Balsa block
Balsa (Ochroma pyramidale)
Common names: Balsa
Distribution : Tropical regions of the Americas; also grown on plantations
Color/appearance : Heartwood tends to be a pale reddish brown color, though it is not commonly seen in commercial lumber. Most boards/blocks of Balsa are from the sapwood, which is a white to off-white or tan color, sometimes with a pink or yellow hue.
Janka hardness: 67 lbf
Density: 0.75 lbf
Shrinkage: 1
Radial (thickness): 2.3%
Tangential (width): 6.0%,
Volumetric (total): 8.5%,
T/R Ratio (width to depth): 2.6
Allergies/Toxicity: 1 Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Balsa has been reported to cause skin irritation.
Sustainability: CITES: No, IUCN: No
Common Uses: Buoys, rafts, surfboards, model airplanes , musical instruments, packing/transport cases, core stock in sandwich lamination, and fishing lures.
