Ekki

Durability:

Ekki is very durable and very resistant to decay; it is one of Africa’s most durable woods. Moderately resistant to attack by termites in Africa and extremely resistant to preservative treatment.

Strength Class = D60;
Weight per m3 12% m.c. = 950-1100 Kg;
Modulus of elasticity 12% m.c. = 18500 N/mm2;
Durability = Durable.

Mechanical Properties:

This exceptionally heavy density wood, has very high bending and crushing strength, and high stiffness and resistance to shock loads. It is probably too tough for steam bending.

Seasoning:

It is extremely refractory and dries very slowly with severe splitting and possible distortion, notably surface checking and end splitting. Should be piled very carefully. Large movement in service.

Uses:

  • Suitable for heavy construction, all marine work, wharves, bridge building and decking, railway sleepers, very heavy duty flooring
  • Also for rollers, wagon work and superior joinery
  • Its acid resistance makes it ideal for filter press plates and frames
  • A wider range of uses is limited by the difficulty of machining
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Description

Dark red to deep chocolate-brown with conspicuous white deposits in the pores giving a speckled appearance. Grain is usually interlocked, and the texture coarse and uneven. Weight 950-1120 kg/m³ (59-70 lb/ft³), averaging 1025 kg/m³ (64 lb/ft³); specific gravity 1.02.

Additional information

Latin Name

Lophira alata

Family Name

Ochnaceae

Distribution

Tropical West Africa

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