Red Balau

Specs

Common Names

Red Balau

Scientific Name

Shorea spp.

Origin

Southeast Asia

Appearance

Red Balau (Mahogany) heartwood ranges from reddish-brown to purplish-brown. It has a straight to interlocked grain and a coarse texture. The wood has a moderate natural luster.

Avg. Dried Weight

55-67 lbs/ft3 (880-1070 kg/m3)

Janka Hardness

1600 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

24,900 lbf/in2 (171.7 MPa)

Elastic Modulus

2,580,000 lbf/in2 (17.80 GPa)

Crushing Strength

10,200 lbf/in2 (70.3 MPa)

Shrinkage

Radial: 4.2%, Tangential: 6.2%, Volumetric: 10.5%, T/R Ratio: 1.5

Durability

Rated as highly durable with excellent resistance to decay and insect attacks.

Workability

Red Balau wood is moderately difficult to work with due to its high density. It has a blunting effect on cutters, and cutting edges need to be kept sharp. Pre-drilling is recommended for nailing. The wood holds screws well and glues satisfactorily. It finishes smoothly, and it is recommended to use a sanding sealer before applying a final finish.