Automated board positioning: where the extra yield comes from

Sawmills lose recovery when boards enter the multi-saw at the wrong offset or angle. Even a few millimeters off center can turn into measurable waste and rework. Automated board positioning solves that problem by moving three decisions from the operator to a repeatable, data-driven system.

First, the board is located on the infeed and its real shape is captured - bow, twist, taper, and wane. Second, optimization software calculates the best possible placement for the widths you run that shift. Third, motion control places the board precisely before the multi-saw, synchronized with line speed so throughput does not drop.

Why it outperforms manual setting

• Manual decisions vary by operator and fatigue; automation repeats the best possible placement every time.
• Real geometry is measured, not assumed, so warped and unedged boards are handled correctly.
• The system keeps up with production speed, making the high-yield decision every few seconds.

Impact on recovery

Across customer lines we see a 3-6% uplift in yield when positioning is automated, plus reduced scrap bins and fewer complaints about inconsistent widths. Because the module retrofits to existing conveyors and controls, the payback comes from saved material rather than capital for a new saw.

If you are trying to squeeze more value from each log, start with the few meters before the multi-saw - the recovery is hiding there.