DEVELOPMENT AND STATUS OF OPTIMIZATION AN D MODELING OF THE HOT-PRESSING OF WOOD-BASED PANELS

An overview of experimental studies and computer models for the optimi sation of the hot pressing process of fibre and particle boards is giv en. Results of numerous experimental studies show that important therm odynamic processes operative during hot pressing are already known and partly mathematically described in the literature. Through the applic ation of computer models which simulate heat and moisture transfer as well as the rheological behaviour of mats in connection with the knowl edge on the properties of wood and the curing reaction of adhesives in mats, a considerable portion of experiments for the optimisation of p ressing programs in laboratory and industrial presses could be replace d by computer simulation. The optimisation procedure could be document ed. Development and performance of computer models of the hot pressing process are described with examples. Key areas for further research a nd development are defined.