Names and distribution: Botanically, balsa wood(Ochroma lagopus) belongs to the Bombacaceae family and is related to the baobab tree(Adansonia spp.) or the kapok tree(Ceiba pentandra). The genus Ochroma is naturally distributed in Latin America and is cultivated in pure stands in countries with humid tropical lowland locations (Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador). Sufficiently good availability.
Wood appearance: Heartwood white to light brown, occasionally colored streaks occur (grading characteristic). Sapwood and heartwood do not differ. Pores large and scattered, fast-growing plant, growth zones recognizable by higher accumulation of pores. Medullary rays clearly visible in broad bands (mirrors), which are also slightly different in color. Fiber course predominantly straight. Wood has no pronounced odor, overall simple.
Properties: The density at u=12% is 0.12 – 0.18 t/m3 depending on the area of origin and location. Lightest commercial timber in the world! The shrinkage from the fresh state to HF 12% is specified as 5.4% tangential and 2.3% radial. Balsa can be dried quickly and easily. The wood has good stability. Balsa can be processed with all tools without difficulty. Smooth surfaces can be produced, but there is a risk of fiber breakage and compression due to the low hardness. No longer nail and screw-proof. Balsa is not durable, but rather susceptible to fungal discoloration, especially when fresh and in direct contact with water.
Uses: Model wood, cork substitute for floats, insulation material, functional furniture and beverage trolleys in airplanes
| References: |
Surfboards |
| Sources: |
ATIBT 1990: Atlas de Maderas Tropicales de América Latina GOTTWALD, 1970: Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers |
References:
Surfboards made from balsa
Built in 2012 by Steve Pine Handcrafts, 40140 Soustons, France
stevepine-handcrafts.com
