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Ramin Wood: Premium Malaysian Wood Supplier
INTRODUCTION
Ramin is the standard Malaysian name for wood derived from Gonystylus spp. (Thymelaeaceae). Across Malaysia, it is also known by vernacular names such as ramin, dara elok, melawis, pinang baik, and pinang muda. The main species used locally include G. affinis, G. bancanus, G. brunnescens, G. confusus, and G. maingayi.
The sapwood of Ramin is lighter in color and poorly defined from the heartwood, which ranges from white to creamy yellow. Valued for its versatility, this wood is widely used across multiple industries in Malaysia.
DENSITY
Ramin is classified as a Light Hardwood, with an air-dried density of 530–785 kg/m³. This moderate weight makes it both strong and easy to handle.
NATURAL DURABILITY
Ramin wood is non-durable in its natural state. It is vulnerable to staining fungi, powder-post beetles, borers, and decay. In graveyard tests, untreated samples deteriorated significantly within a year.
PRESERVATIVE TREATMENT
Despite its natural durability limits, Ramin wood is easy to treat with preservatives, which makes it suitable for outdoor and exposed applications once properly treated.
TEXTURE
Ramin has a moderately fine and even texture, with shallowly interlocked grains. This allows for smooth, polished surfaces after processing.
STRENGTH PROPERTIES
Ramin belongs to Strength Group C (SG5). For G. bancanus, the strength values are:
| Test Condition | Modulus of Elasticity (MPa) | Modulus of Rupture (MPa) | Compression Parallel to Grain (MPa) | Shear Strength (MPa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green | 14,200 | 62.0 | 35.0 | 7.2 |
| Air dry | 15,900 | 88.0 | 48.8 | 8.5 |
MACHINING PROPERTIES
Ramin wood is easy to saw, plane, and cross-cut, producing smooth finishes. Boring is possible, but surfaces may appear rough. Overall, it is highly workable for woodworking projects.
NAILING PROPERTY
Ramin has poor nailing resistance, but the risk of splitting can be reduced if nails are clinched during installation.
DRYING BEHAVIOUR
- Air-drying: Moderately slow, with risks of cupping, bowing, surface-checking, and staining. 13 mm boards take about 3.5 months, while 38 mm boards take 4 months.
- Kiln-drying: Schedules B and C are recommended. Schedule B is preferred for sections thicker than 40 mm due to the risk of surface checking and end-splitting.
SHRINKAGE
Ramin exhibits high shrinkage, especially in the tangential direction:
- Radial: 1.6%
- Tangential: 3.4%
DEFECTS
Although generally free from natural defects, Ramin may be affected by staining fungi, insect attacks, and shot holes. Larger trees may contain cores streaked with dark brown or black lines.
COMMON USES
Ramin wood is recognized as a first-class joinery wood in Malaysia. It is widely used for:
- Furniture making
- Panelling and mouldings
- Cabinet construction
- Flooring, including heavy-traffic areas
- Staircase parts (balusters, handrails, treads, risers, etc.)
- Structural components (posts, beams, joists, rafters)
- Internal door and window frames
- Cooling tower (non-structural parts)
- Plywood manufacturing
- Handles for non-striking tools
- Pencils and ornamental crafts
For more information on premium Malaysian wood products, visit www.creatimber.com.my.
