Gaboon


Name Gaboon (Aucoumea klaineana)
Type Hardwood.
Other Names Also known as okoum, angouma, combogala, n’goumi, and mofoumou.
Sources A very valuable commercial timber that grows in equatorial Africa.
Appearance Usually straight grained but sometimes wavy (producing an attractive striping on quarter-sawn surfaces), uniform texture, natural luster, pinkish heartwood.
Physical Props Light, soft, relatively weak wood with low stiffness and shock resistance, low decay resistance and moderate stability. Poor steam bending rating.
Working Props Works fairly easily although silica in wood results in above average blunting of cutting edges. Can be nailed and screwed without pre-drilling and glues without trouble. Stains and varnishes satisfactorily with ample scraping and sanding.
Uses Uses include plywood, blockboard, joinery, moldings and other interior trim, fine furniture, cigar boxes, construction, paneling, and decorative veneers.