Botanically, Iroko-Kambala(Chlorophora excelsa) belongs to the Moraceae family. The species is widespread from West Africa (Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana) via Cameroon to Central Africa. Iroko is one of the best known and most appreciated types of wood by traditional craftsmen.
The heartwood of Iroko is initially yellowish in color, later darkening to olive-brown. The structure of the wood is homogeneous and dense. The pores are coarse, scattered and highly hyalinized. Storage cells stored in an eye shape around vessels. Occasional sulphur-yellow core material inclusions in crevices and nests. growth zones for eastern provenances. Alternating growth present, matt glossy, decorative.
The average density at a wood moisture content of 12% is 0.63 t/m3. The swelling and shrinkage values are 5.5% tangentially and 3.8% radially. The wood has a low shrinkage and can be dried without any significant problems. The stamina is extremely good. Can be machined cleanly with all tools, pre-drilling absolutely necessary, acid-resistant, perfect surfaces can be achieved.
The hardness is above average; according to Brinell, the value is 37. The modulus of elasticity is 12,000 N/mm2.
Iroko is classified as extremely weather-resistant, i.e. durability class 1-2.
Parquet flooring, high-end gardening and landscaping, windows & doors, ship and boat building.
References: |
Handrails Spreebrücke, Berlin-Mitte (2012) |
Sources:
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GOTTWALD, (1970) Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers Wood Information Service, Data Sheet No. 3 Wagenführ 1996: Wood atlas |
The handrails serve as the end of the bridge railings on the newly constructed Rathausbrücke bridge south-east of the former Palace of the Republic and the Berlin Palace.
The design was created by Walter Nöbel, Berlin architect (1953-2012). Walter Nöbel also designed the southern Havel bridge, which was completed in 1998.
