Wood-Mizer and Universiti Putra Malaysia: Advancing Wood Sciences Education through Practical Sawmilling

In the field of Wood Sciences and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia distinguishes itself as a premier institution for imparting knowledge to students on sawmilling processes and woodworking techniques. Through a partnership with Wood-Mizer, a worldwide leader in sawmilling equipment, the university has provided its students with top-notch tools to enrich their comprehension of the timber industry. The LT15 sawmill, in particular, has emerged as a pivotal resource in their curriculum, enabling students to acquire practical experience and cultivate fundamental skills in basic sawmilling.

The university acknowledges the significance of hands-on learning, especially in Wood Sciences and Forestry. Wood-Mizer supplied them with the LT15 sawmill, which has seamlessly integrated into their curriculum. The professors prioritise taking their students to the workshop, where they learn how to operate the LT15 and master the art of effective timber processing.

The LT15 stands as the world's most popular sawmill, known for its exceptional versatility, high quality, extensive capabilities, established reputation, and affordability. It can cut logs up to 70 cm in diameter and 5.4 m long using standard bed options, meeting various cutting needs. Bed extensions can also be added to handle longer logs, providing flexibility in cutting lengths. The use of thin-kerf blades reduces environmental waste and energy consumption, while the smaller motors provide sufficient power to cut through all types of wood.

As students advance in their education, they are assigned woodworking projects that encompass the entire process, from initial sawing to secondary processing. Currently, in the initial phase of this project, both students and teachers are utilising the LT15 sawmill. The second phase of the program involves the implementation of the MP200 Planer/Moulder from Wood-Mizer, followed by a MS500 Sliding Table Saw.

The MP200 Planer and Moulder is capable of planing or moulding materials on one or two sides simultaneously. It features one horizontal top cutter and one vertical side cutter that can be equipped with planing knives or moulding profile knives to create various finished mouldings or flooring. Paired with an MS500 Circular Table Saw developed to match the everyday needs of small and medium woodworking shops, this will enable students to delve into both primary and secondary wood processing, acquiring knowledge of integrating different types of equipment and exploring various techniques.

On the 26th of December, Wood-Mizer hosted a demonstration and hands-on experience session for students, providing them with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the equipment firsthand. Subsequently, on the 28th of December, professors also had the chance to further their understanding of the machinery. 

"We want to give the new generation advanced technology and the right tools to work efficiently while also protecting the environment," says Daniel Wong, Wood-Mizer Malaysia Country Manager, who introduced the machines at the event. "We're open to participating in various educational projects and are actively involved in these initiatives worldwide."

 

In collaboration with Wood-Mizer, Universiti Putra Malaysia ensures that its students remain abreast of the latest technologies and techniques in sawmilling and timber processing. This knowledge empowers students with a thorough understanding of sawmilling techniques, fostering efficient practices and improving wood recovery rates. Furthermore, the adoption of thin kerf technology minimises waste and promotes sustainability, aligning with the faculty's dedication to environmental stewardship.

The main campus of Universiti Putra Malaysia is becoming a centre of excellence in the wood industry. The partnership with Wood-Mizer has been crucial in progressing education in wood sciences, resulting in the creation of an innovative and efficient learning environment. Through this collaboration, students and professors are acquiring valuable insights and practical experience that will ready them for successful careers in the woodworking and forestry sectors.