What is paduk and where is wood used?
Paduk is an exotic tree native to hot tropical climates. Under the general name "paduk", about 70 types of timber of the genus "pterocarpus" are united, which means "winged fruit" or "juicy wing" - this is what the people call the seeds of this tree. Paduk wood has exceptional performance characteristics, therefore it is widely in demand in the industrial field.
Description
Paduk is native to the rainforests of New Guinea, Malaysia, as well as the Philippines and West Africa. To date, a strict classification of the species of this timber has not been developed, since there is confusion in the definitions. In addition to "paduk", such names as "Burmese mahogany" and "narra" have become widespread.
The paduk tree grows up to 35-40 m, and its diameter reaches 1 m. It is distinguished by a branched crown, the branches are lowered, the lower branches often reach the ground.
The leaf plates are shiny, grow transversely on thin cuttings. On one part of the leaf, they are bright green, on the other, they are light brown or grayish-green. When the bark is cut, a juice containing latex is released. The seeds are round and have wings. Paduk is an evergreen plant, however, with a sharp change in natural and climatic conditions, the tree is stressed and throws off the foliage.
About seven dozen varieties of this tree are known. Representatives of the breed have a wide variety of colors from beige to red and even deep brown. The sapwood resembles rosewood, and it can be difficult for an uninformed person to distinguish them. However, the decorative qualities of the Burmese tree are much lower, in addition, it is less resistant to damage.
Freshly sawn material has a pronounced cedar smell. Over time, a burgundy or brown tint appears on its surface. Paduk wood is hard and heavy.
Properties and characteristics
Narra fibers are arranged randomly, the texture is medium-sized, and an unusual pattern is expressed on the cuts. Paduk wood is classified as a coloring species - it is suitable for staining, staining and varnishing. Before use, it needs to be dried at a temperature of 50-60 degrees. For several years after drying, it does not crack and does not change its texture.
Paduk can be easily processed by hand and machine. Even simple tools can be used with this material. It is easily processed on specialized equipment - difficulties arise only when planing in the areas of weaving of fibers. The tree sticks well, holds nails and screws securely.
It has a high absorbency, therefore it responds well to treatment with primers. But when coated with alcohol-based liquids, wood pigments are destroyed.
In terms of hardness, Burmese mahogany is compared to oak and birch, the hardness parameter is 3.8-3.9 according to Brinell, the density is 650-750 kg / m3, depending on the type of tree and growing conditions.
The wood fibers are straight, slightly tangled. The pores are large, scattered chaotically. Annual layers are indistinctly traced. Some samples contain mineral deposits. The beams are practically indistinguishable without magnification. The parenchyma is pterygoid, striped, evenly distributed.
Paduc is a sensitizer - Serious allergic reactions are rare, but irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes of the respiratory tract may occur.
Under the influence of sunlight, the color of the wood changes, so lumber is used exclusively for interior work. Indoors, paduk products should be protected from direct sunlight and strong artificial light. Paduk wood is resistant to decay, mold and mildew.
However, termites can cause irreparable harm to the material. Therefore, when operating a paduk, it is very important to use impregnations that protect against insect pests.
In all other respects, wood is distinguished by its high durability, for example, with direct contact with the ground, it retains its appearance for up to 30 years.
Application
Solid paduk and sliced veneer are widely used. These materials are used in the carpentry, furniture and construction industries, as well as in shipbuilding. Thanks to dense and resistant wood, the material is in demand in the production of agricultural implements, parquet boards, musical instruments, wall panels, knife handles and billiard cues. Low grade material is usually used to decorate wagons. When used in places with permanently high humidity, preference it is better to give only to a mature tree.
Mostly African paduk is found on the market, it is very popular with cabinetmakers due to the unusual color of the wood. Burmese and Andaman varieties are slightly less common.
About what a paduk is and where a tree is used, see below.
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