Taiwan's Five Timber

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Next, we processed the front I/O of the water channel board, carefully selecting materials that complement the cable management module. We chose Taiwan red cypress and zelkova, as before, but for the power button, we opted for Taiwan incense cedar (Calocedrus macrolepis Kurz var. formosana), a wood known for its challenging processing. This rare species, native to the mid-to-low elevation mountains of northern and central Taiwan, faces significant logging pressure and is now nearly extinct.

First, we created sketches, then proceeded to develop 3D models based on the design. After the models were completed, we wrote CNC programs according to the models.

Next, we proceeded with cutting and selecting the wood. During this process, I came across a piece that would typically be discarded by woodworkers, as it was near the bark and not a solid piece of timber. However, in Taiwan's woodworking industry, improving material utilization is a crucial issue—not only to reduce waste but also to save costs. So, I decided to take on the challenge of giving this "scrap" a new life.

After the program was loaded into the CNC controller, we began the machining process.
Step 1: We machined the main fixing block to create beveled edges on the sides.

Step 2: We machined the corresponding beveled edge on the second wooden panel, then joined the two pieces together, and completed the openings for the two front USB 3.0 ports and the power button.

Step 3: We rotated the main fixing block 90 degrees and machined the necessary holes for securing the PCB.

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Step 4: Next, we joined the two wooden pieces together, sanded and polished them, and applied a wood-preserving beeswax. After allowing it to sit for 48 hours for the wood to fully absorb the wax, we removed the excess beeswax and embedded the copper rivets needed to secure the PCB into the wood.

Step 5: This is also the most challenging part of the assembly. We machined the power button, and due to the material's uniqueness (Calocedrus macrolepis Kurz var. formosana), it was very prone to cracking during processing. We experimented with five different tool parameters and machining paths, and finally succeeded in creating a complete button. We also sanded and polished this part and applied wood-preserving beeswax.

Next, we assembled these components.

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Let's take a look at the finished result.

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Before starting the machining of the Distro Plates, we revised the original design, making the outline of the Taiwan map thinner and incorporating Taiwan's 21 major rivers. This allows for a gradient effect in the colored coolant, enhancing the visual appeal. At the same time, we evaluated that this design can effectively buffer the strong water flow returning to the Distro Plates, reducing the risk of air bubbles being sucked into the pump, which could otherwise affect the cooling efficiency of the system.

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For the machining of the Distro Plates, we divided the process into the panel and the main body, using acrylic material.

First, we machined the main contours.

We drilled holes, including pre-drilled holes for fittings, panel mounting holes, and O-ring installation grooves. Finally, we machined the revised version of the rivers.

Next, we removed the chips from the surface and cleaned everything thoroughly.

Threading

 

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The panel is processed using the same method.

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We designed a unique CPU water block, using the heartwood of Calocedrus macrolepis Kurz var. formosana, one of Taiwan's five prized conifer woods. We preserved the wood's natural grain, with concentric circles radiating outward to showcase its original texture. We also retained the natural cracks in the wood, adding to the block's classic and refined appearance.

Next, after creating the model, we followed the programmed instructions to machine the acrylic CPU Water Block cover.
(Due to the challenging machining properties of Calocedrus macrolepis, we tested two different CAM parameter sets before successfully creating the CPU water block cover.)

assembled

We used a cardboard cutter to cut double-sided tape specifically for the Calocedrus macrolepis nameplate and completed the assembly.

Next, we sequentially sanded, polished, and applied natural beeswax.

Due to the challenging machining properties of Calocedrus macrolepis, one of the pieces cracked during processing. After adjusting the CAM parameters, we were finally able to complete the machining successfully. This photo shows the failure during processing.

Edited August 23 by GSWU

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Let's take a look at the finished result.

Edited August 27 by GSWU

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The process of making the top cover is relatively complex. We began by precisely crafting the tenon at the joint to ensure a perfect fit between all parts.
 

Next, we smoothed all the joint surfaces and created slots for the tenons to fit. Then, we took the newly crafted tenons for installation testing, adjusted the dimensions, and made corresponding assembly marks.

 

Edited August 27 by GSWU

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In the final stage of processing the cover, we first assembled the three different-colored wood pieces. We carefully selected three types of wood from Taiwan's coniferous and broadleaf trees.

1. Cinnamomum camphora:  
   The light-colored camphor tree is a symbol of Taiwan’s “Kingdom of Camphor.” Its wood is widely used in construction, furniture, and carving. Camphor is known for its strong, refreshing scent released when the bark and leaves are rubbed. Despite past overharvesting, it remains a key tree in Taiwan's greenery.

2. Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana
   The yellowish Taiwan Hinoki Cypress is prized for its straight form and beautiful grain, making it ideal for construction and furniture. It’s resistant to decay, insects, and has a unique phytoncide scent, which is refreshing and antibacterial.

3. Taiwania cryptomerioides:  
   The reddish-orange Taiwania is the tallest tree in Taiwan, valued for its excellent wood quality, ideal for furniture. Taiwania is an ancient relict species with unique grain patterns and historical significance, often referred to as a “living fossil.”

Let's precisely join these three pieces of wood together using the mortise and tenon joints.

Because wood expands and contracts significantly with changes in weather and humidity, we used heavy objects to press down on the three freshly joined pieces while the glue was still drying.