Maderas Sostenibles - Andiroba Hardwood (carapa guianensis)

Andiroba, Cedro Macho - carapa guianesis

Family
Meliaceae

Scientific Name
Carapa guianensis

Other Names
Cedro Macho (Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras), Royal Mahogany (US), Bateo (Panama), Masabalo (Columbia), Carapa (Venezuela), Tangare (Ecuador), Andiroba (Peru, Brazil), Karepa (Surinam) Figueroa, Crabwood, Cedro Bateo

General Description

In the same family as Genuine Mahogany, Andiroba is a beautiful hardwood that ranges from Belize to Brazil. Its heartwood has color varying from light salmon to reddish-brown, that darkens with time and sun exposure to a medium to dark shade. Its rich texture and favorable grain make it a favorite species of woodworkers of all types, and an excellent substitute for Mahogany.

Workability
The heartwood of Andiroba responds very well to all types of machining, and is highly workable with hand tools. The grain sands easily and accepts finishes well. Adhesives respond well to the long grain and end grain.

Drying

Carapa guianensis is moderately easy to air or kiln dry. It dries at a moderate pace, developing slight drying defects. Kiln schedules T3-C2 and T3-C1 are recommended for 4/4 and 8/4 stocks, respectively.

Durability
Andiroba performs well and is long lasting in interior settings. Not recommended for exterior use in cases of direct ground contact.

Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, mouldings, windows and doors, joinery, paneling, medium to light construction.