At Highveld Shavings, we employ a meticulous and highly efficient process to transform raw pine logs into premium wood shavings. Our operations are designed to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety, from the initial handling of the logs to the final packaging of our product. This section details each step of our process, showcasing our commitment to excellence and innovation in wood shavings production.

Flow process of shavings

At Highveld Shavings, our process begins with pine logs transported from the forest to our yard. These logs are offloaded into our log yard and then fed into our shaving machines. The raw logs, with a moisture content of 30% to 50%, are processed to produce high-quality shavings.

Shaving machine process

The pine logs are fed into the shaving machines where they are transformed into shavings. These shavings are then screened to remove any large pieces before being conveyed to the drying rotary kiln.

Drying Process

In the rotary kiln, the shavings are subjected to temperatures between 350˚C to 700˚C. By the time they exit the kiln, the temperature drops to between 80˚C and 95˚C, ensuring that the shavings have a moisture content of 6% to 13%.

Fumigation process

After drying, the shavings undergo a fumigation process where a mixture of Stabisan VC with Triazoloz L is sprayed onto the product in a closed environment. This is done with a pressure of 4 bar, at a rate of 20 to 30 liters per hour. The shavings move from the closed environment to the balers through a closed auger. Inside the auger, we fog the shavings at three different points to ensure optimal surface contact. They are fogged at 9 L/hour before moving to the baling machine.

Bio-security measures

To maintain a bio-secure environment, all personnel and visitors entering the Bio-Zone must disinfect their shoes in a footbath containing Stabisan VC with Triazoloz L and water. Vehicles entering this area also undergo disinfection. Visitors must complete a registration process at the Bio-Zone gate before entry.

Conveyance and Bailing

The fumigated shavings are then moved on a conveyor into a bio-secure area. Here, the shavings are dosed again with chemical foggers at a rate of 9 liters per hour. Two bailing machines wrap and bail the shavings, which are then vacuum sealed and stored in our secure area. Each bail measures approximately 300mm x 600mm x 400mm and weighs between 17Kg and 23Kg. One bail can cover an area of 5.0 m² if spread out at a height of 50mm.

Storage

Our final product is stored in a bird and rodent-proof building to ensure its quality and safety. Access to the bailing area is restricted to authorized personnel only, maintaining the integrity of our bio-secure zone.