Name |
Ayan (Distemonanthus benthamianus) |
Type |
Hardwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as movingue, Nigerian satinwood, barre, ayanran, bonsamdua, ejen, and okpe. |
Sources |
Grows in West Africa. |
Appearance |
Straight to interlocked grain, sometimes wavy with fine, even texture and high luster. Lemon-yellow to yellow-brown sapwood and yellowish cream to light golden yellow heartwood. |
Physical Props |
Moderately heavy with medium bending and crushing strength, low stiffness and shock resistance, moderate decay resistance, and very good dimensional stability. |
Working Props |
Can be difficult to machine due to blunting of cutting edges caused by silica in the wood. Gum build-up can also cause over heating. Pre-drilling recommended for screwing and nailing. Glues, stains, and polishes well (with grain filling). |
Uses |
Used for cabinetry, window and door frames, ship fittings, flooring, and decorative veneers. |