Why does the pith have to be cut out of the wood? .
Why does the pith have to be cut out of the wood? .
Removing the pith from a tree trunk when the wood is being sawn is important for several reasons:
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- Better quality: Wood without a core is less likely to have structural defects. This is especially important for applications where stability and uniformity of the wood are important, such as in the production of furniture, flooring and building materials.
- Less chance of deformation and cracks: The annual rings in the core of the tree are smaller in diameter, which causes more deformation during drying. This also significantly increases the chance of cracks. By removing the core, this risk is minimized, which keeps the wood more stable during drying and use.
- Aesthetic considerations: Removing the core can give the wood a more uniform and attractive appearance. For example, it can have a more consistent color and texture, which is important for visible surfaces such as furniture, paneling, and decorative finishes. Often the core of the tree is gone. A hollow space running lengthwise through the tree. Walnut, for example, always has this.
Making a stair spindle or pepper mill from wood with the core still in it is therefore unwise. The chance that it will sooner or later tear open or at least deform is considerable.