Enter the diameter and length of the log into the calculator to determine the volume. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.
Scribner Log Scale Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the volume of a log using the Scribner Log Scale.
V = ((D^2 * L) / 16) - ((0.033 * D) * (D - 1))
Variables:
- V is the volume of the log (board feet)
- D is the diameter of the log (inches)
- L is the length of the log (feet)
To calculate the volume of a log using the Scribner Log Scale, square the diameter of the log and multiply it by the length of the log. Divide this result by 16. Then, multiply 0.033 by the diameter of the log and multiply this result by the diameter of the log minus 1. Subtract the second result from the first to get the volume of the log.
What is a Scribner Log Scale?
The Scribner Log Scale is a system used in the forestry industry to estimate the amount of lumber that can be yielded from a log. Developed by J.M Scribner in the 19th century, the scale is based on diagrams of circles representing the cross-section of logs, with deductions made for saw kerf (the width of the cut made by the saw) and slabs. The scale is typically presented in the form of a table or rule, and is commonly used in the United States, particularly in the softwood lumber industry.
How to Calculate Scribner Log Scale?
The following steps outline how to calculate the volume of a log using the Scribner Log Scale formula.
- First, determine the diameter of the log (D) in inches.
- Next, determine the length of the log (L) in feet.
- Next, calculate D^2 * L.
- Next, divide the result from step 3 by 16.
- Next, calculate 0.033 * D * (D – 1).
- Finally, subtract the result from step 5 from the result from step 4 to get the volume of the log (V).
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Diameter of the log (D) = 12 inches
Length of the log (L) = 8 feet
