Theoretical Sensitivity of Warp to Varying Layer Thickness in 5-Layer Plywood

Monte Carlo simulation was performed on theoretical models of plywood warp for southern yellow pine plywood originating from the United States. The objective of the investigation was to determine which plywood layers was more warp sensitive to veneers that were manufactured to an undesired thickness. This study found that for a balanced panel (a panel of equal target thickness for each of five layers) manufactured veneers of undesired thickness would experience minimal warp. The veneers of undesired thickness placed in the center of the plywood panel also provided a minimum change of plywood warp properties. The panel warp was very sensitive to surface veneers constructed with undesired thickness. Conversely, this study confirms that monitoring of veneer thickness and proper allocations within the plywood lay-up were critical.