Enter the small end diameter in inches and the log length in feet into the calculator to determine the board feet using the Doyle Log Scale.
Doyle Log Scale Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the board feet of a log using the Doyle Log Scale.
BF = ((D - 4)^2 * L) / 16
Variables:
- BF is the board feet
- D is the small end diameter of the log in inches
- L is the length of the log in feet
To calculate the board feet using the Doyle Log Scale, subtract 4 inches from the small end diameter, square the result, multiply by the length of the log in feet, and then divide by 16.
What is the Doyle Log Scale?
The Doyle Log Scale is a logarithmic scale used to estimate the amount of lumber, measured in board feet, that can be sawn from a log. It is one of the most common log scales in the United States, particularly in the eastern part of the country. The scale is based on empirical measurements and takes into account the kerf (cut width) and slab loss (outer part of the log that is discarded) during milling. It tends to underestimate the yield for smaller logs and overestimate for larger logs compared to other scales like the International 1/4-inch or Scribner scales.
How to Calculate Board Feet Using the Doyle Log Scale?
The following steps outline how to calculate the board feet of a log using the Doyle Log Scale.
- First, measure the small end diameter of the log in inches (D).
- Next, measure the length of the log in feet (L).
- Use the formula BF = ((D – 4)^2 * L) / 16 to calculate the board feet (BF).
- Finally, enter the measurements into the calculator above to verify the board feet.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Small end diameter of the log (D) = 14 inches
Length of the log (L) = 12 feet
