In July 2025, Shuowei successfully installed and commissioned a 12-cubic-meter high-frequency vacuum wood drying kiln in Guyana, marking our first equipment deployment in South America. This project represents not only a technological breakthrough but also a new chapter in our collaboration with Guyana’s growing timber sector.
Guyana, located on the northeastern coast of South America, boasts one of the highest forest cover rates in the world—nearly 89% of its land area. Rich in both natural and commercial timber species, the country holds untapped potential for sustainable wood processing and local value creation.
Partnering with Allan Sukhai: Four Decades of Industry Experience
Our partner for this project, Mr. Allan Sukhai, brings nearly four decades of hands-on experience in the timber industry. He highlighted that Guyana’s furniture market has long depended on imported wood due to limited local drying capacity. With the commissioning of Shuowei’s advanced kiln, Mr. Sukhai is determined to change this landscape.
“With high-frequency vacuum technology, we can finally process local hardwoods with speed and consistency. This will help us promote ‘Made in Guyana’ furniture and win the confidence of consumers,” said Mr. Sukhai.
Crabwood Drying Case Study: From 90 Days to Just 5 Days
Traditional Air Drying vs. Vacuum Drying
The first drying cycle focused on Crabwood (Carapa guianensis), a native low-density hardwood widely used in furniture and cabinetry. Traditionally, producers relied on air drying, which can take 90–120 days and carries risks of mold, cracks, and uneven moisture content.
Drying Data and Performance Results
Using Shuowei’s HF vacuum kiln, the results were dramatically different:
- Material: 1-inch Crabwood boards
- Initial Moisture Content: 20–30%
- Final Moisture Content: 6–8%
- Drying Cycle: Just 5 days
- Result: Smooth, stable boards with uniform moisture and zero defects
These outcomes significantly reduce production cycles, improve reliability, and allow local manufacturers to bring high-quality products to market faster.
Technical Advantages of Shuowei HF Vacuum Kiln
Inside-Out Heating Mechanism
Unlike conventional methods, Shuowei’s HF vacuum kiln heats wood from the core outward, ensuring uniform moisture removal and preventing internal stress buildup.
Stable Moisture Content and Zero Defects
The vacuum environment maintains a controlled high-humidity atmosphere, which protects the wood surface during rapid drying. As a result, cracking, warping, and discoloration are minimized—even in species known for drying challenges.
A New Chapter for Guyana’s Timber and Furniture Industry
As Shuowei’s first partner in South America, Mr. Sukhai will continue to receive dedicated technical support and training from our engineering team. Our shared goal is to elevate the value of Guyana’s abundant native timbers by replacing reliance on imports with efficient, locally sourced materials.
“This project proves that advanced drying technology can unlock the true value of Guyana’s forests,” said Carlos Sheng, Project Director at Shuowei. “Each successful installation strengthens our global mission to make wood drying faster, cleaner, and more sustainable.”
By investing in cutting-edge drying solutions, Guyana’s timber industry can:
- Shorten drying cycles from months to days
- Reduce losses caused by cracking and mold
- Improve product quality and consistency
- Increase competitiveness of local furniture production
Shuowei remains committed to supporting wood processors across South America with high-performance equipment, professional service, and tailored drying solutions that meet the needs of diverse species and markets. Contact us for more details.
