Suradan Hardwood
(Hyeronima alchorneoides)
Suradan is generally a very large, straight tropical hardwood that ranges from southern Mexico to Brazil. It is very common in Nicaragua, where it is known as Nanciton, and highly valued for uses in home construction to furniture making. The color of the heartwood ranges in color from light brown to purple when fresh cut, darkening with exposure and drying to chocolate brown. Suradan’s grain can be interlocked or straight, resembling that of American Black Walnut, with fewer defects.
More about the species
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Scientific Name: Hyeronima alchorneoides, Hyeronima laxiflora is synonymous.
Other Names: Nancitón (Nicaragua), Rosita (Honduras), Pilón (Costa Rica), Urucurana (Brazil), Trompillo (Venezuela), Zapatero (Panama), Mascarey (Colombia), Pantano, Suradanni, Mascare.
Workability: Suradan is a favorable hardwood to work with machines or by hand, with minimal dulling effect. When using fasteners, pre-boring is recommended. If sealer or finishes are desired, it is recommended to use multiple coats, due to the porosity of the grain. Gluing holds up well in interior conditions.
Drying: Without experience, Suradan can be difficult to dry. However, when dried properly, defects can be reduced, and drying time moderate. Kiln schedules T5-D3 and T3-D2 are recommended for 4/4 and 8/4 stock, respectively.
Durability: Suradan’s durability is rated very high owing to its natural resistance to decay and insect attack in tropical conditions. Treatment is not required, but in exterior uses, a UV protective coating is recommended to preserve the natural color.
Uses: Interior/exterior construction, structural members, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, railway crossties, veneers, marine construction.
Technical Data
Janka hardness: 1,700 lbs
Density: 769 Kg/m3
Bending strength: 18,200 psi
Modulous of elasticity: 2,270 (1,000 psi)
Tangential shrinkage: 7.6%
Radial shrinkage: 5.4%
* All values given at 12% moisture content.