South American hardwood / DF kiln stick comparison?

[SenecaMike]

 Has anyone done an actual comparison with South American hardwood kiln sticks and DF kiln sticks?  How much longer did the hardwood kiln sticks last in your study? 

[pitchpocket]

I know one mill who has gotten 16 turns out of tropical hardwood from South America compared to 2-3 out of DF and they are still going. DF kiln stick failure/loss is mostly due to compression under green DF or Hemlock. SA hardwood sticks don't compress and hold up well in the process. If you figure cost per turn, the South American hardwood sticks, even at double the price of DF are the least expensive stick you can use.