Light Hopea is a very strong and dense timber that is easily worked. It is a highly durable product, making it ideal for external applications.
Botanical Name: Hopea Papuana (Dipterocarpaceae)
Other Common Names: Merawan
Technical Information
Colour | Heartwood is yellow brown to dark brown. |
Grain | Texture is fine and even. Grain is slightly interlocked. |
Strength | S3 : SD4 |
Structural Ratings | F17 : F22 select grade |
Hardness (Janka) | 4.5kN (unseasoned) & 4.7kN (seasoned) |
Termite Resistance | Nonresistant; Lyctine susceptible. Stock treated to H3 level available. |
Shrinkage to 12% MC | Low – (2% radial – 9% tangential) |
Durability above ground | Class 2 - Life expectancy 15 - 40 years |
Durability in ground | Class 2 - Life expectancy 15 - 40 years |
Working properties | The timber is easy to work with if tools kept sharp. Smooth surfaces can be readily obtained providing that cutting edges are kept sharp. Planes well. Nails well. Sands to a very fine finish and will take a good polish. |
Uses | Joinery, window sills and frames, stairs, furniture and general construction, flooring, cabinetmaking, mine timbers, piling, panelling. |