Heartwood reddish brown after exposure; sapwood pale straw to whitish, well defined. Texture moderate to coarse; grain straight to interlocked; medium luster; without characteristic odor or taste. Some pores contain a yellow dyestuff which, under moist conditions, can discolor textiles, paper, or other cellulosic materials.
Sizes Available:
4/4, 5/4, 8/4
Mechanical Properties:
Janka side hardness is about 1,810 for lb. for dry material. Shrinkage green to 12%: radial 1.0%, tangential 1.5%.
Working Properties:
Rather difficult to saw and machine because of rapid dulling of saw teeth and cutters but works to a smooth finish; some tearing of grain on radial faces. Difficult to stain where pores contain yellow deposits. Classified moderate in wood bending properties. Dust may be irritating. Difficult to glue.
Durability:
Heartwood is rated as very durable and moderately resistant to termite attack; sapwood liable to attack by powderpost beetles. In East African waters, teredo are slow to attack and develop. Pholad attack is more rapid.
Uses:
Exterior joinery (window frames, doors), flooring, heavy construction including harbor and dock work, furniture, because of good acid resistance used for vats and tanks.
