The name swamp ash indicates an ash tree of low bulk density which, as the name suggests, thrives in gallery forests and other sites with a good supply of groundwater. It is essentially Fraxinus pennsylvanica, a tree species of the Oleaceae (olive tree family) found in the central and southwestern regions of the USA. The tree is also known as Green Ash or Water Ash in its native country and is one of the most widespread ash species. The wood is available in sufficient quantities, although relatively heavy varieties are also on the market. Site factors and tree-specific characteristics appear to have an influence on the bulk density of the wood. Swamp Ash is a Green Ash that has been sorted to a low bulk density.
The heartwood is whitish, yellowish, sometimes also characterized by brown stripes and central areas (“brown heartwood” as in its European sister). Structure: ring-porous, large pores in the early wood, seldom fissured, narrow medullary rays, occasionally arranged like a floor. Homogeneous, simple.
The spec. weight is given as 0.38 – 0.52 tons/m³ at a wood moisture content of 12% and is therefore higher than the values for standard assortments of 0.60 – 0.70 tons/m³. The moderate swelling and shrinkage values are given as radial 3.9% and tangential 6.0%. If 50 mm sawn timber and above is dried very quickly, damage may occur at the front due to cell collapse. Can be worked well in all directions, especially good for milling, turning and carving. Smooth surfaces are created. Bending stiffness and elasticity are raw, natural durability is low.
Special wood for musical instruments, wood of higher density, on the other hand, is used in interior finishing and furniture construction.
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| Sources: |
Wood information service leaflet series GOTTWALD (1970) Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers WAGENFÜHR (1996) Wood atlas |
www.bassfabrik.de
Body: Swamp Ash / Swamp Ash
Fingerboard: Katalox
The surface is translucent blonde nitrocellulose lacquer.
