Ekki Wood – What makes it so special ?

ekki wood

Ekki Wood

What is Ekki Wood ?

Ekki wood, known as Azobé or Bongossi, is a hardwood that is exceptionally strong and long-lasting, quarried from the tropical rainforest of West and Central Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Cameroon. This wood is widely known for being strong and lasting for a very long time, which is why it has a reputation for being one of the best picks for heavy-duty use.

Properties of Ekki Wood

Physical Properties

Weight and Density: Ekki wood is usually very heavy, with the average weight ranging from 59 to 70 pounds per cubic foot (around 960 to 1120 kg/m³) when dried. This density means that it can sink in water, distinguishing it from many other timber species.

Color and Grain: The heartwood of Ekki wood varies in color from deep red to violet-brown. It sometimes features whiteor yellow mineral spots, which give it a speckled appearance. The sapwood is a light pink color and is distinctly separate from the heartwood. The grain is generally extensive and interlocking, giving it a unique look, but making it more difficult to work with.

Mechanical Properties

Strength: Ekki wood boasts impressive mechanical properties:

Janka Hardness: Approximately 3,220 lbf (14,330 N), indicating its resistance to wear and denting.

Modulus of Rupture: About 28,390 lbf/in² (195.8 MPa), showcasing its ability to withstand the bending forces.

Crushing Strength: Approximately 13,890 lbf/in² (95.8 MPa), reflecting its high load-bearing capacity.

Durability and Resistance

Ekki is classified as durability class 1, which makes it one of the toughest woods in existence. It has very high tolerance to decay, insect attacks, and fungi, making it a key material in wharves and jetties. In addition, its resistance to natural weathering is the reason it is ideal for outdoor applications.

Workability

Besides all the fantastic qualities Ekki wood possess, it also has these two features which, on the one hand, are good for the timber but, on the other, are difficult to handle because of its nature. It tends to blunt cutting tools quickly, requiring sharp edges and careful handling during machining. Pre-drilling is necessary for nailing and screwing. While it can be finished satisfactorily, filling the grain may be necessary for optimal results.

Also read: Ziricote Wood: Advantages and Disadvantages

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Uses of Ekki Wood

1. Marine Construction

Bridges and Piers: Ekki is a popular material for bridge and pier construction because of its capability to resist the harsh conditions that arise from interaction with water and can be very important in a project on the seas because it can be influenced by salt containment and marine organisms.

Boat Building: Its durability makes it suitable for constructing boat hulls and other marine structures that require resistance to water damage.

Fender Systems and Lock Gates: The wood’s resistance to decay and insect attack makes it ideal for fender systems and lock gates, which are often submerged in water.

2. Heavy Construction

Railway Sleepers: Ekki wood’s exceptional strength and durability make it a perfect choice for railway sleepers. It can withstand the heavy weight and constant stress from trains, ensuring long-term performance in demanding conditions.

ekki wood railway sleepers

Decking: Ekki wood is very hardy making it a perfect material for heavy-duty decking. It’s commonly used in public boardwalks, piers and outdoor platforms, where longevity and wear resistance are crucial.

Structural Components: It is a reliable material for structural components like beams and posts in construction projects. Its robust nature ensures stability and long-lasting support in both indoor and outdoor environments.

3. Flooring

Heavy-Duty Flooring: Ekki wood is an excellent choice for flooring in high-traffic areas, such as ship decks or industrial settings, due to its hardness and longevity.

4. Other Applications

Joinery and Furniture: Although Ekki wood is mostly used for structural purposes, its strength and rich appearance make it suitable for crafting high-quality joinery and furniture. However, its dense nature can make it harder to work with, requiring skilled craftsmanship and proper tools.

Jacking Timbers: Ekki wood’s exceptional strength makes it ideal for jacking and blocking in construction projects. It provides reliable support for heavy loads, ensuring safety and stability in demanding applications.

Ekki Wood vs other woods:

CharacteristicEkki WoodOakDouglas FirPine
Janka Hardness~3,220 lbf~1,360 lbf~660 lbf~690 lbf
Modulus of Rupture (MoR)~162 MPa~97.1 MPa~60 MPa~40 MPa
Crushing Strength~96 MPa~46.3 MPa~40 MPa~35 MPa
Durability ClassClass 1 (50+ years)Class 2-3 (20-50 years)Class 3 (10-20 years)Class 4 (5-10 years)
Resistance to Decay/InsectsHighly resistantGood, but less than EkkiModerate, requires treatmentLow, requires treatment
WorkabilityChallenging (dense, interlocked grain)Moderate (straight grain)Easy (softwood)Easy (softwood)
Cost ConsiderationsHigher initial cost, long-term savingsModerate initial costLower initial costLower initial cost
Aesthetic AppealRich reddish-brown, unique characterAttractive grain patterns, warm tonesLight color, attractive grainLight color, simple grain
Common UsesMarine construction, heavy civil engineering, flooringFurniture, cabinetry, flooringConstruction framing, plywoodGeneral construction, furniture

FAQ

How long does Ekki wood last?

Ekki wood is extremely resilient and can last more than half a century in outdoors with little maintenance. Its natural resistance to rot, fungi and pests helps ensure it will remain strong and trusty for decades.

Is Ekki wood resistant to water?

Yes, Ekki wood is naturally water-resistant because of its dense structure and natural oils. This makes it ideal for wet or humid places, such as coastal areas or marine projects.

How can I maintain Ekki wood?

To keep Ekki wood in good shape, clean it regularly with mild soap and water. Apply protective oils or sealants to enhance its resistance, and use UV-resistant coatings to prevent fading from sunlight.

Can Ekki wood be painted or stained?

You can paint or stain Ekki wood; however, most people like to leave it unfinished to appreciate its natural beauty. Just be sure to clean and prepare the surface well if you paint or stain it.

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