Petaling: Malaysian Wood Supplier – Product Overview
INTRODUCTION
Petaling is the standard Malaysian name as well as the ASEAN Standard name for wood from the species Ochanostachys amentacea (Olacaceae). In Malaysia, it is known by various vernacular names such as degong (Kelantan), petikal (Sarawak), sentikal (Sarawak), tanggal (Sabah), and tangkal (Sabah). This species, known by only one genus—O. amentacea—is highly valued for its durability and versatility.
The sapwood of Petaling wood is dark yellow-brown or light red-brown, and it is moderately defined from the heartwood, which ranges from red-brown to purple red-brown, darkening further upon exposure to air and light.
Petaling is also recognized by other names internationally, such as Amin, Ampalang, Empilung, Lembasung, Petikal, Pilung, Satan bagiuk, Tilokot, and Tumbung asu (Indonesia).
DENSITY
Petaling wood is classified as a Medium Hardwood in Malaysia, with a density ranging from 800-1,105 kg/m³ when air-dried. It is known for being hard to very hard and heavy to very heavy, making it suitable for a range of robust applications.
NATURAL DURABILITY
Petaling wood exhibits moderate durability when exposed to the elements. It can withstand environmental conditions to some degree but may require treatment for extended outdoor use.
TEXTURE
The texture of Petaling wood is fine and even, with interlocked grain, contributing to its strong and smooth finish when worked on.
STRENGTH PROPERTIES
Petaling wood belongs to Strength Group B (Burgess, 1958) or SG3 (MS 544: Part 2:2001). This strength classification makes it suitable for medium to heavy-duty applications, providing solid and reliable material for construction and manufacturing.
MACHINING PROPERTIES
Petaling wood is relatively easy to saw and work with, producing a smooth planed surface. It is well-suited for various woodworking and construction projects due to its favorable machining properties.
NAILING PROPERTY
The nailing property of Petaling wood is rated as poor, meaning it may not be ideal for applications requiring frequent or heavy nailing.
AIR DRYING
Petaling wood seasons very slowly and may experience slight defects during the drying process. The sapwood is moderately prone to insect attacks. Slight cupping, bowing, end-checking, and surface-checking have been noted during air drying. 13 mm thick boards typically take 6 months to air dry, while 38 mm thick boards may take up to 9 months.
SHRINKAGE
Petaling wood exhibits high shrinkage, with radial shrinkage averaging 1.9% and tangential shrinkage averaging 3.8%. These characteristics should be considered during the drying process.
USES
Petaling wood is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Piling and heavy-duty construction under cover
- Tool handles (impact)
- Heavy-duty furniture
- Railway sleepers
- Telegraph and power transmission posts and cross arms
- Flooring
- Pallets, packing boxes, and crates
- Light-duty columns
- Staircase construction (including carriage, newel, riser, sprandrel framing, stringer, tread, bullnose, round end, and winder)
- Joinery and cabinet making
