Abstract:

The overall aim of this study was to determine the appropriate sawmilling technologies that should be promoted for use
in Uganda's softwood plantation. Conversion efficiency, sawing accuracy, and sawing capability of foursawmill
categories were evaluated. Data were collected from sawing of 604 good-quality logs using eleven Rolling-Table
Sawmills, Dimensional Swivel Sawmills, Band Sawmills, and Locally-fabricated Sawmills. Sawing accuracy data were
collected from 165 boards in three timber sizes (75 mm x 50 mm, 100 mm x 50 mm, 150 mm x 50 mm). Sawing
capability was assessed from saw blade parameters, merchantable timber size, and size of available logs. ANOVA was
used to show differences in recovery and sawing accuracy between and within sawmills. Band sawmills exhibited the
most efficient sawm? technology for converting logs into sawn timber while rolling-table sawmills were more efficient
than dimensional swivel and locally manufactured sawmills. Band sawmills were more accurate than sawmills in the
other categories. Therefore, band sawmills should be promoted in Uganda and mechanical modifications carried out on
the swivel and locally-manufactured sawmills operating in softwood plantations to improve their feed-work and set
work mechanisms.