Balau

CONSTRUCTIONAL TIMBERS

Uses: Heavy constructional work, bridge and wharf construction, sleepers, boats, etc.

General Description: The heartwood is yellow-brown, varying to brown and dark reddish-brown, with an interlocked grain and a moderately fine and even texture. Weight averages 930 kg/m³ (58 lb/ft³); specific gravity .93.

Further product details

Mechanical Properties

Hard, heavy and very dense with a very high bending and crushing strength, and resistance to shock loads and high stiffness. It has a moderate steam bending classification requiring strong support on the outer face.

Seasoning

The timber dries very slowly with considerable degrade in thicker sizes, but distortion is not serious. Checking and splitting may be severe and existing shakes are liable to extend. Boards should be partially air dried before kilning. Movement is medium in service.

Durability

Very durable and immune from insect or fungal attack. Extremely resistant to preservation treatment.

Strength Class = D70;
Weight per m3 12% m.c. = 880-995 Kg;
Modulus of elasticity 12% m.c. = 19000 N/mm2;
Durability = Very Durable.

Other Information

Family Name: Dipterocarpaceae

Latin Name: Shorea spp

Distribution: West Malaysia.

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