21 Species Booklet 2004.pdf - Guyana Forestry Commission

CRABWOOD
Scientific name: Carapa guianensis
Family: Meliaceae
Standard name: Andiroba
Other names : Krapa, Guino, Figueroa, Tangare, Carapa, Crappo
Wood Appearance
The heartwood varies from pale pink to rich red-brown when freshly sawn, darkening to a uniform
dull reddish-brown. The sapwood is pale brown or oatmeal coloured, not always sharply defined.
Wood resembles a plain mahogany in appearance but lacks its natural luster. The texture is medium
to coarse; grain is generally straight but sometimes interlocked. The bole is 15-20m in length with a
diameter of 65-95(-180) cm.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
Comparable in strength to European Beech. Small movement. Moderately hard with good
mechanical properties and is fairly stable in use.
• Air dried density (12%) - 670kg/m 3
• Bending strength (at 12%) - 111 N/mm 2
• Modulus of elasticity (at 12%) - 11800 N/mm 2
• Crushing strength (at 12%) - 59 N/mm 2
Natural Durability
Heartwood is moderately durable and fire resistant. Logs prone to attack by ambrosia (pinholeborer)
beetles.
Timber Processing
Drying - Dries fairly well but rather slowly with a slight tendency to split in the initial stages. Kiln
Schedule C.
Working - Saws without difficulty. Interlocked grain makes planing difficult. Works easily and
turns well, finishing smoothly.
Assembly - Glues and holds nails well. Tendency to split on nailing.
Finishing - Takes stain and polish well.
Uses
Suitable for general carpentry, furniture, cabinet work, turnery and interior joinery.
Supplies
Occurs in reasonable quantities in Guyana. Regular supplies possible.
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