Continuous Dry Kiln vs. Batch Kiln for Sawmills

Continuous and batch kilns both dry lumber, but they have very different economics. This guide breaks down throughput, energy, species flexibility, and capital cost.

Throughput

For softwoods at high volume, continuous kilns typically push 30–40% more board feet per year per square foot than batch kilns.

Energy

Counterflow continuous kilns commonly run 20–35% lower fuel cost per MBF than comparable batch kilns.

The Decision

• Single species, high volume → continuous
• Mixed species, variable volume → batch
• Energy is your biggest pain → continuous
• Need maximum schedule control for hardwoods → batch

See the KilnTech Continuous Dual Path Kiln for our flagship continuous design.