Zingana
Other names
Zebrawood, Zebrano
Scientific Name
Microberlinia brazzavillensis
Family
Fabaceae-Caesalpinioideae
Description
The heartwood is a light golden-yellow with narrow veining streaks of dark brown to almost black, giving the quartered surfaces a zebra-stripe appearance. The grain is interlocked or wavy and produces alternating hard and soft grained material which makes the timber difficult to work. Zebrano has a coarse texture and a lustrous surface. Has an unpleasant odor that disappears after drying.
Density
(H=12%): 0,79
Treatability
Not permeable
Seasoning
Difficult to season without warping, should be quartersawn to minimize degrade.
Stability
Moderately stable in service
Durability
Heartwood is durable and resistant to termite attack.
Workability
Although Zebrano works fairly readily with hand or machine tools, it is very difficult to get a good finish from machines due to the alternative nature of the grain. A belt sander will provide a smooth finish. Gluing is satisfactory with care and it finishes well once filled.
End-Uses
- Sliced veneer
- Cabinetwork (high class furniture)
- Current furniture or furniture components
- Interior panelling
- Turned goods
- Fiber or particle boards
- Tool handles (resilient woods)
- Glued laminated