The production of Engineered Wood Products (EWPs) — such as Oriented Strand Boards (OSB), particleboards, and fiberboards — plays a key role in the modern wood value chain, especially in the context of circular economy and climate change mitigation. By incorporating wood residues and low-quality timber into long-lasting products, these technologies contribute to carbon storage for up to 35 years, as recognized by EU regulations on carbon removals. However, the drying phase of wood particles is among the most energy-intensive steps in EWP manufacturing. This paper presents the development of a physical simulator aimed at optimizing the operational parameters of industrial dryers. The devised prototype will allow users to simulate and test drying processes under varying conditions, helping manufacturers reduce energy consumption without compromising final product quality. The simulator is intended to support the transition towards more sustainable and efficient production practices in the wood industry. The work is the result of a collaboration between academia and industry and represents a step forward in applying digital technologies to traditional manufacturing processes.