I need a huge quantity of 7ft long posts that are 2-5/8" x 2-5/8" x 2-5/8" equilateral triangular in cross section.
I've been prototyping by gluing up a pair of SYP 2x3s studs and then ripping them to dimension. While this does the job, it's not practical for high volume production.
The finished post in used in an indoor architectural application where it is under a maximum of 100 pounds of compression.
The glued up and trimmed pieces I make takes advantage of opposite grains to prevent warping and make it more bow resistant.
The question comes down to - how can I get these mass produced and be certain I'm not going to end up with a lot of expensive scrap? Is this grain dependent for bow characteristics. Do I have to used glued up pieces? Would I have less trouble with red oak or poplar?
Anybody have the facilities to make 15,000 of these and guarantee their characteristics?
Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Eric, Wayne, PA