Abstract: An improved engineered wood product, and related methods, with improved actual and apparent surface quality. The product includes a high basis weight fines layer overlaying a strand matrix base layer, with one or more overlay layers. The fines layer may be placed between the overlay layers, if multiple overlays are present. The configuration of fines layer and overlay layer(s) minimizes the presence of sub-surface imperfections that may result in visible telegraphing on the exposed surface. A light pattern or texture may be embossed on the outermost overlay layer during the pressing process. Additionally, a paint primer layer or coating with added aggregate may be applied to help camouflage inherent sub-surface defects.

Abstract: A conduit assembly for transferring heated fluid from a pump to a heat exchanger and to return cooled fluid from the heat exchanger to the pump is disclosed. The conduit assembly includes a flexible inner conduit disposed within a relatively rigid conduit. The heated fluid travels through the flexible inner conduit from the pump to the heat exchanger and the cooled fluid returns to the pump in the space between the outer diameter of the flexible inner conduit and the inner diameter of the rigid conduit. The conduit assembly includes a fluid splitter nipple and a fluid splitter body to split the incoming and outgoing fluid into the inner and outer conduits. The relatively warmer fluid from the pump is exposed to the temperature of the fluid passing simultaneously through the outer conduit, rather than being exposed to the ambient environmental conditions as in conventional hoses. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.