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ABSTRACT
The study investigated the comparative study of log conversion efficiency among selected sawmills in Benin City, Edo state. The values and wastage of log during conversion process in the sawmills, effect of log conversion method, species used in the various sawmills, factors limiting the log conversion efficiency and volume of waste generated during conversion in the sawmills were evaluated. Six (6) sawmills were randomly selected from 14 functional sawmills in three (3) local government area that make up Benin City. A total of two hundred and sixteen (216) round log was considered for the study. Measuring tape was used to measure the girth of the log at both end (base and top) as well as the length of the log. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages summarized in table and chart and inferential statistics with the use of analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance. Duncan multiple range test was used to separate the means of variables. The results revealed that Egor (43.7%) recorded the highest numbers of timber species while the least (25.7%) was recorded in Oredo local government. Egor also recorded the highest (40.9%) numbers of log converted in the study area. The result also revealed the average of 22+4.08 with an average volume of 27.72+5.8m2 were converted per day. Egor Local government (41.7%) recorded the highest number of lumber production per day while the least was observed in Oredo Local government area. The highest mean volume of lumber (22.47m2; 42.4%) was recorded in Egor Local Government Area. The highest (12.49m3) waste generated was observed among selected sawmill in Egor Local Government Area while the average of (10.06+2.20m3) wood waste was generated per day. However, Oredo Local Government recorded the highest (65.40%) conversion ratio and efficiency while the average conversion ratio and efficiency were (0.64+0.01) and (63.7+1.56%). The study concluded that Cordia millanii, Bombax spp and Bathia nitilida were commonly available in the sawmills. The study shows a positive correlation between size, shape and diameter of log converted. The study also concluded that the major factors limiting log conversion efficiency were inherent defect on wood, machine age, skilled personnel and severity of taper. It also indicates plain sawing method as the major method adopted among majorities of the sawmills sampled in the study. Some recommendations such as conversation of waste to briquettes, regular training, maintenance culture as well as the use of modern sawing techniques were made based on the findings of the study.
