What is Okan?
Okan, also widely known as African Teak or Afrormosia, is a dense, high-strength hardwood native to West Africa. Renowned for its excellent durability and natural resistance to harsh conditions, it is a top choice for heavy-duty applications—from structural construction to high-wear furniture and marine projects. Its balanced combination of strength, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness makes it a versatile solution for both indoor and outdoor needs.
Okoume Wood Physical Properties
Density: ≥1.0 g/cm³ (≈62.4 lbs/ft³) – Offers exceptional structural stability and resistance to impact.
Janka Hardness: 11,800–13,200 N (2,650–3,000 lbf) – Provides excellent wear resistance, suitable for high-traffic or heavy-use scenarios (e.g., flooring, worktops).
Color: Heartwood ranges from golden brown to reddish-brown, with subtle natural grain patterns that deepen slightly over time. Sapwood is pale pinkish-white, clearly distinguishable from the heartwood.
Durability: Rated asvery durable – Boasts strong resistance to insect infestations (including termites), fungal decay, and weathering. Ideal for outdoor, wet, or high-humidity environments (e.g., docks, garden decking).
Denya Wood Workability
Machining: Due to its high density and interlocked grain, Okan (denya) can be moderately challenging to machine. Sharp, high-quality tools are required to minimize tearout during cutting, planing, or routing. With proper tooling and optimized processing techniques, smooth finishes can be achieved.
Gluing: Its dense structure and natural resin content may slightly affect gluing performance. However, strong bonds can be formed with compatible adhesives (e.g., epoxy-based glues) and proper surface preparation (e.g., sanding to remove excess resin).
Okoume Sawn Timber Applications
Construction & Infrastructure: Extensively used in heavy-duty structural projects, such as bridge components, dock piles,railroad ties, mine timbers, and utility poles—thanks to its load-bearing capacity and resistance to rot.
Furniture & Joinery: Perfect for high-end, long-lasting furniture (e.g., tea tables, dining tables, executive desks, and solid wood cabinets). Its rich grain and warm color add a rustic yet elegant touch to interior spaces.
Marine & Outdoor Use: Suitable for boat building (hulls, decks), outdoor decking, garden furniture, and exterior cladding—due to its natural resistance to saltwater, moisture, and UV damage.
Other Applications: Also utilized in vehicle manufacturing (heavy-duty truck beds) and tool handles, leveraging its impact resistance and durability.
Sustainability
Conservation Status: Okan is listed inCITES Appendix II (regulated international trade) to prevent overexploitation. It is also managed under strict forestry policies in origin countries (e.g., Ghana’s sustainable logging regulations) to ensure responsible harvesting.
Sourcing Guidelines: To support long-term ecological balance, Okan lumber should be sourced from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified or sustainably managed forests—ensuring legal harvesting and reforestation practices.
Why Choose Okan?
Cost-Effective Durability: Offers performance comparable to premium hardwoods (e.g., teak) at a more accessible price point, delivering long-term value.
All-Around Resilience: Resists decay, insects, and warping—reducing maintenance needs and extending the lifespan of end products.
Timeless Aesthetics: Its golden-brown to reddish-brown hue and bold, natural grain create a rugged yet sophisticated look, enhancing both traditional and modern designs.
Versatile Utility: Adapts to diverse applications (construction, furniture, marine use), making it a one-stop solution for multiple project requirements.
