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Wood processing
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:30:19
Abstract
The course Wood Processing conveys knowledge on the technological properties of wood and wood-based materials as well as on industrial processes for the fabrication of a vast variety of wood products and covers new developments in the field of digital technologies.
Objective
The learning target is a fundamental understanding of the dominating wood processing chains, which are applied to fabricate common wood products. Students will be introduced to the economic relevance of the renewable resource wood and are trained in its technological properties. The students will learn to identify the relationships between wood species and their properties as well as the suitable wood machining processes to fabricate targeted wood products. Finally, the digital transformation process, which will affect all sectors of the wood industry with an impact on the entire value chain and business models will be covered. It will be illustrated how production processes can become more flexible, efficient and less resource-demanding.
Content
The general introduction shows the economic relevance of the resource wood in a global, European, and Swiss context and reflects aspects of sustainability in wood production. In terms of bulk wood products, a specific focus is laid on sawn timber production and drying processes. Concerning wood veneer production, steaming, veneer cutting, and assembly to veneer lumber products are presented. Further, the common technologies for the production of particle boards and fibre boards will be discussed. Topics related to wood gluing and wood protection as well as potentials and limitations in the application of wood and wood-based products are covered. In a further part, the lecture deals with the most important digital technologies, e.g. Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and their impact on the wood industry based on illustrative examples.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Wood processing |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Minor in Forest Engineering and Wood Products (To successfully complete this minor, KPs must be earned for the two required courses: - 701-1645-00 Forest Operations (autumn semester) and - 701-1544-00 Forest Access and Transportation (spring semester))
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