Nogal
(Juglans olanchana)
Nogal trees have a cylindrical, straight shaft that is free of branches for 5–15 m, yielding in relatively straight grain and clear lumber. The moderately heavy and durable heartwood has a dark coffee color which can result in stunning decorative pieces. It is easy to work with and takes an excellent finish.
More about the species
Family: Juglandaceae
Scientific Name: Juglans olanchana
Other Names: Olancho walnut, Central American walnut, Tropical Walnut, Peruvian Walnut.
Workability: Nogal usually has a straight grain and is rated as is easy to mill, dimension and turn. It is easy to work with machinery as well as hand tools. It can be sliced into veneer and glues, stains, and finishes well.
Drying: Nogal dries well but at a very slow rate with moderate bowing, cupping or twisting. Kiln schedules T6-D4 and T3-D3 are recommended for 4/4 and 8/4 lumber, respectively.
Durability: Rated as moderately durable in terms of decay resistance, though it is susceptible to insect attack. The sapwood is treatable with preservatives but the heartwood difficult to treat.
Uses: Light construction, cabinetmaking, parquet floors, luxurious furniture, turnery, musical instruments, and veneer.
Technical Data
Janka hardness: 960 lbs
Density: 450 Kg/m3 or 0.45 g/cm3
Bending strength: 11,160 psi
Modulous of elasticity: 1,132 (1,000) psi
Tangential shrinkage: 7.5%
Radial shrinkage: 3.6%
* All values given at 12% moisture content.