HALCO developed the SETGEN™ system for generating optimized set tables for primary-breakdown machines that do not use real-time scanning and optimization. From experience, we found that a good, optimized set table often gives better results than a poorly designed or maintained real-time system.

The following is an example of the importance of keeping the lumber prices that are used to determine sawing solutions current. This would apply not just to set tables, but also to sophistated on-line optimizers.

In October of 2005, prices of Western SPF #2&Btr lumber were as follows:

As of October, 2006, prices of Western SPF #2&Btr had changed to:

Focusing in on the 16' length we see that there has been a $33/MBF shift in the relative values of 2x4 and 2x6. In 2005 2x4 was priced $15/MBF higher than 2x6. By 2006, 2x6 was priced $18 higher than 2x4.

The following log plots, which were prepared using SETGEN™ show alternative breakdown (4" or 6" cant) of the same log. The log has the following characteristics:

Solution #1 - 4" Cant:	Export Cant Breakdown

Results:

With sets based on October, 2005 prices, Solution #1 - 4" cant would be selected recovering lumber and byproducts worth $19.17. If October, 2005 sets were maintained and used in October, 2006, the same solution would be selected but only $15.31 worth of products would be recovered. If however, sets were updated to reflect October, 2006 prices, Solution #2 - 6" cant would be selected, recovering $17.28 worth of product, almost $2 more than Solution #1. So if sets were not updated to reflect the market change, each time this log is sawn $2, or more than 10% of the potential revenue would be lost.