Cumaru

Dipteryx odorata (Aubl.) Willd.

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS: yellowish-brown heartwood, distinct from the very pale brown sapwood. Distinct growth rings, interlocked grain, medium to fine texture, absent shine and imperceptible odor.

DENSITY: heavy wood, with a 12% moisture density of 1,080 kg/m3 and a green density of 1,280 kg/m3.

DRYING: relatively slow outdoor drying. Quick oven drying, with a tendency to medium twisting, in drying program 3.

WORKABILITY: difficult mechanical processing but allows excellent finishing in turning. Bad finish on plane and sanding jobs.

DURABILITY: resistant to fungi, insects and marine borers. When used as sleepers in well-draining soils, their durability varies from 10 to 22 years.

PRESERVATION: the heartwood is not treatable with creosote or CCA-A, even under pressure treatments.

USES: external and internal constructions, floors, decorative laminates, molding, turning, tool handles and others.