TL;DR
Poor edger yield is usually caused by misaligned scanner inputs or outdated lumber value tables. Verify scanner calibration, update lumber prices, and compare optimizer solutions to manual measurements.
What you might see
- edger yield dropping without log quality change
- optimizer consistently choosing narrower solutions than expected
- difference between optimizer predicted value and actual value increasing
- scanner misread flags increasing in the optimizer log
Likely causes
Scanner calibration drift reducing the accuracy of board dimension inputs to the optimizer
Outdated lumber value tables causing the optimizer to favor lower-value solutions
Scanner lens contamination reducing scan quality
Optimizer trim allowance settings set too conservatively
Required tools
- Optimizer software access
- Scanner calibration target
- Lens cleaning kit
- Tape measure for manual dimension check
Safety first
- Lock out the edger and carriage before entering the scan zone. Scanner laser radiation hazard requires laser safety eyewear.
- Keep hands away from saw blades and feed rolls during any test runs near the edger.
Procedure
- 1
Export the optimizer solution log for the last shift and compare the predicted value against the actual graded value for a sample of boards.[1]
- 2
Clean the scanner lenses with a lint-free cloth and approved lens cleaner before running any calibration.
- 3
Run the scanner calibration routine using the certified calibration target for the installed scanner type.[1]
- 4
Review the lumber value table in the optimizer software. Confirm that current market prices are entered for all grades and widths produced.
- 5
Check trim allowance settings. Overly conservative trim allowances reduce recoverable board length. Adjust within the quality specification if boards are trimming shorter than needed.
- 6
Run a validation set of 20 boards through the optimizer and manually measure the output dimensions and grade. Compare to the optimizer solution.
- 7
If optimizer solutions are still not matching manual measurements after calibration, contact USNR technical support with the optimizer log and scanner calibration report.
Sources
USNR USNR MyEdger / Trimmer Edger / Trimmer general technical documentation, USNR
Sawmill edger optimizer calibration and value recovery, general sawmill optimization practice (general)
More guides for USNR USNR MyEdger / Trimmer
How to fix edger feed roll slipping on a USNR MyEdger
Feed roll slipping in the edger causes boards to stall or skew, reducing cut accuracy. Clean the rollers, check nip pressure, and inspect the drive for wear.
How to fix a trimmer saw not dropping on a USNR MyEdger Trimmer
A trimmer saw that fails to drop misses the optimizer cut solution and reduces board value. Check the saw pneumatic cylinder, solenoid valve, and optimizer output signal before replacing components.
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