Building a small-scale lumber dry kiln. there are many different kiln designs, including solar, dehumidification, direct or indirect fired and vacuum kilns. for small operations, there is a large amount of information available on solar kiln design and operation.. Not all reefers are 18-wheelers... they make small ones that would be ideal for a small 200 bf kiln. as an additional point of information, we have mentioned many times here on woodweb the benefit of having a business plan, even for a small business.. An article on a large solar wood drying kiln, and some information on the ins and outs of drying wood. processing trees to lumber for the hobbyist and small business plans for a solar kiln,.