BANGKIRAI (Shorea laevis)
General
Bangkirai (or sometimes named Balau) is a highly rated
timber that is frequently used for trusses and structural wood members in
areas where termites habitat. Bangkirai is not susceptible to the attacks of
the ants.
Untreated Bangkirai can be left in the open for more than
20 years. When Bangkirai is treated on a at least a 2-year recurrent basis
the life time is in fact indefinite.
Appearance
The wood texture of Bangkirai ranges from fine to rather
coarse. The grain is straight or interlocked. The wood surface is
smooth or alternately smooth and rough owing to the interlocked grain. Wood
surface is glossy. Yellowish heartwood and yellowish pale light brown
sapwood. Bangkirai when kiln dried may show some minor cracks
after the process. These cracks will open and close as the surrounding
humidity changes.
Physical properties
Bangkirai has a high strength and durability, is hard and
heavy with high stiffness and shock resistance. Excellent decay
resistance and dimensional stability.
Use
Exterior and interior doors, roof structures,
construction members, railway sleepers, electric poles, parquet
