Niove

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Common Names

Niove, M’Bonda, Kamashi, Oropa, Ekop

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Scientific Name

Staudtia kamerunensis

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Family

Myristicaceae

 

Description

The heartwood is red-brown to orange-brown with darker brown streaks. The 80-100 mm thick, light coloured sapwood merges into a light orange-yellow transitional zone which can be quite thick between the heartwood and the sapwood. Sanded heartwood has a color similar to Teak which when finished, with a clear water based polyurethane finish, highlights the rich qualities of the wood and produces a wood that resembles American black cherry in color, grain, and texture. A very attractive wood. Light sanding produces a very smooth surface. The surface is slightly lustrous and occasionally oily. One of the best woods for exterior use. Excellent weathering properties. Freshly cut, Niové has a peppery smell. This is an excellent substitute for American Black Cherry.

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Density

(H=12%) : 0,89

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Treatability

Not permeable

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Seasoning

Kiln drying is advised. Drying needs to be slow to avoid checking and shakes. Small movement in service.

 

Stability

Poorly stable

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Durability

Durable, resistant to decay and insect attack

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Workability

Niove is fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, despite it hardness. It can be brought to a smooth finish. Nails and screws fairly well, but pre-boring is advised to avoid spliting tendencies. Due to natural oilness, glueing can be a problem unless surface is properly prepared.Sands to a clean and smooth finish with good polishing capabilities

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End-Uses

• Cabinetwork (high class furniture)

• Exterior joinery

• Interior joinery

• Stairs (inside)

• Sliced veneer

• Flooring

• Current furniture or furniture components

• Turned goods

• Seats

• Ship building (ribs)

 

• Ship building (planking and deck)

• Heavy carpentry

• Interior panelling

• Industrial or heavy flooring

• Exterior panelling

• Bridges (parts not in contact with water or ground)

• Vehicle or container flooring

• Hydraulic works (fresh water)

• Bridges (parts in contact with water or ground)

• Sleepers