The project was completed in early December 2012. The steamer was manufactured by Better Built Dry Kilns, Inc. The 30,000 board foot total capacity steamer is constructed of all aluminum and stainless steel, while built on top of a concrete foundation. The unit is set up to produce steam indirectly by submerging a heating element and boiling a trough of water. The new steamer provides a more uniform color of sapwood and heartwood.
Kamps will steam all of its walnut prior to air-drying and kiln-drying. Kamps Hardwoods currently produces all grades of walnut in thicknesses ranging from 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4, 10/4, and 12/4. Special pulls for proprietary grading, width sorting, and premium color sorts are provided. Custom steaming will be available to companies looking for that service as well.
