Merbau / Kwila Sawn Timber - MBU

Species: Merbau (Intsia bijuga)
Grade: Select & Better (Sap-free)
Seasoning: Kiln-Dried

Finishing: Sawn
Size: Various size available

General description
Sapwood is well-defined and pale yellow in color. Heartwood is yellowish to orange-brown when fresh, weathering to brown or dark red-brown. Grain is interlocked. Texture is coarse but even. Growth rings are fairly distinct.
Vessels are moderately large to very large and with simple perforations, very few or few, mainly solitary and occasionally radial pairs and multiples of 3 can be seen; evenly dvsttered without any arrangement, frequently filled with dark-colored and sulphur yellow deposits. Both apotracheal and paratracheal parenchyma are present. Apotracheal paranchyma appears as irregularly spaced terminal bands while paratracheal parenchyma appears as aliform borders around the vessels. Rays are moderately fine and may be visible on the end and tangential surfaces.

Working properties
planing = slightly difficult
boring = easy
turning = easy
nailing = very poor

Uses
The growth ring figure and deep color makes it an attractive wood for decorative work including interior finishing, panelling, strip and parquet flooring, superior joinery, cabinet-making, door and window frames, furniture, veneer, turnery and tools handles.