Equalizing and conditioning, the right moisture content for the products

The definitions for equalizing and conditioning from the Dry Kiln Operator's Manual (5) are as follows: Equalization-bringing the pieces of lumber in a kiln charge to a nearly uniform moisture content. Conditioning-a controlled high temperature-high relative humidity condition used in a dry kiln after the final stage of drying to bring about a uniform moisture distribution in the boards and to relieve drying stresses. These terms are used interchangeably throughout the industry but each treatment has a specific effect on the final quality of the lumber.