any

barriers and encourage adoption and assist policy makers and building

pre-existing regulatory barriers, enablers, strategies, and applications used

regulators to incentivise the design and use of cascaded wood products

to increase the reuse and lifecycle of timber products. It also identifies

and as a result create a more resource efficient Scotland.”

opportunities for secondary products that can be manufactured using You can read the full ‘Wood Cascading in Scotland’ report at

either the co-products from sawmilling or reclaimed timber.

 https://be-st.build/media/fospozdi/be-st_wood-cascading-in-

The research highlights the environmental benefits of timber

scotland_2023.pdf

cascading as the process potentially allows both embodied carbon and Timber Trader UK Magazine

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