ABSTRACT
Following earlier demonstration of the ability of sonic technology to sort logs according to the wide range of fibre properties in them, equipment has been made to allow this to be done in the forest. Selection for end use is being done commercially in NZ. There remains a large within-log radial variation of fibre type and hence stiffness. It is shown how acoustics, in combination with a density estimate and some knowledge of the population, can be used to predict a numerical radial modulus profile. This is of value not only in deciding sawing patterns for timber strength, but is expected to be of use in predicting propensity to warp. A commercial installation is under construction.
