Specification
Although it is often referred to as American Poplar, American Tulipwood is not a Poplar (Populus) and has many superior properties. However, the tree resembles the shape of the European Poplar, hence its name in the USA.
Tulipwood is one of the largest trees in the U.S. forest and can produce very wide and long specifications, which are relatively knot free. It represents around 9% of the standing hardwood resource, which ensures continuity and volume supply to export markets.
Appearance
- Colour – The sapwood is creamy white and may be streaked. The size of the sapwood and some physical characteristics will vary according to growing regions. The heartwood of American Poplar/ Tulipwood varies from pale yellowish brown to olive green. The green colour in the heartwood will tend to darken on exposure to light and turn brown.
Characteristics
- Strength – American Tulipwood is very strong for its weight.
- Weight – 450 kg/m³.
- Natural Durability – Non-resistant to decay.
- Ease Of Drying – American Tulipwood dries easily. Illingworth Ingham (M/cr) Ltd supply kiln dried stock.
- Preservative Treatment – The heartwood is moderately resistant to preservative treatment, sapwood is permeable.
Working Properties
- Sawing – Good
- Planing – Excellent
- Drilling – Good
- Boring – Good
- Turning – Good
- Carving – Good
- Moulding – Excellent
- Nailing – Good
- Screwing – Good
- Gluing – Good
- Steam Bending – Medium steam bending classification
Finishing
- It takes and holds paint, enamel and stain exceptionally well.
