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Designed
and fabricated by researchers at the Forest Products Research and
Development Institute (FPRDI), the machine is an improved version
of the old FPRDI-DOST bamboo-veneering machine that can only produce
a veneer with maximum width of 50 centimeters and thickness of 1
millimeter.
With
the new machine, bamboo poles can now be developed into high-value
products such as tiles, tabletops, panels, decorative laminates,
toys, and other novelty items for export.
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Simple,
cheap, sturdy, space-saving, and even safer than the old veneering
lathe, the machine proved technically and financially viable for
commercialization as shown in the technology fora and demonstrations
held in Angeles and Iloilo City.
The
bamboo veneer lathe (shaping machine), which can produce bamboo
veneers of varying thickness ranging from 0.5 to 2 millimeters,
was designed and fabricated by researchers Engr. Belen B. Bisana,
Engr. Dante B. Pulmano, For. Felix B. Tamolang, Carolyn Marie C.
Garcia, and Elizabeth N. Dioso.
In
November last year, the machine won third place, development category,
during the PCARRD National Symposium on Agriculture and Resources
Research and Development.
More
information on bamboo is provided by PCARRD through its publication
Philippines Recommends for Bamboo.
PCARRD
also hosts the Bamboo Information Network on the Web. For more details,
please visit http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/cin/bamboonet/default.htm.
(Ricardo R. Argana, S&T Media Service)
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