Garapa (Grápia)

Botanical Name:
Apulela leiocarpa (Vogel) Macbride., Leguminosae.

Similar names and Species:
Grápia is also known as Garapa, Grapiapunha, Grapiá, Amarelinho, Gema-de-ovo, Garapeira.
Commercial Name: Garapa

Characteristics of the Wood:
Beige-yellowish or yellow heartwood, slightly pink-brownish, uniform; white-yellowish sapwood. Irregular and interlocked grain; smooth and bright surface with average texture; indistinctly taste and odor.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:
Heavy and resistant wood with medium volumetric retractability and medium-high shock resistance. Restrained resistance for deterioration.

Moisture Content and Density:
Apparent (15% of humidity): 0,83 g/cm3 - 830 kg/m3
Basic: 0,67 g/cm3 - 670 kg/m3

Workability:
Easy to work as long as appropriate tools are used due to the presence of silica. Accepts glue and provides good finishing.

Usage:
Construction as external structures such as sleepers, posts, props, crosspieces and similar products; in civil construction as beams, stakes, doors and windows jambs, wooden floors, linings and similar products. It is also indicated for truck bodies, tool handles and ship buildings.