Red Balau Wood: Premium Choice for Heavy-Duty Applications
Introduction
Red Balau wood, originating from the Shorea genus, stands out for its deep red-brown color and impressive strength. Known by various local names such as balau merah and red selangan batu, this heavy hardwood is ideal for applications that demand durability and reliability.
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Key Characteristics
– Density: Classified as a Heavy Hardwood with a density of 800-880 kg/m³ (air-dry), providing the weight and stability required for robust construction.
– Durability: Moderately durable, with an outdoor lifespan of 2-5 years. It is somewhat resistant to elements but can be susceptible to termites and fungal attacks if left untreated.
– Texture: The wood has a moderately fine to coarse texture with deeply interlocked grain, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
– Strength: Red Balau wood falls under Strength Group A, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty uses.
– Machining: Easy to work with, though planing can vary from smooth to slightly rough, depending on moisture levels.
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Applications
Red Balau wood is versatile and highly valued for a range of applications:
– Heavy Construction: Ideal for beams, joists, rafters, and columns due to its robust properties.
– Industrial Uses: Commonly used for pallets, tool handles, and heavy-duty furniture.
– Marine & Vehicle Building: Perfect for keels, keelsons, vehicle frameworks, and floorboards.
– Flooring & Joinery: Recommended for high-traffic flooring, door/window frames, staircases, and cabinets.
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Handling Properties
– Nailing: Varies by species; S. guiso has excellent nailing properties, S. ochrophloia is good, and S. kunstleri is rated as poor.
– Air Drying: Moderate shrinkage with slow drying times, taking up to 6 months for thicker boards.
– Kiln Drying: Kiln Schedule G is recommended to ensure efficient drying without compromising the wood’s quality.
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Conclusion
Red Balau wood’s strength, durability, and rich color make it an excellent choice for both construction and industrial projects. Its versatility, paired with robust properties, ensures it performs well across applications, from marine and heavy-duty builds to high-traffic flooring and furniture. For a reliable, long-lasting wood solution, Red Balau is a premium choice.
