Heat and mass transfer in wood composite panels during hot pressing: Part 3. Predicted variations and interactions of the pressing variables
Abstract As a continuation of previous publications on a physical-mathematical model of heat and mass transfer and a structural model of mat permeability, this paper presents typical prediction results for 15 pressing variables for strand mats. A case study and complete solutions to the governing equations are provided. The results show how the heat and mass transfer is controlled by heat conduction and convection involving gas flow and phase change. The model predictions provide a comprehensive illustration of the temporal and spatial variations of basic pressing variables, including mat temperature, gas pressure, moisture control and resin curing rate. The model offers a powerful tool for simulating the effects of mat structure, pressing schedule and initial mat conditions.