Timber defects and features — identification of waney edge In sawn timber, the visible remnant of the original rounded tree surface on a manufactured piece is called:
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AWane (waney edge)
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BTorn grain
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CDiagonal grain
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DChip mark
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EHoneycombing
Answer
Correct Answer: Wane (waney edge)
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Recognizing surface features and defects in timber helps in grading, pricing, and specifying wood for structural or finish applications. A common feature is the presence of the original rounded tree surface on an edge or corner after sawing.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The piece has an unplaned, rounded, bark-adjacent edge or surface remnant.
- The term sought is a standard timber trade term.
- The alternatives include other surface defects unrelated to the original tree curvature.
Concept / Approach:When a log is converted to boards, outer pieces may retain part of the curved surface; this is termed wane or waney edge. It reduces the full rectangular cross-section and may be unacceptable in structural members where full bearing or planeness is required.
Step-by-Step Solution:Identify cue: presence of rounded, natural surface on an otherwise sawn piece.Match with terminology: wane/waney edge.Exclude other defects: torn grain (machining tear-out), diagonal grain (grain not parallel to edge), chip marks (tooling marks).
Verification / Alternative check:Grading rules in lumber standards classify wane and specify allowable limits for structural grades.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Torn grain is a machining defect from planing; diagonal grain is a grain orientation issue; chip marks are minor machining blemishes; honeycombing is internal checking, not an outer rounded surface.
Common Pitfalls:Accepting excessive wane in load-bearing edges; painting over waney edges without proper trimming; confusing bark inclusions with simple wane.
Final Answer:Wane (waney edge)